countyscore
41.3
County Score
Lawn Care 57.4Schools 53.7Cost of Living 50.4

County Report Card

About Somerset County, Maine

Somerset County's Place in America

Somerset County holds a composite score of 41.3, placing it below the national median of 50.0. While it offers affordability, it trails the broader national economic trends.

A Rural Standard in Central Maine

The county's score of 41.3 sits below the Maine state average of 48.0. It represents a more traditional, rural lifestyle compared to the state's coastal economic engines.

Strong Schools and Low Entry Costs

Somerset provides solid education with a school score of 53.7 and approachable housing at a cost score of 50.4. Median home values are among the most affordable in the state at $155,200.

Income and Infrastructure Gaps

The water score is quite low at 16.7, and the income score sits at 28.1 with a median household income of $56,199. These metrics suggest a need for broader economic development and utility investment.

Value-Focused Living for Families

Somerset is best suited for families looking for affordable homeownership and decent schools. It is a practical choice for those who value community stability over rapid economic growth.

Score breakdown

Tax27.5Cost50.4Safety34.1Health50.2Schools53.7Income28.1Risk32.1Water16.7Weather49.6
🏛27.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠50.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼28.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡34.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤50.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡32.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧16.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱57.4
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

Piscataquis County
Maine
49.7
Franklin County
Maine
54.8
Penobscot County
Maine
38.7
Kennebec County
Maine
40.2
Oxford County
Maine
45.3
Waldo County
Maine
53.9
Coos County
New Hampshire
41.2
Androscoggin County
Maine
38.2

Deep Dives

Somerset County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Somerset County

via TaxByCounty

Somerset's rates exceed national average

Somerset County's effective tax rate of 1.159% exceeds the U.S. median of 1.1%, placing it in the higher-tax category nationally. However, the county's median home value of $155,200 is far below the national average of $281,900, so the median property tax of $1,798 remains well below the national median of $2,690.

Above Maine average, below median tax

Somerset County's 1.159% effective rate ranks it above Maine's state average of 1.107%, positioning it in the upper tier of Maine tax rates. Yet the county's median tax of $1,798 falls below the state median of $2,598 due to more modest home values.

Higher rates, lower home values

Somerset County's tax rate of 1.159% is elevated compared to Oxford (1.094%) and Piscataquis (0.970%), but its median home value of $155,200 is among the state's lowest. This makes Somerset's effective burden relatively moderate despite above-average rates.

Modest tax bills despite high rates

On Somerset County's median home value of $155,200, the 1.159% rate translates to approximately $1,798 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay around $1,982, keeping the overall burden manageable.

Appeal high-rate assessments today

Somerset County's above-average tax rates make it especially important to verify your assessment accuracy. Even modest reductions can result in meaningful annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Somerset County

via CostByCounty

Somerset Renters Stretch to Afford Housing

Somerset County renters spend 18.9% of income on rent—exceeding Maine's state average of 17.4% and approaching national stress levels. With median household income at $56,199 (nearly 25% below the U.S. average), housing cost pressure here rivals some of the nation's least affordable rural markets.

Somerset Struggles With Affordability

At 18.9%, Somerset's rent-to-income ratio ties Penobscot County for the worst affordability in Maine. This western county faces a wage-versus-housing-cost mismatch that leaves renters with limited breathing room in tight household budgets.

Somerset Rents Underscore Rural Challenges

Somerset's median rent of $887 falls between Oxford ($807) and Penobscot ($997), but the lower household income of $56,199 makes this moderate rent consume nearly 19% of earnings. Home values at $155,200 match Piscataquis, but wage levels are notably lower.

Tight Budgets, Limited Flexibility

Renters spend $887 monthly on a median income of $56,199, consuming 18.9% of household earnings—pushing against affordability limits. Homeowners pay $782 in mortgage costs, but combined housing costs near 20% of income leave little margin for other necessities.

Somerset Requires Careful Financial Planning

Somerset offers lower absolute housing costs than coastal Maine, but tight affordability ratios mean you'll want a strong emergency fund and stable income. If relocating here, prioritize remote work or jobs in regionallead employers to ensure housing costs don't overwhelm your budget.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Somerset County

via IncomeByCounty

Somerset County income below U.S. average

Somerset County's median household income of $56,199 falls 24.8% below the national median of $74,755. Like much of rural Maine, the county experiences economic headwinds from limited job sectors.

Third-lowest income statewide

Somerset County earns $10,673 less than Maine's state median of $66,872, ranking among the state's economically challenged counties. Only Washington and Piscataquis counties report lower median household income.

Lowest-earning inland county cluster

Somerset's $56,199 median ranks slightly above Piscataquis ($55,234) but well below Oxford ($57,933) and significantly trails Penobscot ($63,248). Western Maine's interior counties face shared economic constraints.

Rental burden approaches critical threshold

At 18.9%, Somerset County's rent-to-income ratio matches Penobscot's and signals housing stress for renters. Combined with low per-capita income of $32,452, unexpected expenses quickly deplete household reserves.

Focus on financial stability first

Somerset County residents should establish three-month emergency reserves before aggressive investing, given income volatility common in rural areas. Credit unions and community banks often offer accessible savings and loan products designed for modest-income households.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Somerset County

via CrimeByCounty

Somerset County maintains secure profile

Somerset County features a safety score of 97.6, indicating a high level of security. Its total crime rate of 1,531.9 is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Higher rates compared to Maine averages

Somerset's total crime rate of 1,531.9 per 100,000 exceeds the state average of 1,084.3. Its violent crime rate of 106.6 is also higher than the Maine average of 82.4.

Regional crime comparisons for Somerset

Somerset County has a higher crime rate than neighboring Piscataquis County (956.5) but is safer than Penobscot County (1,756.5). Its violent crime rate is higher than many surrounding rural areas.

Property crime accounts for most reports

The county sees 1,425.3 property crimes per 100,000 residents, which drives the overall crime statistic. While the violent crime rate of 106.6 is high for Maine, it is still well below the national rate of 369.8.

Secure your property and belongings

Focusing on property security is essential in Somerset County to prevent theft. Implementing well-lit entryways and securing vehicles can significantly lower your risk of becoming a statistic.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Somerset County

via HealthByCounty

Somerset County Faces Serious Health Gap

Somerset County's life expectancy of 74.4 years trails the U.S. average of 76.4 years by two full years, indicating significant health challenges in this western Maine region. The 17.5% poor or fair health rate is notably above national norms, reflecting a population facing multiple health stressors.

Maine's Lowest Life Expectancy

Somerset County ranks last in Maine with a life expectancy of 74.4 years—2.3 years below the state average of 76.7—making it the state's health priority county. The 17.5% poor or fair health rating also underperforms most Maine counties, signaling urgent need for health interventions.

Poorest Outcomes in Region

Somerset County's 74.4-year life expectancy is the lowest among rural peers, trailing Piscataquis (75.4) by one year and Oxford (76.1) by 1.7 years. With only 57 primary care providers per 100,000, Somerset has the fewest in its peer group and struggles with both access and outcomes.

Coverage Gap Compounds Health Crisis

Somerset County's 9.7% uninsured rate slightly exceeds Maine's 9.4% state average, and its provider drought—just 57 primary care providers per 100,000—limits access for those with coverage. This combination of uninsurance and provider scarcity creates a double barrier to care in a rural county already facing life expectancy challenges.

Somerset County Needs Action Now

With Maine's lowest life expectancy at 74.4 years and 9.7% of residents uninsured, Somerset County residents should prioritize getting covered immediately. Visit maine.gov or call regional health centers in Skowhegan and Fairfield to explore affordable insurance and preventive care options today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Somerset County

via SchoolsByCounty

Somerset County's Expansive School Network

Somerset County manages 31 public schools and 10 districts, educating 6,254 students. The system includes 18 elementary schools and 7 high schools to cover its broad geographic area.

Somerset Performance and Spending

Per-pupil expenditure is $9,767, which aligns almost perfectly with the Maine state average. The graduation rate of 84.5% is just below the state's 86.1% benchmark, while the overall school score remains competitive at 56.6.

District Leadership and Charter Options

RSU 54/MSAD 54 is the largest district, serving 2,229 students. Notably, Somerset County has 4 charter schools, making up nearly 13% of its total school landscape and offering families alternative choices.

Rural Schools with a Personal Touch

With 21 rural schools and 10 in town settings, the county offers a classic Maine educational feel. The average school size is a modest 208 students, with Skowhegan Area High School being the largest at 719 students.

Explore Homes in Somerset Districts

From Skowhegan to the rural outskirts, Somerset County provides diverse schooling options, including a significant charter presence. Use school quality as a key factor when evaluating homes in this central Maine region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Somerset County

via RiskByCounty

Somerset faces moderate hazard exposure

Somerset County's composite risk score of 67.94 places it in the relatively low category but above the national average, reflecting meaningful exposure to multiple natural hazards. The county experiences elevated risks across earthquakes (59.35), hurricanes (85.90), and floods (61.80), creating a diverse disaster profile typical of inland New England. This regional pattern reflects Somerset's location in a seismic zone vulnerable to Atlantic tropical storm influence.

Mid-range risk among Maine counties

Somerset County's 67.94 composite score ranks it fourth among Maine's 16 counties, exceeding the state average of 56.75 by 11 points. The county sits between lower-risk peers like Waldo (40.62) and higher-risk neighbors like Penobscot (78.02), positioning it as a moderate-concern area requiring balanced disaster preparedness. Its risk profile is comparable to Oxford County (65.90), its geographic neighbor to the south.

Slightly riskier than Oxford to the south

Somerset's 67.94 score marginally exceeds neighboring Oxford County (65.90) to the south, reflecting comparable but distinct hazard patterns. The county faces similar hurricane (85.90 vs. 86.11) and earthquake exposure (59.35 vs. 60.27) but greater flood risk (61.80 vs. 73.25). To the north, Piscataquis County (52.35) presents substantially lower risk, primarily due to its inland location and lower flood exposure.

Hurricanes and earthquakes are priorities

Hurricane risk at 85.90 represents Somerset County's most significant natural hazard threat, with tropical storms capable of affecting the region through direct wind and precipitation impacts. Earthquake risk at 59.35 poses a secondary but substantial concern, particularly for older structures not designed to withstand seismic forces. Flood risk at 61.80 rounds out the top three hazards, affecting river valleys and areas with poor drainage infrastructure.

Earthquake and hurricane protection essential

Earthquake insurance becomes important in Somerset County given the 59.35 score, protecting against foundation damage and structural failure that standard policies exclude. Wind and hail coverage is critical for the 85.90 hurricane risk, and flood insurance should cover properties in river valleys and low-lying areas. Seismic retrofitting of foundations and roof reinforcement provide cost-effective complements to comprehensive insurance coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Somerset County

via WeatherByCounty

Somerset's extreme northern chill

Somerset County averages just 40.7°F annually, sitting over 13 degrees below the national median. This represents one of the most rigorous continental climates in the continental U.S.

Maine's most frigid interior

Somerset is more than 3 degrees colder than the Maine state average of 43.8°F. Its inland, northern position creates a climate far colder than the coastal counties.

The coldest in the region

At 40.7°F, Somerset is noticeably colder than neighboring Piscataquis (41.8°F) and Oxford (42.6°F). It also faces the state's highest snow loads, averaging 97.0 inches annually.

Sustained winter and brief summers

January is exceptionally cold with an average of 13.2°F, driving nearly 100 inches of snow. July is the only truly warm month, averaging 66.1°F with only 2 days of extreme heat.

Winter readiness is mandatory

Residents require high-BTU heating systems to handle the 16.4°F average winter temperature. Preparing for 97 inches of snow requires professional-grade equipment and advanced home insulation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Somerset County

via SoilByCounty

Somerset's Deeply Acidic Earth

Somerset's soil typically mirrors the state's acidic profile, which averages a pH of 3.88. This is significantly more acidic than the national 6.5 median, directly impacting which nutrients are accessible to growing plants.

Soil Texture and Particle Mix

Without specific sand or clay percentages on record, growers must rely on physical touch to judge the soil's texture. The mix of particles determines how well the ground breathes and how it holds onto summer rains.

High-Carbon Soil Potential

Maine leads the way in organic matter with a 35.77% average, providing a massive reservoir of nutrients compared to the 2.0% national norm. Somerset likely benefits from this high-carbon legacy, which aids in overall crop resilience.

Navigating Local Water Drainage

Data on drainage classes is not currently available for this region, so observant land management is required. Watch for standing water during the spring thaw to understand your soil's natural hydrologic behavior.

Garden Staples for Zone 5a

In Zone 5a, you can successfully grow hardy staples like potatoes, onions, and various brassicas. Use the county’s natural fertility to jumpstart a productive home vegetable patch this season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Somerset County

via LawnByCounty

Success in Somerset County Lawns

Somerset County is a standout for lawn success with a difficulty score of 57.4, much higher than the state average of 49.8. Homeowners in this Zone 5a region find it significantly easier to grow grass than the national median of 50.0.

Mild Summers and Ideal Rainfall

The county receives 43.0 inches of rain per year, which is perfectly aligned with the needs of healthy turf. With only 2 extreme heat days, cool-season grasses remain green and active without the need for constant summer irrigation.

Understanding Your Local Soil Needs

Local soil data is not currently recorded, but standard Maine lawn care involves monitoring for high acidity. Adding a layer of topsoil or compost before seeding can provide the initial boost needed for a thick, healthy lawn.

High Drought Stress in Somerset

Severe drought affects 78.3% of the county right now, presenting a challenge despite the overall high lawn score. Homeowners should utilize mulch-mowing to return moisture to the soil and combat the 31 weeks of drought typical of the last year.

Planting Windows for Somerset County

Plan to seed your lawn between the May 13th spring frost and the September 30th fall frost. Hardiness Zone 5a favors Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue, which provide excellent winter survival and early spring green-up.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Somerset County's county score?
Somerset County, Maine has a composite county score of 41.3 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 Somerset County rank among counties in Maine?
Somerset County ranks #13 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 Somerset County, Maine?
The median annual property tax in Somerset County is $1,798, with an effective tax rate of 1.16%. This earns Somerset County a tax score of 27.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Somerset County?
The median household income in Somerset County, Maine is $56,199 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Somerset County earns an income score of 28.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Somerset County, Maine a good place to live?
Somerset County scores 41.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #13 in Maine. The best way to evaluate Somerset 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 Somerset County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

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