9 Best Places To Call Home In Maine In 2025
Thinking about moving to Maine? The Pine Tree State has been drawing more attention from homebuyers, thanks to its mix of charming coastal towns, lively small cities, and peaceful communities surrounded by nature. Whether you’re dreaming of a waterfront retreat, a vibrant downtown lifestyle, or a quiet town with excellent schools, Maine has a spot that feels just right. Here are the 9 best places to call home in Maine for 2025.
Bangor
Situated in the heart of Maine, Bangor strikes a perfect balance between urban amenities and easy access to nature. Anchored by the nearby University of Maine, Bangor benefits from a strong job market in education, healthcare, and retail. With a population of approximately 31,920, of which 20% are over 65, Bangor stands out as one of the most budget-friendly and attractive places to call home in New England, particularly for retirees. The median home sale price is approximately $284,400, making it markedly more affordable than other coastal communities such as Kennebunkport or Mount Desert Island.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the Penobscot River and enjoying day trips to Acadia National Park, making Bangor not only a practical place to live but also an inspiring one for those who value both community and the outdoors. Its walkable downtown is also filled with locally owned shops, diverse restaurants, and entertainment spots, creating an inviting atmosphere for both families and young professionals. The city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, from live concerts and art museums to an active theater community that enriches daily life. Art lovers will appreciate the iconic Paul Bunyan statue, a towering tribute to the city's lumberjack heritage, and the Zillman Art Museum, housed in a former department store featuring modern and contemporary works.
Pittsfield
Founded in 1819, Pittsfield has grown into a vibrant community of roughly 3,910 residents. The town is home to the renowned Maine Central Institute (MCI), a semi-private boarding school established in 1866, offering a comprehensive education that includes the prestigious Bossov Ballet Theatre, drawing students from both near and far. The median home price is notably low, around $269,000, making it an attractive option for homebuyers seeking value. Pittsfield also functions as a regional employment hub, with over 2,000 jobs supported by several major corporations and nearly 200 smaller businesses.
Residents of Pittsfield enjoy an array of recreational spaces that make the town both vibrant and welcoming. Manson Park, a sprawling 45-acre green space along the scenic Sebasticook River, offers walking trails perfect for a morning jog, a leisurely stroll, or birdwatching. The park also serves as a hub for community gatherings, most notably hosting the beloved annual Egg Festival, which draws visitors from across the region for family-friendly activities and local traditions. For sports enthusiasts and families, Legge’s Field is a cornerstone of the town’s social life, famous for its lively Little League games that showcase local talent and foster a strong sense of community.
Lewiston
Home to about 39,000 residents, Lewiston is fast emerging as an exceptional place to settle, thanks to its appealing blend of affordability, cultural depth, and scenic beauty. With a median home sales price of approximately $350,000 in Androscoggin County, well below southern Maine’s average and the state median of $425,000, Lewiston offers significantly more buying power for prospective homeowners.
Beyond its attractive real estate, Lewiston boasts a variety of enriching cultural and natural experiences. The Maine MILL museum, housed in the historic Bates Mill district, offers rich storytelling through exhibits on local labor and innovation. Just steps away lies the scenic Androscoggin Riverwalk, a peaceful trail that connects Lewiston and Auburn along the river, perfect for walking, biking, or taking in beautiful water views. For history and architecture enthusiasts, a visit to the Agora Grand Event Center, formerly St. Patrick’s Church and now the state’s second-tallest building, offers both visual impact and community energy. And for nature lovers, Thorncrag Nature Sanctuary provides escape through over 450 acres of forest, trails, and birdwatching atop Lewiston’s highest point.
Greenville
Greenville sits at the southern tip of Moosehead Lake, making it an ideal destination for lovers of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Known as the gateway to the North Woods, the town offers stunning landscapes, numerous hiking trails, and abundant opportunities for boating and fishing. With a population of approximately 1,746, this scenic Maine town offers a serene and affordable lifestyle in the heart of the Maine Highlands. The median home price is around $399,000, reflecting a stable housing market that is more accessible than many urban areas, making it an attractive option for families and retirees.
Education is well-supported by Greenville Consolidated School, which boasts strong academic performance. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking Mount Kineo, cruising on the historic Katahdin steamboat, and exploring Lily Bay State Park for year-round recreation. Each September, Greenville comes alive with the International Seaplane Fly-In, attracting aviation enthusiasts from around the globe. With its welcoming community and charming small-town vibe, Greenville is a delightful place to call home, whether you visit seasonally or live there year-round.
Lincoln
Nestled among more than a dozen lakes and ponds in northern Maine, Lincoln is a true hidden gem. With a projected population of approximately 4,876, Lincoln offers a unique blend of affordability, natural beauty, and community spirit, making it an ideal place to call home. The median home price is around $208,000, significantly lower than the state average, providing an accessible entry point for homebuyers. Educational opportunities are robust, with schools like Mattanawcook Academy receiving commendable ratings. Healthcare needs are well-supported by institutions such as Penobscot Valley Hospital and Health Access Network, offering a range of primary and specialty care services.
Recreationally, Lincoln shines with attractions like the scenic Mattanawcook Lake, where water enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and swimming in a serene natural setting. Beyond the water, the surrounding trails and forests invite residents and visitors alike to hike, picnic, and take in the changing seasons. The town also celebrates its rich history and vibrant community spirit each year with the Loon Festival, a lively event filled with local crafts, music, and delicious food that brings residents and visitors together.
Waterville
Waterville, a vibrant town of about 16,900 residents along the Kennebec River, is quickly becoming one of the best places to live in Maine for 2025 thanks to its affordability and cultural charm. Founded in 1802, the town grew as a hub for manufacturing, lumber, and paper, leaving behind a legacy of historic architecture and landmarks that still shape its character today. With a median home price around $220,000, well below the national average, Maine's cost-effective town offers excellent value for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. It has undergone a major downtown revival, fueled by Colby College and local investments, creating a lively mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
Residents and visitors in Waterville, Maine, are treated to a rich blend of cultural, historic, and outdoor experiences. Art enthusiasts can explore the nationally recognized Colby College Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of American and European works, as well as contemporary exhibitions that draw visitors from across the country. Theater lovers can enjoy live performances at the historic Waterville Opera House, a beautifully restored venue that hosts concerts, plays, and community events year-round. For a touch of local history and charm, a stroll across the iconic Two Cent Bridge, one of the nation’s few remaining wire-cable suspension bridges, offers scenic views of the Kennebec River and surrounding landscapes.
Auburn
With a population of approximately 25,272, Auburn offers a well-balanced blend of small-town charm and urban accessibility, making it an attractive place to call home in 2025. The median home price of around $359,117 highlights its relative affordability compared to many other parts of New England, giving families, retirees, and young professionals the opportunity to settle in a thriving yet cost-effective community. Conveniently located near Lewiston and within driving distance of Portland, Auburn provides residents with easy access to employment opportunities, higher education, healthcare, and entertainment, all while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere of a close-knit town.
Auburn boasts an abundance of parks and recreational facilities, from riverside walking trails and sports complexes to scenic spots ideal for hiking and biking. Residents enjoy hiking at Thorncrag Nature Sanctuary, birdwatching at Mount Apatite Park, and winter sports at Lost Valley Ski Area. In addition to its surrounding wilderness, Auburn boasts an inviting downtown centered around Main Street and a charming historic district. Lined with 19th-century architecture, this picturesque area offers a lively mix of restaurants, shops, cultural attractions, and entertainment venues, making it a favorite gathering place for residents and visitors alike. The city also hosts cultural events such as the Winter Festival and the Balloon Festival, providing year-round entertainment for families and individuals alike.
Calais
Calais is a charming, slow-paced riverside Maine town nestled along the St. Croix River at the Canadian border. With a population of approximately 3,154, Calais stands out as an affordable and welcoming community in Washington County. The median home price is notably low at $204,667, significantly below both state and national averages, making it an attractive option for homebuyers seeking value. Educationally, the Calais School Department serves the community with institutions like St. Croix Regional Technical Center, offering a range of academic and vocational programs.
A perfect way to begin your day in Calais is with a stroll along the Calais Waterfront Walkway, which winds through the heart of downtown and offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscape. Residents and visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Devil's Head Conservation Area. The city bursts with energy during the four-day International Homecoming Festival, celebrating its special connection with Canada. Visitors can enjoy Hardwicke’s spectacular fireworks, browse craft shows, attend live concerts, and explore lively street fairs. For a mix of history and outdoor fun, the nearby St. Croix Island International Historic Site offers fascinating insights and scenic activities, including walks along the Interpretive Trail.
Bath
Nicknamed the “City of Ships,” Bath is a haven for maritime enthusiasts and retirees alike. The town is home to the renowned Maine Maritime Museum, while its historic downtown, scenic waterfront parks and boardwalk, and lively fish markets capture the essence of coastal Maine living. Bath offers more affordable housing options, around $420,000 on average, while still being just a short drive from the cultural hubs of Brunswick and Portland. With its rich history, recreational opportunities, and strong sense of community, Bath provides a welcoming and fulfilling Maine setting for retirement.
For those who love the water, the Kennebec River is at the heart of Bath’s lifestyle, offering endless opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, and riverside strolls with picturesque views that change beautifully with the seasons. Scenic river cruises also allow residents and visitors to take in the town’s maritime charm from a different perspective. On land, Bath offers a vibrant cultural scene with community arts events, local theater performances, music nights, and workshops at venues such as the Bath Senior Citizens Center and the Chocolate Church Arts Center, bringing together people of all ages.
In 2025, Maine offers an exceptional mix of towns that balance affordability, quality of life, and natural beauty. From welcoming small towns like Lincoln to vibrant coastal communities, each place stands out for its schools, healthcare, recreational opportunities, and sense of community. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat, a scenic coastal escape, or a town rich in culture and outdoor activities, these destinations represent the very best options for calling Maine home in 2025.
