From its rugged coastline and vibrant port cities to its quiet inland towns, Maine is a unique destination for business and tourism. For organizations with employees traveling to the Pine Tree State for conferences, client meetings, or seasonal work, a clear understanding of per diem rates is essential for managing expenses.
Per diem, a daily allowance for lodging, meals, and incidental costs, provides a streamlined approach to reimbursement. This guide offers a comprehensive look at the per diem rates for Maine, the state's important employee-protective laws, and how to automate the process for complete compliance.
Maine Per Diem Rates
Per diem rates for official travel in Maine are set by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). These federal rates are mandatory for federal employees and serve as a critical benchmark for private companies, especially given Maine's own laws on expense reimbursement. The rates are highly seasonal, particularly in the state's popular coastal tourist areas.
For Fiscal Year 2025 (October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025), key rates are broken down as follows:
Major Metro Areas
Maine's largest city has its own specific, seasonal per diem rate.
- Portland (Cumberland & Sagadahoc Counties):
- M&IE: $80 per day
- Lodging: Seasonal, with rates of $211 per night (June-August) and ranging from $114 to $199 during other months.
Tourist and High-Cost Areas
Maine's world-famous coastal destinations have some of the most dramatic seasonal rate changes in the country.
- Bar Harbor / Rockport (Hancock & Knox Counties):
- M&IE: $92 per day
- Lodging: Extremely seasonal, with a peak summer rate of $304 per night (July-August) and an off-season rate as low as $128 (November-April).
- The first and last day of travel M&IE rate is $69.00.
- Kennebunk / Kittery / Sanford (York County):
- M&IE: $86 per day
- Lodging: Seasonal, with a peak summer rate of $201 per night (July-August) and an off-season rate of $119.
Standard CONUS Rate
For any county in Maine not specifically listed by the GSA, the standard CONUS rate applies. For FY 2025, this rate is $178 ($110 for lodging and $68 for M&IE).
Maine Per Diem Rate Calculator
To find the precise per diem allowance for your trip anywhere in Maine, our calculator provides instant, accurate results based on the official GSA schedule.