Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cushing Island, ME
Considering a move to Cushing Island, ME? This private island community near Portland has an intimate population of around 75, with most residents enjoying tranquil summers and stunning ocean views. Expect high median home values around $925,000 and seasonal rental rates, with a cost of living similar to the Portland area. Commutes involve a scenic ferry ride, and crime rates are exceptionally low, making it a peaceful retreat. Education and healthcare are accessed via Portland, and you'll enjoy classic Maine coastal weather with cool summers and snowy winters. If you value privacy, nature, and a unique coastal lifestyle, Cushing Island offers a truly special environment.
Demographics - Cushing Island, ME
Demographics - Cushing Island, ME
Cushing Island is a small, close-knit island community with a seasonal population of about 75 people, most of whom are older adults, as reflected by the median age of 53. The area is predominantly White and maintains a balanced gender ratio, providing a tranquil and private living environment.
Population:
Approximately 75 (seasonal, fewer year-round)
Density:
Low (island community, < 100 per sq mi)
Median Age:
53
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
1.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cushing Island, ME?
Living on Cushing Island comes with a high cost of living, with median home values nearing $925,000 and average rents around $2,200, reflecting its exclusivity and seasonal demand. Utility and grocery costs are above the national average, similar to the nearby Portland area.
Median House Value:
$925,000
Gross Rent:
$2,200 (estimated, seasonal rates higher)
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,060
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,400
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$820
State Taxes:
Low:
5.8%
|
High:
7.15%
Cost Of Living Index:
122 (Portland area avg)
Grocery:
112
Housing:
148
Utilities:
109
Transportation:
110
Health Care:
118
Miscellaneous:
106
Crime
Is Cushing Island, ME a safe place to live?
Cushing Island enjoys extremely low crime rates, with violent crime being almost nonexistent and very few property crimes reported. Residents appreciate a strong sense of safety and peace, making it an ideal location for those seeking a secure, quiet lifestyle.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
35 (island, extremely low)
Property Crimes Per 100k:
120
Crime Index:
155
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 2,900
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 625
Weather
What is the weather like in Cushing Island, ME year-round?
The island experiences classic Maine coastal weather, featuring cool summers with highs around 78°F and snowy, brisk winters with lows near 14°F. Expect roughly 47 inches of annual rainfall and just over half the days being sunny, perfect for those who appreciate distinct seasons and ocean breezes.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
35°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
57°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
Residents of Cushing Island typically enjoy moderate household incomes, with the area reflecting Portland's median income of about $47,600. The community is highly educated, nearly all adults have at least a high school diploma, and daily commutes include a scenic ferry ride of about 35 minutes to Portland.
Median Income:
$47,600 (Portland area avg)
Household Income:
$73,800
Family Income:
$89,000
Per Capita Income:
$48,700
Income Male:
$55,500
Income Female:
$46,200
Poverty Rate:
9.3%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$2,200
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0% (no public transit; ferry access only)
Commute Time:
35 minutes (includes ferry to Portland)
Education
High School or Higher:
97.6%
Bachelors or More:
49.8%
Education
How are the schools in Cushing Island, ME?
Families on Cushing Island access public and private schools in Portland, such as Longfellow Elementary and Waynflete School, both known for low student-to-teacher ratios. For higher education, the University of Southern Maine is conveniently located just a short ferry and car ride away.
Public Schools
Name:
Longfellow Elementary School
Street:
432 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME 04103
Phone:
207-874-8195
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
11:1
Name:
King Middle School
Street:
92 Deering Ave, Portland, ME 04102
Phone:
207-874-8140
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
10:1
Private Schools
Name:
Waynflete School
Street:
360 Spring St, Portland, ME 04102
Phone:
207-774-5721
Students:
585
Colleges
Name:
University of Southern Maine
City:
Portland
State:
ME
Distance:
6 miles by ferry & car
Students:
7,900
Healthcare
Access to comprehensive healthcare is convenient via nearby Portland, where major hospitals like Maine Medical Center provide a full range of services. Most residents have health insurance, and the area benefits from a high physician-to-population ratio, ensuring quality medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Maine Medical Center
Address:
22 Bramhall St, Portland, ME 04102
Phone:
(207) 662-0111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Northern Light Mercy Hospital
Address:
175 Fore River Pkwy, Portland, ME 04102
Phone:
(207) 879-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cushing Island, ME?
Cushing Island's housing market is characterized by high home values, with a median price of $925,000 and a 7.2% annual appreciation rate. The area is mainly owner-occupied, and seasonal rental opportunities are available but limited, contributing to its exclusive atmosphere.
Median Home Price:
$925,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
98%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
12% (seasonal)
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Motor vehicle services for Cushing Island residents are handled by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, located in Portland. The BMV offers comprehensive licensing, registration, and title services both online and in-person.
State:
Maine
Department:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
125 Presumpscot St, Portland, ME 04103
Phone:
207-624-9000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.