Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Kent, ME
Considering a move to Fort Kent, ME? This friendly northern Maine town of 3,700 offers affordable living—with median home prices at $129,000 and average rents around $780. Residents enjoy a low crime rate (just 72 violent crimes per 100K), quick 14-minute commutes, and easy access to quality local schools and healthcare. While winters are cold, Fort Kent stands out for its community spirit, beautiful natural surroundings, and the presence of the University of Maine at Fort Kent—making it a great choice for those seeking small-town charm and outdoor adventure.
Demographics - Fort Kent, ME
Demographics - Fort Kent, ME
Fort Kent is home to about 3,700 residents, with a median age of 41, reflecting a balanced mix of families and older adults. The community is predominantly White, with small percentages of Black, Asian, and other groups, and around 8% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The area features a close-knit, welcoming atmosphere with a moderate population density.
Population:
3,719
Density:
63 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.3
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
3.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fort Kent, ME?
Living in Fort Kent is notably affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and median home values at $129,000. Rent for a typical apartment is around $780 per month, and everyday expenses like groceries and utilities are reasonably priced. State taxes are moderate, making this town attractive for budget-conscious families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$129,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,035
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$360
State Taxes:
Low:
5.8%
|
High:
7.15%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.2
Grocery:
98.6
Housing:
66.1
Utilities:
98.2
Transportation:
89.1
Health Care:
97.2
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Fort Kent, ME a safe place to live?
Fort Kent enjoys a low crime rate, with only 72 violent crimes and 576 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The odds of being a victim of violent crime are very low, making the community feel safe and secure. Residents can expect a peaceful environment ideal for families and individuals seeking tranquility.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
72
Property Crimes Per 100k:
576
Crime Index:
648
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,389
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 173
Weather
What is the weather like in Fort Kent, ME year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers that rarely exceed 77°F. The area sees about 37 inches of rainfall each year and enjoys sunshine nearly half the time. This climate supports a range of outdoor activities, especially for those who appreciate crisp winter landscapes and scenic autumns.
Winter
Min:
1°F
Max:
23°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
58°F
Summer
Min:
50°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
30°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Fort Kent's median household income is around $47,000, with a relatively low unemployment rate and a poverty rate just above 13%. Most adults have completed high school, and a significant portion hold bachelor's degrees, reflecting a well-educated community. Short commute times and a strong sense of neighborliness contribute to a high quality of life.
Median Income:
$30,700
Household Income:
$46,900
Family Income:
$58,200
Per Capita Income:
$25,600
Income Male:
$32,500
Income Female:
$28,400
Poverty Rate:
13.1%
Non English Speakers:
8.1%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
13.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.2%
Bachelors or More:
22.0%
Education
How are the schools in Fort Kent, ME?
Educational opportunities in Fort Kent are robust for a town its size, featuring well-regarded public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios. The presence of the University of Maine at Fort Kent offers higher education options right in the community. Families and students benefit from accessible, quality learning environments.
Public Schools
Name:
Fort Kent Community High School
Street:
84 Pleasant St
Phone:
207-834-5540
Students:
310
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.2
Name:
Fort Kent Elementary School
Street:
108 Pleasant St
Phone:
207-834-3456
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.1
Colleges
Name:
University of Maine at Fort Kent
City:
Fort Kent
State:
ME
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,400
Healthcare
Healthcare in Fort Kent is anchored by Northern Maine Medical Center, which offers full emergency and general medical services. With 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% health insurance coverage, access to care is reliable. The town's healthcare index suggests solid local resources for both routine and urgent needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Northern Maine Medical Center
Address:
194 East Main Street, Fort Kent, ME 04743
Phone:
(207) 834-3155
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.6%
Health Care Index:
79.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fort Kent, ME?
The housing market in Fort Kent is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $129,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom at $780. Most residents own their homes, and vacancy and foreclosure rates are low, indicating a healthy market. Modest home appreciation and some new construction make it suitable for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$129,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Fort Kent residents are served by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, located in Augusta, with convenient online services available. The DMV handles licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential motor vehicle needs. Access to support is straightforward whether you visit in person or online.
State:
Maine
Department:
Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
112 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333
Phone:
1-207-624-9000
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.