Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wells, ME
Thinking of moving to Wells, ME? With a relaxed, coastal small-town feel and a population of 11,382, Wells offers above-average homeownership, a median home price around $420,000, and low violent crime rates (62 per 100K). Commute times average 28 minutes, and residents enjoy well-rated schools, beautiful beaches, and four distinct seasons with 57% sunny days. The cost of living is moderate, and the community is known for its safety and scenic charm—making it a welcoming spot for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Wells, ME
Wells, Maine has a population of 11,382, with a predominantly White community and a median age of 53.5, reflecting its appeal to both retirees and families. The town maintains a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to a close-knit, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
11,382
Density:
226 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.5
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
97.1%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
1.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wells, ME?
The cost of living in Wells is moderately above the national average, with a median home value of $420,000 and average rent around $1,350 for a two-bedroom unit. Residents benefit from reasonable utility costs and state taxes, making it an accessible option for homeownership along Maine’s scenic coastline.
Median House Value:
$420,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,040
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$780
State Taxes:
Low:
5.8%
|
High:
7.15%
Cost Of Living Index:
108.6
Grocery:
103.0
Housing:
120.5
Utilities:
110.0
Transportation:
102.5
Health Care:
107.0
Miscellaneous:
105.0
Crime
Is Wells, ME a safe place to live?
Wells boasts a notably low violent crime rate of 62 incidents per 100,000 residents, providing residents with peace of mind. Property crime is also below national averages, making the town a safe and secure place for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
62
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,020
Crime Index:
1,082
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,613
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Wells, ME year-round?
Wells experiences all four seasons, with mild summers reaching highs of 79°F and cold winters dipping to 12°F. The area receives about 48.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny days 57% of the year, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
79°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
The median household income in Wells is $74,100, with a family income of $85,500 and a low poverty rate of 6%. High educational attainment and low unemployment reflect a stable, prosperous community, while average commute times are just under 28 minutes.
Median Income:
$41,800
Household Income:
$74,100
Family Income:
$85,500
Per Capita Income:
$41,200
Income Male:
$49,000
Income Female:
$41,000
Poverty Rate:
6.0%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
27.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.6%
Bachelors or More:
36.8%
Education
How are the schools in Wells, ME?
Wells offers well-rated public schools with low student-teacher ratios and is home to York County Community College. Additionally, the proximity to larger institutions like the University of New England provides residents with strong educational opportunities from elementary through college.
Public Schools
Name:
Wells Elementary School
Street:
276 Sanford Rd
Phone:
207-646-5953
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Name:
Wells Junior High School
Street:
1470 Post Rd
Phone:
207-646-5142
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.8
Name:
Wells High School
Street:
200 Sanford Rd
Phone:
207-646-7011
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.2
Colleges
Name:
York County Community College
City:
Wells
State:
ME
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
1,700
Name:
University of New England
City:
Biddeford
State:
ME
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
7,200
Healthcare
Residents of Wells have access to quality healthcare, with two major hospitals nearby and a high health insurance coverage rate of 93.8%. The area maintains a solid physician-to-population ratio, ensuring timely medical services for the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Southern Maine Health Care – Sanford
Address:
25 June St, Sanford, ME 04073
Phone:
(207) 490-7300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
York Hospital
Address:
15 Hospital Dr, York, ME 03909
Phone:
(207) 363-4321
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
72.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wells, ME?
Wells features a strong housing market, with a median home price of $420,000 and an owner-occupied rate above 83%. Home values have appreciated by 4.7% over the past year, making it an attractive market for buyers seeking stability and potential growth.
Median Home Price:
$420,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
83.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Wells residents are served by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, with comprehensive services available through the Augusta office and online at the state website. The DMV provides convenient access for licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle needs.
State:
Maine
Department:
Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
101 Hospital St, Augusta, ME 04330
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.