Choosing a place to raise your family is important. Many people make a move to Maine for the sole purpose of providing their family with a safe place to live. It’s not surprising that so many have chosen to either stay in Maine, come back to Maine, or simply pack up and move here. With some great schools, a relatively low cost of living, and many recreational activities, it’s a great choice. But, selecting the right town can be a big decision. Luckily, we’ve done some of the research for you! Here’s a list of some of the best places to live in Maine for families.

1. Hampden, Penobscot County
Hampden, ME, USA
Justin Russell / Flickr
Hiding out near Bangor, Hampden is a great place for education. The school district has a high graduation rate - almost 98% - and more than 75% of those students go on to college. It's also consistently ranked among the best towns in Maine.
2. Gorham, Cumberland County
Gorham, ME, USA
Doug Kerr / Flickr
Gorham sits just outside Portland. And, it's booming - the population has been growing for the last 15 years. Unemployment here is low, about 2% lower than the overall state and people that live here can enjoy tons of arts events throughout the year. Learn more about what life is like inside one of the fastest-growing towns in Maine.
3. Winthrop, Kennebec County
Winthrop, ME, USA
Terry Ross / Flickr
Winthrop is great for families that love the outdoors! Its location tons of lakes, including Cobbosseecontee Lake means lots of summer options for getting outside. Its proximity to Mt. Pisgah means lots of hiking, skiing and hunting. You'll never forget a trip to this tight-knit community in Maine.
4. Scarborough, Cumberland County
Scarborough, ME, USA
Andrew Malone / Flickr
Scarborough boasts three different coastal areas: the lovely and very family-friendly Higgins Beach, a traditional Maine rocky coastline and other sandy beaches. There are also many businesses that call the town home. In 2013, it was named an "eCity" by Google, an award given to the digital capital of each state.
5. Yarmouth, Cumberland County
Yarmouth, ME, USA
InAweofGod'sCreation / Flickr
In addition to notable public schools, Yarmouth is the fastest-growing community in Maine after Gorham.

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6. Topsham, Sagadahoc
Topsham, ME 04086, USA
C Hanchey / Flickr
This is another great option for those who love the outdoors. Living here means being near Merrymeeting Bay, the largest freshwater estuary system north of the Chesapeake Bay! Not only is Topsham naturally beautiful, but it's also one of the most affordable places to live in Maine.
7. Bangor, Penobscot County
Bangor, ME 04401, USA
Justin Russell / Flickr
This one might surprise some people, but larger towns are great for families! Schools in this education system have won national awards! Morevoer, Bangor is often listed among the coolest cities in the U.S.
8. Fort Kent, Aroostook County
Fort Kent, ME 04743, USA
Peter Dutton / Flickr
Another surprising addition to the list for some, this community is the big one before the North Maine Woods. This location, of course, means lots of recreation options in the 3.5 acres of vast land. Despite being a remote location in Maine, this charming city will make you feel right at home.
9. Gardiner, Kennebec County
Doug Kerr / Flickr
Being six miles south of Augusta means lots of opportunity to learn about Maine's history and current events. The school system has steadily increased, meaning there's a good chance kids will head off from here with a good head on their shoulders. Gardiner is another charming city in Maine that's also affordable.
10. Bar Harbor, Hancock County
Bar Harbor, ME, USA
Jasperdo / Flickr
Why wouldn't a family want to live in Bar Harbor? In addition to being a vacation destination for many, its beauty is undeniable. It's also a hub for Maine's healthcare industry. Learn more about this picturesque community in Maine that's surrounded by water on three sides.

What are your thoughts on this list of best places to live in Maine for families? Are there any cities or towns that you would add to the list? Be sure to share your thoughts and recommendations with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! For related content, be sure to check out our list of some of the best, most picturesque small towns in Maine you’ll want to visit soon.

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best places to live in Maine for families

Beth C. | June 12, 2022

What are the most picturesque small towns in Maine?

If you're someone who often falls for New England's charms, you'll find that Maine might just have it all: breathtaking scenery, coastal vibes, and friendly small towns that will make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive. One of our top recommendations is a place known as Searsport. Home to the scenic Moose Point State Park, this delightful destination also happens to be the second-largest deep water port in the state. It probably comes as no surprise that this region is rich in maritime history. Next up on our list of the most charming small towns in Maine would be Brooklin in Hancock County. Historically a fishing town, this charming locale is worthy of a day trip. Some other picturesque small towns in Maine worth visiting include Rockport in Knox County, Port Clyde in Knox County, Stonington in Hancock County, Phippsburg in Sagadahoc County, Andover in Oxford County, Stratton in Franklin County, Sebec in Piscataquis County, Hartland in Somerset County, and Kennebunkport in York County.

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