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Brunswick, Maine

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

65
Overall Score

Brunswick is a historic and vibrant town located in Cumberland County, Maine, renowned for its classic New England character and coastal charm. Founded in the 17th century and historically centered around textile mills and shipbuilding, it has evolved into a culturally rich community anchored by the prestigious Bowdoin College. People are drawn to Brunswick for its exceptional quality of life, combining a picturesque downtown filled with 19th-century architecture with thriving arts, dining, and outdoor recreation scenes.

Positioned along the Androscoggin River and close to Casco Bay, the town acts as a gateway to Maine's dramatic midcoast region. It successfully balances a small-town community feel with modern amenities, robust educational institutions, and a burgeoning innovation economy at the redeveloped Brunswick Landing campus. Whether drawn by the coastal proximity, rich history, or lively cultural calendar, residents find a welcoming and intellectually engaged environment.

About Maine

Maine, known for its rugged coastline and vast forests, offers a lifestyle that prioritizes a slower pace and access to nature. The economy is diverse, with major industries including forest products, marine/aquaculture, food/agriculture, outdoor recreation, and manufacturing, alongside growing sectors like life sciences. While the cost of living is generally moderate compared to other New England states, housing costs can be higher in popular coastal areas like Portland. The climate features warm, sometimes humid summers and long, cold, and very snowy winters, especially inland, with coastal areas experiencing slightly milder temperatures.

22,336
Population
$64K
Avg Salary
105
Cost Index
64.8
Quality Score
How this 65/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 82 / 100 82.0 30% 24.6
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 105.0 37.5 25% 9.4
Economy & jobs Median household income: $74,952 Income needed to live here: $55,000 Unemployment rate: 3.8% 73.9 20% 14.8
Growth Population growth rate: 1.28% Job growth rate: 2.2% 60.5 15% 9.1
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 70.0 10% 7.0
Overall score 64.8

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=79), last refreshed 11 October 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

Businesses in Brunswick

Featured local businesses in Brunswick.

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Quality Scores

Business
70
Livability
79
Affordability
92
Growth
73

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Brunswick is slightly higher than the national average, largely driven by housing demands, energy costs, and heating expenses during long Maine winters. While everyday goods and groceries remain relatively comparable to national medians, housing and real estate pressures have steadily grown due to the town's popularity among retirees and remote professionals relocating to the midcoast region.

Property taxes and utility costs—particularly electricity and home heating oil—contribute notably to monthly household expenses. However, these costs are often offset by higher local median household incomes compared to rural parts of the state, making it a sustainable choice for established families, academics, and professionals working in the regional economy.

Average Rent
$1,650/mo
Groceries
$400/mo
Transport
$120/mo
Utilities
$180/mo
Healthcare
$220/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$45.00
Cinema ticket
$14.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$22.00
Monthly groceries
$400.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$150.00

Salary Insights

Brunswick features a dynamic and diversified local job market anchored by major anchor institutions like Bowdoin College, regional healthcare providers, and advanced manufacturing and aerospace sectors located at Brunswick Landing. The town also benefits from its proximity to major regional employers such as Bath Iron Works, ensuring a steady stream of engineering, defense, and trade jobs. The economic climate heavily supports entrepreneurship, clean energy, and small businesses.

Remote work has also surged in popularity among Brunswick residents, who take advantage of reliable high-speed broadband infrastructure to work for national companies while enjoying a high-amenity coastal lifestyle. The local economic development council actively fosters small-scale tech startups and biotechnology ventures, ensuring diverse employment pathways.

The average salary in Brunswick is $64,000 per year. You would need approximately $55,000 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Healthcare & Social Assistance +2.40% Professional & Technical Services +2.80% Tourism & Hospitality +2.00% Higher Education +1.50% Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing +3.20%

Climate

🌡️
47°F
Avg Temp
☀️
77°F
Summer High
❄️
13°F
Winter Low
🌧️
40.30"
Annual Rain
💧
65.00%
Humidity
🌤️
250
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Brunswick relies primarily on personal vehicles, though the town offers increasing walkability and alternative transit options. The historic downtown district is highly pedestrian-friendly, with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues clustered close together. Amtrak's Downeaster service connects Brunswick directly to Boston, providing convenient rail access for commuters and travelers.

Local bus transit and regional connections facilitate movement across Cumberland County, while proximity to Interstate 295 ensures straightforward driving commutes to Portland and Lewiston-Auburn. Bike lanes are continually expanding, supporting eco-friendly travel during the warmer months.

23 min
Avg Commute
52.00/10
Transit Score
64.00/10
Walkability
Medium
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
Median household income stands at $74,952, outperforming many non-metropolitan areas in Maine.
Direct Amtrak Downeaster rail service connects downtown Brunswick directly to Boston.
Thriving innovation economy and job growth centered around the redeveloped Brunswick Landing campus.
Exceptional public safety with crime rates significantly below the national average.
Rich cultural and educational amenities driven by the presence of Bowdoin College.
Drawbacks
Housing inventory is tight, putting upward pressure on local rental and home purchase prices.
High heating and electricity utility costs during severe New England winters.
Modest public transit infrastructure outside of the downtown core and rail connection.
Property taxes can be burdensome for fixed-income residents and retirees.
Winter weather brings heavy snowfall averaging over 47 inches annually.

Questions about Brunswick

What people ask about living in and moving to Brunswick, Maine.

What is the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Brunswick? Housing 1 answer

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Brunswick is about $1,650 per month. This figure reflects current listings in the city and is slightly above the national average. When searching for housing, look at local real‑estate websites and contact local landlords or property managers to see if there are any available units that fit your budget and preferences. Be prepared to compare a few options, as rental pri...

How does Brunswick's cost of living compare to the national average? Cost of Living 1 answer

Brunswick's cost of living index is 105, meaning it is 5% higher than the national average. While housing costs are a bit above average, everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation are close to national levels. With an average salary of $64,000 per year, you should find that your income can comfortably cover typical expenses, but it may be slightly tighter than in cities with a lower cost of livin...

What kinds of jobs are most common in Brunswick? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

Brunswick hosts a mix of employment sectors, including education, healthcare, retail, and light manufacturing. The presence of a university contributes to academic and research positions, while local businesses offer roles in information technology, customer service, and small‑business operations. Many residents also commute to nearby larger cities for work. If you are looking for opportunities in education or techno...

How are the public schools in Brunswick rated? Schools & Education 1 answer

Public schools in Brunswick are generally well regarded, with a focus on community involvement and a range of extracurricular activities. The district offers comprehensive programs from kindergarten through high school, and students often participate in local science fairs, arts programs, and sports leagues. For specific ratings and performance data, consult the state education department’s school report cards or the...

Is Brunswick a safe place to live? Safety 1 answer

Brunswick has a safety score of 82 out of 100, indicating a relatively safe environment compared to many U.S. cities. Crime statistics show lower rates of violent crime and a moderate level of property crime. Local law enforcement provides regular patrols and community outreach, while emergency medical services are staffed by trained personnel who respond promptly to incidents. For the most up‑to‑date crime data, rev...

What public transportation options are available in Brunswick? Getting Around 1 answer

Brunswick offers a modest public transit network that includes bus routes connecting residential areas with downtown, the university, and nearby towns. The city also supports cycling and walking, with several bike lanes and pedestrian paths. For schedules, route maps, and fare information, check the city transit authority’s website or the local transportation department’s resources. Additionally, ride‑share services...

What healthcare facilities are in Brunswick? Healthcare 1 answer

Brunswick hosts several healthcare providers, including a community hospital, urgent‑care clinics, and specialty medical practices. These facilities offer a range of services from primary care to emergency treatment. For specific provider directories, insurance coverage, and appointment scheduling, consult the city’s health department website or your health insurance provider’s network listings. The local hospital al...

What are the top outdoor activities in Brunswick? Things to Do 1 answer

Brunswick offers a variety of outdoor experiences, from coastal walks along the shoreline to forest trails in nearby parks. Visitors can explore tide pools, kayak on the local river, and hike scenic routes that offer views of the Atlantic and surrounding hills. Seasonal events, such as summer festivals and fall foliage tours, add to the recreational calendar. Local visitor guides and the city tourism office provide m...

What should I know about moving into Brunswick during the fall? Moving Here 1 answer

Fall in Brunswick brings mild temperatures and a moderate chance of rain, so packing layered clothing and waterproof gear is advisable. Moving companies often schedule deliveries during weekdays to avoid weekend traffic. Check local utility providers for connection times, and set up services like electricity, water, and internet before arrival. The city’s official website offers a moving guide with tips on parking pe...

What is the overall vibe of Brunswick for new residents? General 1 answer

Brunswick is known for its friendly, small‑town atmosphere combined with a vibrant university presence. Residents often describe the community as welcoming, with many neighborhood events, farmers markets, and cultural festivals. The city’s layout encourages walking and biking, and local businesses tend to support community initiatives. For a deeper feel, visit during a local event, explore the downtown area, and talk...

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Brunswick? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.

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