countyscore
53.9
County Score
Safety 86.5Soil Quality 65.7Health 65.2

County Report Card

About Waldo County, Maine

Waldo County Ranks High Nationally

With a composite score of 53.9, Waldo County is well above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a well-rounded and stable quality of life for its residents.

Exceeding the Maine Average

Waldo's 53.9 score beats the Maine average of 48.0 by a significant margin. It stands out as one of the more desirable mid-coast counties in the state.

Unmatched Safety and Solid Earnings

The county boasts an incredible safety score of 86.5 and a healthy income score of 62.7. Median household income is strong at $68,441, supporting a high standard of living.

Addressing Water and Tax Pressure

A water score of 10.3 is the county's primary concern, indicating potential issues with local supply or quality. Cost and tax scores are also moderate at 30.6 and 32.2, respectively.

Secure and Prosperous Rural Life

Waldo County is a perfect match for those seeking safety and financial stability in a beautiful coastal setting. It offers a rare combination of security and economic opportunity for growing families.

Score breakdown

Tax32.2Cost30.6Safety86.5Health65.2Schools56.6Income62.7Risk59.4Water10.3Weather53.3
🏛32.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠30.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼62.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡86.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤65.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡59.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧10.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤53.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨65.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱39.8
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

Kennebec County
Maine
40.2
Knox County
Maine
50.5
Lincoln County
Maine
54.2
Hancock County
Maine
51.2
Sagadahoc County
Maine
54.7
Androscoggin County
Maine
38.2
Penobscot County
Maine
38.7
Cumberland County
Maine
47.4

Deep Dives

Waldo County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Waldo County

via TaxByCounty

Waldo balances rates and values well

Waldo County's effective tax rate of 1.085% sits just below the national median of 1.1%, placing it in favorable territory nationally. The county's median property tax of $2,593 is nearly equal to the national median of $2,690, reflecting a good balance between moderate tax rates and property values approaching the national average.

Competitive rates within Maine

Waldo County's effective rate of 1.085% ranks it just below Maine's state average of 1.107%, placing it squarely in the middle of Maine's counties. The county's median tax of $2,593 nearly matches the statewide median of $2,598, making it a representative Maine experience.

Mid-range among coastal counties

Waldo County's 1.085% rate is lower than Sagadahoc (1.121%) and York (1.033%), positioning it as a moderate-tax coastal community. With median home values of $239,100, Waldo offers reasonable property taxes for the coastal Maine market.

Balanced tax burden for $239K homes

On Waldo County's median home value of $239,100, the 1.085% rate produces approximately $2,593 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay around $2,649, reflecting a stable, predictable tax environment.

Verify your assessment today

Even in fairly-taxed Waldo County, overassessment is possible and worth checking. A simple appeal could lower your annual taxes without any cost.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Waldo County

via CostByCounty

Waldo Balances Income and Housing Costs

Waldo County renters spend 17.0% of income on rent, slightly below Maine's state average of 17.4% and well below national stress thresholds. With median household income at $68,441—about 8% below the U.S. average—this county maintains solid affordability through moderate rent levels.

Waldo Sits Comfortably Mid-Tier

At 17.0%, Waldo's rent-to-income ratio beats the state average, placing it in the upper half of Maine counties for affordability. This position reflects balanced housing costs and reasonable wage levels that haven't yet shifted dramatically upward.

Waldo Matches State Rent Benchmarks

Waldo's median rent of $969 mirrors Maine's state average, making it neither expensive nor bargain-priced relative to neighbors. Home values at $239,100 position it between affordable interior counties like Piscataquis and the premium coastal markets of York and Sagadahoc.

Balanced Housing Against Income

Renters here spend $969 monthly on a median income of $68,441, consuming 17.0% of household earnings—a comfortable ratio. Homeowners face $1,022 monthly mortgage costs, meaning combined housing costs for both renters and owners hover just under 18%.

Waldo Offers Steady Middle Ground

If you're seeking a middle path between Maine's most and least affordable counties, Waldo delivers consistency and moderate costs. This county offers reasonable access to jobs and housing without the premium prices of York or the wage pressures of Somerset.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Waldo County

via IncomeByCounty

Waldo County approaches national income parity

At $68,441, Waldo County's median household income trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by just 8.4%, performing better than most Maine counties. The coastal location and regional connectivity support more robust earning potential.

Above-average income within Maine

Waldo County earns $1,569 more than Maine's state median of $66,872, ranking in the upper half of the state's 16 counties. Only Sagadahoc and York counties report significantly higher medians.

Regional income leader among peers

Waldo's $68,441 median substantially exceeds inland counties—Oxford ($57,933), Somerset ($56,199), Piscataquis ($55,234)—and edges Penobscot ($63,248). It ranks notably below only the wealthier coastal counties.

Housing affordable, though values rising

Waldo County's 17.0% rent-to-income ratio comfortably meets affordability standards, though median home values of $239,100 represent substantial appreciation. Residents enjoy flexibility for savings and other expenses.

Build wealth through consistent investing

Waldo County earners at $68,441 can commit 10-15% of income to retirement and investment accounts while maintaining lifestyle. Consistent monthly contributions to diversified funds compound significantly over working lifespans.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Waldo County

via CrimeByCounty

Waldo County is incredibly safe

Waldo County achieves a near-perfect safety score of 99.5. Its total crime rate of 301.7 per 100,000 is nearly eight times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Leading the state in safety

Waldo's total crime rate of 301.7 is a fraction of the Maine average of 1,084.3. It stands as one of the safest counties in Maine, far exceeding the state safety average of 98.3.

A regional leader in low crime

Waldo County is significantly safer than neighboring Sagadahoc (688.9) and Somerset (1,531.9) counties. Its crime rate is among the lowest in the entire Northeast region.

Extremely low violent crime rates

Violent crime is almost non-existent at 12.6 per 100,000, while property crime is also minimal at 289.1. These figures indicate an exceptionally peaceful community for residents and visitors alike.

Maintaining a peaceful home environment

While crime is rare, basic home maintenance like locking doors and windows remains a good practice. High safety scores are best preserved through community awareness and simple security habits.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Waldo County

via HealthByCounty

Waldo County Keeps Pace Nationally

Waldo County's life expectancy of 76.5 years nearly matches the U.S. average of 76.4 years, showing this midcoast Maine county holds its own nationally. The 14.2% poor or fair health rate is below national averages, suggesting effective local health management despite rural challenges.

Slightly Below Maine's Average Health

At 76.5 years, Waldo County's life expectancy sits 0.2 years below Maine's state average of 76.7, placing it solidly in the middle of the state's health rankings. The 14.2% poor or fair health rating is among Maine's better-performing counties, reflecting relatively stable community health.

Mid-Range Health Outcomes

Waldo County's 76.5-year life expectancy edges ahead of Somerset (74.4) and Piscataquis (75.4) but trails Sagadahoc (80.1) and York (78.6), placing it firmly in Maine's middle tier. With 80 primary care providers per 100,000, Waldo's access is stronger than small rural counties but below state leaders.

Higher Uninsured Rate Concerns

Waldo County's 10.4% uninsured rate exceeds Maine's 9.4% state average, meaning more than 1 in 10 residents lack health coverage. The county has 80 primary care and 325 mental health providers per 100,000—moderate capacity that could be better utilized if more residents had insurance.

Waldo County: Close the Coverage Gap

With 10.4% of Waldo County residents uninsured—above the state average—now is the time to secure coverage and improve your health outcomes. Explore Maine's marketplace and local health centers in Belfast and Searsport to find affordable plans tailored to your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Waldo County

via SchoolsByCounty

Waldo County's Coastal School Network

Waldo County maintains 27 public schools across 10 districts, serving a total of 4,049 students. The network is composed of 15 elementary schools and 5 high schools.

Strong Funding and Competitive Scores

The county invests $10,669 per pupil, outspending the Maine state average by nearly $1,000. This higher funding supports a school score of 58.6, which is higher than the state average of 57.4.

RSU 22 and RSU 71 Lead the Way

RSU 22 is the largest district serving Waldo students with 2,278 enrolled across 7 schools. The county also hosts one charter school, providing a unique alternative to the standard district model.

Small Schools in a Rural Setting

Waldo County is known for its intimate learning environments, with an average school size of only 156 students. Nearly all schools (24 of 27) are located in rural areas, fostering close community ties.

Find Your Home in Waldo County

If you are looking for small class sizes and high per-pupil investment, Waldo County is an excellent choice. Research the top-performing districts around Belfast to find the perfect home for your family.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Waldo County

via RiskByCounty

Waldo County shows very low risk profile

Waldo County's composite risk score of 40.62 places it in the very low category, well below both the national average and Maine's state average of 56.75. The coastal county benefits from geographic characteristics and development patterns that minimize overall disaster vulnerability. Despite its oceanfront location, Waldo County ranks among Maine's safest communities from a natural hazard perspective.

Among Maine's lowest-risk counties

Waldo County's 40.62 composite score ranks it third-lowest in Maine, behind only Sagadahoc (23.35) and Piscataquis (52.35), making it one of the state's most naturally resilient areas. The county sits 16 points below Maine's state average, reflecting minimized exposure across most major hazard categories. This favorable profile contrasts sharply with higher-risk counties like Penobscot and York.

Safer than all surrounding counties

Waldo County's 40.62 score ranks it significantly lower than neighboring Penobscot County (78.02) to the north and Oxford County (65.90) to the west. Among its closest peers, only Sagadahoc County (23.35) to the south approaches comparable safety levels. Waldo's favorable risk profile places it in the safest tier of Maine coastal communities.

Hurricanes and floods are minimal concerns

Hurricane risk at 82.81 is Waldo County's highest hazard threat, but still represents minimal overall danger given the county's very low composite score. Flood risk at 58.80 affects localized areas near waterways and low-lying neighborhoods but poses limited community-wide risk. Earthquake (42.72), tornado (15.30), and wildfire (17.62) risks all remain negligible, making Waldo one of Maine's safest communities overall.

Basic insurance adequate for this county

Standard homeowners insurance provides sufficient coverage for Waldo County given the 40.62 very low risk profile, eliminating the need for specialized earthquake or comprehensive flood policies in most neighborhoods. Residents in documented flood zones should consider standalone flood insurance as a precaution, while basic wind coverage addresses minimal hurricane exposure. The county's exceptional safety makes it economical for homeowners to focus on maintenance and prevention rather than comprehensive multi-hazard coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Waldo County

via WeatherByCounty

Waldo's temperate coastal influence

Waldo County’s 44.1°F average annual temperature is about 10 degrees lower than the national median. The Atlantic Ocean buffers the county from the severe cold found just a few miles inland.

Slightly warmer than average

Waldo sits just above the Maine state average of 43.8°F. This makes it part of a milder coastal belt that experiences less extreme winter temperatures than the interior.

Bridging the coastal gap

Waldo’s 44.1°F average is slightly cooler than Sagadahoc (44.6°F) but warmer than neighboring Washington County (43.8°F). It shares a similar snowfall profile with other coastal counties at 71.5 inches.

Mild summers and steady rain

The county receives a high 48.8 inches of annual precipitation, with winters averaging a relatively mild 22.8°F. Summers are cool and comfortable, with only 2 days per year exceeding 90°F.

Plan for wind and wet

Homeowners should prioritize wind-resistant siding and moisture barriers to combat the frequent coastal storms. While snow is moderate at 71.5 inches, ice management is a critical winter task.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Waldo County

via SoilByCounty

Waldo's Highly Acidic Soil

Waldo County reports an average pH of 3.81, which is even more acidic than the Maine state average of 3.88. This sits far below the national median of 6.5, making soil amendments a common necessity for most garden plants.

A Balanced Sand and Silt Mix

The soil contains 25.8% sand and 24.8% silt, with a very low 5.5% clay content. This composition typically allows for decent drainage while maintaining enough physical structure to support healthy plant roots.

Superior Water and Carbon Retention

Organic matter is an impressive 35.40%, vastly higher than the 2.0% national average. The county's water capacity of 0.249 in/in is better than the state benchmark of 0.242, ensuring crops stay hydrated longer.

Permeability and Site Drainage

Specific drainage class data is missing, but the high sand and silt content often indicates moderate permeability. You should verify your specific plot's drainage before installing permanent garden beds or building structures.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 5a

Waldo falls in Zone 5a, a climate that pairs well with cold-hardy crops and northern-adapted fruit trees. With a soil score of 65.7, you have a solid foundation for a productive homestead.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Waldo County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Lawn Conditions in Waldo

Waldo County presents a significant challenge with a lawn difficulty score of 39.8, well below the Maine average of 49.8. This Zone 5a region requires more intensive management than most counties in the United States.

High Rainfall and Steady Growing Days

The area sees 48.8 inches of annual precipitation and 1,802 growing degree days, which would normally support thick growth. However, the high moisture levels can exacerbate soil issues and lead to nutrient leaching in sandy spots.

Correcting Highly Acidic Waldo Soils

The local soil is extremely acidic with a pH of 3.81, far below the preferred 6.0 range for grass. With 25.8% sand and only 5.5% clay, you must apply lime and organic matter to help your lawn hold nutrients and thrive.

Managing Total Severe Drought Coverage

Currently, 100.0% of Waldo County is in severe drought, a major hurdle for maintaining turf. Residents should prioritize drought-tolerant species to survive the 35 weeks of drought the county has experienced over the past year.

Strategic Planting in Waldo County

The frost-free window runs from May 7th to October 5th, providing a standard Maine growing season. Focus on acid-tolerant fescue blends to help overcome the naturally low pH of the local soil environment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Waldo County's county score?
Waldo County, Maine has a composite county score of 53.9 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 Waldo County rank among counties in Maine?
Waldo County ranks #4 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 Waldo County, Maine?
The median annual property tax in Waldo County is $2,593, with an effective tax rate of 1.08%. This earns Waldo County a tax score of 32.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Waldo County?
The median household income in Waldo County, Maine is $68,441 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Waldo County earns an income score of 62.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Waldo County, Maine a good place to live?
Waldo County scores 53.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #4 in Maine. The best way to evaluate Waldo 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 Waldo 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.