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Living in Maine: Pros and Cons (Costs, Risks, Etc.)

Living in Maine

Maine is a beautiful state with many wonderful qualities. It’s so easy to get around, the people are friendly, and it has some of the best lobster anywhere. But before you pack up your life and move to Maine for good, there are some things you should know about living in this great state.

However, this isn’t everything that’s important when it comes to deciding whether or not you want to start living in Maine – here are some other pros and cons:

Pros of Living in Maine

Summers Make Up for the Winters’ Harshness

The summers are long and wonderful, full of beach days, farmers markets, good food with friends – basically the best time of year. Although winters can be bitterly cold with snow just about every day, sometimes it’s worth enduring for those sweet summer months.

Living in Maine is Affordable!

For how much space you get living here compared to other parts of the country, it’s much cheaper to live in Maine. You can buy a house for cheap, enjoy good food and drinks without spending too much money – you really get what you pay for here!

No Rush Hour

Because of its small population and large number of retirees, you won’t experience rushing hours like those in New York City or Chicago if you live in Maine. Getting home from work is almost always without delays, making it simple to consider working in a major metropolis like Boston if you can’t find employment doing what you love where you reside.

Maine is Full of Good People

Whether referring to the locals or transplants who’ve made this state their home, everyone seems pretty happy to be living here. It’s a great place for families, couples and retirees looking for a peaceful community where everyone knows their neighbors – the people are what make it special!

One of the Safest Places to Live In the US

It’s no secret that there are a lot of dangerous places to live in the US, but Maine is one of the safest. The crime rate here is among some of the lowest – less than half what it might be elsewhere.

Lobster! Lobster! Lobster!

What more can we say about how delicious lobster is? Maine has some of the best lobster in the world – you can’t beat it!

It’s Difficult to Beat Maine’s Outdoors

Though Maine is cold for the majority of the year, it’s not hard to find something fun to do outside. There are tons of trails and parks perfect for hiking or biking in any season – you will never get bored with all that this state has to offer!

Proximity to a Number of Wonderful Cities

Portland, Boston and New York City may not be the easiest to get to from Maine but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth visiting! You can usually find a cheap flight or road trip down south if you’re craving some big city action.

Some of the Best Things in Life are Free

There aren’t many things that cost money up here – most attractions around Maine are free or cheap! There is no need to spend unnecessary cash on expensive vacations when you can just drive outside your door and find something fun to do.

Cons of Living in Maine

The Winter is Brutal (But Short)

Although we touched on the winter being a positive thing in some ways, it’s not all fun and games when you have to face icy roads every day for months on end. It can be hard to drive around sometimes with how much snow piles up but if you go slow and take your time there shouldn’t be any problems.

The Summer is Short (But Sweet)

Although summers are long, they can be hot and humid at times. If you get tired of the heat it’s only a few months until October rolls around – so there isn’t too much time to complain about summer weather!

It Can Be Lonely Living in Maine

There aren’t as many people living up here compared to other states but that doesn’t mean you won’t find some great people in your life who make Maine worth calling home.

The Cost of Living is High

Although the actual cost of living in Maine isn’t too high, it’s hard to get by when trying to save up for retirement or send kids off to college compared to other states with larger populations. You also have to worry about your car breaking down on the side of a cold road in January – which definitely isn’t too fun!

Not So Great Jobs

It can be hard for young people starting out their careers or educated professionals looking to get ahead with only certain fields prospering up here. You’ll find some pretty great opportunities if you’ve been around for a bit and know people, but it’s difficult to get started fresh.

You might want to consider the pros and cons of living in Maine before making the decision to pack up and move here! Though it might be beautiful, there are some things you should know about if you’re thinking of moving.

Living in Maine

What Are Some Important Factors Someone Should Consider Before Moving to Maine?

The cost of living, jobs and weather might be a bit different than what you’re used too – which is why it’s good to know about them before making any decisions! You will also want to find out if your car can make the trip and if you will need to make any modifications before arriving.

Some More Information About Living in Maine

What is the weather like in Maine?

The weather up here is pretty cold for most of the year but it can be pleasant in the summer months.

What is the coldest part of the year?

The coldest months are January and February – although it can be pretty chilly for most of December, November and March as well. If you don’t like the cold this isn’t a great place to live!

What is one thing people should know about living in Maine?

It’s important to know that there aren’t many jobs in Maine – so you might want to consider this before moving here.

What is the best part of living in Maine?

The proximity to nature and some wonderful cities! There are a lot of great things about being up north but it’s important that people know what they’re getting into if they make the move.

What are some important cities to know about?

Most people who live in Maine love Portland and you’ll find a lot of great restaurants, nightlife and cultural opportunities there! You will also want to take advantage of going down south to Boston or New York City to experience some of the best things in life.

What are the famous attractions in Maine?

One of the most popular attractions in Maine is Acadia National Park. There are also a lot of lighthouses, museums and other historic sites you can visit if interested!

What would be some good job opportunities for someone living in Maine?

If you have experience it might be easier to get an entry-level position up here – but there are some great opportunities for those who know people.

Where is the best place to eat in Maine?

There are a lot of great places to find food up here – but if you’re looking for something particular there’s no better way than asking someone who lives nearby! You will also want to hit-up Portland or Bangor if interested in some of the best things in life.

Is there any public transportation in Maine?

There is no public transportation in Maine – so this might be something you’ll want to consider if you’re not planning on buying a car.

Tips of Living in Maine

Although living in Maine might be a bit different than you’re used to, there are some things that make it slightly easier:

  • You might find that most people don’t have a lot of fancy things or make it to the newest bars and restaurants – but this is actually nice as you’ll be able to save money on unnecessary expenses.
  • You might need a few extra bucks in your bank account if you’re coming here from a more expensive area!
  • It’s also good to keep up with all the latest road and weather conditions so that there aren’t any surprises when you finally arrive.
  • You should always go slow on icy roads and invest in winter tires for your car – otherwise the winters can get pretty treacherous!
  • There is also no need to spend tons of money going out here if you find yourself getting tired of the weather. Just drive out your door and you’ll find yourself some beautiful trails to hike or bike on – as well as plenty of parks perfect for picnics.
Living in Maine

Conclusion

Although we touched on some of the cons and pros, there are other great things about living in Maine that may not be obvious at first glance – you should definitely learn more if you’re considering moving here one day!

There is a lot to love but also enough downsides for those who might not be able to deal with Maine’s weather or living conditions.

This is a wonderful place for those who are willing to give it a chance, but can seem daunting compared to other parts of the US!


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