countyscore
45.3
County Score
Health 52.6Cost of Living 52.2Weather & Climate 49.9

County Report Card

About Oxford County, Maine

Oxford County's National Standing

Oxford County earns a composite score of 45.2, placing it just below the national median of 50.0. While it trails the national average, it maintains a solid baseline for overall livability.

Comparing Oxford to the Pine Tree State

The county's composite score of 45.2 sits slightly behind the Maine state average of 48.0. It ranks as a more affordable, rural alternative compared to the state's more populous coastal hubs.

Affordability and Health Lead the Way

Oxford excels in health with a score of 52.6 and housing affordability at 52.2. Median gross rent remains accessible at $807, significantly lower than many neighboring regions.

Navigating Economic and Environmental Hurdles

The county faces challenges in its income score of 32.6, reflected in a median household income of $57,933. Tax and risk scores of 31.5 and 34.1 also indicate room for improvement in fiscal and environmental resilience.

A Haven for the Budget-Conscious

Oxford County best suits residents prioritizing low housing costs and healthcare access over high-income potential. It is an ideal fit for retirees or remote workers looking for a quiet, affordable lifestyle.

2040608010031.552.245.952.649.832.634.135.249.9Tax31.5Cost52.2Safety45.9Health52.6Schools49.8Income32.6Risk34.1Water35.2Weather49.945.3/100
This county
National avg
4 below average

Oxford County DNA

Foverall

How Oxford County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Oxford County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Water Quality (35.2/100), though Cost of Living (52.2/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
31.5-20.5
Cost
52.2
Safety
45.9-9.100000000000001
Health
52.6
Schools
49.8
Income
32.6-18.4
Risk
34.1-12.899999999999999
Water
35.2-22.799999999999997
Weather
49.9
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Oxford County?

Many homeowners in Oxford County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$192,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$807/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$192,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$32,280/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $57,933/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

20.4

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

Coos County
New Hampshire
41.2
Androscoggin County
Maine
38.2
Franklin County
Maine
54.8
Carroll County
New Hampshire
49
Essex County
Vermont
55.7
Cumberland County
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47.4
Kennebec County
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40.2
Sagadahoc County
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54.7

Deep Dives

Oxford County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Oxford County

via TaxByCounty

Oxford taxes below U.S. median

Oxford County's effective tax rate of 1.094% sits well below the national median of 1.1%, putting homeowners in a favorable position. The county's median property tax of $2,103 is substantially lower than the national median of $2,690, reflecting both lower tax rates and more modest home values.

Middle-ground rates within Maine

Oxford County's 1.094% effective rate ranks it just slightly below Maine's state average of 1.107%, placing it squarely in the middle of Maine's 16 counties. The county's median tax of $2,103 is notably lower than the statewide median of $2,598, making it a relatively affordable option for Maine homeowners.

Competitive among western Maine counties

Oxford County's tax rate of 1.094% is lower than neighboring Penobscot County (1.256%) but slightly higher than Piscataquis County (0.970%). Among the region's mid-sized counties, Oxford offers a balanced tax burden with median home values around $192,300.

What $2,103 means in real terms

On Oxford County's median home value of $192,300, the effective rate of 1.094% translates to approximately $2,103 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay closer to $2,293 annually, while those without pay around $1,867.

Challenge your assessment today

Many Oxford County homeowners are unknowingly overassessed, paying more than their property is worth. Filing an appeal with your assessor's office costs nothing and could result in substantial savings on your annual tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Oxford County

via CostByCounty

Oxford: More Affordable Than America

Oxford County renters spend 16.7% of income on rent, well below the national benchmark and more affordable than most of the country. With median household income at $57,933—about 23% below the U.S. average of $74,755—residents here still find housing more manageable than their national counterparts.

Middle Ground in Maine

At 16.7%, Oxford's rent-to-income ratio beats Maine's state average of 17.4%, placing it in the middle tier of Maine counties for affordability. This modest advantage reflects the county's balance of lower housing costs and decent wage levels relative to its peers.

Oxford Undercuts Western Rivals

Oxford County's median rent of $807 is $162 cheaper than Penobscot County ($997) and undercuts Somerset County ($887) by $80 monthly. Home values tell a similar story: Oxford median homes cost $192,300, below Somerset's $155,200 but more affordable than larger regional centers.

Rent Eats 16.7%, Mortgages Take More

Renters in Oxford County devote roughly $807 monthly to rent on a median income of $57,933, while homeowners face steeper monthly costs of $875. Together, housing consumes about 18% of household income for renters—a manageable share compared to national stress points above 30%.

Consider Oxford for Balanced Living

If you're weighing Maine counties, Oxford offers an affordable middle path: lower rent than Penobscot and York, but with incomes stable enough to make payments manageable. Start your search here if you value small-town access without the premium price tags of coastal Maine.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Oxford County

via IncomeByCounty

Oxford County trails national income benchmark

At $57,933, Oxford County's median household income sits 22.5% below the U.S. median of $74,755. This places the county near the lower end of national income distribution, reflecting Maine's broader economic patterns of smaller towns and rural employment.

Below-average income within Maine

Oxford County ranks in the lower half of Maine's 16 counties, earning $8,939 less than the state median of $66,872. Only five Maine counties report lower household incomes than Oxford's current level.

Moderate income compared to nearby counties

Oxford County's $57,933 median exceeds Washington ($52,237) and Piscataquis ($55,234) counties but trails Waldo County's $68,441. Among rural central Maine peers, Oxford holds middle ground in earning potential.

Housing costs manageable but tight

With a rent-to-income ratio of 16.7%, Oxford County households spend a reasonable share of earnings on housing—well below the 30% affordability threshold. However, median home values of $192,300 require substantial savings discipline for homeownership.

Build financial security starting today

Oxford County residents earning $57,933 can benefit from automatic savings plans and employer retirement matching—even modest contributions compound significantly over time. Starting a dedicated investment account now, even with small amounts, bridges the gap between current income and long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Oxford County

via CrimeByCounty

Oxford County remains safer than national average

Oxford County boasts a high safety score of 98.1, outperforming most of the United States. Its total crime rate of 1,211.5 per 100,000 residents is nearly half the national average of 2,385.5.

Oxford County near Maine safety average

The county's safety score of 98.1 sits just below the Maine state average of 98.3. While it is extremely safe by national standards, its total crime rate is slightly higher than the state average of 1,084.3 per 100,000.

Comparing Oxford to its rural neighbors

Oxford County's crime rate of 1,211.5 per 100,000 is higher than nearby Piscataquis County, which reports a lower rate of 956.5. However, Oxford remains more secure than neighboring Penobscot County's rate of 1,756.5.

Property crime drives local statistics

Property crime accounts for the vast majority of local incidents with 1,139.4 reports per 100,000 people. Violent crime remains remarkably low at 72.1 per 100,000, which is less than a quarter of the national violent crime rate.

Enhance your home security today

Since property crime is the primary safety concern, residents should prioritize basic security measures like motion-sensor lighting and deadbolt locks. Simple precautions significantly reduce the risk of theft and property damage.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Oxford County

via SchoolsByCounty

Oxford's Extensive Rural School Infrastructure

Oxford County manages 31 public schools across 9 districts, serving a total enrollment of 8,115 students. The system is built on a foundation of 18 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 6 high schools.

Investment and Results in Oxford County

The county spends $8,692 per pupil, which is lower than the Maine average of $9,738 and the national benchmark of $13,000. While the graduation rate of 85.1% is slightly below the state average of 86.1%, the school score of 54.6 remains competitive with the state median.

RSU 17 Leads the Local Districts

RSU 17/MSAD 17 is the county's largest district, overseeing 10 schools and 3,223 students. Currently, there are no charter schools in the county, with all students served by traditional public districts.

A Classic Rural Learning Environment

Education here is overwhelmingly rural, with 23 of the 31 schools located in rural settings and the remainder in towns. While the average school size is 280 students, Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School serves a much larger student body of 1,077.

Find a Home Near Oxford Schools

Families moving to Oxford County can choose between intimate rural schools and larger regional high schools. Consider exploring homes near top districts like RSU 17 to find the right educational fit for your family.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Oxford County

via RiskByCounty

Oxford sits above the national average

Oxford County's composite risk score of 65.90 places it in the relatively low category, but it exceeds the typical U.S. county baseline. This reflects elevated exposure to coastal hazards—particularly hurricane and flood risks—that characterize Maine's natural disaster profile. While tornado and wildfire threats remain minimal, the county's overall vulnerability merits proactive preparation.

Moderate risk among Maine counties

Oxford County's 65.90 score ranks it in the middle range of Maine's 16 counties, sitting above the state average of 56.75. This places it as a moderate-concern area compared to lower-risk counties like Sagadahoc and Waldo, but below higher-risk neighbors like York. The county's position reflects its mixed exposure to multiple hazard types across its rural and suburban landscapes.

Higher risk than western neighbors

Oxford's 65.90 score exceeds nearby Somerset County (67.94, actually slightly higher) and significantly surpasses Piscataquis County to the north at 52.35. Among its peers, Oxford carries elevated risk primarily due to hurricane exposure (86.11) and flood vulnerability (73.25), which outpace the inland counties of western Maine. Residents share similar coastal storm exposure as much of southern Maine.

Hurricanes and floods dominate here

Hurricane risk in Oxford County reaches 86.11, making tropical storms the leading natural hazard threat to homes and infrastructure. Flood risk at 73.25 compounds this danger, particularly in river valleys and low-lying areas where water accumulation after heavy precipitation is common. Tornado and wildfire risks remain minimal (16.70 and 27.23 respectively), allowing residents to focus preparedness efforts on storm and water damage protection.

Prioritize flood and storm coverage

Standard homeowners insurance typically excludes flood damage; Oxford County residents should strongly consider standalone flood insurance given the 73.25 flood risk score. Wind and hail coverage becomes essential with a hurricane risk of 86.11, and reviewing policy limits ensures adequate protection against storm damage that exceeds typical deductibles. Elevation, proper drainage, and reinforced roofing are equally important investments for long-term protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Oxford County

via WaterByCounty

Oxford County Drinking Water Snapshot

Oxford County earns a Grade F for drinking water compliance, recording 9 health violations over the last five years. While its violation rate of 45.8 per 100,000 residents is lower than the Maine state average of 150.7, the severity of these incidents triggers the failing grade.

Watershed Assessment Gaps

Federal authorities have not yet assessed local water bodies in Oxford County under Clean Water Act §303(d) standards. As a result, there is no current impairment data to compare against the state's 18.3% average impairment rate.

Tracking Water Quality Records

Environmental monitoring remains active across 38 sites, producing 4,361 measurements over the past five years. Researchers prioritize physical characteristics, nutrients, and inorganic materials to monitor the health of local ecosystems.

Androscoggin River Flow Trends

The USGS gauge on the Androscoggin River at Rumford currently measures 3,340 cfs, which is 85% of its long-term typical flow. This indicates slightly lower than average water volume moving through the county's primary drainage area.

Safeguarding Your Oxford Home Tap

Given the Grade F compliance rating, residents should investigate the specific health violations reported by their local water utility. Consider using certified water filters to mitigate risks from distribution system failures.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Oxford County

via WeatherByCounty

A rugged continental climate in Oxford

Oxford County’s average annual temperature of 42.6°F sits nearly 12 degrees below the national median. This humid continental environment is shaped by high elevations and northern latitudes.

Cooler than the Maine average

The county remains cooler than the Maine state average of 43.8°F. This gap reflects its mountainous interior geography compared to the state's more temperate coastal zones.

Warmer than Somerset, cooler than Penobscot

Oxford is significantly warmer than neighboring Somerset County, which averages just 40.7°F. However, it stays nearly a full degree cooler than Penobscot County’s 43.3°F average.

Oxford's deep snow and mild summers

Winters are intense with 95.9 inches of annual snowfall and a January average of 16.1°F. Summers are comfortable, seeing only 4 days above 90°F and a July average of 67.1°F.

Prepare for the mountain chill

Residents should invest in heavy-duty snow removal equipment to handle the nearly eight feet of annual snow. High-efficiency heating systems or wood stoves are vital for the 19.2°F winter average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Oxford County

via SoilByCounty

Oxford County's Acidic Ground

While specific taxonomic data for Oxford County is limited, its soils likely mirror the intensely acidic state average pH of 3.88. This level sits significantly lower than the national median pH of 6.5, which defines the management needs for local crops.

Glacial Origins and Soil Texture

Specific sand and clay percentages are not recorded, but the region is dominated by glacial till textures. This geologic heritage influences how easily the earth can be worked and how well it retains vital nutrients for forest and farm growth.

Massive Organic Matter Potential

Maine leads the nation with an average organic matter content of 35.77%, far exceeding the 2.0% national average. Oxford likely shares this high-carbon foundation, supported by a state average water capacity of 0.242 in/in that helps plants survive dry spells.

Managing Water on the Landscape

Detailed drainage class data is currently unavailable, requiring residents to observe local runoff patterns before building. Understanding how your specific site handles water is the first step toward successful gardening and stable construction.

Hardy Crops for Zone 5a

The county falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, favoring cold-hardy perennials and short-season vegetables. You can find great success with apples and root crops if you work with the naturally acidic environment.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Oxford County

via LawnByCounty

Managing Lawns in Oxford County

Oxford County earns a 49.0 lawn difficulty score, placing it just slightly below the Maine state average of 49.8. This Zone 5a region offers a slightly more challenging environment for turf compared to the national median of 50.0.

Ample Rain and Mild Summer Heat

The county receives 47.3 inches of annual precipitation, which is ideal for maintaining lush cool-season grasses. With only 4 extreme heat days per year and 1,849 growing degree days, lawns here escape the scorching stress common in southern states.

Testing Your Mountain Soil Foundation

Local soil data is currently limited, making a professional home test the best first step for new lawns. Most Maine soils require periodic lime applications to move toward the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 pH range for healthy grass.

Combatting Severe Local Drought Conditions

Currently, 77.2% of the county faces severe drought, requiring careful water management after 41 weeks of dry spells this past year. Homeowners should focus on deep watering twice a week to build the deep root systems necessary for survival.

Best Grasses for Oxford's Climate

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescues thrive in Zone 5a if planted between the May 17th spring frost and the October 1st fall frost. These varieties provide the cold hardiness needed to survive the county's average 16.1°F January temperatures.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Oxford County's county score?
Oxford County, Maine has a composite county score of 45.3 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 Oxford County rank among counties in Maine?
Oxford County ranks #12 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 Oxford County, Maine?
The median annual property tax in Oxford County is $2,103, with an effective tax rate of 1.09%. This earns Oxford County a tax score of 31.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Oxford County?
The median household income in Oxford County, Maine is $57,933 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Oxford County earns an income score of 32.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Oxford County, Maine a good place to live?
Oxford County scores 45.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in Maine. The best way to evaluate Oxford 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 Oxford County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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