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Moving to Maine in 2024? Complete Moving Guide

This is a complete guide for Moving to Maine.
Get all the information you need to know about moving to Maine.

Storgae Service

Are you thinking of moving to Maine? 

Moving is one of the major changes that a person experiences in one’s life. If you plan a move to another state or city, you should be prepared for physical and emotional challenges. When you plan a move, it is essential to gather as much information as possible about the new state or city. Moving to Maine can be full of challenges, but a slightly lower cost of living can encourage you to move here. The state experiences four distinct seasons with pleasant summers and muddy springs. The job market in Maine is challenging, but many industries are flourishing, such as tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing. The residents of the state are down-to-earth and friendly. There are plenty of opportunities for both indoor and outdoor fun.

What are the demographics of Maine? 

Maine's demography is more leaned towards the white majority. Around 93% of Maine’s population is white, and other races comprise a smaller portion. According to the statistics, the median age in Maine is around 44.8 years. Most of the state is rural, with a lower percentage of foreign-born residents.  
Male vs Female Population of Maine 
Gender Percentage
Female 51%
Male 49%
Population distribution by Ethnicity in Maine
Ethnicity Percentage Population (Estimated)
White (Non-Hispanic) 91.4% 1,250,000
Two or More Races (Non-Hispanic) 3.29% 44,900
Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) 1.54% 21,100
Asian (Non-Hispanic) 1.09% 15,000
White (Hispanic) 0.85% 11,700

What are some quick facts about Maine? 

Before moving to Maine, let us check out some interesting and quick facts about the state-
Quick Facts of Maine
The nickname of Maine is “The Pine Tree State”.
Augusta is the capital of Maine.
Quoddy Head State Park, Lubec is the first place in the US to see sunrise most of the year.
There are more than 6000 lakes and ponds in Maine.
Maine is the undisputed lobster capital of the US, covering more than 90% of the country’s supply.
Maine is the single largest producer of blueberries in the country.
This is the only state in the US that borders with only one state.
Rockport is the birthplace of doughnut holes.
The wildlife in Maine is diverse such as moose, fox, bear, deer, whales, dolphins, and more
There are multiple options for winter sports like ice skating, snowboarding, skiing, and more.

What are the top reasons to move to Maine? 

Moving to a new state is exciting and stressful but if you know the perks of moving to a new state then you must have a list of reasons-
Top reasons to move to Maine
Cost of Living- The state has an affordable cost of living especially since the cost of housing is significantly lower.
Job Market- The job market in Maine can be challenging as the state's economy is focused on tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Quality of Life- The state ranks high in terms of safety as the crime rate is lower. The people have a strong sense of community.
Culture- The state has a rich history, vibrant art culture, and delicious food. You can enjoy this unique culture by being a part of the community.  
A slower pace of life- Maine has a slower pace of life and more people prefer to relocate here for the same reason.
Outdoor fun- Maine has multiple options for year-round fun such as skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, fishing, and more.

What are the Pros and Cons of living in Maine?

Relocation can be challenging but if you know all the pros and cons of living in a new state then it will be easier. So, before moving to Maine explore all the pros and cons of the state-
Pros & Cons of Living in Maine
Pros of living in Maine Cons of living in Maine
The state has lower cost of living as compared to national average The job market has limited opportunities especially outside Portland
The state has lower crime rates, and slower pace of life The state has seasonal economy where the most businesses rely on tourism
Maine is full of natural beauty like breathtaking coastlines, mountains, and more. Winters are harsh with heavy snowfall
The state has strong sense of community and friendly residents There are limited options for nightlife and entertainment
Year-round options are available in the state like biking, hiking, fishing, skiing, snowboarding and more The majority of population is white
The property taxes can be lower State income tax can be high

What are the best places to live in Maine? 

Each state has some places highly preferred by the families and singles to make their move. You can find such a perfect place in the new state by exploring the list here.
Best Places to Live in Maine

This list will help you find the best place in the best cities in the state, their population, median home value, and unemployment rate in each city. Let us explore-

City Population (Estimated 2023) Median Home Value (2024) Unemployment Rate (May 2024)
Portland 68,879 $512,900 3.0%
South Portland 26,843 $421,500 2.8%
Bangor 32,011 $257,400 3.5%
Lewiston 23,731 $201,100 4.2%
Auburn 24,244 $229,800 3.9%
Brunswick 21,232 $408,700 2.7%
Kennebunkport 14,077 $1,243,500 (Data not readily available)
Freeport 8,279 $489,200 2.9%
Bar Harbor 5,243 $631,400 (Data not readily available)
Augusta (State Capital) 18,912 $234,700 3.8%
Tip: When you've got a home to move in Maine, getting the best moving quote will be your goal. Request moving company quotes to save on moving cost.

What are the best neighborhoods in Maine? 

There are hundreds of neighborhoods in the state and finding the perfect one is a big quest. But with some guidance, you can find your next neighborhood without even visiting there. The right neighborhood is the priority when you move to a new city or state. Find a safe, friendly, and well-equipped neighborhood now-
Best Neighborhoods in the Maine
Portland- This neighborhood has an amazing downtown with vibrant art scenes, historic architecture, and great restaurants.
Kennebunkport- This is an upscale coastal town known for shopping, beaches, and lively atmosphere.
Lewiston- This is the second-largest city which has historic charm and a growing art scene.
Camden- A charming harbor town that majorly focuses on outdoor activities and arts.
Boothbay Harbor- This fishing village is known for its strong lobster industry and relaxed environment.
Falmouth Foreside- If you want to move to a historic district then find a home here. It has beautiful ocean views and 18th-century homes.

What is the cost of living in Maine? 

Maine has an affordable cost of living and especially the cost of housing is comparatively lower. When you move here, you need to set a budget for your move and after-move expenses. Learning about the cost of living before the move can help in managing the finances.
Cost of living in Maine
Cost of Living by Categories in Maine vs USA 
Category Maine USA National Average
Housing 121.9 ([MERIC]) 100.0
Utilities 110.9 ([MERIC]) 100.0
Transportation 111.0 ([MERIC]) 100.0
Groceries 100.7 ([MERIC]) 100.0
Healthcare 114.9 ([MERIC]) 100.0
Overall Cost of Living Index 111.3 ([MERIC]) 100.0
Median House Price in Maine vs USA
Location Median House Price
Maine $382,580
United States $347,716
Median Rent Price in Maine vs USA
Location Median Rent Price
Maine $2000
USA $1,713
Housing Market in Maine

The housing market in Maine is a seller’s market where the housing prices are rising and the number of houses is limited compared to the demand.

Average Rental Cost in Maine

The average rental cost in Maine depends on the type of property, location, and amenities available.  

Median Home Value in Maine

The median home prices in Maine are increasing year-over-year and also depend on the location of the property.

How is the job market in Maine?  

Finding a job can be challenging in Maine as the economy is focused on particular industries. If you are moving to Maine, explore all the possible opportunities for you according to your qualifications, experience, and interests. Here, we have compiled all the essential details related to the job market in Maine.

Median Income in Maine vs USA 
Location Median Household Income
Maine $68,251
United States $74,580
Unemployment Rate in Maine vs USA
Location Unemployment Rate
Maine 3.1%
United States 3.9%

Major Industries in Maine

Maine has a diverse economy which includes some major industries like
Maine  job market
Agriculture
Manufacturing
Logistics & Distribution
Defense
Aerospace
Energy
Healthcare

Top Career Options in Maine

Career is one of the prime reasons for which people relocate from one city to another or from one state to another. But before you plan a move, explore all the career options in the state as given in the table.
Top Career Options in Maine
Career Title Average Salary (Maine) Entry Level Salary (Estimated)
Registered Nurse $65,242 $58,000
Wind Turbine Service Technician $78,000 $65,000
Customer Service Representative $33,424 $30,000
Elementary School Teacher $61,230 $52,000
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) $48,730 $43,000
Retail Salesperson $35,460 $32,000
Biggest Companies in Maine by city and number of employees

The state has an industry-focused economy, and various industries are flourishing. You can explore the biggest companies established in different states with the table given below-

City Company Industry Estimated Employees
Portland L.L. Bean Retail (Outdoor Gear) 3,500-4,000
South Portland Maine Medical Center Healthcare 6,000-8,000
Bangor Eastern Maine Medical Center Healthcare 3,500-4,000
Lewiston J.D. Irving Forestry, Manufacturing (Headquarters not in Lewiston, significant presence)
Auburn Bates College Education 1,500-2,000
Brunswick Navient Financial Services 1,000-2,000
Kennebunkport Ocean Properties Hospitality 100-500
Freeport LL Bean Flagship Store Retail (Outdoor Gear) 1,000-2,000
Bar Harbor Jackson Laboratory Biotechnology 500-1,000
Augusta (State Capital) Central Maine Healthcare Healthcare 2,500-3,000
City Company Industry Estimated Employees
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What are the best things to do in Maine? 

Relocation can make you feel sad, but some fun and exploring the city or state can help you. In Maine, you can find several opportunities to enjoy and learn about its culture. We have listed various things that you can do in Maine-
Best things to do in Maine
Visit Acadia National Park to hike Cadillac Mountain, and explore coasts, tide pools, and more.
Plan a boat tour from Bar Harbor to go whale watching.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast Baxter State Park is another destination. Here you can go hiking, camping, fishing, and whitewater rafting.
Enjoy the scenic beauty of Ogunquit beaches, Popham Beaches, and more.
Maine has more than 4000 islands where you can explore historical sites, charming towns, and more
If you love antique shopping, you can visit Yarmouth and Kennebunkport.

What are the best schools in Maine? 

Maine is known to have quality education centers with top-level educational institutions. To ensure that your children will get quality education and learning, explore the following schools, colleges, and universities before moving there-
Education System in Maine
Elementary Schools in Maine
Old Town Elementary School, Old Town
Harmony Elementary School, Harmony
Piscataquis Elementary School, Guilford
Falmouth Elementary School, Falmouth
Cumberland North Yarmouth Memorial School, Yarmouth
Middle Schools in Maine
Reeds Brook Middle School, Hampden
Caravel Middle School, Carmel
Piscataquis Community Secondary School, Guilford
Brewer Community School, Brewer
Leonard Middle School, Old Town
High Schools in Maine
Greely High School, Cumberland
Kennebunk High School, Kennebunk
Maine School for Science and Mathematics, Limestone
Rangeley Lakes Regional School, Rangeley
Casco Bay High School, Portland
Colleges and Universities in Maine
Bowdoin College, Brunswick
Colby College, Waterville
Maine Maritime Academy, Lewiston
University of New England, Biddeford
University of Southern Maine, Portland

Which insurance is required in Maine? 

Buying insurance will help you in times of emergencies and different adverse conditions. When you move, you need to purchase moving insurance that will protect your belongings from any damage. Similarly, you need to buy some mandatory and beneficial insurance after moving to Maine-
Type of insurance required in Maine

Auto Insurance- In Maine, all drivers are required to have a minimum liability insurance which is mandated by state law. They also carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Uninsured Motorist Coverage. Here is the breakdown of each insurance-

Liability coverage- The state law mandates a minimum coverage of $50,000 per person bodily injury liability, $100,000 per accident bodily injury liability, and $25,000 property damage liability

Uninsured Motorist Coverage- This insurance policy will protect you in case you are in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance. The minimum liability coverage for UM in Maine is $50,000 per person uninsured motorist coverage and $100,000 per accident uninsured motorist coverage

Homeowner’s Insurance- Buy this to protect your home and belongings from damage, theft, or loss due to fire and other covered events.

Renter’s Insurance- The renter’s insurance is not mandated by the law, if you buy this then it will protect the belongings and provide liability coverage if someone gets injured on the rented property.

Health Insurance- This insurance will cover the cost of all medical expenses.

Life Insurance- Purchase this insurance to provide financial security to your loved ones in the event of your death.

What different taxes are applicable in Maine? 

If you are moving to Maine, you must know all about the taxes on services in the state. There are multiple taxes you must be aware of-
Taxes in Maine

State Income Tax- The state has a graduated state income tax with tax rates ranging between 5.8% and 7.15%.  

State Sales Tax- There is a statewide sales tax of rate 5.52% and there are some local authorities that can impose additional local taxes.  

Property Tax- In Maine, property taxes are levied by municipalities and depend on the location of the property. The effective property tax rate in Maine is around 0.96%.  

Lodging Tax- Maine has a 9% tax on stays in hotels and motels.

Excise Tax- An additional tax is applied on gasoline and cigarettes.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. It is recommended to conduct thorough research and consult relevant experts before making any decisions related to relocation.

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