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Maine Restaurants Struggle Amid Housing Crisis and Staffing Shortages

11/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Maine's restaurant industry faces staffing shortages due to a housing crisis and rising living costs.
Maine restaurant owners Malcolm Bedell and Mike Fraser say wages do not keep pace with rising rents.
From 2019 to 2024, Maine median rent rose from $870 to $1,210.
Many restaurants are shortening hours or closing.
Build Homes, Build Community aims to address housing affordability and support workforce retention.

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Story summary

Maine's restaurant industry faces staffing shortages due to a housing crisis and rising living costs.
Maine restaurant owners Malcolm Bedell and Mike Fraser say wages do not keep pace with rising rents.
From 2019 to 2024, Maine median rent rose from $870 to $1,210.
Many restaurants are shortening hours or closing.
Build Homes, Build Community aims to address housing affordability and support workforce retention.