Is Biddeford Safe, Pros and cons of living in Biddeford

Biddeford, Maine, offers a blend of coastal charm and developing urban life, making it an increasingly attractive place for individuals and families. Situated in York County, this city balances a rich history with a forward-looking approach to growth and community development. Its location provides access to both natural beauty and essential amenities, contributing to its unique appeal.

The city is known for its historic mill district, which has undergone significant revitalization, transforming into a hub for businesses, arts, and dining. This transformation reflects Biddeford’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modernization. Residents often appreciate the city’s proximity to beaches and outdoor recreational opportunities, alongside its growing cultural scene.

Is it Safe to Live in Biddeford?

Biddeford’s overall crime rate is reported to be higher than the national average, with some sources indicating it is 26% higher than the national average (according to AreaVibes). Property crime rates are also noted to be higher than the national average. However, violent crime rates are reported to be lower than the national average.

Within Biddeford, crime rates can vary significantly by neighborhood. Some areas are considered safer than others, with residents generally viewing the southeast part of the city as the safest. Your chance of becoming a victim of crime can range from 1 in 24 in the northeast neighborhoods to 1 in 73 in the southeast (according to AreaVibes).

Housing Costs in Biddeford

Home Prices

The median home value in Biddeford is approximately $396,600 (according to Niche). Other reports indicate a median home value of $505,512 as of March 2026, with prices up 1.5% over the past year (according to Zillow). In March 2026, the median listing price was $565,000, and homes sold for a median price of $565,000 (according to Movoto). Redfin reports a median sale price of $468,000 in March 2026, with prices up 2.3% compared to the previous year.

Rental Market

The average rent in Biddeford is reported to be around $2,190 per month as of May 2026, which is 33% higher than the national average (according to Apartments.com). Other data indicates the average rent is $2,163 as of April 2026, an increase of 2.61% from the previous year (according to RentCafe). Rentometer reports average rents of $1,788 for a one-bedroom apartment and $2,046 for a two-bedroom apartment. Niche reports a median rent price of $1,292.

Cost of Living

Biddeford’s overall cost of living is higher than the national average, with some sources stating it is 7% higher (according to Payscale) and others indicating it is 13% higher (according to ERI Economic Research Institute). One report suggests that living costs in Biddeford are 22% higher than the U.S. national average and 86% higher than Maine’s state average (according to Salary.com).

Housing expenses are a significant contributor to the higher cost of living, with Biddeford’s housing costs being 8% higher than the national average (according to Payscale). Utility prices are also higher, at 18% above the national average, and transportation expenses are 3% higher than the national average. Grocery prices are 1% higher than the national average, while healthcare costs are 15% higher.

Job Market and Economy

Major Employers

Key employers in Biddeford include Walmart, McDonald’s, FedEx, and Target (according to Indeed.com). Other significant employers are the University of New England and Southern Maine Health Care (according to Zippia). Fiber Materials Inc. is also a notable employer, with plans to expand its workforce.

Salaries and Unemployment

The average salary for jobs in Biddeford is approximately $66,931 per year, or $32 per hour (according to ERI SalaryExpert). Another report from April 2026 states the average annual salary is $56,978 (according to ZipRecruiter). The median household income in Biddeford is reported to be $72,333 (according to Point2Homes), with a poverty rate of 15.48%.

Climate and Weather

Temperatures

Biddeford experiences distinct seasons with a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. Summer high temperatures typically range between 65°F and 86°F, with July being the hottest month, averaging a high of 79°F and a low of 58°F (according to myPerfectWeather). Winter temperatures are much colder, with January averaging a high of 32°F and a low of 11°F.

Precipitation

The city has a wet climate, with an average annual precipitation of approximately 1356 mm (53 inches) (according to Weather and Climate). June is typically the wettest month. Biddeford also experiences significant snowfall during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of 63 inches (according to myPerfectWeather).

Education in Biddeford

School Ratings

Biddeford public schools have an average math proficiency score of 42% and a reading proficiency score of 81%, which are below the state averages (according to Niche). The schools in Biddeford have an average ranking of 3 out of 10, placing them in the bottom 50% of Maine public schools. The district as a whole is ranked 147th out of 176 districts in Maine.

School District Performance

While the district as a whole faces challenges, some individual schools show signs of improvement. Biddeford Intermediate School has seen its statewide ranking improve, and its test scores are above the district and state averages in English Language Arts and Mathematics. Biddeford Middle School has also shown steady improvement in its statewide ranking and has a low student-teacher ratio.

Demographics

Population and Diversity

Biddeford has a population of approximately 22,498 residents (according to Niche). The city’s racial makeup is predominantly White, at about 91.98%, with smaller percentages of Asian, Black or African American, and other races (according to Biddeford, ME Population 2026). Hispanic or Latino individuals make up about 3.06% of the population.

Age and Gender Distribution

The median age in Biddeford is 35 years (according to Biddeford, ME Population 2026). The age distribution shows about 12.9% of the population are children under 15, and 16.7% are between 15 and 24 years old. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32.1% of the population. Gender-wise, about 50.6% of Biddeford locals are male, and 49.4% are female (according to Point2Homes).