I’ve analyzed the Zillow Home Value Index data to identify Maine’s towns with the strongest property appreciation over the past decade. These communities have consistently outperformed national averages, demonstrating remarkable resilience and growth potential.
While Maine has long been known for its natural beauty and quality of life, these towns also deliver exceptional financial returns for property owners. The triple-digit appreciation rates across all 25 communities highlight Maine’s evolution from vacation destination to investment-grade real estate market.
The percentage increases below reveal extraordinary wealth-building opportunities for homeowners across diverse geographies—from coastal communities to inland villages. These growth patterns showcase Maine’s expanding appeal beyond traditional tourist areas to include revitalized mill towns and rural communities.
25. Fayette
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 131.42%
- Home value in 2016: $151,792
- Home value in 2017: $157,074
- Home value in 2018: $167,637
- Home value in 2019: $178,794
- Home value in 2020: $186,008
- Home value in 2021: $228,809
- Home value in 2022: $269,169
- Home value in 2023: $287,605
- Home value in 2024: $329,185
- Home value in 2025: $351,271
Fayette’s extraordinary 131.4% appreciation has generated $199,478 in homeowner equity—wealth creation that would require decades in traditional investment vehicles. The remarkable 88.8% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market recognition of this lakeside community amid changing work patterns. Despite more than doubling in value, Fayette remains undervalued compared to coastal Maine, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s position between Augusta and beautiful lake country creates sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
24. Oxford
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 131.81%
- Home value in 2016: $140,426
- Home value in 2017: $145,013
- Home value in 2018: $154,515
- Home value in 2019: $166,149
- Home value in 2020: $176,957
- Home value in 2021: $215,048
- Home value in 2022: $257,221
- Home value in 2023: $277,780
- Home value in 2024: $302,906
- Home value in 2025: $325,516
Oxford’s impressive 131.8% appreciation has generated $185,091 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic real estate positioning in western Maine. The substantial 84.0% surge since 2020 demonstrates extraordinary market momentum for this community near the popular Oxford Casino. Despite more than doubling in value, Oxford properties remain accessibly priced at $325,516, suggesting continued investment potential. The town’s location between Lewiston and the White Mountains creates sustainable demand fundamentals beyond gaming. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
23. China Village
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 131.98%
- Home value in 2016: $136,777
- Home value in 2017: $139,578
- Home value in 2018: $148,265
- Home value in 2019: $157,524
- Home value in 2020: $171,099
- Home value in 2021: $209,159
- Home value in 2022: $254,279
- Home value in 2023: $272,348
- Home value in 2024: $304,712
- Home value in 2025: $317,300
China Village’s remarkable 132.0% appreciation has transformed $136,777 investments into $317,300 assets, generating $180,523 in equity—extraordinary wealth building through strategic lakeside positioning. The impressive 85.4% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market recognition of central Maine’s value proposition. Despite more than doubling in value, China Village remains accessibly priced compared to coastal communities, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s position on China Lake combines waterfront lifestyle benefits with commuting access to Augusta and Waterville. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum in this rapidly appreciating market.
22. Anson
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 132.07%
- Home value in 2016: $71,004
- Home value in 2017: $74,739
- Home value in 2018: $82,241
- Home value in 2019: $85,574
- Home value in 2020: $93,506
- Home value in 2021: $116,350
- Home value in 2022: $137,591
- Home value in 2023: $151,759
- Home value in 2024: $160,649
- Home value in 2025: $164,781
Anson’s exceptional 132.1% appreciation has generated $93,776 in homeowner equity—extraordinary percentage returns at Maine’s second-most affordable price point on this list. The remarkable 76.2% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market recognition of this riverfront community amid shifting preferences. With average values still below $165,000, Anson offers an unmatched combination of affordability and proven triple-digit appreciation potential. The town’s position along the Kennebec River and proximity to outdoor recreation create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Anson’s transition from overlooked to high-growth market status.
21. Pittsfield
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 132.09%
- Home value in 2016: $85,817
- Home value in 2017: $88,884
- Home value in 2018: $96,395
- Home value in 2019: $101,220
- Home value in 2020: $107,118
- Home value in 2021: $127,373
- Home value in 2022: $152,906
- Home value in 2023: $172,530
- Home value in 2024: $192,857
- Home value in 2025: $199,170
Pittsfield’s remarkable 132.1% appreciation has generated $113,353 in homeowner equity—exceptional wealth creation at one of Maine’s most accessible price points. The extraordinary 85.9% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as central Maine gains recognition for its value proposition. Despite more than doubling in value, Pittsfield remains highly affordable at $199,170, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. The town’s educational institutions, manufacturing presence, and strategic location between Waterville and Bangor create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
20. Warren
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 132.12%
- Home value in 2016: $143,742
- Home value in 2017: $149,661
- Home value in 2018: $155,262
- Home value in 2019: $165,257
- Home value in 2020: $175,241
- Home value in 2021: $210,083
- Home value in 2022: $250,483
- Home value in 2023: $275,412
- Home value in 2024: $307,621
- Home value in 2025: $333,660
Warren’s impressive 132.1% appreciation has generated $189,918 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth creation through strategic positioning in Maine’s midcoast region. The remarkable 90.4% surge since 2020 demonstrates extraordinary market momentum amid shifting housing preferences and remote work flexibility. Despite more than doubling in value, Warren remains accessibly priced compared to nearby coastal towns, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s proximity to both Rockland and Camden without their premium prices creates a compelling value proposition for buyers. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
19. Auburn
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 133.65%
- Home value in 2016: $133,738
- Home value in 2017: $142,805
- Home value in 2018: $153,837
- Home value in 2019: $163,990
- Home value in 2020: $175,542
- Home value in 2021: $208,983
- Home value in 2022: $244,460
- Home value in 2023: $264,353
- Home value in 2024: $299,853
- Home value in 2025: $312,480
Auburn’s substantial 133.7% appreciation has generated $178,742 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Androscoggin County hub. The impressive 78.0% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as buyers recognize Auburn’s value proposition relative to southern Maine. Despite more than doubling in value, Auburn remains accessibly priced at $312,480, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. The city’s position as Lewiston’s twin city, recreational amenities, and employment diversity create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
18. Sanford
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 135.98%
- Home value in 2016: $150,933
- Home value in 2017: $161,005
- Home value in 2018: $177,731
- Home value in 2019: $189,970
- Home value in 2020: $204,488
- Home value in 2021: $244,109
- Home value in 2022: $283,545
- Home value in 2023: $306,321
- Home value in 2024: $337,326
- Home value in 2025: $356,170
Sanford’s impressive 136.0% appreciation has generated $205,237 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth creation through strategic positioning in this York County city. The remarkable 74.2% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as southern Maine continues to capture Boston metro spillover demand. Despite posting strong growth, Sanford remains accessibly priced compared to coastal York County, suggesting continued upside potential. The city’s position as Maine’s seventh-largest municipality, manufacturing heritage, and proximity to employment centers create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
17. Sumner
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 136.31%
- Home value in 2016: $92,475
- Home value in 2017: $90,299
- Home value in 2018: $99,969
- Home value in 2019: $108,805
- Home value in 2020: $114,797
- Home value in 2021: $144,552
- Home value in 2022: $171,726
- Home value in 2023: $174,735
- Home value in 2024: $198,273
- Home value in 2025: $218,525
Sumner’s exceptional 136.3% appreciation has generated $126,050 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Oxford County town. The extraordinary 90.4% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as western Maine properties gain recognition amid shifting preferences. Despite more than doubling in value, Sumner remains highly affordable at $218,525, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. The town’s rural character, mountain views, and proximity to both Lewiston and recreation areas create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
16. Skowhegan
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 138.06%
- Home value in 2016: $92,292
- Home value in 2017: $94,979
- Home value in 2018: $101,930
- Home value in 2019: $107,455
- Home value in 2020: $113,601
- Home value in 2021: $133,954
- Home value in 2022: $159,621
- Home value in 2023: $182,208
- Home value in 2024: $204,725
- Home value in 2025: $219,708
Skowhegan’s remarkable 138.1% appreciation has generated $127,416 in homeowner equity—extraordinary wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Somerset County seat. The impressive 93.4% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as central Maine gains recognition for its value proposition. Despite more than doubling in value, Skowhegan remains highly affordable at $219,708, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. The town’s riverfront character, historic downtown, and position as a regional hub create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum as this market transitions from overlooked to sought-after.
15. Rockland
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 138.85%
- Home value in 2016: $142,247
- Home value in 2017: $147,051
- Home value in 2018: $158,250
- Home value in 2019: $169,529
- Home value in 2020: $177,839
- Home value in 2021: $218,042
- Home value in 2022: $272,026
- Home value in 2023: $299,970
- Home value in 2024: $328,389
- Home value in 2025: $339,764
Rockland’s extraordinary 138.9% appreciation has generated $197,517 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic coastal positioning in Maine’s midcoast region. The impressive 91.1% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as buyers seek more affordable coastal alternatives. Despite more than doubling in value, Rockland remains a value opportunity compared to nearby Camden and coastal York County. The town’s working waterfront, vibrant arts scene, and ferry access to island communities create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum in this increasingly recognized cultural and tourism destination.
14. Bethel
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 139.18%
- Home value in 2016: $182,540
- Home value in 2017: $193,478
- Home value in 2018: $207,128
- Home value in 2019: $218,320
- Home value in 2020: $226,971
- Home value in 2021: $276,981
- Home value in 2022: $358,278
- Home value in 2023: $393,588
- Home value in 2024: $421,876
- Home value in 2025: $436,603
Bethel’s remarkable 139.2% appreciation has transformed $182,540 investments into $436,603 assets, generating $254,063 in equity—extraordinary wealth creation in this western Maine ski destination. The explosive 92.4% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating demand for recreational properties with year-round appeal and remote work capability. While commanding premium prices for the region, Bethel offers substantial value compared to New Hampshire’s White Mountains or Vermont ski towns. The town’s proximity to Sunday River, outdoor recreation opportunities, and charming village character create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Bethel’s evolution into a premier Maine mountain destination.
13. Farmingdale
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 140.28%
- Home value in 2016: $129,678
- Home value in 2017: $137,581
- Home value in 2018: $145,280
- Home value in 2019: $156,309
- Home value in 2020: $170,616
- Home value in 2021: $203,871
- Home value in 2022: $241,577
- Home value in 2023: $266,977
- Home value in 2024: $299,123
- Home value in 2025: $311,595
Farmingdale’s impressive 140.3% appreciation has generated $181,917 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth creation through strategic positioning along the Kennebec River. The remarkable 82.6% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as the Augusta-Gardiner corridor gains recognition. Despite more than doubling in value, Farmingdale remains accessibly priced at $311,595, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. The town’s riverfront character, central location between Augusta and Gardiner, and strong school system create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
12. Machiasport
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 141.30%
- Home value in 2016: $96,528
- Home value in 2017: $103,819
- Home value in 2018: $113,352
- Home value in 2019: $119,819
- Home value in 2020: $120,563
- Home value in 2021: $165,590
- Home value in 2022: $197,401
- Home value in 2023: $211,075
- Home value in 2024: $222,886
- Home value in 2025: $232,917
Machiasport’s exceptional 141.3% appreciation has generated $136,390 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation at one of Maine’s most accessible coastal price points. The extraordinary 93.2% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating recognition of Downeast Maine’s extraordinary value proposition. With average values still below $235,000, Machiasport offers an unmatched combination of coastal access and proven appreciation potential. The town’s working waterfront, historic character, and pristine natural setting create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Machiasport’s transition from overlooked coastal gem to high-growth market status.
11. Gardiner
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 142.15%
- Home value in 2016: $115,120
- Home value in 2017: $122,734
- Home value in 2018: $131,378
- Home value in 2019: $140,246
- Home value in 2020: $151,135
- Home value in 2021: $183,812
- Home value in 2022: $220,975
- Home value in 2023: $243,940
- Home value in 2024: $271,679
- Home value in 2025: $278,768
Gardiner’s remarkable 142.2% appreciation has generated $163,649 in homeowner equity—extraordinary wealth creation through strategic positioning in this historic Kennebec River town. The impressive 84.5% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as central Maine gains recognition amid shifting preferences. Despite posting top-tier appreciation, Gardiner remains accessibly priced at $278,768, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s riverfront character, historic downtown, and proximity to Augusta create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Gardiner’s transition from overlooked to high-growth market status.
10. Lisbon
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 142.90%
- Home value in 2016: $133,306
- Home value in 2017: $147,266
- Home value in 2018: $165,817
- Home value in 2019: $174,471
- Home value in 2020: $190,005
- Home value in 2021: $227,609
- Home value in 2022: $261,531
- Home value in 2023: $283,011
- Home value in 2024: $312,316
- Home value in 2025: $323,794
Lisbon’s extraordinary 142.9% appreciation has generated $190,488 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning between Lewiston and coastal communities. The impressive 70.4% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as the Androscoggin corridor gains recognition. Despite more than doubling in value, Lisbon remains accessibly priced at $323,794, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s riverfront setting, recreational trail access, and proximity to employment centers create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in Maine’s tenth-fastest appreciating market.
9. Lisbon Falls
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 143.28%
- Home value in 2016: $127,053
- Home value in 2017: $134,545
- Home value in 2018: $154,223
- Home value in 2019: $163,172
- Home value in 2020: $175,021
- Home value in 2021: $210,387
- Home value in 2022: $246,170
- Home value in 2023: $265,740
- Home value in 2024: $297,416
- Home value in 2025: $309,095
Lisbon Falls’ remarkable 143.3% appreciation has generated $182,042 in homeowner equity—extraordinary wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Androscoggin County village. The impressive 76.6% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as the Lewiston-Brunswick corridor gains recognition. Despite more than doubling in value, Lisbon Falls remains accessibly priced at $309,095, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s riverfront character, recreational opportunities, and strategic location between employment centers create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
8. Greenville
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 145.52%
- Home value in 2016: $123,976
- Home value in 2017: $136,507
- Home value in 2018: $152,212
- Home value in 2019: $165,229
- Home value in 2020: $172,559
- Home value in 2021: $204,720
- Home value in 2022: $254,315
- Home value in 2023: $271,869
- Home value in 2024: $292,387
- Home value in 2025: $304,385
Greenville’s exceptional 145.5% appreciation has generated $180,409 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning at Moosehead Lake. The extraordinary 76.4% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating recognition of rural Maine’s recreational appeal amid remote work flexibility. Despite posting top-tier appreciation, Greenville remains accessibly priced at $304,385 for lakefront living, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s position on Maine’s largest lake, outdoor recreation opportunities, and recent infrastructure investments create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Greenville’s evolution from seasonal destination to year-round investment market.
7. Waterville
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 145.75%
- Home value in 2016: $96,025
- Home value in 2017: $99,721
- Home value in 2018: $111,787
- Home value in 2019: $117,867
- Home value in 2020: $127,000
- Home value in 2021: $147,090
- Home value in 2022: $175,250
- Home value in 2023: $197,934
- Home value in 2024: $225,850
- Home value in 2025: $235,981
Waterville’s remarkable 145.7% appreciation has generated $139,956 in homeowner equity—extraordinary wealth creation through strategic positioning in this college town along the Kennebec River. The impressive 85.8% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as central Maine gains recognition amid revitalization efforts. Despite posting the seventh-highest appreciation rate in Maine, Waterville remains highly affordable at $235,981, suggesting significant continued upside potential. The city’s higher education cluster, medical facilities, and urban renewal initiatives create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Waterville’s transition from overlooked to high-growth market status.
6. Madison
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 146.10%
- Home value in 2016: $79,790
- Home value in 2017: $81,173
- Home value in 2018: $86,359
- Home value in 2019: $90,393
- Home value in 2020: $99,334
- Home value in 2021: $121,850
- Home value in 2022: $148,116
- Home value in 2023: $164,502
- Home value in 2024: $181,931
- Home value in 2025: $196,366
Madison’s exceptional 146.1% appreciation has generated $116,576 in homeowner equity—extraordinary percentage returns from one of Maine’s most accessible markets. The remarkable 97.7% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating recognition of this Somerset County town amid shifting housing preferences. With average values still below $200,000, Madison offers an unmatched combination of affordability and proven triple-digit appreciation potential. The town’s riverfront setting on the Kennebec, outdoor recreation access, and proximity to Skowhegan create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Madison’s transition from overlooked to high-growth market status.
5. Lewiston
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 146.22%
- Home value in 2016: $117,103
- Home value in 2017: $123,471
- Home value in 2018: $136,500
- Home value in 2019: $145,664
- Home value in 2020: $156,432
- Home value in 2021: $185,809
- Home value in 2022: $221,051
- Home value in 2023: $246,863
- Home value in 2024: $279,121
- Home value in 2025: $288,329
Lewiston’s remarkable 146.2% appreciation has generated $171,226 in homeowner equity—extraordinary wealth creation through strategic positioning in Maine’s second-largest city. The impressive 84.3% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as urban revitalization efforts gain recognition. Despite posting Maine’s fifth-highest appreciation rate, Lewiston remains accessibly priced at $288,329, suggesting continued upside potential. The city’s riverfront location, historic mill architecture, healthcare sector, and Bates College presence create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Lewiston’s transition from overlooked industrial city to vibrant growth market.
4. Newry
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 153.62%
- Home value in 2016: $197,978
- Home value in 2017: $208,702
- Home value in 2018: $214,658
- Home value in 2019: $227,486
- Home value in 2020: $235,433
- Home value in 2021: $295,620
- Home value in 2022: $406,578
- Home value in 2023: $434,805
- Home value in 2024: $484,156
- Home value in 2025: $502,118
Newry’s extraordinary 153.6% appreciation has transformed $197,978 investments into $502,118 assets, generating $304,139 in equity—remarkable wealth creation in this premier ski destination. The explosive 113.3% surge since 2020 demonstrates exceptional demand acceleration during pandemic-era remote work flexibility. While commanding premium prices for western Maine, Newry offers substantial value compared to similar ski destinations in Vermont or Colorado. The town’s Sunday River resort access, four-season recreational opportunities, and growing amenities create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent trajectory confirms Newry’s status as Maine’s premier mountain real estate investment market.
3. Livermore Falls
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 159.41%
- Home value in 2016: $80,715
- Home value in 2017: $87,181
- Home value in 2018: $93,225
- Home value in 2019: $99,296
- Home value in 2020: $108,472
- Home value in 2021: $138,103
- Home value in 2022: $163,895
- Home value in 2023: $178,755
- Home value in 2024: $202,279
- Home value in 2025: $209,380
Livermore Falls’ exceptional 159.4% appreciation has generated $128,666 in homeowner equity—extraordinary percentage returns from one of Maine’s most accessible markets. The remarkable 93.0% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating recognition of this former mill town amid shifting housing preferences. With average values still below $210,000, Livermore Falls offers an unmatched combination of affordability and proven triple-digit appreciation potential. The town’s riverfront setting, historic character, and strategic location between Augusta and the western mountains create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms its position as Maine’s third-fastest appreciating market.
2. Springvale
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 160.80%
- Home value in 2016: $127,946
- Home value in 2017: $145,097
- Home value in 2018: $160,694
- Home value in 2019: $173,770
- Home value in 2020: $185,061
- Home value in 2021: $223,977
- Home value in 2022: $258,887
- Home value in 2023: $281,701
- Home value in 2024: $315,791
- Home value in 2025: $333,688
Springvale’s extraordinary 160.8% appreciation has generated $205,742 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning in York County. The impressive 80.3% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as southern Maine continues to capture Boston metro spillover demand. Despite posting Maine’s second-highest appreciation rate, Springvale remains reasonably priced at $333,688 compared to coastal communities, suggesting continued upside potential. The village’s historic character, Sanford location, and proximity to both employment centers and beaches create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Springvale’s emergence as a premier growth market.
1. Rumford
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 193.06%
- Home value in 2016: $56,026
- Home value in 2017: $59,794
- Home value in 2018: $63,116
- Home value in 2019: $72,762
- Home value in 2020: $80,570
- Home value in 2021: $112,678
- Home value in 2022: $134,671
- Home value in 2023: $143,771
- Home value in 2024: $156,139
- Home value in 2025: $164,188
Rumford leads Maine with an extraordinary 193.1% appreciation that has nearly tripled investments from $56,026 to $164,188, generating $108,163 in equity. The remarkable 103.8% surge since 2020 demonstrates exceptional recognition of this former mill town’s value proposition amid shifting preferences. Despite posting Maine’s highest appreciation rate by a significant margin, Rumford remains the state’s most affordable market on this list. The town’s riverfront setting, proximity to Sunday River and Bethel, and industrial heritage create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Rumford’s remarkable transformation into Maine’s top-performing real estate market.
