Maine natural disaster risk
Maine ranks #10 of 51 from safest. Its biggest relative risks are ice storm, winter weather, hurricane.
The vertical line marks the middle of U.S. counties (50).
Risk in Maine's largest counties
| County | Population | Risk score | FEMA rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cumberland County | 308,827 | 77.0 | Relatively Low |
| York County | 216,731 | 81.5 | Relatively Moderate |
| Penobscot County | 154,710 | 78.0 | Relatively Low |
| Kennebec County | 126,808 | 75.2 | Relatively Low |
| Androscoggin County | 113,423 | 59.1 | Relatively Low |
| Aroostook County | 67,058 | 80.4 | Relatively Low |
| Oxford County | 59,255 | 65.9 | Relatively Low |
| Hancock County | 56,460 | 55.0 | Relatively Low |
| Somerset County | 50,959 | 67.9 | Relatively Low |
| Knox County | 41,003 | 28.6 | Very Low |
| Waldo County | 40,192 | 40.6 | Very Low |
| Sagadahoc County | 37,285 | 23.3 | Very Low |
| Lincoln County | 36,099 | 31.8 | Very Low |
| Washington County | 31,331 | 47.6 | Relatively Low |
| Franklin County | 30,413 | 43.6 | Relatively Low |
| Piscataquis County | 17,263 | 52.4 | Relatively Low |
County scores are averages, and the insurance figure above is what owners with a mortgage reported paying in 2024 (Census American Community Survey); premiums have risen since, especially in high-risk areas. For a specific home, check the address on FEMA's flood map and get insurance quotes before you commit. Our guide explains how to check natural disaster risk before you move.
Lowest-risk counties in Maine
- Sagadahoc County 23.3
- Knox County 28.6
- Lincoln County 31.8
- Waldo County 40.6
- Franklin County 43.6
- Washington County 47.6
- Hancock County 55.0
- Androscoggin County 59.1
Cities in Maine
- Portland, ME risk 75.1
Frequently asked questions
Is Maine safe from natural disasters?
Maine's population-weighted FEMA risk score is 67.8 out of 100 (above average for U.S. counties), #10 of 51 from safest. No residents live in counties FEMA rates relatively high or very high.
What natural disasters happen in Maine?
The highest relative risks in Maine are ice storm, winter weather, hurricane (national percentile scores 94, 92, 87).
Where is the safest place to live in Maine?
Among counties with at least 20,000 people, the lowest FEMA risk scores are in Sagadahoc County, Knox County, Lincoln County.