Let the numbers do the talking.
Auburn, ME vs Portland, ME
Auburn, ME vs Portland, ME: What the data shows
Auburn, ME is in Auburn, ME while Portland, ME is in Portland, ME — both in the same state. On home prices, Auburn, ME is the more affordable option at $227,300 median — $348,600 less than Portland, ME's $575,900. WYLT rates Auburn, ME as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Portland, ME as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Auburn, ME has the stronger safety profile of the two. Auburn, ME has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Portland, ME has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Auburn, ME has Low flood risk and Portland, ME has Low flood risk.
Portland, ME is the more walkable neighborhood. Auburn, ME scores 8/100 (car-dependent) versus Portland, ME's 90/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Auburn, ME has the higher school rating — Auburn, ME rates 6.4/10 and Portland, ME rates 5.6/10.
| Category | Auburn, ME | Portland, ME |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $227K ✓ Lower price | $576K |
| Median Rent | $926 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $60K ✓ Higher income | $55K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 8/100 | 90/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 14/100 | 35/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | 20 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.6/10 |
| Best for | Families looking for good schoolsRetirees who value a quiet communityHomebuyers on a moderate budget | Young professionals who can afford the cost of livingFoodies and craft‑beer loversFamilies looking for good schools and parks |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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