countyscore
46.8
County Score
Income & Jobs 86.8Health 84.2Soil Quality 65.4

County Report Card

About York County, Maine

York County's National Position

York County scores 46.8, trailing the national median of 50.0 slightly. Its profile is defined by high income balanced against higher-than-average living costs.

Close to the Maine Average

At 46.8, York is nearly identical to the Maine state average of 48.0. It represents the quintessential experience of Maine's southern economic corridor.

Top-Tier Earnings and Health

The county excels with an income score of 86.8 and a health score of 84.2. Residents enjoy high median household incomes of $82,904 and excellent access to medical services.

High Entry Price and Environmental Risk

A cost score of 11.7 reflects high home values of $357,200 and rents at $1,239. The risk score is also low at 18.5, indicating susceptibility to environmental hazards like coastal storms.

A Professional Hub with Coastal Costs

York County is best for high-earning professionals who want top-tier healthcare and schools. It requires a significant financial investment to enjoy its many regional benefits.

Score breakdown

Tax35.7Cost11.7Safety43Health84.2Schools64.8Income86.8Risk18.5Water49.6Weather52.2
🏛35.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠11.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼86.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡43
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤84.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓64.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡18.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧49.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨65.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱36.9
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

Strafford County
New Hampshire
40.2
Cumberland County
Maine
47.4
Rockingham County
New Hampshire
48.9
Belknap County
New Hampshire
38.3
Carroll County
New Hampshire
49
Merrimack County
New Hampshire
43.6
Essex County
Massachusetts
48.3
Sagadahoc County
Maine
54.7

Deep Dives

York County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in York County

via TaxByCounty

York balances rates and premium values

York County's effective tax rate of 1.033% is the lowest among all eight counties examined and well below the national median of 1.1%. However, the county's median home value of $357,200 is 27% higher than the national average, resulting in a median property tax of $3,691—the second-highest nationally.

Maine's lowest rates, highest values

York County's 1.033% effective rate is the lowest in Maine, substantially below the state average of 1.107%. Yet the county's median home value of $357,200 is Maine's highest, producing a median tax of $3,691 that tops most Maine counties.

Premium coastal property market

York County's median home value of $357,200 far exceeds Sagadahoc ($300,200) and Waldo ($239,100), reflecting southern Maine's robust real estate market. At 1.033%, York has the state's lowest tax rate, but premium valuations still drive the steepest taxes.

Highest tax bills despite lowest rates

On York County's median home value of $357,200, the lowest state tax rate of 1.033% produces approximately $3,691 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay around $3,769, reflecting the county's premium real estate market.

High values demand careful review

With York County's premium home prices, a single percentage-point assessment error translates to thousands in annual taxes. Professional assessment review and appeals are especially worthwhile in this high-value market.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in York County

via CostByCounty

York's Premium Prices, Supported Incomes

York County renters spend 17.9% of income on rent, above Maine's state average but driven by both high housing costs and strong median household income of $82,904 (11% above the U.S. average). This coastal-adjacent premium market balances expensive rents with wages sufficient to absorb them.

York Leads Maine in Absolute Prices

At 17.9%, York's rent-to-income ratio places it near the middle of Maine's affordability rankings, but its median rent of $1,239 and home values of $357,200 are the highest statewide. Strong household incomes of $82,904 offset these premium prices, but York remains the state's most expensive market.

York Dominates Regional Price Charts

York's median rent of $1,239 is $242 higher than Sagadahoc County ($1,050) and $471 above Oxford ($807). Home values at $357,200 dwarf every other county—$57,000 more than Sagadahoc's $300,200—reflecting York's status as Maine's most sought-after residential market.

Maine's Highest Costs, Highest Incomes

Renters here pay $1,239 monthly on a median income of $82,904, consuming 17.9% of earnings. Homeowners face the steepest $1,470 monthly mortgage payments in the state, but the county's wage premium makes these costs proportionally manageable.

York for Well-Compensated Relocators

If you're moving to Maine with a household income above $80,000, York offers coastal access and strong job markets despite premium housing costs. This is Maine's economic engine—worth the higher prices if you have the income to match.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in York County

via IncomeByCounty

York County exceeds national income benchmark

At $82,904, York County's median household income surpasses the U.S. median of $74,755 by 10.9%, making it Maine's wealthiest county by household income. Southern Maine's growth corridor drives robust earning potential.

Maine's highest household income

York County ranks first statewide, earning $16,032 more than Maine's median of $66,872. The county's proximity to greater Portland and Boston markets fuels superior economic opportunity.

Clear income advantage over all peers

York's $82,904 median matches Sagadahoc ($82,080) and dramatically exceeds inland and eastern counties—Waldo ($68,441), Oxford ($57,933), and all others. Regional economic concentration creates stark disparities.

High income supports expensive housing market

Despite median home values reaching $357,200—Maine's highest—York County's 17.9% rent-to-income ratio keeps housing affordable relative to wages. Higher incomes absorb the premium of coastal real estate.

Aggressive wealth strategies accelerate growth

York County residents earning $82,904 can fund retirement accounts to limits and invest additional income in taxable accounts, real estate, and alternative assets. Work with financial professionals to optimize complex tax situations and estate planning.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in York County

via CrimeByCounty

York County offers high safety standards

York County maintains a safety score of 98.0, indicating a very secure region. Its total crime rate of 1,287.4 per 100,000 is roughly half the national average of 2,385.5.

Close to Maine's average crime rates

York's total crime rate of 1,287.4 is slightly higher than the state average of 1,084.3. Its safety score of 98.0 sits just below the statewide average of 98.3.

Crime rates in the southern region

York County has a higher crime rate than neighboring Sagadahoc County (688.9). However, it remains comparable to other developed counties in the southern Maine corridor.

Property crime is the main focus

Property crime stands at 1,171.7 per 100,000, while violent crime is 115.7. Although the violent crime rate is higher than the state average of 82.4, it is still far below the national average.

Smart security for your property

Residents can mitigate property crime by using smart security cameras and alarm systems. These tools are especially effective in higher-population areas to deter theft and vandalism.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in York County

via HealthByCounty

York County Leads National Health

York County's life expectancy of 78.6 years exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 by more than two years, establishing it as a national health leader. The 12.8% poor or fair health rate is well below national norms, reflecting a county where health outcomes and behaviors are exceptionally strong.

Second-Best Health in Maine

At 78.6 years, York County's life expectancy surpasses Maine's state average of 76.7 by 1.9 years, making it second only to Sagadahoc County in statewide health rankings. The 12.8% poor or fair health rate is Maine's second-best, signaling excellent health management and access.

Health Leader Among Peers

York County's 78.6-year life expectancy trails only Sagadahoc (80.1) and exceeds all other Maine counties by substantial margins, placing it as a clear regional health leader. With 68 primary care and 464 mental health providers per 100,000, York balances access with affordability to deliver results.

Lowest Uninsured Rate Drives Outcomes

York County's 7.1% uninsured rate is Maine's second-lowest (after Sagadahoc at 7.8%), and strong coverage directly correlates with its 78.6-year life expectancy and 12.8% poor or fair health rate. With 68 primary care and 464 mental health providers per 100,000, the county ensures care reaches residents when needed.

York County Leads by Example

York County's 7.1% uninsured rate—Maine's second-best—shows that coverage drives health outcomes: the county leads statewide in life expectancy at 78.6 years. Even here, those without coverage should act: visit maine.gov or contact Portland and southern Maine health centers to secure your plan today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in York County

via SchoolsByCounty

Maine's Southern Education Powerhouse

York County supports a massive system of 61 schools and 13 districts, educating 24,407 students. This includes 36 elementary schools, 12 middle schools, and 10 high schools.

Leading the State in Graduation Rates

York County boasts a graduation rate of 89.2%, significantly higher than the Maine average of 86.1% and the national average of 87.0%. Per-pupil spending sits at $9,635, maintaining high standards with efficient use of resources.

RSU 57 and RSU 60 Drive Enrollment

RSU 57/MSAD 57 is the largest district with 2,924 students, followed closely by RSU 60 with 2,909. The county maintains a traditional public school model with no charter schools currently in operation.

A Dynamic Suburban and Rural Mix

York County offers a mix of 34 rural, 19 suburban, and 8 town schools. Unlike its northern neighbors, this county features large campuses like Noble High School, which serves 1,201 students.

Premier Homes in Top School Districts

With the highest graduation rates in the region, York County is a top choice for families moving to Maine. Explore properties in Sanford, Biddeford, and Kennebunk to access these leading school systems.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in York County

via RiskByCounty

York County faces above-average risk

York County's composite risk score of 81.46 places it in the relatively moderate category and substantially above the national average, making it Maine's highest-risk county overall. The southernmost Maine county experiences elevated exposure across nearly all hazard categories: hurricanes (91.53), earthquakes (83.81), floods (86.60), and even tornadoes (46.47). This comprehensive vulnerability reflects York's densely populated coastal character and location in a complex geological zone.

Maine's highest-risk county

York County's 81.46 composite score ranks it as Maine's most hazard-exposed county, exceeding the state average of 56.75 by 24.7 points. The county stands as the only Maine community rated in the relatively moderate category, setting it apart from all 15 other counties that score lower. This elevated risk profile makes York County a statewide priority for disaster preparedness and mitigation.

Far riskier than all adjacent counties

York County's 81.46 score dramatically exceeds neighboring Oxford County (65.90) to the north and all other surrounding counties in southern Maine. The county's closest competitor for high risk is Penobscot County (78.02), placing York in an isolated tier of elevated vulnerability. No comparable Maine county approaches York's comprehensive exposure across multiple major natural hazards.

Hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes paramount

Hurricane risk peaks at 91.53 in York County, the highest in all of Maine, making tropical storm impact the dominant natural hazard threat. Flood risk at 86.60 compounds this danger, particularly in densely developed coastal areas and river valleys where water accumulation poses severe damage risk. Earthquake risk at 83.81 adds a third major concern, with seismic events capable of triggering secondary flooding and infrastructure collapse in aging structures.

Comprehensive multi-hazard coverage mandatory

Flood insurance is absolutely essential in York County given the 86.60 flood risk score and standard exclusions in homeowners policies. Earthquake insurance becomes a prudent investment given the 83.81 score—one of Maine's highest—and comprehensive wind/hail coverage is critical for the 91.53 hurricane exposure. Foundation retrofitting, roof reinforcement, and elevation improvements provide complementary protection for properties in York County's high-risk environment.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in York County

via WeatherByCounty

Maine's warmest southern gate

York County averages 45.5°F, which is about 8.5 degrees cooler than the national median. While cold by national standards, it is the most temperate region in the state of Maine.

Maine’s highest annual temperatures

York is the warmest county in the state, averaging 45.5°F compared to the Maine average of 43.8°F. Its southern location and coastal proximity provide a significantly milder climate.

Warmer and drier than the north

York is much warmer than inland Oxford County (42.6°F) and experiences far less snow than the state interior. Its 63.9 inches of annual snowfall is the lowest among this group of counties.

Heatwaves and manageable winters

York leads the state in extreme heat with 6 days per year reaching over 90°F. Winters are the mildest in the state, with a January average of 21.1°F and a winter seasonal average of 24.0°F.

Investing in year-round comfort

Air conditioning is more practical here than in northern Maine to handle the 68.8°F July average. For winters, standard snow removal is usually sufficient for the 63.9-inch annual total.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in York County

via SoilByCounty

Southern Maine's Acidic Baseline

York County features an average pH of 3.75, making it more acidic than the state average of 3.88 and the national median of 6.5. This highly acidic profile is a defining characteristic of the local landscape and gardening conditions.

Sandy Texture and Easy Working

The soil contains 33.1% sand, 22.2% silt, and 5.5% clay, suggesting a lighter and well-aerated texture. This mix is generally easier to work in the spring but may require more frequent watering during dry summer spells.

Carbon Rich with Moderate Capacity

At 34.73% organic matter, these soils are incredibly carbon-rich compared to the 2.0% national average. However, the water capacity of 0.232 in/in is slightly lower than the state average of 0.242, requiring careful irrigation planning.

Rapid Drainage and Home Building

While specific drainage classes aren't listed, the high sand percentage typically points toward rapid water movement. Homeowners should check their specific site to ensure water drains away from foundations effectively during heavy rains.

Diverse Planting in Zone 5b

Being in Zone 5b allows you to grow a wide variety of vegetables and flowering perennials. Your soil score of 65.4 is near the state average, providing a reliable start for any new gardening journey.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in York County

via LawnByCounty

Maine's Most Challenging Lawn Conditions

York County is the most difficult area for lawns in this group, scoring a very low 36.9 on the difficulty scale. This Zone 5b region is significantly harder to manage than both the state and national averages.

High Rainfall and Double the Heat

A high annual precipitation of 51.0 inches combined with 6 extreme heat days per year puts unusual stress on turf. Lawns here must contend with both potential nutrient leaching from heavy rain and summer heat that is twice the state average.

Managing Sandy and Acidic York Soils

The soil is extremely acidic at 3.75 pH and contains 33.1% sand, which leads to poor nutrient retention. Significant lime applications and heavy composting are necessary to transform this base into a viable growing medium.

Severe Drought Challenges for Sandy Soil

York County is currently 100.0% covered by severe drought, which is especially hard on its sandy soil. After 41 weeks of drought over the past year, using a smart irrigation controller is essential for efficient water use.

Smart Seeding for York County

Seed between the May 9th spring frost and the October 3rd fall frost for the best results. Given the sandy and acidic conditions, look for heat-tolerant and drought-resistant Tall Fescues that can withstand the county's unique pressures.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is York County's county score?
York County, Maine has a composite county score of 46.8 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 York County rank among counties in Maine?
York County ranks #11 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 York County, Maine?
The median annual property tax in York County is $3,691, with an effective tax rate of 1.03%. This earns York County a tax score of 35.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in York County?
The median household income in York County, Maine is $82,904 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. York County earns an income score of 86.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is York County, Maine a good place to live?
York County scores 46.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #11 in Maine. The best way to evaluate York 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 York County with other counties side by side.

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