Controller Jobs in Portland, ME

Portland, Maine$145,800 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: March 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

Controller Salary in Portland

Entry Level
$91,800
Median
$145,800
Senior Level
$211,140

Controller salaries in Portland are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Portland is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Financial ReportingGAAPTeam ManagementInternal ControlsERP Systems

Controller Job Market in Portland

Portland, ME is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Controller professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Portland offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Healthcare and Tourism sectors create robust demand for Controller talent. The market for Controller positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Controllers in Portland

Regional banksCredit unionsNational financial services

Major employers hiring Controllers in Portland include Regional banks, Credit unions, National financial services. The strong financial services presence creates consistent demand for experienced Controller professionals, with competitive compensation packages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Controllers in Portland

Living in Portland as a Controller means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Controller salary, housing is quite affordable at 15% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

108
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Controller in Portland

Portland Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Controllers in Portland: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Controller professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Maine

Maine has relatively high state income taxes. A Controller earning $145,800 might pay approximately $11,664 in state income tax. However, Maine's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Controllers

The job outlook for Controllers in Portland is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Portland offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Financial Reporting, GAAP, Team Management, Internal Controls.

Relocating to Portland

Maine has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Controller salary in Portland, ME?

The average Controller salary in Portland, ME is $145,800 per year. Entry-level Controllers typically start around $91,800, while experienced professionals can earn $211,140 or more. The national average for Controller roles is $135,000.

How many Controller jobs are available in Portland?

Portland has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Controller professionals. Major employers hiring Controllers include Regional banks, Credit unions, National financial services. The Healthcare and Tourism sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Portland a good city for Controllers?

Portland is an solid choice for Controllers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's healthcare industry creates strong demand for finance & accounting professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Controllers in Portland?

Top skills for Controllers in Portland include Financial Reporting, GAAP, Team Management, Internal Controls, ERP Systems. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Controllers in Portland?

Portland's cost of living is near the national average (108% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Portland is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Controllers in Portland?

Portland Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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