USDA Loans in Aroostook County, Maine
Nearly every town in Aroostook County qualifies for USDA $0 down financing. Here's your complete guide to USDA Rural Development loans in Aroostook County for 2026 — eligible towns, income limits, and how to qualify.
About Aroostook County
Maine's northernmost and largest county by land area — bigger than the states of Connecticut and Rhode Island combined. Known as 'The County,' with deep agricultural roots, potato farming, and close-knit small towns.
Common markets include Presque Isle (the commercial hub with Northern Maine Community College and a regional airport) and Caribou.
USDA eligibility in Aroostook County
Essentially 100% of Aroostook County is USDA-eligible. This is one of the easiest counties in Maine to get a USDA loan.
Notable towns that commonly qualify
Presque Isle, Caribou, Houlton, Fort Kent, Madawaska, Van Buren, Limestone, Ashland, Mars Hill, Washburn.
2026 USDA income limits — Aroostook County
Your total household income must be at or below these limits to qualify for a USDA Guaranteed loan:
| Household Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1–4 people | $119,850 |
| 5–8 people | $158,250 |
Based on 2025–2026 USDA Rural Development data. Limits are reviewed annually. USDA income limits count all adults in the household, not just applicants on the loan. Allowed deductions for dependents, childcare, and medical expenses can significantly lower your qualifying income. See the full income limits guide.
Home prices in Aroostook County
Home prices are among the lowest in Maine. Many single-family homes sell for well under the USDA area loan limit, leaving plenty of room for buyers to shop.
What a USDA loan looks like in Aroostook County
- $0 down payment — 100% financing on an eligible Aroostook County home
- 0.35% annual mortgage insurance — less than half of FHA's 0.85%
- Seller concessions up to 6% — closing costs can often be covered entirely by the seller in this market
- Credit score 620+ typically required; some lenders flex to 580 with compensating factors
- Primary residence only — no investment properties or second homes
Is your Aroostook County target property eligible?
I'll run your specific address through the USDA eligibility check and walk you through what a $0 down loan looks like on that house.
Check My Eligibility →Frequently asked questions
Is my town in Aroostook County USDA-eligible?
Most of Aroostook County qualifies. The definitive check is USDA's official map at eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov — enter the specific property address. Or send me the address and I'll check for you.
What's the difference between USDA and FHA in Aroostook County?
USDA beats FHA on monthly cost almost every time when both are available — no down payment (vs. 3.5%) and much lower mortgage insurance. See the full USDA vs. FHA comparison.
How long does a USDA loan take to close in Aroostook County?
Typically 30–45 days from signed purchase agreement. Slightly longer than FHA or conventional because USDA adds its own final approval step after the lender approves the file.