“I never thought buying a cat would feel like shopping for a luxury car.”
If you’ve been eyeing a Maine Coon kitten, you’ve probably felt the same shock. Scroll through breeders’ pages and you’ll see $2,500… $3,000… even $5,000 price tags. Suddenly, your dream cat feels more like a yacht purchase.
But here’s the secret no one tells you: where you live in the US dramatically changes what you’ll pay for a Maine Coon.
I’ve been scouring breeder forums, chatting with owners, and even calling breeders pretending to be a buyer (sorry, not sorry) — all to answer the question:
Where can you actually find Maine Coon kittens in the USA for a reasonable price — without getting scammed or sacrificing quality?
Let’s break it down.
Why Prices Vary So Wildly
First, let’s understand the chaos.
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Breeding costs vary by region. Vets, housing, and food cost more in certain states (looking at you, California).
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Demand is regional. In wealthy urban areas, breeders can charge higher prices because someone will always pay it.
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Number of breeders. States with more breeders = more competition = lower prices.
So…where’s your sweet spot?
The Best States to Find Lower Maine Coon Prices
1. Ohio
Ohio has an active community of Maine Coon breeders who often charge $1,200–$1,800. Not exactly cheap—but significantly lower than the coasts. Plus, it’s smack in the middle of the country, so travel or shipping costs are lower for many buyers.
Insider tip: Ohio breeders frequently have “retired breeders” (older cats) for under $800. A stunning cat without the kitten chaos.
2. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has one of the largest networks of Maine Coon catteries in the East. The competition keeps prices from ballooning too high. Expect $1,400–$2,000 for pet-quality kittens.
Breeders here are often TICA or CFA registered, which is crucial to avoid scams.
3. Indiana
Hidden gem alert. Indiana breeders consistently list kittens from $1,200–$1,700. The lower cost of living helps keep breeder expenses manageable, and many ship nationwide.
One breeder told me:
“We love the cats, but our mortgage isn’t California-high, so we can price fairly.”
4. Michigan
Michigan has a surprisingly large number of reputable breeders who offer Maine Coons at slightly below national averages, around $1,300–$1,900.
Also, Michigan breeders tend to produce big, classic Maine Coons — perfect for folks looking for that lion-esque look.
5. Wisconsin
Another Midwest powerhouse. Wisconsin’s breeders tend to keep kittens under $2,000. Not the cheapest, but often $1,000 less than coastal states.
Bonus: several breeders offer health guarantees up to two years without jacking up prices.
Where You’ll Pay Top Dollar
While beautiful Maine Coons are everywhere, these states tend to have sky-high prices:
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California
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New York
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Florida
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Washington
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Texas (especially in major cities)
If you live in one of these places and are determined to buy locally, expect $2,500–$5,000. Otherwise, be open to traveling or shipping from cheaper states.
How to Shop Smart Without Getting Scammed
Even if you find a great deal, watch your back. Scammers prey on desperate cat lovers who can’t believe they’ve finally found a $900 Maine Coon.
Here’s how to stay safe:
✅ Never wire money to strangers.
✅ Demand video calls to see kittens and parents.
✅ Check breeder reviews on TICA, CFA, or Facebook groups.
✅ Insist on a purchase contract with health guarantees.
✅ Beware “rare colors” or “discount kittens” for suspiciously low prices.
Final Takeaway
A Maine Coon is an investment — emotionally and financially. But don’t let big-city prices crush your dream.
Your perfect floofy giant might be waiting in Ohio, Indiana, or Wisconsin… for thousands less than you’d pay on the coasts.
So don’t give up. And hey — if you find your dream cat thanks to this article, send me a photo. I’d love to see your new gentle giant.
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