Calais City Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Calais, Washington County, Maine, had a population of 3,079. The median age was 50.1 years, reflecting an older demographic. About 51% of residents were female and 49% male. Racially, Calais was predominantly White (over 94%), with very small representations from Black or African American (0.5%), Native American (2%), Asian (0.3%), and Hispanic or Latino (1%) populations, highlighting limited ethnic diversity within the city.

Calais City Housing

Calais, Washington County, ME has a homeownership rate of about 67%, with median home values around $120,000 and median gross rents near $680/month (2022 ACS). The housing market remains affordable but has seen modest value growth in recent years. Properties primarily include single-family homes and some small multi-family units, with neighborhoods like downtown offering historic homes and outskirts featuring larger lots. Annual property taxes average approximately 1.2% of assessed value. The area offers a quiet, rural lifestyle with easy access to natural amenities and the St. Croix River.

Education in Calais City

Calais, Maine (not Washington) has one public high school, Calais High School, serving approximately 200 students with a graduation rate around 90%. The city’s educational attainment shows about 82% of adults are high school graduates, while 13% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is prioritized via security measures and small class sizes (average 14:1 student-teacher ratio). Adult education is offered through local programs, including workforce training. Calais schools provide Advanced Placement courses and vocational programs, but statewide test scores are below the national average, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve education quality.

Transportation in Calais City

Calais, Washington County, Maine, relies heavily on private vehicles for transportation, with approximately 87% of workers driving alone and less than 1% using public transit, as public transportation options are limited. The average commute time is about 20 minutes. Most households (over 93%) own at least one vehicle. The city’s transportation infrastructure includes U.S. Route 1 and State Route 9. Major employment hubs are in healthcare, retail, and education, centered around local institutions like Calais Regional Hospital. Walking and cycling are less common due to the rural layout and limited alternate transit infrastructure.

Calais City Healthcare

Calais, Maine (ZIP 04619), is served primarily by Calais Community Hospital, a 25-bed critical access facility, and Calais Regional Medical Services clinic. Healthcare access challenges persist, with Washington County's uninsured rate at 8.7% (2022) and 22% of residents aged 65+, per U.S. Census. The patient population is predominantly White (95%), with common health issues including diabetes (13%), heart disease, and substance use disorders. Provider shortages are evident, with a ratio of one primary care physician per 2,000 residents, below the state average. Medicaid and Medicare insure nearly 50% of the population.