The experience of a lifetime.
Ever dream about packing it all up and moving to an island? Imagine living in a place where natural beauty abounds in every season. Where your neighbors know your name and the community comes together to lend a helping hand. Where you can contribute to the vibrancy of a remote island while enjoying the experience of a lifetime. Welcome to Isle au Haut, an unbridged island off the coast of Maine. Isle au Haut Community Development Corporation is offering below market-rate rental properties for eligible families who want to put down roots in a one-of-a-kind island community.
The experience of a lifetime.
Ever dream about packing it all up and moving to an island? Imagine living in a place where natural beauty abounds in every season. Where your neighbors know your name and the community comes together to lend a helping hand. Where you can contribute to the vibrancy of a remote island while enjoying the experience of a lifetime. Look no further than Isle au Haut, an unbridged island off the coast of Maine. Isle au Haut Community Development Corporation is offering below market-rate rental properties for eligible families who want to put down roots in a one-of-a-kind island community.
Island Living Beckons
Isle au Haut offers a range of amenities and services to cater to the needs of its residents. The island boasts a small general store, a library, and a one-room schoolhouse. While it maintains a peaceful and remote ambience, Isle au Haut is easily accessible by passenger ferry/mailboat, which operates year-round from the mainland in Stonington.
Pristine landscape. The island is dominated by Acadia National Park, with over 50% of its landmass designated as wilderness. Hiking trails wind through dense forests, leading to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding ocean and neighboring islands.
Close-knit community. With a population of around 70 year-round residents, Isle au Haut exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Islanders take pride in their deep-rooted connection to the land and sea, embracing a sustainable way of life and a thriving fishing industry.
Unique education. The island’s one-room K-8 schoolhouse offers high-quality, one-on-one instruction and unparalleled hands-on outdoor learning.
Our Properties
Our rental properties are available for lower-than-market-rate prices and feature all the comforts of home.
Eligibility Requirements
Our mission is to ensure housing is available for families and individuals who are making Isle au Haut their home, who participate or will participate in community activities and, in particular, for families whose work is an essential part of the day-to-day life of Isle au Haut. To be eligible for consideration, an applicant must demonstrate:
Applicant must be willing to live on Isle au Haut year-round.
Applicant must demonstrate a need for affordable housing. The applicant must not own an existing house on Isle au Haut at the time of application.
Income limits are defined by commonly accepted standards that use a specific percentage of median family income (very low = 50%, low = 80%, and moderate = 120%) adjusted for family size. Median Family Income (MFI) limits are calculated based on the median family income, updated annually, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD’s) estimates in Knox County. Individuals and families whose income is above 120% (moderate) will not be eligible for the below market property rental program. Should a family or an individual apply to ICDC whose net worth is significantly above average, even if their income falls within the guidelines, they may not be considered for the program.
Applicants should have sufficient income to cover the mortgage or rent payments for the house. Total housing debt should not exceed 30% of annual gross income in most cases.
Applicants should be gainfully employed for a minimum of 30 hours per week. Preference will be given to those employed on Isle au Haut or with a commitment of a job on Isle au Haut.
About Isle au Haut
Isle au Haut is one of Maine's last inhabited unbridged islands. Situated in Knox County, the island is six miles by boat from the town of Stonington and is renowned for its pristine landscapes, rugged coastline, and vibrant community.
Is Isle au Haut right for you?
Are you handy?
We’re looking for people who can contribute to the island economy in some way. If you fish, work in the construction trades, clean houses, are skilled in bookkeeping, telecommute, or have a livelihood that can be of some benefit to the island, we encourage you to apply!
Are you adventurous?
Island life is not for the faint of heart. Especially in the winter. Islanders need to be intentional about maintaining social connections. Year-round community events and involvement are essential to ward off isolation.
Do you have a family?
The future of Isle au Haut depends on maintaining a robust population in the one-room school. If you have school-aged children and are looking to lay down roots in this community, the island is a wonderful place to raise a family.
Do you love nature?
The island features diverse wildlife and flourishing ecosystems. Isle au Haut's protected waters are a haven for kayaking, canoeing, and boating, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serenity of the island's coastal wonders.
About the ICDC
Apply Now
Interested in trying out island life? Send us an inquiry to get started.