Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Paris, ME
Considering a move to West Paris, ME? This quiet town of about 1,650 residents offers affordable living with a median home price of $185,000 and average rents around $950. Crime rates are low, commutes average 27 minutes, and the area is served by reputable schools and a local hospital just minutes away. The community enjoys four distinct seasons, a close-knit feel, and access to the natural beauty of western Maine—ideal for those seeking small-town charm and outdoor opportunities.
Demographics - West Paris, ME
Demographics - West Paris, ME
West Paris is a small, close-knit community of roughly 1,650 people, with a median age of 44.7 years and a nearly even gender ratio. The town is predominantly White, and about 3% of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting its rural Maine character.
Population:
1,650
Density:
54 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.7
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Paris, ME?
The cost of living in West Paris is notably affordable, with a median home value of $185,000 and rents averaging $950 per month. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, making it attractive for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$185,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$900
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
5.8%
|
High:
7.15%
Cost Of Living Index:
90.8
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
73.4
Utilities:
102.1
Transportation:
91.5
Health Care:
98.4
Miscellaneous:
92.7
Crime
Is West Paris, ME a safe place to live?
West Paris boasts a low crime rate, with violent crimes occurring at a rate of just 78 per 100,000 people and property crimes at 1,010 per 100,000. Residents enjoy a safe, peaceful environment with a low chance of being affected by crime.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
78
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,010
Crime Index:
1,088
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,282
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 99
Weather
What is the weather like in West Paris, ME year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters (lows around 8°F) and warm, pleasant summers (highs up to 80°F). The area receives about 46 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine about half the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate changing seasons.
Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
30°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
50%
Neighbors
Household incomes in West Paris average around $48,500, with a poverty rate of 14.1% and an unemployment rate of 5.2%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commute times average just over 27 minutes, reflecting the town’s rural setting and working-class roots.
Median Income:
$34,200
Household Income:
$48,500
Family Income:
$56,400
Per Capita Income:
$24,900
Income Male:
$38,500
Income Female:
$29,400
Poverty Rate:
14.1%
Non English Speakers:
2.7%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
27.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.6%
Bachelors or More:
17.8%
Education
How are the schools in West Paris, ME?
Local students attend well-regarded public schools, including West Paris Elementary and Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School, both noted for favorable student-teacher ratios. Higher education is accessible nearby, with Central Maine Community College just 27 miles away.
Public Schools
Name:
Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School
Street:
256 Main St, South Paris, ME
Phone:
207-743-8914
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Name:
West Paris Elementary School
Street:
24 Kingsbury St, West Paris, ME
Phone:
207-674-2322
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
11:1
Colleges
Name:
Central Maine Community College
City:
Auburn
State:
ME
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Healthcare access is strong, with Stephens Memorial Hospital located nearby and 92% of residents having health insurance coverage. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people, West Paris offers reliable medical care within a short drive.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Stephens Memorial Hospital
Address:
181 Main St, Norway, ME 04268
Phone:
(207) 743-5933
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Paris, ME?
The housing market in West Paris features a median home price of $185,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 74%, indicating a stable community with high homeownership. Rental vacancy rates are moderate, and home values have appreciated by about 5% over the past year.
Median Home Price:
$185,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
West Paris residents are served by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Portland. The DMV provides a full range of licensing and registration services both in-person and online for convenience.
State:
Maine
Department:
Maine 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.