South Eliot, ME
Population 4,021 · Maine
About South Eliot, ME
South Eliot is a small town located in Maine with a population of 4,021 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $96,705 per year, which is 29% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 53 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in South Eliot features a median home value of $437,800, which is 79% above the national median of $244,900. This places South Eliot in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $2,088, 80% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,761 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (1,315 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (296 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Eliot shows an unemployment rate of 6.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 4.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in South Eliot have an average one-way commute time of 20.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
44.8% of South Eliot residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 1.0% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, and 3.8% Asian residents, with 4.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How South Eliot Ranks in Maine
Cost of Living in South Eliot, ME
Compared to national averages, South Eliot has a median household income of $96,705 (29% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $437,800, which is 79% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,088 is 80% above the US average of $1,163. Within Maine, South Eliot's income is 50% above the state average of $64,613, and home values are 74% above the state median of $251,113.
Why Live in South Eliot, ME?
South Eliot offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $96,705, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 44.8% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 4.2%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $437,800. However, South Eliot’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South Eliot has a population of 4,021 with a median age of 53 years. Compare South Eliot with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Maine.
Similar Cities Near South Eliot
Cities in Maine with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rumford | 4,017 | $32,240 | $115,300 | Compare |
| Millinocket | 4,111 | $42,936 | $86,500 | Compare |
| Lisbon Falls | 4,185 | $71,513 | $237,800 | Compare |
| York Harbor | 3,853 | $91,675 | $561,700 | Compare |
| Camden | 3,665 | $80,897 | $473,800 | Compare |
| Lisbon | 3,453 | $72,066 | $217,200 | Compare |
| South Berwick | 3,441 | $77,493 | $340,800 | Compare |
| Lake Arrowhead | 3,273 | $84,221 | $226,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Maine
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare South Eliot With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Eliot
What is the population of South Eliot, ME?
The population of South Eliot, ME is 4,021 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Maine.
What is the median household income in South Eliot?
The median household income in South Eliot, ME is $96,705 per year, which is 29% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Eliot?
The median home value in South Eliot, ME is $437,800, which is 79% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Eliot?
The median monthly rent in South Eliot, ME is $2,088, which is 80% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Eliot?
The unemployment rate in South Eliot, ME is 6.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Eliot, ME a good place to live?
South Eliot offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,021 and a median age of 53, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is South Eliot, ME?
44.8% of residents in South Eliot aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in South Eliot?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Eliot, ME: median home value is $437,800 (79% above national), median rent is $2,088/month, and median household income is $96,705. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in South Eliot?
The poverty rate in South Eliot, ME is 4.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is South Eliot, ME?
South Eliot's population is 1.0% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, 3.8% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 4.1% of residents are foreign-born.