Maine stands apart with its rugged coastline, dense forests, and deep ties to the sea. Nicknamed the “Pine Tree State,” it’s a place where lobster boats bob in the harbors, winding backroads lead to hidden lakes, and small towns thrive on strong community ties. Whether you’re drawn to Bar Harbor’s thriving restaurant scene, the quiet escape of Acadia National Park, or the slower pace of coastal villages, Maine delivers a way of life that’s closely connected to the outdoors. But while the state’s natural surroundings and communities have plenty of appeal, living here comes with its own set of challenges. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of living in Maine.
Renting in Maine snapshot
| Population | 1,405,012 |
| Avg. studio rent | $1,023 per month |
| Avg. one-bedroom rent | $1,101 per month |
| Avg. two-bedroom rent | $1,352 per month |
| Most affordable cities to rent in Maine | Orono, Augusta, Lewiston |
| Most walkable cities in Maine | Portland, Lewiston, South Portland |
1. Pro: Breathtaking scenery everywhere you look
Maine’s landscapes aren’t just pretty—they’re the kind of scenery that makes you stop in your tracks. Towering pine forests stretch as far as the eye can see, rocky coastlines crash against the Atlantic, and rolling mountains create endless opportunities for exploration. Acadia National Park is one of the crown jewels, where hiking trails wind through dense woods and lead to sweeping ocean views. Sunrises at Cadillac Mountain, one of the first places in the U.S. to see the morning light, are unforgettable.
2. Con: Winters that don’t mess around
Snowstorms here don’t just dust the ground—they bury cars, block roads, and send temperatures plunging well below freezing. Icy conditions make driving treacherous, and sidewalks often turn into skating rinks overnight. If you’re not used to long winters, the reality of digging out your driveway after every storm or layering up just to take the trash out can be overwhelming. Heating bills spike as wood stoves and furnaces work overtime, and even the best winter boots sometimes feel no match for the bitter cold.
3. Pro: Maritime history throughout the state
The ocean isn’t just part of Maine’s landscape—it’s part of its identity. For centuries, the state has been home to fishermen, shipbuilders, and sailors, and that heritage is still visible in the weathered fishing docks, historic lighthouses, and working waterfronts of towns like Portland, Rockland, and Boothbay Harbor. Maritime museums bring the past to life with artifacts from old sailing vessels and stories of shipwrecks along Maine’s rocky coast. You can step onto a classic windjammer for a sailing trip or visit the Portland Head Light, which has been guiding ships since the 1700s.
4. Con: Public transportation is sparse
Unless you live in downtown Portland, getting around without a car is nearly impossible. Public transportation is minimal, with only a few bus routes in larger towns and almost nothing in rural areas. Even in Portland, where some transit options exist, schedules are limited, and many neighborhoods still require a car to run errands. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft aren’t always available, especially in less populated areas, meaning you could be waiting a while for a ride.
5. Pro: Fresh lobster to farm-to-table dining
Maine’s culinary scene is built around fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and no food defines the state more than lobster. From classic lobster rolls served on buttery buns to whole steamed lobsters straight from the ocean, it’s a staple that both locals and visitors can’t get enough of. But there’s more to the food culture than just seafood. Farm-to-table restaurants showcase seasonal produce and dairy from Maine’s small farms, and wild blueberries make their way into everything from pies to pancakes.
6. Con: Brace yourself for high taxes
Living in Maine comes with a higher-than-average tax burden, especially when it comes to property and income taxes. The state ranks among the top ten in the country for highest tax rates, which can add up quickly for homeowners and business owners. Property taxes vary depending on location, but even in more affordable areas, they can be a strain. Income taxes also lean on the higher side, making budgeting an important part of living here.
7. Pro: Neighbors are friendly here
Maine has a reputation for being welcoming, and in smaller towns, that sense of community runs deep. Neighbors check in on each other, local businesses know their regular customers by name, and town events bring people together year-round. Farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and seasonal festivals are staples, providing a way for locals to connect and support each other. In winter, when snowstorms roll in, it’s common for people to lend a hand with shoveling or share firewood with those who need it.
8. Con: The Nightlife is More ‘Early to Bed’
If you’re looking for all-night clubs or a music scene that rivals major cities, Maine might not be the place. Most bars and restaurants close early, and even in Portland, which has the most options for late-night entertainment, the atmosphere is more laid-back than electric. Breweries and cozy pubs are popular, but big concerts and high-energy venues are few and far between. Live music can still be found, especially in places like Portland’s State Theatre or outdoor summer festivals, but overall, nightlife here leans more toward sipping craft beer by the fire than dancing until dawn.
9. Pro: Postcard-worthy coastal villages
Maine’s coastal towns feel like they belong in a classic New England postcard. Camden’s harbor is dotted with sailboats, while its main street is lined with bookstores, coffee shops, and historic inns. Bar Harbor, with its waterfront restaurants and walkable downtown, serves as a gateway to Acadia National Park. Further south, towns like Kennebunkport and Ogunquit have scenic beaches, boutique shopping, and seaside walking trails that provide breathtaking ocean views.
10. Con: Tourists, tourists everywhere
Maine’s beauty draws millions of visitors every year, and while tourism is great for the economy, it can make daily life more frustrating for locals. In the summer, highways clog with out-of-state cars, making what should be a quick drive a test of patience. Restaurants fill up fast, reservations become a must, and the most scenic spots—especially in Acadia—can feel more crowded than peaceful. Even grocery stores near popular vacation areas see price hikes during peak season.
11. Pro: Outdoor adventures at your fingertips
No matter the time of year, there’s always something to do outdoors. In winter, skiers and snowboarders head to places like Sugarloaf and Sunday River, while others strap on snowshoes or go ice fishing on frozen lakes. Spring brings hiking and the first rounds of fishing, while summer is all about kayaking, camping, and days spent on Maine’s sandy beaches. When fall arrives, leaf-peeping becomes a favorite pastime, as the forests explode in reds, oranges, and yellows.
12. Con: Far from everywhere else
Maine’s location in the far northeastern corner of the U.S. means that traveling outside of New England requires extra time and effort. The closest major airport is in Portland, but direct flights are limited, meaning most long-distance trips require layovers. Driving to major cities like Boston takes at least two hours, and getting to places like New York or Washington, D.C., can turn into an all-day journey. Rural areas are even more isolated, with long drives just to reach the nearest grocery store or hospital.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.
