Here Are The 10 Cheapest Yet Great Places To Live In Maine

What are the cheapest places to live in Maine? Between the food, views, and things to do, we all know that Maine is paradise, but can you LIVE here? Before you think the answer is no, you might want to take a closer look at what it actually costs to purchase a home in your dream state. The SmartAsset website recently researched home costs throughout the state and created an index measuring the most affordable places to purchase a home here. Included in this list are the most affordable cities measured by where the total housing costs on an average house accounted for the smallest proportion of the median income. Without further ado, check out the most affordable places to live in Maine.

10. Gorham, Cumberland County

The least affordable of all the top ten most affordable places in Maine to buy a home is Gorham. Located in the Portland area, Gorham has a bit of a fun fact associated with it. Beer lovers will love knowing that the Allagash Brewing Hop Yard can be found here. When you visit, be sure to check out this unique nature walk in Gorham.

9. Augusta, Kennebec County

If you want to be in close proximity of Maine's political decisions, living in Augusta is the first decision to make. If that doesn't matter to you, don't rule the city out. The average annual mortgage payment is just over $6,000 so you'll still be able to get some bang for your buck. So go check out one of the cheap places to live in Maine, and be sure to visit these historic landmarks in Augusta while you're there.

8. Topsham, Sagadahoc County

Topsham is located near Portland. It's also one of those towns that helps us distinguish Mainers from the ones who are from away. Just listen for the correct pronunciation and you'll know! This is also the location of the annual Topsham Fair. So head over to Topsham and don't forget to check out the amazing swinging bridge there.

7. Auburn, Androscoggin County

What we love about Auburn is the summer. The riverfront location means a few fun events throughout the year, most notable of which is the annual Great Falls Balloon Festival, pictured here. So go visit one of the cheapest places to live in Maine and take a stroll on this scenic river walk.

6. Skowhegan, Somerset County

The average annual mortgage payment in Skowhegan will set you back about $4,600. Not bad when you consider the history of this town. In a tradition that goes back to 1818, the local community comes together for the Skowhegan State Fair, which includes carnival rides, music, harness racing and a demolition derby. Before you visit, learn more about why one of the most affordable towns in Maine is considered a haunted town.

5. Winslow, Kennebec County

Winslow, located near Waterville, can be found along the Kennebec River. We could tell you about all the ways Winslow is nice, but we'd prefer to cut to the chase. In additional to being affordable, you can eat at Big G's every single day! To find out why this is an important life goal, learn more about this mouthwatering restaurant .

4. Brewer, Penobscot County

Homes in Brewer have an average annual mortgage payment of about $7,500. But, the median income here is about $52,000 - one of the highest on this list. And if you enjoy laser tag in Maine, be sure to check out G-Force in Brewer.

3. Presque Isle, Aroostook County

What we're learning in this list is that the more out-of-the-way you choose to live, the more affordable you might find your home. Number 3 is Presque Isle where you'll find the Nordic Heritage Center where you can go cross-country skiing and mountain biking for free. You can also find the amazing Aroostook State Park here.

2. Gardiner, Kennebec County

Gardiner is located smack in the heart of Maine. While it comes in strong on the affordability index, the real draw for us is that living here means being able to visit the A1 Diner as often as you'd like. Never heard of it? Learn more about this great diner and then start packing!

1. Caribou, Aroostook County

Caribou is not only the most affordable place in Maine, but it also might be one of the most peaceful on this list. Tucked away in The County, the average annual mortgage payment is just over $4,000. Caribou is also the most northeastern city in the country. Great for hiding out and feeling like you got a great deal! Learn more about one of the most affordable places to live in Maine, and then pay it a visit!

Ready to move to one of the most affordable towns in Maine? Once you've made the choice to come here, you might also want to check out the safest and most peaceful towns in Maine. To get a taste of them, I love the idea of planning a long weekend away at any of Maine's great hotels.