The 10 Best Places to Live in Maine According to Real Estate Experts
Maine, aside from being a popular summer destination, is a full-time home for people who want more space, a slower pace, and a strong sense of community. While the coast gets the most attention, inland towns and small cities across the state are drawing new residents with walkable downtowns and stable housing markets.
Real estate experts are seeing steady demand in areas that mix quality of life with long-term value. Here are the ten Maine towns that stand out for livability, location, and staying power in today’s market.
Portland
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Maine’s biggest city doesn’t feel overwhelming. You’ll find a working waterfront, tight-knit neighborhoods, and restaurants that win national awards. West End’s historic homes and East End’s ocean views both stay in high demand. Median prices range from $525,000 to $575,000, and buyers compete for the location.
Bar Harbor
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Bar Harbor combines natural beauty with a relaxed daily life. It is also in proximity to Acadia National Park and a strong retiree community. Residents benefit from scenic trails, low crime, and small-town intimacy, especially outside of peak tourist season. Median home prices hover near $639,000, but its peaceful pace and location keep it in demand.
Brunswick
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This college town doesn’t rely solely on its academic credentials. Bowdoin offers arts and lectures, but it’s the downtown food spots, walkable streets, and easy access to both coast and countryside that help explain the $475,000 average home price. It’s more affordable than some of its neighbors, but still carries cultural significance.
Bangor
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A regional hub in central Maine, Bangor offers a range of career opportunities in healthcare, retail, and education, as well as access to local universities. With median home prices around $309,000 and a population exceeding 30,000, it strikes a balance between urban convenience and affordability. Residents enjoy parks, cultural venues, and a more approachable housing market than coastal areas.
Yarmouth
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Twenty minutes from Portland, Yarmouth attracts families seeking strong schools and smaller crowds. The Royal River Marina, cafes, and downtown give it a day-to-day appeal. Median prices range between $675,000 and $725,000, and while that’s not a low price, demand remains steady among buyers seeking both community and convenience.
Biddeford
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Once a textile town, Biddeford has reinvented itself with new housing, local food institutions, and creative energy. From historic mill lofts to new condos, options abound for younger buyers. Experts highlight its affordability, averaging $500,000, and easy access to beaches and Portland.
Camden
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Views of Penobscot Bay and the surrounding hills make Camden visually memorable, but it also caters to its large population of retirees. About a third of the residents are over 65, and local healthcare facilities, galleries, and year-round events are designed with them in mind. Expect to pay around $995,000 for a home, and act fast when one’s listed.
Falmouth
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Falmouth combines upscale living with natural surroundings, including harbor access and wooded trails. Its proximity to Portland (under 20 minutes) and highly ranked schools make it attractive to established families. Median prices typically fall between $750K and $825K, reflecting its status as one of southern Maine’s most desirable suburbs.
Farmington
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Affordable and with personality, Farmington doesn’t follow the usual coastal formula. The University of Maine campus keeps the town young, and the $275,000 average home price attracts buyers who don’t mind being further inland. Skiers, paddlers, and people who enjoy a low-key downtown scene tend to stay once they settle in.
South Portland
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Only a bridge separates it from Portland, but South Portland’s identity feels more residential than touristy. Knightville and Willard Beach neighborhoods attract buyers looking for proximity without the Portland price tag. Parks, bakeries, and decent access to I-295 make it easy for locals to live without missing out.