Maine is known for its seafood, lighthouses along its rocky coastlines, and beautiful scenery. If you’re ready to call the Pine Tree State your home for your golden years, look no further. First-time homebuyer programs, plenty of entertainment, and closing cost assistance all make Maine an excellent place for retirees; here are the top 10 cities.
Top 10 Cities to Retire in Maine
1. Waterville
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.4%
Median Home Value: $173,700
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 33
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 546
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 6
Waterville flows into our top spot of best cities to retire in Maine. If you’re a fan of the arts, this city on the Kennebec River may be just the place for you. The Colby College Museum of Art is home to many beautiful contemporary art pieces, and you can catch a performance at the Waterville Opera House. With affordable housing and nearly 20 percent of the population over age 65, Waterville offers seniors a great place to call home.
2. Lewiston
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.2%
Median Home Value: $214,200
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 126
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 663
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4
Lewiston, which is located midway between Augusta and Portland, is notable for being the second largest city in Maine. It’s also right across the Androscoggin River from sister city Auburn, which is No. 5 on this list. Nature lovers enjoy the multiple nature preserves within Lewiston’s city limits. And residents also appreciate the low crime rates and overall community safety.
3. Augusta
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 23.0%
Median Home Value: $188,900
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 55
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 810
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 5
Retire in style in the state capital! Augusta has the highest percentage of individuals over 65 on this list at just under 24 percent. The city offers plenty to do and see for retirees, including the Maine State Museum, the Old Fort Western and the gardens at Viles Arboretum. Each summer, Augusta holds the Kennebec River Brewfest, which attracts visitors from all over the country.
4. Bangor
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 20.0%
Median Home Value: $206,300
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 54
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,267
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 5
Bangor originated as a timber production town and has grown into a thriving city of more than 32,000 residents. Hike along the trails in the Bangor City Forest, try your luck at the Hollywood Casino and Raceway or check out the latest exhibit at the Zillman Art Museum – University of Maine. No matter how you spend your days, you’re sure to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
5. Auburn
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 19.2%
Median Home Value: $254,600
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 35
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 512
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 5
Auburn is a small city located adjacent to Lewiston; together, they’re known as the Twin Cities. From Lake Auburn to Mount Apatite, Auburn contains picturesque scenery and nature at its finest. Other local favorites include the brewery and golf courses.
6. Sanford
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 19.1%
Median Home Value: $257,200
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 41
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 574
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 5
Sanford is a small city located near the New Hampshire-Maine border. Retirees can find all the suburban delights they could want, including movie theaters, golf courses, restaurants and places of worship. With a 30-minute drive to the coast, spontaneous weekend beach trips just became easier! Sanford is a great place to call home.
7. Westbrook
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.6%
Median Home Value: $341,800
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 30
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 233
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4
Westbrook is a thriving Portland suburb. Take a walk down the Westbrook River Walk, which leads into a city park and historic downtown. Looking for more places to stretch your legs? Westbrook is home to multiple nature preserves and trails all across the city. If you’re looking for a change of pace, practice your swing at the golf course or take up a class at the community center.
8. Biddeford
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.5%
Median Home Value: $349,300
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 73
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 694
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4
Located along the coast, Biddeford is one half of the twin cities of Biddeford-Saco (No. 10 on this list). If you dream of retiring by the beach, Biddeford may be the home for you. Enjoy a morning walk along Fortune Rocks Beach and visit the nature preserve at East Point Sanctuary. Fan of golf? Your local golf course comes with an oceanic backdrop!
9. South Portland
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 19.6%
Median Home Value: $405,800
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 29
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 316
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4
As its name implies, the city of South Portland is located just south of Portland. Residents can enjoy swimming at Willard Beach or checking out the view along the trails of the Greenbelt Walkway. Other notable attractions include the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse (which still functions to this day!) and the Maine Mall. Find your best golden years in South Portland.
10. Saco
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.1%
Median Home Value: $258,900
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 25
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 303
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4
As the twin city of Biddeford, Saco also offers fantastic ocean views. For entertainment, check out Ferry Beach State Park, the Saco Museum and the Cascade Falls Trails. From beach camping grounds to golf clubs to waterparks, Saco has it all!
NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services, Medicare’s Hospital Compare and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. Median home price, number of hospitals, 65+ population, and crime rates were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each city whose population is at least 10,000.
Other Maine Resources
The Healthiest States to Live In
The Most Affordable Cities in Maine
Your Guide to Closing Costs in Maine
Sarah Scott
Sarah graduated from Trinity University in 2012 with a degree in International Relations and Political Science. She writes blogs on new homes, decor, communities, and more for NewHomeSource. When she's not writing, you can find her spending time with her three cats.