countyscore
54.8
County Score
Health 67.4Cost of Living 63.4Schools 62.3

County Report Card

About Franklin County, Maine

Beating the National Livability Median

Franklin County earns an impressive 54.8 composite score, significantly outperforming the national median of 50.0. This high ranking suggests it offers a better overall balance of factors than the majority of U.S. counties.

One of Maine's Top Performers

Franklin's score of 54.8 is well above the Maine state average of 48.0. It ranks as a hidden gem in the state, offering a superior mix of affordability and quality of life compared to more populated coastal regions.

Strength in Health and Schools

The county excels with a health score of 67.4 and a school score of 62.3. Combined with a strong cost score of 63.4 and median rents of $759, it provides an accessible and high-quality environment for families.

Water Infrastructure and Income Gaps

The primary challenge in Franklin is water quality, which scores a low 12.5. Additionally, the income score of 34.3 reflects a median household income of $58,522, which is lower than the state's urban centers.

A Haven for Young Families

Franklin County is an excellent fit for families who prioritize good schools and affordable housing. It offers a balanced, healthy lifestyle for those who do not require a high-intensity urban job market.

Score breakdown

Tax32.9Cost63.4Safety59.4Health67.4Schools62.3Income34.3Risk56.4Water12.5Weather50
🏛32.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠63.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼34.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡59.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤67.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓62.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡56.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧12.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱54.4
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Oxford County
Maine
45.3
Somerset County
Maine
41.3
Coos County
New Hampshire
41.2
Kennebec County
Maine
40.2
Androscoggin County
Maine
38.2
Essex County
Vermont
55.7
Piscataquis County
Maine
49.7
Waldo County
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53.9

Deep Dives

Franklin County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Franklin County

via TaxByCounty

Franklin taxes well below national standard

Franklin County's 1.074% effective tax rate falls modestly below the national median of 1.1%, placing it in the 45th percentile nationally. Residents pay $1,897 annually on a median home value of $176,700, well below the national median property tax of $2,690. Franklin offers one of Maine's more tax-friendly property tax environments.

Lowest tax rate in Maine

Franklin's 1.074% effective rate ranks lowest among all 16 Maine counties, undercutting the state average of 1.107% by 0.033 percentage points. The median property tax of $1,897 falls $701 below Maine's state median of $2,598. Franklin County provides Maine's most affordable tax burden relative to home values.

Most tax-friendly county in western Maine

Franklin's 1.074% rate substantially undercuts neighboring Androscoggin (1.256%) and Aroostook (1.223%) to the north and east. On a median $176,700 home, Franklin residents pay approximately $180 less annually than Androscoggin residents on similar properties. Franklin consistently delivers the region's most favorable tax rates.

Affordably taxed in Maine's heartland

A median Franklin home valued at $176,700 carries an estimated annual property tax of $1,897, among Maine's lowest. Homeowners with mortgages pay $1,962, while those without mortgages pay approximately $1,818 annually. Over 30 years, that totals roughly $57,000 in property taxes—significantly below most Maine counties.

Even low-tax counties merit assessment checks

Franklin's competitive tax rates don't guarantee accurate individual assessments—errors occur in every county. Homeowners should verify their assessed value against recent comparable sales in their town or neighborhood. Filing an appeal costs nothing and can reduce your annual tax obligation for years to come.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Franklin County

via CostByCounty

Franklin offers Maine's tightest rent-to-income ratio

Franklin County renters spend just 15.6% of income on rent—the lowest ratio among all Maine counties and below both the state average (17.4%) and national average. This western county achieves remarkable affordability through low rents ($759) matched with reasonable median household income of $58,522.

Second-most affordable county in Maine

Franklin ranks second statewide for housing affordability, trailing only Aroostook with the second-lowest rent-to-income ratio and second-lowest median rent. The county offers genuine breathing room in housing budgets across Maine's affordability spectrum.

Mountain county beats coastal and rural rivals

Franklin's $759 rent edges slightly below Aroostook ($736) and sits notably below Hancock ($1,000), Kennebec ($952), and all coastal counties. Home values at $176,700 position Franklin between Aroostook's bargains and the pricier coastal markets.

Housing costs leave room for other priorities

Renters invest $759 monthly while homeowners pay $811, with a median income of $58,522 supporting both paths comfortably. At just 15.6% of income to rent, Franklin households retain the strongest discretionary purchasing power of any Maine county.

Franklin rewards those seeking real value

If you're relocating to Maine and want genuine affordability with access to hiking, lakes, and small-town charm, Franklin delivers. The county's western mountain setting and low housing costs make it worth serious consideration against coastal alternatives.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Franklin County

via IncomeByCounty

Franklin County trails national income average

Franklin County's median household income of $58,522 falls $16,233 short of the national median of $74,755. The county reflects rural Maine's economic constraints and limited access to higher-wage industries.

Second-lowest income among Maine counties

Franklin County ranks 15th out of 16 Maine counties with a median household income of $58,522, just $8,350 above last-place Aroostook. The county struggles with limited economic diversification and employment opportunities.

Income below county benchmark averages

Franklin's $58,522 ranks below regional peer Kennebec County ($65,062) and significantly trails Hancock County ($69,630) to the northeast. The county faces headwinds in competing for higher-wage jobs.

Housing costs remain manageable and affordable

Franklin County has the lowest rent-to-income ratio in Maine at 15.6%, providing households substantial financial cushion despite lower incomes. With median home values at $176,700, homeownership remains attainable for median earners.

Build wealth through consistent, disciplined saving

Franklin County residents earning $58,522 can leverage their housing affordability advantage to free up dollars for savings and investing. Automated contributions to retirement accounts ensure wealth building even on moderate incomes.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Franklin County

via CrimeByCounty

Elite National Safety Score

Franklin County's safety score of 98.5 places it among the safest regions in America. Its total crime rate of 938.4 per 100,000 is roughly 60% lower than the national average.

Exceeding the Maine Average

Franklin's safety score of 98.5 outperforms the Maine state average of 98.3. It maintains a lower total crime rate than many of its southern and central Maine neighbors.

Comparisons with Western Neighbors

Franklin's rate of 938.4 is slightly higher than Aroostook’s 922.1 but remains remarkably low for the region. It is significantly safer than Kennebec County, which records nearly double the crime frequency.

Minimal Violent Crime Levels

The violent crime rate is just 77.1 per 100,000, which is even lower than the state average of 82.4. Property crimes account for the vast majority of local incidents at 861.3.

Keep Your Community Safe

Rural safety relies on neighborhood awareness and basic precautions. Ensure sheds and seasonal cabins are properly locked and monitored during the off-season to deter property crime.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Franklin County

via HealthByCounty

Franklin runs slightly ahead nationally

Franklin's 76.2-year life expectancy slightly exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years, placing it squarely in America's middle tier for longevity. The county's 14.5% poor/fair health rate tracks near national averages, suggesting typical health outcomes for a rural New England county. These figures reflect a baseline health status comparable to much of America.

Slight underperformance in Maine

Franklin's 76.2-year life expectancy falls just below Maine's state average of 76.7 years, placing it in the middle third of Maine counties. An 8.9% uninsured rate sits between the state average of 9.4%, suggesting moderate coverage gaps. With 104 primary care providers per 100K, Franklin offers reasonable but not exceptional access to frontline care.

Middle of the pack regionally

Franklin's 76.2-year life expectancy sits between lower-performing Androscoggin (75.0 years) and healthier Cumberland (79.5 years), marking it as a regional middler. Its 14.5% poor/fair health rate exceeds Hancock County's 12.8% but trails Aroostook's 16.7%, reflecting typical rural Maine challenges. Provider access at 104 primary care doctors per 100K is consistent with similar counties.

Moderate barriers to consistent care

Franklin's 8.9% uninsured rate means roughly 1 in 11 residents lacks health coverage, challenging access to preventive and emergency services. The county supports 104 primary care providers per 100K and 324 mental health providers per 100K—adequate but not abundant for a dispersed rural population. Many residents must travel considerable distances or delay care due to availability constraints.

Close the coverage gap this year

Nearly 9% of Franklin residents go uninsured, but marketplace plans and Medicaid options can make coverage affordable. Visit maine.gov/dhhs or healthcare.gov during open enrollment to find plans within your budget. Coverage is the foundation of better health—take action today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Franklin County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Focused Educational Network in Western Maine

Franklin County operates 17 public schools serving a total of 4,216 students across 5 school districts. The landscape is primarily elementary-focused, with 9 primary schools supporting the county's youth. This compact system ensures that resources are concentrated within a few key regional hubs.

Strong Graduation Rates and Steady Scores

The county boasts an 88.2% graduation rate, surpassing both the state average of 86.1% and the national average of 87.0%. Education is funded at $9,671 per pupil, which is nearly identical to the state average. These investments result in a solid school score of 58.3, slightly outperforming the state's overall score.

RSU 09 Anchors the County's Education

RSU 09 is the dominant district, serving 2,266 students—over half of the county's total enrollment—across 8 schools. RSU 73 follows as the second-largest district, providing education to 1,437 students. There are currently no charter schools in Franklin County, keeping the focus on traditional public districts.

Small Rural Schools and Regional High Schools

Fourteen of the county's 17 schools are in rural locales, creating an intimate learning environment with an average school size of 264 students. Mt Blue High School serves as the central academic hub with 733 students. Smaller primary schools like W G Mallett maintain the county's community-oriented feel.

Find a Home Near Quality Rural Schools

Franklin County is an ideal destination for families seeking high graduation rates within a quiet, rural setting. Proximity to the Mt Blue district is often a major selling point for local real estate. Discover a home where small-town values and academic success go hand-in-hand.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Franklin County

via RiskByCounty

Franklin County is Maine's safest

Franklin County's composite risk score of 43.64 sits notably below the national average, earning it a relatively low risk rating. This inland, mountainous county benefits from distance to the coast, resulting in modest tornado, wildfire, and earthquake risks.

Lowest risk among Maine counties

At 43.64, Franklin ranks as Maine's least risky county—23% below the state average of 56.75. The county's position in Maine's interior and higher elevation provides natural protection against many hazard types.

Significantly safer than coastal peers

Franklin's 43.64 score is roughly half that of coastal neighbors like Cumberland (77.00) and Aroostook (80.41). This dramatic difference reflects the protective effect of inland geography and distance from Atlantic hurricane pathways.

Hurricane risk still needs attention

Even inland Franklin faces hurricane risk at 80.85, your highest threat despite the county's relatively low overall score. Flood risk (52.99) ranks second, while tornado (12.37), wildfire (16.00), and earthquake (45.83) risks remain well below state averages.

Focus on hurricane and flood coverage

Prioritize windstorm and hurricane coverage in your policy, as the 80.85 hurricane risk still poses significant exposure despite Franklin's overall safety. Standard homeowners insurance often includes flood protection, but verify your policy details—your relatively low risk profile may mean lower premiums for solid coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Franklin County

via WeatherByCounty

A rugged climate defined by mountains

Franklin's 40.7°F average annual temperature is much lower than the national median. This reflects its high-elevation and northern inland geography which keeps the air crisp year-round.

Cooler than the average Maine county

At 40.7°F, the county is much colder than the 43.8°F Maine average. It ranks as one of the most frigid counties in the state outside of the far north.

A step colder than the lowlands

Its annual average is nearly 4 degrees lower than neighboring Androscoggin. While slightly warmer than Aroostook, it shares many of the same harsh winter characteristics and heavy snowfall.

Abundant snowfall and minimal summer heat

The county is a snow magnet, receiving 103.5 inches annually while seeing only 2 days of 90°F heat. Winter temperatures average a cold 17.0°F, ensuring snow stays on the ground.

Winter sports and wood stove staples

Given the 103.5 inches of snow, residents should plan for extensive winter maintenance and heating costs. Extreme heat is rare, so air conditioning is less critical than a reliable backup heat source.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Franklin County

via SoilByCounty

Rugged Mountain Soil Identity

Tucked into the mountains, Franklin's soil identity is shaped by its rugged topography and glacial history. Like its neighbors, it likely trends much more acidic than the national 6.5 pH standard.

From Valleys to Rocky Uplands

Detailed sand and silt percentages are currently unavailable for this mountainous terrain. The soil often transitions from rocky upland till to finer sediments found in the protected valley floors.

Forest Floor Biological Wealth

Though specific organic matter data is missing, the county benefits from the rich forest floor deposits common to Maine. High biological activity helps maintain fertility despite the cooler high-elevation temperatures.

Slope-Driven Water Movement

Mapped hydrologic groups are not available for this area, but slope plays a major role in local drainage. Valley farms often deal with higher moisture levels than the well-drained, rocky hillsides.

Cool Nights in Zone 5a

Hardiness Zone 5a makes for a crisp growing season in the western mountains. High-altitude gardens excel with hardy greens, berries, and root vegetables that appreciate the cooler nights.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Franklin County

via LawnByCounty

Reliable Growing Conditions in Franklin

Franklin County’s lawn difficulty score of 54.4 makes it one of the more forgiving places in Maine to grow a lawn. Situated in Zone 5a, the climate supports standard cool-season grasses without the extreme volatility seen in coastal counties.

Optimal Rain for Cool-Season Grass

An annual precipitation of 45.6 inches falls perfectly within the ideal range for maintaining lush turf. Low heat stress, with only 2 days above 90°F, means your mowing schedule can remain consistent throughout the 1608-degree-day growing season.

Monitor Your Under-Sod Health

While specific soil metrics aren't available for Franklin County, the regional norm suggests focusing on drainage and pH balance. A simple home test kit can help you determine if your lawn needs a boost of phosphorus or potassium to thrive.

Adapting to Variable Moisture Levels

With 31 weeks of drought over the last year and 52.1% of the area in severe drought, moisture management is key. Even in this interior county, installing rain barrels or using smart irrigation can help bridge the gap during dry intervals.

Timing the Mountain Season

Wait until after the May 23 frost to start your seeds, choosing hardy blends like Fine Fescue that handle Zone 5a winters well. You have until September 26 to get your lawn ready for the first fall frost, so late summer seeding is a viable strategy.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Franklin County's county score?
Franklin County, Maine has a composite county score of 54.8 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Franklin County rank among counties in Maine?
Franklin County ranks #1 among all counties in Maine on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Franklin County, Maine?
The median annual property tax in Franklin County is $1,897, with an effective tax rate of 1.07%. This earns Franklin County a tax score of 32.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Franklin County?
The median household income in Franklin County, Maine is $58,522 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Franklin County earns an income score of 34.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Franklin County, Maine a good place to live?
Franklin County scores 54.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #1 in Maine. The best way to evaluate Franklin County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Franklin County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.