Maine

Maine, the northeasternmost U.S. state, is known for its rocky coastline, maritime history and nature areas like the granite and spruce islands of Acadia National Park. Moose are plentiful in Baxter State Park, home to Mt. Katahdin, endpoint of the Appalachian Trail.

Maine is the north easternmost of the fifty US states. A versatile and vibrant landscape home to 1.3 million people. With an impressive 3500-miles of coastline to enjoy, you are never far from the sandy shores in Maine. The Atlantic coast is rugged and raw; waves crash against the rocks and the lighthouses stand proud above the choppy waters below.

When we said Maine offers a versatile landscape, we weren’t kidding. Maine has a desert! Almost unheard of in a state that is so very coastal. Outside the town of Freeport lies 40-acres of smooth, sandy desert; becoming an evermore popular attraction for both domestic and international visitors.

Maine is a keen fishing state, and in 2014 it produced nearly 90% of the United State’s lobster yield. For those who are fans of seafood, you will feel right at home here in Maine.

When it comes to looking at this state as a potential place to live, you’re already onto a winner with easy access to outstanding natural beauty.

We appreciate that proximity to the wild isn’t the be all and end all, so in our list of best places to live in Maine we have taken into consideration quality of public schools, job opportunities, and general amenities.

1. Cape Elizabeth

Cape Elizabeth

South of Portland, Maine, you will find the gorgeous and highly desirable Cape Elizabeth. Home to just 9,157 people, this small neighbourhood is idealistic in every possible way. Safe, happy and clean would be three words that best describe the best place to live in Maine.

Public schools in Cape Elizabeth are outstanding and plentiful. All eight public schools in this area are performing well above the national average.

Crescent Beach State Park is a very popular area for families to spend quality time together; this mile-long beach is safe for swimming and well as offering multiple trail walks and picnic areas.

Properties in Cape Elizabeth are above the national average but on par with the rest of the state and reasonable given the access to good schools and the perpetually low crime rates.

2. Cumberland

Cumberland

Cumberland is just as much of a wonderful place to live as Cape Elizabeth with the added bonus of slightly lower property prices and much lower monthly rent.

Cumberland has a wonderfully diverse population of 7,454 residents comprised of millennials who have come to the area to take advantage of the low median rent. As well as millennials, you’ll find young families in the area and retirees too, both groups who sought Cumberland for the low crime rates and community atmosphere.

For those looking for a snappy pace of life then Cumberland is not the place for you. Although suburban in aesthetic, there is very much a rural pace of life here. Locals refer to it as ‘quiet and quaint’, so no raucous nights out in Cumberland anytime soon.

3. Falmouth

Falmouth

In a strong third place is Falmouth. Divided straight down the middle by Highway 295 connecting you to Portland and Brunswick in well under an hour; creating lots of job opportunities for those willing to commute to work.

If access to the Atlantic coast isn’t enough, the easternmost point of Falmouth is shared with Highland Lake. Falmouth offers countless opportunities to get outdoors and reconnect with nature.

Falmouth is a dreamy location for parents to raise a family, this suburb is home to the best selection of schools in the state. From elementary school, middle school and up to high school too, there are eighteen schools to choose from, all of which perform consistently well.

4. Cumberland Center

Cumberland Center

Cumberland Center in Cumberland County is home to 2,664 people. The majority of residents live in owned homes, 86% in fact. Median monthly rent here in Cumberland Center is consistent with the national average.

House prices here are not only some of the most affordable in all of Maine but the best value for money too. For $279,000 you can invest in a 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom family home, with a spacious garden for the children to play and a private driveway too.

The low crime rates in the area make Cumberland Center the best place to raise a family in Maine, as well as access to outstanding schools, of course. When you add in proximity to outdoor activities and provisions of health services in the area, it is hard to find fault with this neighbourhood.

5. Falmouth Foreside

Falmouth Foreside

Falmouth Foreside is one of the most highly desirable areas to live in Maine, but it is the steep house prices that make this suburb something of an exclusive area. With dozens of properties boasting sea views, you are spoilt for choice in Falmouth Foreside if your budget can stretch.

There are some absolute bargains out there if you look hard enough. In some instances, you won’t get any change for $1m but along other streets in the neighbourhood, you can invest in a 3-bed, 3-bathroom family home that has breathtaking views of the bay for $589,000.

If you know you want to live in this beautiful neighbourhood, home to 1,702 people, it is worth keeping a close eye on what properties are on the market. Source: wikipedia.org

6. Yarmouth

Yarmouth

Although nightlife in Yarmouth is practically non-existent, there is a great deal of other desirable factors about this suburban neighbourhood. Local people note that it is the rugged coastline, expansive forests, fast-flowing rivers and gentle lakes that make them feel so happy to live here.

There is a strong community feel in Yarmouth that has developed from generation to generation. Unlike Falmouth Foreside, Yarmouth is far from exclusive. With median household income $74,000, it is safe to say that this is a true American neighbourhood.

Aside from the occasional incidence of theft, there is very little crime in the area. Levels of indecent behaviour are well below the national average.

7. North Yarmouth

North Yarmouth

Yarmouth…North Yarmouth…it may be a case of which house takes your fancy when it comes to choosing between these two neighbourhoods. There is very little difference between amenities, house prices, schooling or resident satisfaction. In all honesty, North Yarmouth has a more rural feel and is a little more sparsely populated.

Local people say that they can trust their neighbours and the area is clean and safe. The parks in the neighbourhood are perfect for exercising or dog walking, a great place to let the kids go and run.

The majority of houses on the market are stand alone, detached family homes with generous gardens, encompassed by trees for added privacy. Typically American in design, there are ample family homes for you to chose from in North Yarmouth.

8. Scarborough

Scarborough, Maine

A moment’s drive south of Portland, Maine, is the quiet suburb of Scarborough. This small town is a lovely place to live, simple as that. Of an evening local people will often take a stroll through the marshes and down onto the beaches.

There is a thriving community in Scarborough and is part of the reason why visitors come along throughout the year; they come for the coastal walks and holiday resorts too. But it is the people that really make a holiday, don’t you think?

Home to 19,348 people, Scarborough is very much a town, rather than a neighbourhood. That said, the strong community ethos creates a village-like feel to the place.

 Median home value is $315,000. Although this is more than double the national average, this is very much on par with the rest of Maine.

9. Freeport

Freeport

Freeport is home to lots of outlet stores so people trek from all around to visit the purveyors of the area. There is a very rural feel to Freeport, a small town home to 8,127 people.

 Schools in the area come highly praised by local people who have been more than satisfied by the education received by their children.

A short phase of burglaries occurred in the town, jilting the crime statistics a little, but with a strong community core, neighbourly natured residents can give assurance as to the safety of Freeport.

Although median home value is double the national average, there is great value for money in property in Freeport. $599,000 can purchase a 4-bed, 3-bathroom mansion-like family home with a rolling garden and off road parking.

10. Farmington

Farmington

Home to a close community of 7,500 people, Farmington may be rural but it has a lot to offer; namely low rent costs. The median rent in Farmington is just $654, greatly affordable and should weigh heavily for those who want to reside in Maine before investing in real estate elsewhere in the state.

Perhaps due to the rural nature of Farmington, it is the sixth safest place to live in the state, a firm tenth best place to live. Considering that highly desirable places like Falmouth Foreside only just scrape into the top five, it is fair that Farmington should settle in the tenth position.

There are ample shops run by local families to provide you with almost everything you would need on a day-to-day basis. The local pub is at the heart of the community.

11. Portland

Portland

Standing strong and proud on the peninsula of Casco Bay, we find the city of Portland, Maine. The Old Port area has become a very popular area for affluent Maineiacs to invest in the converted warehouse apartments.

The rest of the city is more affordable, less exclusive too. Median home value in the city centre is $239,000. There is a good market for tenants here in Portland, the median rent is bang on the national average. With 57% of people living in rented properties, there are plenty of options out there.

Being the city centre, there is a very diverse population of 66,490 people; both in terms of income and ethnicity. As such, there are a lot of opportunities to socialise, engage in the city’s nightlife and community events.

12. Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor

The island of Mount Desert that houses Bar Harbor is connected to the mainland by Highway 3. This is one of the most picturesque places to live in Maine and ideal for anyone who wants to be at one with the landscape and enjoy island life.

Home to just 5,200 people, the community know one another certainly by sight, if not by name. Median rent out on Mount Desert is very low, just $790 a month.

Potential newcomers to Bay Harbor must consider that there are few job opportunities out here and the cost of living is much higher.

 Being at the mercy of the Atlantic Ocean the winters in Bar Harbor can be harsh and unrelenting.

13. Brunswick

Brunswick

Slow and steady Brunswick readily welcomes newcomers to the area. Right on the bay, there is a strong community, homely atmosphere here, despite there being 20,000 people that call it home.

Public schools in Brunswick are in no short supply and although only Brunswick High School has an A-rating, all the other sixteen schools in the area are performing at above satisfactory levels.

There are some wonderful local restaurants to enjoy for dinner and with brunch becoming a global phenomenon, why not brunch overlooking the bay? Most bars close at 1 am so there are no long and wild nights here but certainly a social life to indulge in.

14. Kennebunk

Kennebunk

Kennebunk is a small town on Highway 95. With many people born and bred in the town, there is a strong local community. The area is very safe and although of a suburban aesthetic, Kennebunk has a rural feel.

There are a good number of properties on the market at any given time and many have a classic wooden design. Almost all properties are on their own plot of land, detached from any other homes. For $565,000 you can invest in an impressive 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom single family home.

Median household income is $70,920 to give you an idea as to the status of residents here; happy, hardworking, salt of the earth Americans.

15. Gorham

Gorham

Within easy reach of Portland CBD is the neighbourhood of Gorham, home to 16,834 people. This commuter suburb is home to many people who trip into the city every day for work. That said, with a residential population this large, there are many job opportunities out there serving the local community. Restaurants, bars and stores all have to be staffed

Sebago Lake is just a short walk out of the neighbourhood and the Steep Falls Wildlife Management Area is a wonderful place to explore.

Locals say that the only thing they would complain about is the slight increase in traffic at rush hour. A reasonable compromise to live with in return for good schools and low crime levels.

Maine is a very beautiful state with countless tourist attractions to choose from. Every year, thousands of visitors troop in to behold its amazing coastal towns and coastlines and partake in a plethora of recreational activities and sightseeing.

However, there is more to Maine than its coasts; there many streams and lakes too. Needless to say, where there are water sources aplenty, there’s bound to be a waterfall nearby. Maine boasts an array of beautiful waterfalls, and this guide is here to help you decide on the best one to visit.

1. Angel Falls – Township D – northwest of Houghton

Source: Max Moraga

Angel Falls

This is one of the most beautiful and remarkable waterfalls in Maine. It is located near Byron town in Franklin County and is supplied by Mountain Brook.

It is also named Angel Wing Falls, due to the fact that the water flow takes the shape of an angel, with the way the water slightly touches the rocks on its plunge downwards from the heavens.

Angel Falls is 90 feet tall, with enclosing cliff walls that are about 115 feet tall. You can access it via a short hiking trail which is clearly marked. Note that you should wear proper footwear because the trail can be quite slippery.

This waterfall is best visited during spring – from late May to early July – because during that period, the water levels are full and the weather is ideal for hiking. A trip to Angel Falls is an experience you’re unlikely to forget.

2. Dunn Falls- Oxford County / near Andover

Source: Paula Stephens

Dunn Falls

Dunn Falls is a fascinating waterfall situated close to Andover in Oxford County. It is sourced from the Ellis River.

It is made up of two sections – upper and lower falls – with the upper falls a 70-foot drop creating a horsetail and fans, while the lower falls add an additional 80-foot plunge which is enclosed by rock walls the shape of half-moons and the water flows through a hole in the wall.

Dunn Falls can be accessed via a moderately difficult hike along the west side of the Ellis River; the trail is marked, making access easier.

The best time to visit Dunn Falls is from late May to early October when the water levels are the greatest. Dunn Falls has a lot of unique natural attributes which makes it a trip worth considering.

.

3. Grand Falls – West Forks in Somerset County

Source: Lois55

Grand Falls

Contrary to what its name suggests, at a height of 40 feet, Grand Falls is not as tall as other waterfalls in Maine.

However, what it lacks in height, it overtly makes up for in breadth; it spans about 120 feet. Grand Falls gets its water from the Dead River. It is extremely scenic and beautiful throughout the year.

This waterfall can be accessed by taking an easy hike along a dirt road leading to the waterfall. It is not advisable to swim here due to the extremely strong currents. The best time to visit is from late May to October. Grand Falls is remarkably scenic and highly captivating, therefore an opportunity to visit it should not be missed.

4. Moxie Falls – Moxie Gore

Source: racarter1025

Moxie Falls

This is one of the most fascinating waterfalls in Maine. With a plunge of over 90 feet, it stands as one of the highest waterfalls in the state. The waterfall is sourced from Moxie Stream and is located in Moxie Gore in Somerset County.

Notwithstanding the fact that Moxie Falls is located in a remote area, it is quite popular and gets a lot of visitors, especially during the weekends. This lends proof to the fact that it is one of the most remarkable waterfalls in Maine.

Moxie Falls is very easy to access by hiking a short distance from a trailhead at a parking lot located along Moxie Road. Note that the road is slippery when wet and so it is recommended that you wear sturdy boots. It is also possible to swim in this waterfall and it is best visited from May to October.

.

5. Gulf Hagas Falls – Northern Maine

Source: Wade H. Massie

Gulf Hagas Falls

This is an epic waterfall located in Bowdoin in Piscataquis County, which is quite isolated. It is found in the Gulf Hagas Gorge – also known as the Grand Canyon of the East. It is sourced from Pleasant River and Gulf Hagas Brook.

Gulf Hagas Falls is one of the most well-known waterfalls due to its alluring natural features and eye-catching qualities, such as the numerous waterfalls and picturesque scenery.

This waterfall is accessible via a strenuous but adventurous hike of about 8.6 miles along a dirt road. Swimming here is possible and perfect for relaxation after the long hike.

Note that you should be careful about the strong currents and the high water levels, especially during spring. The best period to visit is between June and October. If you love a waterfall with a lot of scenic natural features and a touch of adventure, then Gulf Hagas should definitely be on your list.

6. Houston Brook Falls – Pleasant Ridge

Source: sogrady

Houston Brook Falls

Houston Brook Falls has a 32-foot height and takes the shape of horsetails and plunges. The waterfall gets its water from the Houston Brook.

It is very easy to find and easily accessible through a 10-minute walk in the woods. When the water is low, swimming is possible, but when the water level is high, it becomes difficult and dangerous to swim in.

It should be noted that the mist is usually thick in this area, making the rocks slippery and dangerous to walk on, so be careful when you’re exploring. The best time to visit this waterfall is from May to October when the view of the waterfall is at its best.

This waterfall is quite special; the rock arrangements, the strong torrent of water, and swimming holes gives it a very artistic and striking setting. A trip to Houston Brooks Falls is definitely worth considering.

.

7. Step Falls – Newry

Source: Kingfox

Step Falls

At approximately 250 feet high, Step Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Maine. Unlike some other waterfalls, this one does not take a direct descent, instead, it takes a gradual descent.

Step Falls is located in Newry, Oxford County. It takes the shape of horsetails, cascades, slides, and plunges. Step Falls gets its water from Wight Brook, so at times it is also known as Wight Brook Falls.

It is best visited from May to October and can be accessed via a 20-minute hike. There are signs on the trail to make it easier. Also, note that the trail can be slippery, so wear non-slip shoes and be careful with your steps. It is a perfect spot for wading in the water as well as some swimming. The view of this waterfall is spectacular during spring.

8. Hay Brook Falls – Bowdoin

Source: Arend Trent

Hay Brook Falls

This waterfall is quite unpopular and not frequently visited by tourists. It is located in Bowdoin, Piscataquis County. It has a height of about 28 feet and takes the shape of horsetails.

Hay Brook Falls gets its water from Hay Brook and is best visited between the months of June and October. It can be accessed from the Gulf Hagas trail or a hike from the 4WD trail.

Due to its secluded and remote nature, Hay Brook Falls is perfect for tourists who want to have a relaxed and tranquil time away from the crowds. It is also perfect for camping and picnics.

.

;

9. Screw Auger Falls – Grafton Notch

Source: Chintla

Screw Auger Falls

This waterfall is peaceful and beautiful all year round. It is Maine’s most heavily visited waterfall. Screw Auger Falls is located in Grafton Notch, Oxford County. It has a height of 25 to 30 feet and gets its water from Bear River.

This waterfall can easily be accessed from a small trail. The area boasts some picnic tables with lots of shade, bathrooms and plenty of parking space. The place is very serene and kept in pristine condition.

One of the main attractions of this waterfall is the way the water drops in beautiful cascades, making it a perfect background for taking breathtaking pictures. This waterfall is best visited from May to October. It is perfect for people looking to have a cookout, a small picnic, a little get-together or a relaxing swim.

10. Alder Stream Falls – Alder Stream Township

This waterfall has two sections – the upper falls at 20 feet high take the shape of plunges and cascades, while the lower falls at 25 feet take the shape of horsetails and cascades. Alder Stream Falls is sourced from Alder Stream.

The falls are easily accessed through a short walk from the parking lot. Since 2017, there has been a rope to assist people when climbing down the really steep areas. It is necessary to watch your footing around here to prevent accidents. Note that swimming is not possible at this waterfall and the best time to visit is from May to October.

.

11. The Cascades – Sandy River Plantation

The Cascades has three sections of waterfalls – the upper, lower and middle falls. The upper falls are 10 feet high, the middle falls 18feet, and the lower falls 20 feet. They take the shape of cascades, plunges, horsetails and slides. The Cascades are also referred to as Cascade Gorge and Cascade Stream Gorge.

Swimming is great at the lower and middle falls but not great at the upper falls. The area can be accessed by hiking a trail surrounded by the towering walls of a gorge, giving the impression that you are hiking through a tunnel. This waterfall is supplied by the Cascade Stream; it has must-see natural and scenic features and is best visited between May and October.

12. Little Wilson Falls – Elliotsville

View this post on Instagram

11 awesome hikers and 1 happy pup hiked Little Wilson Falls today! It was frozen in parts but still roaring! #northwoodswellnesscollective

A post shared by Northwoods Wellness Collective (@northwoodswellnesscollective) on Dec 2, 2017 at 1:55pm PST

//www.instagram.com/embed.js

Little Wilson Falls has three sections of waterfalls. The upper falls are 40 feet high and take the shape of a horsetail; the lower and middle falls are 18 feet and 25 feet respectively and take the shape of slides and cascades. This waterfall can be accessed through the Appalachian Trail.

Little Wilson Falls are supplied by the Little Wilson Stream. It is possible to swim at the lower and middle falls, but impossible to swim at the upper falls. This waterfall is well known for its untouched natural beauty and picturesque scenery. It is best visited from May to early October.

.

13. Poplar Stream Falls – Carrabassett Valley

Source: Mark Rust

Poplar Stream Falls

This waterfall is well known because it houses the biggest ski resort – Sugarloaf Mountain Resort.

Poplar Stream Falls has two different sets of waterfalls and each gets their water supply from different sources. The first waterfall is 24 feet; it takes the shape of a horsetail and plunges into a pool beneath it.

The other cascade is 51 feet, supplied by South Brook. It also takes the shape of a horsetail and drops into a big swimming pool beneath. These two streams merge on their flow downwards. Note also that swimming here is possible at both falls.

This waterfall is accessible via the long and pleasurable hike east of the resort. The best time to visit is from May to October. Once upon a time, it was quite difficult to locate the falls, but with the building of the Poplar Hut, it has become much easier. This hospitable hut offers food and a place to stay – this has added to the attraction of the beautiful waterfall.

14. Smalls Falls – Rangeley

Source: Madelyn Hart

Smalls Falls – Rangeley

Small Falls has four sets of waterfalls which altogether have a height of 54 feet. It is sourced from Sandy River.

This waterfall is well known because of its alluring natural features; its swimming holes and the beautiful waterfalls traveling through a colorful gorge of brown, green, gold, beige, orange, ivory and black.

There are also bathrooms and picnic tables, and you can swim to cool off in hot weather. It is best to visit from May to October.

15. Snow Falls – West Paris

Source: Paula Stephens

Snow Falls – West Paris

Also known as Snow Falls Gorge, it has a height of 25 feet and takes the shape of plunges and cascades. Snow Falls gets its water from the Little Androscoggin River and is best visited from April to November.

Swimming is not possible here and highly prohibited. This site also has picnic tables, toilets, and parking spaces. It is also fenced, making it a safe environment for families to visit and have a great time without worrying about the children.

This waterfall is extremely fascinating and interesting. Even though the water gets a bit foamy and dark sometimes, it is definitely worth a visit. Don’t forget to walk along the bridges to see the waterfall in all its glory.

.

15 Best Waterfalls in Maine .