Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Peru, ME
Thinking of moving to West Peru, ME? This small rural town of about 390 people offers quiet living, affordable homes with a median price of $155,000, and low average rent. Crime rates are very low, especially for violent offenses, and the area features a relaxed commute of about 30 minutes. You'll experience four distinct seasons and easy access to outdoor recreation, while local schools and a nearby hospital provide essential community services. West Peru is a great choice for those seeking a peaceful, budget-friendly lifestyle.
Demographics - West Peru, ME
Demographics - West Peru, ME
West Peru is a small rural community of about 390 residents, with a median age nearing 48, and a population density of just 28 people per square mile. The town is predominantly White, with over 97% of residents identifying as such, and a nearly even gender split. The area is known for its close-knit feel and a small proportion of non-English speakers at just over 3%.
Population:
390
Density:
28 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.8
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
97.5%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
1.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Peru, ME?
West Peru offers a cost of living below the national average, with a median home value of $155,000 and typical rents around $880 per month. Utilities are moderately higher, but overall expenses remain affordable, making it attractive for budget-conscious families or retirees. State income taxes are in the mid-range, and groceries and healthcare costs are on par with national averages.
Median House Value:
$155,000
Gross Rent:
$880
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
5.8%
|
High:
7.15%
Cost Of Living Index:
92.5
Grocery:
98.2
Housing:
74.3
Utilities:
115.7
Transportation:
98.9
Health Care:
101.3
Miscellaneous:
94.5
Crime
Is West Peru, ME a safe place to live?
The town boasts very low crime rates, with just 66 violent crimes and 1,080 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it a safe choice for families and individuals. Residents have a 1 in 1,500 chance of being a victim of violent crime, well below national figures. This peaceful environment adds to the appeal of small-town living in West Peru.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
66
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,080
Crime Index:
1,146
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,500
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 93
Weather
What is the weather like in West Peru, ME year-round?
West Peru features four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 6°F and warm summers reaching highs near 80°F. The area receives about 43 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine just over half the year. Residents can expect snowy winters and pleasant falls, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
6°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
58°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
Local households enjoy a median income of $57,200, with a per capita income of nearly $28,000 and a poverty rate slightly above 12%. Most residents commute about 30 minutes to work, and public transportation is rarely used. The majority of adults have at least a high school education, contributing to a stable and friendly community.
Median Income:
$31,500
Household Income:
$57,200
Family Income:
$65,300
Per Capita Income:
$27,800
Income Male:
$39,400
Income Female:
$32,800
Poverty Rate:
12.1%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$880
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
29.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.7%
Bachelors or More:
18.9%
Education
How are the schools in West Peru, ME?
Public education is provided by Dirigo Elementary School, which features a low student-to-teacher ratio and a supportive learning environment. Higher education opportunities are accessible, with the University of Maine at Farmington located about 34 miles away. While there are no private schools in town, local schools offer a solid foundation for students.
Public Schools
Name:
Dirigo Elementary School
Street:
117 Auburn Rd
Phone:
207-562-4207
Students:
310
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.3
Colleges
Name:
University of Maine at Farmington
City:
Farmington
State:
ME
Distance:
34 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Healthcare in West Peru is supported by nearby Rumford Hospital, offering general and emergency services for residents. The area maintains a high health insurance coverage rate of over 92%, and there are roughly 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people. This ensures basic health needs are met within a short drive from town.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Rumford Hospital
Address:
420 Franklin St, Rumford, ME 04276
Phone:
(207) 369-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.6%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Peru, ME?
West Peru's housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $155,000 and an owner-occupancy rate above 85%. Home values have appreciated by about 4% over the past year, while rental options remain accessible and vacancy rates low. The housing environment is well-suited for buyers seeking value and long-term investment.
Median Home Price:
$155,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$880
Owner Occupied Rate:
85.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents of West Peru are served by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, located in Augusta, about an hour away. The DMV offers all standard vehicle and licensing services both in person and online. For more information, residents can visit the Maine BMV website or call the central office.
State:
Maine
Department:
Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
101 Hospital Street, Augusta, ME 04330
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.