If you're a city-dweller who loves the hustle and bustle of a busy place or someone who prefers the quiet life of rural areas, Maine is definitely the perfect place to live. But what about those of us who fall somewhere in the middle? Those who like finding new restaurants, but also prefer to be surrounded by nature will be happy to know that this state has quite a few mid-sized towns offering the best of both worlds. These towns all have between 5,000 and 15,000 residents and they'll make you happy that you chose Maine.

1. Bar Harbor, Hancock County - Pop. 5,235

Bar Harbor might just be one of the most picturesque towns in Maine. As a popular tourist destination, it's also one of the busiest during the summer. But, when the population is just residents this place is pretty reasonable. You'll be able to explore without too much trouble and people will likely know you by name.

2. Belfast, Waldo County - Pop. 6,688

Belfast is one of the most quirky towns on this list and we love it that way. Located near Camden, Belfast is conveniently in the midcoast and offers lots of fun restaurants, bakeries and coffee shops. You can learn more about just what makes it so unique by checking out this article.

3. Rockland, Knox County - Pop. 7,178

Rockland is a true beauty, located right on the coast with lots of access to water and hiking trails. Enjoy a sunrise and there's a good chance you'll stay for life!

4. Old Town, Penobscot County - Pop. 7,474

Ever heard of Old Town Canoes? Yep, that's from here! And since 1669 the town has been the main home of the Penobscot Indians. Take a visit for a little bit of history and some beauty.

5. Skowhegan, Somerset County - Pop. 8,260

Skowhegan in August offers the longest running state fair in the country. But there's a lot more to love about this out-of-the-way town than just that. The nature, the people and the small restaurants are perfect.

6. Bath, Sagadahoc County - Pop. 8,319

Bath is one of the most historic towns in the state of Maine. Known for its maritime and ship building history, visiting means strolling along the banks of the Kennebec River imagining what thing might have looked like a century ago. We also love visiting the Chocolate Church for arts events when things are back up and running.

7. Freeport, Cumberland County - Pop. 8,439

Freeport is the place you want to go if shopping is on your must-do list. With some of the best outlets in New England, Freeport is fun year round. What some people don't realize is that there's also a ton to enjoy outside. Head to Wolfe's Neck Center to enjoy the many hiking trails and educational opportunities.

8. Old Orchard Beach, York County - Pop. 8,862

You can't think about Maine without also thinking about one of its most popular beach towns! In the summer this place is hopping and bopping for good reason. The pier is a ton of fun, offering everything from adult beverages to the famous pier fries. And while it feels like a large tourist town, it's still got that small-town feel.

9. Cape Elizabeth, Cumberland County - Pop. 9,275

Home to the most photographed lighthouse in the country, Cape Elizabeth might be one of the most quintessential Maine towns you can find. Visiting is beautiful, but living here doesn't come cheap. In 2019 the median household income was almost $125,000.

10. Kittery, York County - Pop. - 9,731

Just over the border from New Hampshire, you'll find little Kittery waiting to be loved. The town has some fun outlets, but it's also a cute place to enjoy a meal at one of their new restaurants.

What are some of your favorite towns in Maine? Do you prefer quiet, rural life or places like Portland that offer plenty of bars, restaurants and other nightlife? Let us know in the comments!

Here are 10 small towns in Maine where everyone knows your name. They're perfect for seeing some of the best of the state!