Performance
Score Breakdown
Portland
Biddeford
Livability
Affordability
Business
Growth
Expenses
Cost of Living
Portland is the more affordable option overall — monthly living expenses run approximately
49% lower compared to Biddeford.
| Metric | Portland | Biddeford | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Rent | $2,088 | $2,199 | -5% |
| Groceries | $0 | $426 | -100% |
| Utilities | $0 | $428 | -100% |
| Transport | $0 | $789 | -100% |
| Healthcare | $0 | $252 | -100% |
| Monthly Total | $2,088 | $4,094 | -49% |
| Cost Index | 114 | 122 | out of 100 |
Income
Salary & Income
Biddeford offers 100% lower average salaries.
| Metric | Portland | Biddeford |
|---|---|---|
| Average Salary | $0 | $67,565 |
| Salary Needed | $0 | $87,960 |
| Household Income | $79,540 | $72,333 |
Weather
Climate Comparison
Portland runs warmer on average — a 47.7°F difference year-round.
For sunshine, Portland comes out ahead with 254 more sunny days per year,
which can meaningfully impact mood and outdoor lifestyle.
Winter severity differs too — Portland sees 43.2 more inches of snowfall annually.
| Metric | Portland | Biddeford |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Temp | 47.70°F | °F |
| Summer High | 78.40°F | °F |
| Winter Low | 14.70°F | °F |
| Rainfall | 38.40 in | in |
| Snowfall | 43.20 in | in |
| Sunny Days | 254 | |
| Humidity | 71.00% | 71.00% |
Mobility
Commute & Transport
Portland has the shorter commute — saving residents roughly
2,500 minutes (42 hours) per year compared to Biddeford.
Portland scores higher for public transit, making it the better choice for car-free living.
For walkability, Portland leads — a better score here means more amenities reachable on foot.
| Metric | Portland | Biddeford |
|---|---|---|
| Commute Time | 19 min | 24 min |
| Transit Score | 65.0/10 | 30.0/10 |
| Walkability | 62.0/10 | 45.0/10 |
| Traffic Index | ||
| Car Dependency | Medium | High |
Population
Economy & Demographics
Portland is the larger city
— approximately 3x the population of Biddeford.
From a growth perspective, Portland is expanding faster, signaling stronger demand for housing, jobs, and services.
On the employment side, Portland has a lower unemployment rate, reflecting a tighter and more competitive job market.
| Metric | Portland | Biddeford |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 68,854 | 22,932 |
| Pop. Growth | 0.51% | % |
| Median Age | 37.8 | 35.0 |
| Unemployment | 2.70% | 3.00% |
| GDP | $0.0B | $0.0B |
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Portland
Advantages
High walkability, especially in the peninsula neighborhoods, allowing for car-free living in many areas.
A thriving and diverse economy with strong sectors in healthcare, technology, and professional services, offering ample job opportunities.
Nationally recognized culinary scene and a vibrant craft beer culture, making it a destination for food enthusiasts.
Access to coastal beauty and outdoor recreation, including beaches, islands, and scenic waterfronts.
A rich history and well-preserved architecture, particularly in the Old Port district, contributing to a unique urban charm.
Drawbacks
The cost of living is 14% higher than the national average, with housing being a significant expense.
Crime rates, particularly property crime, are a concern and can be higher than national averages in some metrics.
Public transit options, while present, may not be as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas, leading to medium car dependency.
Winter weather can be harsh, with cold temperatures and significant snowfall, impacting outdoor activities.
Limited availability of affordable housing options due to high demand and property values.
Biddeford
Advantages
Vibrant downtown with revitalized historic mill buildings and cultural attractions.
Lower unemployment rate (3% in May 2026) compared to the national average.
Strong presence of top industries like Education and Health Care and Social Services providing job opportunities.
Relatively young median age (35.0 years) contributing to a dynamic community.
Access to a full-service hospital, MaineHealth Maine Medical Center Biddeford, within the city.
Drawbacks
Overall cost of living is significantly higher than the national average (22% higher in 2026).
Highest violent crime rate in Maine (313.8 per 100K in 2024) and overall crime rate 26% higher than national average.
Housing costs are notably high, with average apartment rent at $2,199/month in July 2026.
High car dependency due to limited public transportation options.
Long-term care costs, such as assisted living and nursing homes, are considerably higher than national averages.
Explore
Dive Deeper
Key figures side by side — see which city wins each category at a glance.
Portland
#28Maine, USA
72.0 / 100 overall
Avg Rent
$2,088
Avg Salary
$0
Cost Index
114
Commute
19 min
Transit Score
65.0/10
Walkability
62.0/10
Sunny Days
254/yr
Avg Temp
47.70°F
Pop. Growth
0.51%
Unemployment
2.70%
Livability
75
Business
70
Biddeford
#117Maine, USA
65.0 / 100 overall
Avg Rent
$2,199
Avg Salary
$67,565
Cost Index
122
Commute
24 min
Transit Score
30.0/10
Walkability
45.0/10
Sunny Days
/yr
Avg Temp
°F
Pop. Growth
%
Unemployment
3.00%
Livability
67
Business
68
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