Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in Maine

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 24 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$50,269

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

52%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,460

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing a college can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing quality and cost. For students in Maine, this list highlights the most affordable colleges that also provide a pathway to good jobs after graduation. With an average net price of just over $5,000, these schools make higher education more accessible.

What sets these institutions apart is not just their low tuition, but also their outcomes in terms of earnings and graduation rates. The schools on this list have average earnings of $50,269, with graduation rates averaging 52%. This means students are not only paying less, but they also have a solid chance of completing their degree and earning a decent salary afterward.

Take Kennebec Valley Community College and the University of Maine at Fort Kent, for example. Kennebec has a low net price of $3,910 but a lower graduation rate of 44%, while Fort Kent charges slightly more at $7,482 but has higher earnings potential at $51,077. This contrast highlights the importance of evaluating both cost and outcomes when making a decision about higher education in Maine.

Key Findings

Kennebec Valley Community College has a net price of just $3,910, making it the most affordable option.

University of Maine at Fort Kent graduates earn an average of $51,077, the highest among the top five colleges.

York County Community College has the lowest graduation rate at 31%, despite having decent earnings potential of $44,873.

The average student debt across these schools is $12,424, providing an important context for financial planning.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 24

Avg. earnings at 10yr $50,269

Avg. graduation rate 52%

Avg. net price $16,460

Avg. median debt $19,717

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in Maine

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Kennebec Valley Community College

Fairfield, ME

Graduation44%

Earnings$36,035

Net Price$3,910

View full profile →

York County Community College

Wells, ME

Graduation31%

Earnings$44,873

Net Price$5,875

View full profile →

University of Maine at Presque Isle

Presque Isle, ME

Graduation45%

Earnings$40,956

Net Price$7,035

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Kennebec Valley Community College

Fairfield, ME · 1,597 students · Public

With nearly 1,600 students, Kennebec Valley Community College in Fairfield, ME, serves as an accessible entry point for many aspiring students. The college's focus on practical, career-oriented programs aims to prepare graduates for the workforce, leading to a median income of $36,035 a decade after graduation.

44% graduate $36,035 earnings

Kennebec's full profile

York County Community College

Wells, ME · 1,133 students · Public

York County Community College in Wells, ME, is home to about 1,133 students. The college emphasizes community connections and serves a diverse range of learners, making it a supportive environment for students pursuing various academic goals, particularly in practical fields.

31% graduate $44,873 earnings

University of Maine at Presque Isle

Presque Isle, ME · 1,913 students · Public

The University of Maine at Presque Isle serves around 1,913 students and maintains a commitment to inclusivity with a 100% acceptance rate. This welcoming atmosphere is complemented by a focus on student success, as evidenced by a 45% graduation rate and an encouraging median income of $40,956 ten years after graduation.

100% accepted 45% graduate $40,956 earnings

University's full profile

University of Maine at Fort Kent

Fort Kent, ME · 599 students · Public

Located in Fort Kent, ME, the University of Maine at Fort Kent is a smaller institution with just 599 students, creating a tight-knit community feel. The college emphasizes personalized education, which can be particularly beneficial for students seeking more attention and support in their academic pursuits, reflected in a 40% graduation rate.

98% accepted 40% graduate $51,077 earnings

University's full profile

Northern Maine Community College

Presque Isle, ME · 638 students · Public

In Presque Isle, Northern Maine Community College serves a tight-knit community of around 638 students. A noteworthy 56% of its students receive Pell Grants, reflecting the school’s commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds and making education accessible for all. With a graduation rate of 38%, students here can expect a focused, personalized approach to their studies, which often translates into strong connections with faculty and staff.

38% graduate $43,348 earnings

Northern's full profile

Central Maine Community College

Auburn, ME · 2,952 students · Public

With nearly 3,000 students, Central Maine Community College carries a strong sense of community. The school serves a diverse population, with 35% of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to accessibility for lower-income families.

29% graduate $42,448 earnings

Central's full profile

Washington County Community College

Calais, ME · 443 students · Public

Washington County Community College in Calais offers a compelling option for students, particularly with its impressive 49% graduation rate. This statistic signals a strong support system and a determination to see students succeed.

49% graduate $34,407 earnings

Washington's full profile

Eastern Maine Community College

Bangor, ME · 1,840 students · Public

Eastern Maine Community College in Bangor has a larger student body of 1,840, providing a vibrant community atmosphere. The school serves a diverse population, with 36% of students receiving Pell Grants, making it a viable option for those seeking financial assistance. Although the graduation rate stands at 33%, the college offers a variety of programs that cater to different interests and career paths, allowing students to pursue their goals in a supportive setting.

33% graduate $41,704 earnings

Eastern's full profile

Southern Maine Community College

South Portland, ME · 5,675 students · Public

Southern Maine Community College serves over 5,600 students, making it one of the largest community colleges in the state. The college is known for its diverse programs and support services, which cater to students aiming for immediate workforce entry or transfer to four-year institutions.

24% graduate $41,661 earnings

Southern's full profile

#10

University of Maine at Augusta

Augusta, ME · 2,659 students · Public

With 2,659 students, the University of Maine at Augusta is dedicated to adult learners and nontraditional students. The school emphasizes flexible learning options, allowing students to balance education with work and family responsibilities.

25% graduate $40,342 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College, with a small student body of 1,873, offers an intimate learning environment that prioritizes academic excellence. With a graduation rate of 95%, the school fosters a culture of success and community among students who are driven and academically focused.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#12

University of Southern Maine

Portland, ME · 4,222 students · Public

The University of Southern Maine brings together over 4,200 students in a vibrant academic community, emphasizing a blend of liberal arts and professional studies. With a graduation rate of 43%, it provides a supportive environment for students seeking a well-rounded education that prepares them for real-world challenges.

79% accepted 43% graduate $49,958 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College in Waterville, Maine, emphasizes academic excellence and community engagement, creating a vibrant experience for its 2,407 students. With an impressive graduation rate of 89%, it demonstrates a strong commitment to student success, helping students not just to enroll, but to thrive and complete their degrees.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

University of Maine at Farmington

Farmington, ME · 1,140 students · Public

With a strong commitment to personalized education, the University of Maine at Farmington has a friendly community of around 1,140 students. The school cultivates a supportive environment, reflected in its impressive 97% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many students seeking a solid education in a nurturing setting.

97% accepted 52% graduate $44,433 earnings

University's full profile

#15

University of Maine

Orono, ME · 8,496 students · Public

Located in Orono, the University of Maine serves a large student body of 8,496, fostering a diverse and energetic campus life. With a graduation rate of 56%, the university offers a range of programs that cater to various interests, supporting students as they navigate their college experience.

97% accepted 56% graduate $48,653 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Thomas College

Waterville, ME · 647 students · Private nonprofit

At Thomas College, the focus is on practical career preparation, making it an appealing choice for students looking to enter the workforce with confidence. The intimate size of about 647 students fosters close connections between faculty and students, giving individuals the support they need to succeed, reflected in the school's 53% graduation rate.

96% accepted 53% graduate $44,991 earnings

Thomas's full profile

#17

Husson University

Bangor, ME · 2,618 students · Private nonprofit

Husson University in Bangor has a welcoming acceptance rate of 81%, making it accessible to many students aiming for higher education. With 2,618 enrolled, the school emphasizes personal attention and strong community ties, which can enhance the learning experience for students.

81% accepted 58% graduate $45,025 earnings

Husson's full profile

#18

Unity Environmental University

New Gloucester, ME · 6,483 students · Private nonprofit

With a focus on environmental sustainability, Unity Environmental University attracts students passionate about making a difference in the world. The school has a diverse student body of 6,483, with a remarkable 64% of students receiving Pell Grants, which indicates strong support for those from lower-income backgrounds.

44% graduate $37,852 earnings

Maine Maritime Academy

Castine, ME · 942 students · Public

Located in the picturesque town of Castine, Maine Maritime Academy offers a unique blend of maritime training and academic rigor. The school has a focused enrollment of 942 students, and a 60% graduation rate reflects its commitment to student success. The impressive median earnings of $89,964 after ten years highlight the value of the education here, particularly for those interested in maritime careers.

54% accepted 60% graduate $89,964 earnings

College of the Atlantic

Bar Harbor, ME · 353 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Bar Harbor, College of the Atlantic offers a unique academic experience with a focus on human ecology. With just 353 students, the school fosters close relationships between faculty and students, and the 69% graduation rate reflects its supportive environment. Graduates earn a median income of $40,264 after ten years, showcasing the value of this personalized education.

70% accepted 69% graduate $40,264 earnings

College's full profile

#21

Saint Joseph's College of Maine

Standish, ME · 964 students · Private nonprofit

With a cozy campus in Standish, Maine, Saint Joseph's College of Maine is home to around 964 students. The school emphasizes a close-knit learning environment and offers a liberal arts education that prepares graduates for meaningful careers, as reflected in their median earnings of $59,045 a decade after graduation.

84% accepted 67% graduate $59,045 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Lewiston, Maine, Bates College offers a vibrant community of 1,760 students who are eager to engage in a rigorous academic environment. With a remarkable 90% graduation rate, students here benefit from a collaborative learning approach that fosters critical thinking and personal growth, leading to impressive median earnings of $69,498 ten years after graduation.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

University of New England

Biddeford, ME · 2,135 students · Private nonprofit

The University of New England, located in Biddeford, Maine, serves about 2,135 students and emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning, particularly in health sciences and marine studies. While the graduation rate is 65%, students benefit from access to unique resources and partnerships that can enhance their educational experience, reflected in median earnings of $55,921 ten years post-graduation.

92% accepted 65% graduate $55,921 earnings

University's full profile

#24

Maine College of Art & Design

Portland, ME · 415 students · Private nonprofit

In Portland, Maine, the Maine College of Art & Design stands as a creative hub for around 415 students. With a focus on the arts, this college cultivates an environment where creativity thrives, even though it faces challenges, evident in its 50% graduation rate and median earnings of $40,778 after a decade.

76% accepted 50% graduate $40,778 earnings

When comparing Kennebec Valley Community College and University of Maine at Presque Isle, we see stark differences in both cost and outcomes. Kennebec has a net price of only $3,910, but its graduation rate is 44%. In contrast, Presque Isle charges $7,035, but with a higher graduation rate of 45% and similar earnings potential of $40,956. This shows how a slightly higher investment can lead to better completion rates and future earnings.

After reviewing the list, consider how these numbers match your personal priorities. Think about factors like program offerings, campus culture, and location. It’s important to weigh the financial aspects against what you want out of your college experience. For instance, if a lower debt burden is crucial, a community college may be the right choice, but if graduating on time and landing a job matters more, a school with a higher graduation rate might be worth the extra cost.

Ultimately, these data points reflect broader trends in higher education. A degree can lead to better job stability and financial security, but the path varies significantly by institution. Families need to keep this in mind as they make choices that will impact their futures. Each decision is a step toward a stable life, and understanding the tradeoffs can guide you toward the right choice.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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