I've lived in Maine my whole life. I love it, but to move here: you need to actually consider your lifestyle and if you can actually envision living here, especially anywhere north of say, Brunswick/Topsham. I know a lot of people who have had a rough transition because they didn't expect the friends they make to live a 40-minute drive away, or for it to get dark in the 3 o'clock hour in November, or to wait 30 minutes in the drive-thru of the only starbucks within an hour drive. If being in a church community is important to you, you best research ahead of time - I've met a number of people bumming out because there are no vibrant churches nearby they enjoy attending. How much variation in ethnic food do you do enjoy now, and how little could you endure? Housing is cheaper, but how much room do you have in your budget for regular payments? Do your research regarding utilities and heating in particular (can you pay $4-6k to heat a house each winter?) Can you afford to replace your new vehicle every 10 years when it rusts out? What do you like about the outdoors, and do you have an activity for every season? (if not, you will feel like a prisoner inside for half the year.) The great things about Maine are great, but the frustration can be intense if you're unprepared for reality.
@@saraalexander9589 I disagree about church. I would like to add that Maine is very high, 1st or 2nd in the nation for opiate addition, see the CDC. Vehicles need to be replaced much more often than 10 years due to calcium chloride instead of salt used on roads. Also tires need to continuously need to be changed over for snows (more money). Maine has very high taxes that this channel never includes in their data. The very high heat is accurate, also include snowplowing which is expensive and VERY required. Today it was dark by 3:30pm but it will continue to get darker into December, and sunrise isn't until after 7am, which also extends until then. My location being more northern, we have less than a 6 month good season, I would say 8 month winters. 2 month summers.
get your car/truck undercoated every year. I drive an 07 truck. No rust, except the bumper and we replaced it and the breaks once and knuckles everything else is original.
I moved to Maine after I finished 20 years in the military. I lived in 3 other countries outside the US and 5 other states with my family. I’ve traveled to 42 other countries. So, I feel slightly qualified to compare and talk about the climate, costs and culture. The people here are the kindest, most polite and friendly I’ve met in my travels (yes, even in the cities like Portland and Bangor). The cost of living is a bit higher than the average pay which can make things difficult to find housing. Depending on how close you live “to town” will determine if you get decent internet or not. The crime situation is astoundingly low from what I’m used to in my travels. The climate can be a bit of a smack down for the unprepared, including driving in winter. Just be thoughtful and prepared, things will work out just fine. Overall, I love it here and I’m proud to be a Mainer.
Thank you for the write up and your service. My wife and I are also retired Army veterans. She did 20 and I did 25. We are in Texas now, but going to visit Maine in October 2023 during my last child's school fall break. I am going to look at Bangor area, but am definitely open to other small towns. I plan to do some visiting around different areas and finding some land to put a house on when we decide to make that move.
I love living in maine but have noticed people from mass and New York buying all the houses then just coming fir the summer. It makes it so people that actually live here year round can't afford to buy a house. So my opinion is if you are going to live here year round I have no problem but if your gonna just come for the summer no most mainers don't like it at all.
Yes this is a major problem. Housing too expensive and it’s not with the area filling up; because these homes are vacant for a chunk of the year. It’s also very harmful to the local businesses….
I grew up in Maine and it is gorgeous. I was a long bike ride with some friends when we were young, way before Google maps, and were looking for a town called Waldoboro, as that was where a friend's uncle had a cabin we were using. We pulled up to this little general store and asked the gents on the front stoop if they could give us directions to Waldoboro and one of them paused for a moment, looked up and said, "Don't move a goddamned inch, you're standing right in the middle of it.".
64 years in Maine. My wife has lived in 11 states since childhood. She said she will never leave Maine because it has everything we could ever want. Yes, winter is cold but as mentioned in the video, it is safe, great for families and schools, great towns with awesome shopping and great food and breweries, rugged coastline and gorgeous sandy beaches in southern Maine. And yes, we would love for you to visit and perhaps move here.
I might go to a community college in Maine.I like the thought of tuition free community college in Maine and Massachusetts.Where as Maine community colleges has dorms but Massachusetts community colleges don’t.I can only think of MassBay Community College that has a partnership of some sort with Framingham State University.
I'm 57, moved to Maine at the age of 16, raised my kids here and I can say with all honesty my kids had a safe well rounded life with lots to do outside, good schools, most everyone knows everyone else or knows your cousin or ex LOL I never felt a need to lock my door or my truck, neighbors help each other out especially after a harsh winter storm, Winters aren't long but can be hard if you live in the woods, but for the most part roads are well taken care of in the winter season. I did move away for a few years but the day I came back, I felt like I could breathe, there is a peace in the air here, a relaxing pace of living. As big as the State of Maine is, It is truly a small town.
@@Landonmoto39 Safety has nothing to do with ethnic diversity. It is not ones ethnicity that determines ones propensity towards crime, It is however, the content of ones character that does. Diversity here is changing and has been for a while I mean, look at my name LOL I'm Puerto Rican, know quite a few other Hispanics that live here as well as people of other ethnicities. Either way I love Maine.
As someone from a small city in Maine - sure, it's beautiful, generally safer, and somewhat more affordable than a lot of the rest of the country, however if you're moving there then you better have your income situation squared away because by and large the viable economic opportunities are confined to the Portland area/coastal York county. Lewiston/Auburn, Augusta and Bangor may have some limited opportunities but Portland is really where the bulk of the jobs are, or if you're lucky you can get an in at the Shipyard on the border with Portsmouth, NH. I'm from a depressed mill town that has yet to recover from those jobs leaving the state decades ago, and the opioid epidemic is still very real amongst the townies there. So in my opinion there's a ton to consider before moving to Maine
Have you seen any remote workers moving into your town.. I was curious with averyone moving all over the place working from home even some of our more depressed areas would see some movement. Good luck!
I grew up in Bangor & by the time I was 30, still couldn't land a full time job. Left 15 years ago for the Washington D.C. area and haven't regretted it a day. Walked into a full time job. Cost of living is much higher here, but the pay is much, much higher. And the opportunities? It might as well be a different planet. You don't have to hold on to a job with terrible hours, an abusive boss & no safety procedures because it's the only job you can find.
flycessna We do yay for good Internet pick up so we can have remote workers but we have too many Granite Shoals inland, and too many bodies of water and too many hills and dales and rivers and woods to be able to get good reception. We have a terrible terrible terrible connection across the state with Wi-Fi and Internet and the children have suffered through Covid because of it with their online courses that cannot be reached.
I've been to Maine twice while hiking the Appalachian Trail. I loved it! The wilderness is spectacular and the coast even better. EVERYONE was very friendly and always trying to help. On my way home, I stopped into a bar in Belfast for lunch. 1. When they found out that I had just completed the trail, they wouldn't let me leave. 2. they wouldn't let me pay for anything. They kept buying me drinks and I was still there when they called "Last call". The entire bar chimed in together and told me " You'll go to hell fast in Belfast!"
I grew up there, and the outdoors is spectacular, as Maine has a rugged coast, some sand beaches, vast forests, and some nice, albeit small, mountains. Living there wasn't great, as the winter really, really wore on you.
I lived in Belfast from '74-'79 as a little kid. K-3 schooled there. Yes, that is the town slogan of Belfast. Used to be a cute sleepy fishing village. Rockport is down the road where Andre the Seal used to do tricks in the summer for tourists. There's a movie about it, loosely factual. I saw Andre many times. Cherished childhood memory.
I’ve lived my whole life in Maine(so far at lease), and I’ve got to say, it’s amazing. Most Mainers don’t think their state is amazing because it’s just the normal for them, but once tourists come here and talk about it they finally understand how great the state is. It is genuinely one of the coolest places on earth. You can go from the city life of Portland to a place where no civilization is around for miles. Visit if you get a chance, you surely won’t regret it.
Despite being a UK resident for most of my life, I have decided to return to live in America. I have traveled extensively throughout the US and the only area that makes sense is New England. I’ve been watching the market for the past 2-3 years now and I have decided that Maine is the best possible location for me. I love the seasons and it’s changes & couldn’t live in a bland state where the weather remains pretty constant. I have lived in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont but I love Maine. Crime is an important factor in where I live and from what I see it’s virtually non existent. Prices are very modest in comparison with the United Kingdom and other parts of America. I’m moving to Maine and I’m really excited. Looking for something special for my home. Either a farm or something that can provide an income stream. I know an Amish family of builders who can build a large house so I’m even considering buying just land. I’m on my way 🥰🦞🎃🍎🎄
@@flynnjp19 I’m more than aware of the housing crisis happening as it’s not just in America it’s global. I’m speaking with realtors most days and have been watching the market for 2 years now. Each time I find something I love it’s sold within days. I’m looking for farms and land around 100 acres plus. The problem is that so many people are jumping on the bandwagon from New York and Pensilvania they are selling very fast 💨 People are wanting to buy more than a home but also they want land to build on in the future. It’s a very mixed market right now. I’m very fortunate in that I don’t need a mortgage as, I have been buying properties since I was twenty years old. Each property was completely renovated and I always bought the next one by going upmarket. It’s tax free in the United Kingdom. I’m now looking for my last property and will probably spend the remainder of my life there. Thanks for the warning though it’s very kind of you. Happy Thanksgiving 🦃🥂
@@lorrieleaver2447 Happy Thanksgiving to you! While looking for land in Maine I discovered a huge PFA contamination issue with land, animals and especially ground water. Very few are talking about this for obvious reasons. Please look into it. Good luck!
I was "forced" to live in Maine from '76 through '80. The USAF insisted on it. I was stationed at Loring AFB in northern Maine near towns like Caribou, Limestone and Presque Isle. As native southern Californians, my wife and I were not happy with moving to Maine. Eventually, we adapted to the extreme weather. The first winter there we saw 188 inches of snow. Ambient temps down to -29 degrees F (not counting chill factor). We actually started liking life in northern Maine. When we decided to not re-enlist, we talked about staying in Maine as civilians. We decided against it due to the lack of tech jobs in northern Maine. So, we bought a new car and drove back to southern California. We have great memories of the 4 years we lived in Maine. Great experiences and great people.
I know the Presque Isle Caribou area. Flattish bare-land potato and blueberry country where there's little tree cover shielding the brutal Northwest Canadian winds. That's why for the severe storms and biting winds.
I'll like to add a few points not mentioned people should consider: • Weather - Maine has 4 seasons with cold winters like the rest of New England. Maine's winter weather temperature & snowfall varies depending on location. The coastal / southern region gets much less snow & temperature extremes compared to central & Northern Maine. I relocated from another lower New England state too far southeastern region of Maine. The winters day time temperatures & snowfall are basically the same from where I lived previously with 2 major exceptions: 1st - night time temperatures really drop dramatically compared to lower New England states. 2nd - This is the biggest drawback with winter in Maine - early sun rise & sun set in the winter. The sun starts to set around 3:30pm & dark by 4:30pm. Most of New England this is about half hour earlier. It can make winters seem longer. Summer temperatures are wonderful generally in the 70's - low 80's. You don't get the extreme heat or humidity. Coastal areas always have ocean breezes. Northern Maine is generally cooler. Spring - Summer = bug season! Maine has some of the most extensive lakes, marshes & river systems in the USA. All make ideal habitat for black flies & mosquitoes. Some areas like where I live it's intense & I can't wait for fall weather Maine is ideal for people seeking a simple way of life while being more self sufficient like homesteading / farming. Land is still reasonably affordable compared to other states. They offer tax breaks, educational programs & tremendous help to new farmers & homesteaders. Once outside oceanfront locations zoning regulations are very friendly with few restrictions. Especially ideal if you have property with woods for your own firewood. • Income / Jobs - Maine has a shortage of tradesmen & healthcare professionals of all kinds. Majority of skilled workers are older with few younger workers able to replace them. Current minimum wage is $15. Wifi isn't the best in many locations in Maine. You should check out a location even has high speed internet / cable service available. Where I live it's not available & rely on dish satellite with spotty service. Maine has many retirees, disabled & veterans relocating to the state. The state gives discounted park passes & tax breaks for veterans, seniors & disabled. As mentioned in video it's a huge advantage to be next to Canda for RX, dental & healthcare. Especially if you look into purchasing Canadian travel insurance to take advantage of the affordable healthcare benefits across the border. Now you'll also need a passport. Maine is heaven for people that love the outdoors & outdoors activities. You have everything from skiing with ski resorts & activities. Thousand of miles of well kept recreational trails for; horseback riding, dog sledding, hiking, biking, atv & snowmobiles. White water rafting, kayaking, boating, fishing, bird watching, hunting. Plus various nature watching from whale, seal, puffin cruises too Moose safaris. But if the outdoors isn't really your thing then you'll most likely become bored. Near Portland there's museums, amusement parks, beaches, escape rooms, indoor mini golf, etc... movie theaters & drives throughout the state. Young singles might get bored in Maine. It seems most younger people leave the state for education or better job opportunities. Most people I've met left after high school & returned to retire.
@Dan Stewart Thanks, that is an honest assessment of the State of Maine, IMO. The people from away are bringing their huge money with them, driving up the housing prices for everyone else who have been impoverished by the high taxes and high fuel costs and low wages and lack of opportunity.
@Dan Stewart Maine is a lot friendlier for tax than CT that is for sure, but still high here. Many didnt realize that some areas do not even have internet connection like Woodland and came to work remote then were shocked.
As a Mainer of 27 years, I'm excited to leave. Pay isn't fantastic, winter is tough with young kids and it's getting more expensive to live here. Very safe, food is good and the country is beautiful. I think Maine and Florida are two peas in a pod: fantastic for vacation and to visit, but living there isn't all it's cracked up to be.
I agree completely. I lived in Maine for 33 years and left in 2019 and am so glad I did. Maine has changed so much over the past decade, and not for the better.
I left in 2007 and it was the best thing I ever did. My folks moved away from Maine in their 20s to live in San Francisco and north of NYC for a few years before they had me, then they moved back. In the back of my head, I've never quite forgiven them for moving back to Maine. I have a lot of good childhood memories, but from about the age of 12 on, most of my memories are of how little was happening, how the only way to do anything was to get a parent to drive me there. Forget about cycling, because you will be killed by a crazy driver. As I've said to a few people thinking about moving there, "it's the land where opportunity went to die."
Ah……Florida has become a very sucky place to live. The metro areas are among the most congested in the country and anything outside the metros is full of racists and gun-toting MAGA crazies. It’s become a dangerous place.
Wow, that's an excellent fair text.. Beautiful Area, for some it can get rough in the winter.. Most that don't understand just aren't there yet when those bones feel it.., Safe, good people and excellent place to raise children..👏😎🙏💪☝👍🇺🇸
Briggs you made my sweet boys day! We lived in Eastport for 2 years and my son thinks it’s the greatest place on earth. When he heard you mention it his face lit up and said see I knew it was great!!! It is such a wonderful town. The elementary school was by far the best school we’ve encountered. The educator’s are so passionate and care so much about the kiddos. Christmas 2020 The school staff drove around together in the school bus and in their personal vehicles delivering gifts to the students. Our daughter was only two at the time and even brought something for her. Great place, great memories.
As someone who lives here I clicked on this so fast🤣 winters are long and cold, if you don’t like the cold, November through April, will have regular snow and there is normally a stretch in January to February where the temp stays in the negatives F. Winter may not be the problem but it’s half of the year and in general, winters are harder and more expensive here. It’s affordable if you can be self sufficient with fuel, food, and other essentials but if you have an oil heated home, you are running oil for 6 months guaranteed, normally more. The cost of living here is better than New York but it’s still not great, everything is more expensive on the coast and in southern Maine. Which is where most everything is located, it is walkable if you live there, but in other parts of the state it can be a drive to get anything and even then options are limited. I think there’s like 2 chick fil a’s here now 🤣 I like the outdoors a lot so Maine has been pretty good to me, the summers are so nice for camping and hiking. The thing that gets to me the most are the winters and the lack of things to do, outside of being outside 😂 there isn’t much for attractions or entertainment but if you can keep yourself happy and find things to do it’s pretty great!
I spent the first forty years of my life in Massachusetts, but moved to Texas in 2010. Maine is absolutely beautiful and I really miss northern New England.
We want people to move in, but we don't want more summer people. If you're moving in permanently, we want you, but if you're just buying a summer house and only using it a few weeks per year, you are part of the reason why a lot of Mainers are being priced out of the market. Massachusetts is the worst offender of this, but it isn't just them, and there is nothing more sad than seeing a beautiful house on the water that is always empty.
maybe make it a better financial option for young people. if young people cant afford or wont stay, who do you think will buy. maine does this too them self 😂
My husband and I are moving to Herman in the fall of 23. I fell absolutely in love when I visited for the first time in 2018. It took one step in Bar Harbor and somehow I knew I never wanted to leave. I couldn’t believe that there was a place so beautiful. We stayed in Bar Harbor and did all the things around there. We went back in 2019 and I knew I had to convince aka beg to get my husband to move us. I felt such a sense of peace there that I’ve never felt anywhere before or since. I became obsessed with getting there. I just turned 50 and I want to spend the rest of my days going to the forests, being near the ocean, hiking and biking all of the gorgeous trails. I’m so glad you’re enjoying it! I hope I do as well.
whos paying you to say that...whatta bout the riots?? portland is a baby seattle.. you guys have lost all control of the homeless vets my god! drugs and high property taxes from california is creeping in ...what? wrong portland? so which one has all the crime and drug cartels and protest and blm and the proud boys?
Personally I think we belong in Canada and I so wish we did -we certainly are surrounded by Canada and are completely sorrow fed but for one little edge.
Worse than a lot of snow is the concentrated roadsalt when the snow vanishes. Cold discourages physical crime, outdoors. $200,000 is an awful lot for a house when you shell clams for a living, replace your car every two years, and your house has two bedrooms and one of them is the living room. ( I'm not criticizing small houses. Only $200,000 ones. )
It's calcium chloride, not salt. It disintegrates vehicles. Vermont and NH use regular salt.. so their vehicles last longer... we continue to beg politicians to go back to salt but they seem to need us to spend more and more money ??? like we aren't spending enough just to live here, we need to replace vehicles every 3 years also!
I grew up on the Seacoast of NH, about 10 minutes from the border of Kittery. I haven't lived there in almost 20 years but it took leaving to really appreciate New England. Looking back, I was really lucky to grow up there. Good schools, decent people, nice communities. It's not perfect and there are plenty of rough areas....but even the rough areas are a million times safer than the nicest area of SoCal (where I spent the last 15 years before moving to Dallas last year).
@@will-2339 how well do you handle February here in North TX? Think you can tolerate 4 straight months of it? If so, you'll be fine! lol I haven't lived there since mid-00's but here is what I remember from growing up there: Weather: Spring and Fall are the best. Summers (after this summer in TX) are much nicer than here. Winters suck but snow during the holidays is nice. Politics: Pretty evenly split and more common sense than anywhere else in the country. It's a rare section of the country where both sides usually work together and tolerance is much more common. Schools: I went to a top-rated public school. Lots of good public schools to choose form and good private schools as well that aren't too expensive. People: They're stand-offish and kind of assholes at first. Snobbish, too, depending on where you're at. It IS the area of the country where the majority of the best colleges are. You might also get some snide remarks about being from the South. The South was heavily looked down upon while I was growing up (80's/90's). But things probably have changed due to the heavy migration rate of people from around the country. Also, outside the cities it's very white. Like VERY white. 95%-99% white. Diversity isn't New England's strong suite outside the cities. Food: The best in the country. I've never had food as fresh as I have in New England. But good luck finding real Mexican (whomp whomp). Sports: If you like sports, Boston is hands down the best city to live near. I've traveled and lived all around the country and I have never been to a bigger sports town (NYC comes in a close second). We LOVE our teams. They're basically our religion. Travel: Speed limit is 65 max. So that will probably take some getting used to, coming from TX. Summers are annoying because of all the tourists but you learn to tolerate them. You're in close proximity to Boston, NYC, even DC and Canada. Traffic sucks immediately near the cities but overall, it's not bad. Things to do: If you're in to nature, you will have a TON of things to do. Lakes, Ocean, Rivers--lots of spots to swim or hang out on the beach. Bonus: no water moccasins in the bodies of water up there! Also, lots of museums in the cities and even in the smaller towns. I'm sure there will probably be someone who can provide a more current update of the area. But that's what I know if it. I do visit a few times a year so I shouldn't be too off. I say give it a try. If you don't like it, you can always come back to TX. Nothing in life is permanent. :)
@@aliamarieruns Once heard this on a radio talk show and, as an adult in my 40's at the time, who could never understand the fascination and interest with professional sports.......''Professional sports....adults still playing children's games." Yup....sums it up.
My husband was born and raised on Vinalhaven, Maine but we now live in CA. He is very homesick for Maine and is looking forward to returning sometime soon, even for a visit. Maine is a beautiful state and does have a lot to offer.
If you’ve lived in CA, Maine will be a shock to you. Have you thought about some of the islands of the Washington / Oregon coast? They have a similar feel but a much more open-minded population and more services nearby. Vinalhaven is the middle of absolute nowhere.
Born and raised in Maine and I’m so grateful for that! If I could convince my Oklahoma wife to embrace the cold I’d be moving right back in a heartbeat!
@@jaxx0707 I wouldn’t say just as cold, though the wind can sure make it feel that way. If it snows in Oklahoma from what I’ve seen, it’s usually gone by noon. It’s a very different kind of cold than you’ll find in Maine
I’ve lived in Maine for 35 years and spent my summers here at our family cottage growing up. Our winters are November -April. Usually last big snow storm is April. Temperatures drop well below zero. I commute an hour each way to work. Property taxes are high. I keep thinking of moving to Asheville area where they have seasons but not the extreme winters here. You will need a back up heat source for when power goes out. Luckily my husband has a plow for his truck. Small towns are nice but not much to do in them.
I lived in maine for 45 years before moving to Mass--family still there. No one had a backup heating source nor a plow truck? Lived in Norway Oxford- not much different there than living here in Mass. Guess some of you live way out in the woods.
Maine native, thus the name, cumulatively 51 in Maine. Most of what Briggs is saying is relative, not actual. Keep that in mind. Cost of living is cheaper than the other new England states but wages are very very low, stable jobs are scarce and utilities and all heating methods are absurdly expensive. People forget that maine does exist beyond 20 miles inland from the ocean, thats where your "affordable" properties are, its not just one big recreation area and many people are painfully poor. Wealth is not common because you can never get ahead of rising property taxes, incomes taxes, fees to do anything and it takes all years to recover financially from home heating season(late August through June most years). I foolishly moved back and stayed 4 and a half years in 2015, colossal mistake. Briggs is 100% right on the food thing though, fantastic eats. All the towns he mentioned by name are tourist traps with extremely limited housing, wicked high rent when you can find one and more transplants than a hospital. By all means, move to Maine, enjoy its jaw dropping beauty INLAND and bring your own stable employment, you'll need it.
That’s the thing for us, my wife and I live in Connecticut, at we love visiting our friends in Maine and doing outdoor stuff, but houses aren’t any cheaper in Maine, and like you said unless you’re near Portland or something jobs are scarce. We have family in Connecticut still who would help us once kids come along, and everything here is close by. I’m a mechanic so I’ll always find a job anywhere, but hospitals are close here, grocery stores, everything. There’s at least 3 hospitals within 20-30 minute drive from our house. We love Maine and are up there all the time but practical things keep us down here.
Maine is a great place to visit…when visiting it’s easy to get carried away into “i want to live here”. But there is a big difference between the two. Other than the Portland area, there are few well paying jobs, and the Portland area is getting quite pricey (and yuppie-fied).. So unless you want to wait tables or be a barista, better have a good plan.
This is something I think a lot of folks miss. Cost of living is low, but jobs are lower. I had a nice sized apartment for $500. a month. That sounds great, but I had 4 jobs and was still only getting 12 to 16 hours of work a week...at minimum wage. And that was after 15 years of struggle. As a working age adult, leaving Maine was the best thing I ever did.
100%. Lifelong Mainer here. With all of the Massachusetts and other tourists that have moved here and destroyed our way of life and cost of housing.. etc etc etc.. I won't even get into the New Yorkers... Maine is completely different than the folks commenting that they loved it 30 or 40 years ago.
Cold winters, hot buggy summers, wet muddy springs and woods and fields ringing with the sound of gun-shots in the fall. If none of that appeals to you, we'd prefer that you stay where you are!
I’ve spent a lot of time in Maine. Moving there for the lobster is like moving to Paris because you like the fashion. If a city is offering incentives to move there, there’s a reason. It’s because nobody wants to live there. I’m very familiar with Augusta. The cost of living may be low but so are wages. Tourism is Maine’s biggest industry unless you live up north in the wilderness and then it’s logging. Many Mainers work multiple jobs. Maine has very harsh winters. They are long, dark and cold. Oh and you’ll pay an annual car tax for road maintenance due the harsh climate. Maine is a beautiful state. Beautiful. The coast is fabulous. You couldn’t pay me to live there year round. If you’re considering moving to Maine, make sure to research the area thoroughly.
I lived in southern Maine for ten years before moving out of the state. I also recently spent a month in southern Maine visiting friends and relatives. The best time to visit the state is July through October. Aside from that timeframe, the weather turns very quickly with snow beginning sometime in November. There is a February thaw and then the rain begins through June. I have witnessed snow flurries in June. What I found most appealing about Maine was their independence related to politics. It was common to have a republican senator and democratic U.S. representatives. With one exception, Maine has lost their independence and become a one-party state. Maine is also broken up into two categories: The “haves” and the “have nots.” Poverty is abundant although not readily apparent to most people, particularly poverty in northern Maine. Personal income tax is high and home prices have skyrocketed over the past few years. There are not a lot of high paying jobs available for most and the cost of living, i.e., groceries, fuel, heating cost, etc. is higher than many other states. As for dining out, I sum that up into three things: Overpriced, poor service, and mediocre food. I think that folks from Maine care about each other, crime is extremely low in comparison to other states, schools are better than average, and if you love the outdoors, particularly the winter months, this is the place to be. I encourage anyone complicating moving to Maine to do their homework before deciding.
To me (I have relatives in the Augusta area, so I go back there regularly), the best time to visit is in the spring or fall, so you avoid the humidity and bugs of summer and the bitter winters.
Portland was named the best food city in America several years ago by Bon Appetit magazine so I wouldn't knock the food and beverage/brewery scene. We are #1 in breweries per capita. Southern Maine has excellent restaurants of every cuisine, and the seafood is some of the best in the country.
I live in Connecticut, and Maine and New Hampshire are easily my 2 favorite states. Have been to both many times, and this year`s vacation was in the Kittery Maine/Portsmouth NH area. Absolutely love it.
Live in CT as well, but am looking to live in ME in a few years or build a small year round cabin. I visit Northwest ME several times a year as well as Pittsburg, NH. I snowmobile up there as well as camping since the 1980's.
Nice spots but not really maine Kittery Camden bar harbor all beautiful spots but not real maine they all shut down in the winer it's like they are Amusement parks the beauty in maine is the struggle and strife of the hurting working class Who do everything they can to make ends meet
I moved to Maine from LA a couple years ago. I like it a lot! I finally got brave enough to walk through the "sketchy" part of town at night, and was like "That's it?"
Bought a place in coastal Acadia twenty years ago for summer and x-c skiing. No regrets. I've lived in the Northeast since birth. Love the fish. Love the Maine winters. My husband is Scandinavian. He just laughs when people ask if the dark winters here bother us. Much more ice and darkness in the Nordic countries. Maine is lovely. 💐☺️
I traveled with my Airstream trailer and 1000 other Airstream trailers in June thru July 2022. Fryeburg was so welcoming to all 2500 of us. I’ve traveled east of the Mississippi with my trailer. Maine is hands down my favorite of all places I’ve taken the Airstream. In 2023 I head west…. But after 8 years of traveling…Maine had my heart! And yes the people are awesome! And I criss-crossed the state 7 times over 9 weeks and I did not want to leave. Loved every place.
MAINE! I grew up in it I live there for 18 of my beginning year's. I loved it, the small town community especially up in Lincoln or Millinockett, East millinockett. It's amazing the houses out there are anywhere between a $110 to $200,000 with good amount of land. If you get away from the coast more center of Maine there's not really much to do, its kind of boring and there is quite a bit of drugs. We used to be able to go to Canada without a passport but now you have to have a passport to go to Canada. I remember going on a school trip and we went to Canada for the day it was a 2 hour drive. The people in Maine are very nice even a drug loving people. The snow is a pain in the ass you have to have 2 vehicles a winner vehicle that you don't give a damn about that's going to rust and a June to October car which is for gas mileage and to travel anywhere because it's a 30 minute drive for anyone to go anywhere may specially off the coast. Great video, you sure do make me miss Maine and consider on retiring there.
Used to visit Bar Harbor almost every summer. Most beautiful town on the east coast. With regard to #4, the most common bumper sticker you see there was "OK, you've seen it. Now go home".
Have always liked your videos, even when I disagree, but here you have nailed it with my home state. Maine is all those things, and a hidden vibe you would only know by living here.
I grew up in Brooklyn, NY. My wife and I moved to Lewiston in 2019. The "Dirty Lew" is actually nothing compared to Bk! I feel the safest I have EVER felt in my 53 years on 3rd Rock. Love it here!
I agree with another commenter that if you are moving to Maine, make sure your financial situation is rock solid. Cost of living is lower (though it's jumped up in recent years) than a lot of places, but jobs, especially good paying, full time jobs are rare. And because even the cities are basically small towns, a lot of getting jobs is about who you know (I literally only ever got one interview at a place where I didn't know people). I also generally agree that, at least in the towns, it's probably a good place to raise kids. But by the time they're teenagers or young adults, they're going to start running into trouble. There's very, very little to do as a young person. The primary activities for teens are drinking, smoking weed (or snorting coke if you're in Hampden), and having babies (not sure if Maine is still top on teen pregnancy, but it was when I was a teen). The coast is beautiful. Towns like Castine, Belfast, and Camden. All very pretty and quaint. Heck, even Rockland isn't the hole it was back in the 80s. But you should also know that you're never close to anything. Like movies? It's a long drive to a theater. Like the theater? Longer. Folks commuting for 30 or 60 minutes without traffic are not uncommon. And that's all weather, because businesses don't close for a foot of snow in Maine. And the downtowns may be walkable, but your job is likely not. If you live in Maine, you need a car. There's no public transit to speak of, no passenger trains north of the Portland area, no Greyhound past Bangor. Nothing. You'll be shackled with a car that will have a rough life on potholed roads covered in salt & sand for six months a year. Also, on crime. I know the stats. But you know how when it's 85 degrees out, but it's so humid the "real feel" is 95? Maine is like that. For example, I was never actually the victim of a violent crime. However, I was chased by a pick-up truck full of good ol' boys looking to cause some trouble. I was threatened by a junkie while walking home from school one night. I was nearly run over by a pick-up truck doing 60 through a 4-way stop in a residential area. I did wait 45 minutes for the cops to show up when a 30+ person brawl broke out behind my mother's house, but dissipated by the time the cop car finally rolled by. And they clean dirty needles out of that same park once a week, so while it's there, the neighborhood kids don't use it. Conversely, in "high crime" Washington D.C., I've strolled around all hours of the day & night and never felt threatened. Stats are one thing, but "real feel" is important, too. Anyway, I'm glad some folks like it. I lived there for my first 30 years and my biggest regret in life is that I didn't leave when I had the opportunity in my early 20s. You literally couldn't pay me to live there again. Most years, my wife & I visit in September and by day three I'm climbing the walls, ready to leave.
I relate to what you are saying. My daughter left Maine as soon as she could go to college, and was mad we ever came here, because there isn't much here for opportunity for young people. Maine is great for retirees and tourists, not so great for people who need to work at a decently paying job and build a career. Beautiful coasts inhabited mainly by beautiful people in the summer, and then the rest is inland. And the driving through snow and long ice cold winters... and high taxes....sigh....
I was born in Sanford, ME and grew up in a small town called Acton. I knew I had to get out if I was going to have a chance. I left when I was 27 and haven't been back since. I'm 39 now. I have a wife, 2 kids, a house, a dog, 3 cats, chickens and a career. I don't think I would have what I have now if I had stayed. If you're moving to Maine, you better have a plan. At the same time I do miss it there. There was a feeling of peace there that I've not found anywhere else. I loved the lakes and the outdoors. It was a great place to grow up as a kid but not a great place to be a teenager or young adult.
I was born and raised in a fishing family on an island here in midcoast Maine ~ I have lived all over this nation, but returned here to raise my children, best decision ever!
Just remember. ..There is 6 months of winter, & it rains 3 out of the other 6 months. You will have to drive for a while to get to services, airports, shopping, & healthcare.
Do you do a lot of snow shoeing? Genuinely asking. In FL now. Maine seems to tick a lot of boxes for me. However, I just love being outside and moving around. Not sure if y’all ever get stir crazy during winter when you can’t snow board or ski?
Hi Briggs. I know many folks that moved to Maine and they all say the same thing. As far as the native born are concerned you might have lived there for 35-40 yrs and you're still considered "from away". Also, Moose are pretty big critters with nasty dispositions when someone pisses them off (that being said Rocky and Bullwinkle is my favorite cartoon of all time).
Local here. No negative comments, this is all accurate. I love that we got shown some love. Wouldn’t want to live anywhere. Things are pretty great here. Can’t complain.
Mooses may have such majestic beauties, but I can still recalled the knowledge our professor had shared, you’ll have to remain distant, you’ll need to find a cover quickly if they haven’t got their eyes on your direction, behind *SOLID* objects, you can hide behind your car or if there’s a tree, any solid object that’s enough huge to conceal yourself. And he also had mentioned that incase it attacks you, you’ll have to curl up in circle forms hiding your head and don’t move, if the moose looks elsewhere, try moving slowly, until it had walked away on a longer distant from you, away on a longer distant from you.
Great video! I love Maine for all the reasons you mentioned. The walkability of cities is a bit false tho, it is lovely to walk downtown for sure but areas are very spread out so you will need to know how to drive and own a car to realistically get around since we don't have much public transportation here. You could get very isolated. Other than that great video!
Most people decide to move to Maine when they visit in the summer or fall, beautiful seasons! However winters can be brutal and expensive with the cost of fuel ever increasing. And winter can last until April or even into May. Don’t say you weren’t warned!! This morning, Nov 21, it was 22 degrees Fahrenheit at 11a.m.!!
@@marknewton6984 answer Massholes. Maine was a good place to live but it is increasing being ruined by out a state aholes who want it to be like Massachusetts and they are winning.
I’ve grown up in Maine my whole life, it’s pretty awesome here. I love traveling, but I love coming home. The small town thing is so true … my wife and I love finding small towns to spend the day at and there are 100’s more we want to visit!
One nice thing that Maine has been doing is developing rail passenger service - for now Boston to Brunswick, but I hope they can expand it. I have used it to go to visit Portland and Brunswick. Nice way to travel there. Brunswick is a great town - I loved it.
I’m originally from outside New York City, however, I went to boarding school in New Hampshire and ended up at Colby in Waterville for college. I’ll never regret my choice to live in Maine for four years. I’d rather live there than New York, and hope to return to live in central Maine at some point.
My best friend moved to Maine with his wife several years ago from our home state of Connecticut. They love it up there and my wife and I have been tempted to make the move ourselves. We’re New Englanders at heart and Maine is such a beautiful state.
I grew up in Maine and now live in NH. I have always left my keys in the ignition and have never had a truck stolen from me. Maine is great and so is NH>
Just wanted to add a few that could have been mentioned. 1- Livable cities, Portland has every amenity that a large City has while still having affordable quiant neighborhoods with local schools and off street parking 5 min from down town. 2. No traffic.. well at least compared to almost every other metro area on the east coast. If you drive more than 25 min to work your not trying.. 3. Sweet spot. Portland Maine in particular is in the sweet spot for a growing metro area.. though we are experiencing unbelievable investment and growth we dont have sprawl.. its still affordable comparatively and there are some changes in the pipeline coming that will transform the region. 4. North maine woods. Ostensibly a privately owned 3.5 million acre section of maine with just over 60 remote campsites. un-matched outdoor activies with remote camp sites, lakes, rivers, off roading, hiking etc.. primarily logging land with well maintained dirt roads.
Great video, my GrUncle moved to Maine in the 1930's... He worked for the State as an inspector of the Logging Camps.. lots of travel in the deep woods... he retired in Belfast, Maine. I have been there a few times myself.. drove thru there to visit Canada and see the Grandy Zoo... thanks.. 👍👍
Maine has a very relaxed atmosphere. It's not so busy and the people feel very mellow. Also, it really is a great place to be if you hate big cities. Just don't bring a big city attitude when you go to Maine, the people are nice, you don't have to assert your dominance and be a jerk like in the big cities.
I have lived in Maine my entire life. I would never call it walkable. Maybe the big(er) cities yes, but most people need a car to get to other towns/cities because if you live in a small town and you want to go out after, like, 6pm, you need to travel.
@@BlissfulDeeevery county I’ve lived in has had their own bus service that runs multiple times a day. I never see anyone using the public transportation, but it’s there!
A tourist stopped at the general store in Troy, Maine one morning and asked a local there"How do you get to Bangor from here?". The local promptly replied "My Brother in-law usually takes me."
It’s funny enough. I did chuckle. But it’s sadly true too because there’s no public transportation north south east or west or even in Augusta. None. No trolley no train no bus. There is a medical bus for old age and the impoverished that goes in a little figure eight loop called K V cap but it’s not a bus that goes anywhere except in a little figure 8 circle
Katherine Collins yes, we too have a Concord bus station in Augusta but there is no local bus to serve it. So, because it’s in the woods 2 miles from the nearest Civic Center, Walmart store, as if that would do any good anyway, the passengers are stranded, unless they have a prearranged pick up.
People laugh about moose but they can be very aggressive, very big, and very dangerous. A colleague of mine owns property up around Fryeburg and he and his brother were out snowmobiling one day when they came upon a moose. The moose just took a dislike to them and chased them for mile after mile. If they had been on foot I'd hate to think what would have happened.
Moose are quite dangerous. One guy in Alaska was asked why his neighbors had a garden protected like a fortress. He said "that's for moose. But if the moose really wants in, you can't stop him. I read where in North America 1000 people are killed be moose every year.
If your on foot and moose charges you. You don't run you step behind the nearest biggest tree and repeat after he regroups until you can get away or it gets tired. That's what I've been told anyway I haven't had to put it in practice yet 😁
moose TERRIFY me. there's no trick for dealing with them, if they hate you (which they usually do) they are extremely determined to make you dead in a violent way. the narrator is probably not from maine lol
We were considering moving to ME. Many areas appealed to us. And we traveled to ME every year for the last 30 years. The really nice spots are not cheap. And while there is a great outdoor culture it is not available all the time. eg- in January when the temps drop to way below zero, you are going to be inside. And according to many we spoke with that could be for weeks. They call it DARK WINTER, if you are prone to depression this is a killer. After considering the above and a lot more we just enjoy our vacations there.
Lived in Maine in the early 2000's - and we just could never get ahead so had to leave. Sure may be considered affordable, but incomes really were not very high. A lot of the folks we met that were moving to southern Maine while we were there were from the Boston area and comminuting or just buying vacation homes and driving up the prices.
That was my experience. I grew up in Maine, but could never get my head above water. Cost of living was low, but wages were much lower. Left 15 years ago for Northern Virginia, and ever looked back. Haven't regretted that choice for a minute. Cost of living here is much higher, but the wages are much, much higher and there are *gasp* full time jobs! I don't have to work 4 part time jobs to afford ramen noodles anymore. Amazing.
@@saraalexander9589 exactly driving up prices and wanting to change our state to whatever state they come from is like I don't mind tourists but do not care for the out of stater buying everything up and raising prices and trying to change things
I lived in Maine for 7 years. I had to chuckle at the way this vid glossed over the winters. Lemme tell you what. My father had to lower me from the 2nd story bedroom window by rope to shovel off the porch so we could get the door open. Open that kitchen door and see a wall of snow built 3/4 of the way up the storm door. Oh ya, you gonna love Maine winters. Ever hear of a Nor-Easter?
To me, states in the upper northeast, Maine, Vermont, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, all for rich ppl. Obviously not everyone is rich but most. And they all/almost all have great schools
New England is expensive, but you don't have to be rich to live there if you have good salary at a job. It's when you retire and are collecting SS where you'll suffer. If you didn't invest or save enough for a pension, then it is very expensive to stay there. I know. I never made a lot of money but lived in CT and MA most of my life. I could have stayed there into retirement but the amount of property taxes, and other taxes plus the cost of heating a home in winter would eat into a lot of my monthly retirement dividends. It's why so many retire in other states with less taxes for retirees. It matters.
I struck while the iron was Hot by selling my house in Manchester, NH. The house I bought 12 yrs ago more than doubled in price! The Property Taxes were high, over 6K a year. I sold, profited 200K, and paid cash for my home on Mattanawcook Pond in Lincoln. My Property Taxes are a grand a year, and Safe, Clean and great place to live. I have a CDL B, so jobs are plentiful... I'm actually making MORE than I did when in Southern NH. Cold...? Yes! Safer...? Definitely. No regrets here!
High property taxes depends on where you looking to live. If you live in a unorganized town, there is super low taxes but you may not be near anything. So, yeah, look around Portland it's high, but look North or Northeast of Bethel it's much less. It all comes down to what you want the town to offer. Do you need a Home Depot, Costco, shopping mall, boutique shops, Supersize Hannaford's with in 10 minutes drive? Do you have to have a paved road? If so for all of this, your going to pay for it.
I was at Pease AFB during winter 79 for training and I really enjoyed eating at The Weathervane in Kittery. I was able to visit a few more times the last being in 2011.
I was born and raised in California, lived in seven states but Maine was by far the most beautiful state where I have lived. I just had to move out of Maine because I’m a retired teacher and I cannot afford to live there on a retirement check. It saddens me so much to have been forced to leave due to high cost of taxes, property taxes and utilities. I love Maine and I love the people.
@@wicked-smaht absentee ballots (?). We have same in CA. I probably stay put in California.... sigh 😔 I will keep working and pay more taxes until I drop ....dead. 🙏 God that I still have a job and my health is alright. 🙏 Amen 🙏
One more thing, Maine has some of the best Cannabis in the whole country. Lots of Californians even consider Maine to have some of the best caregivers in the state since it’s many many small caregivers
Love Maine. I think you nailed it in this video. Great job. And yes, I’m thinking of retiring there. I know it gets cold, but I’ll take that over humidity any day.
@@rcd4466 if you think Maine is humidity you don’t know much about the east coast. Try South Carolina, Florida or even southern New England in the summer. Maine is a cakewalk.
@@MK-zy3yd I spent most of my life in San Diego so maybe I'm not qualified to comment, but visiting my relatives in New England, even Maine, the humidity is very noticeable in summer.
I went to maine in 1969 and fell in love with my ancestors state!!! The air smelled of pine, and portage lake was so clear because of the artesian well, i could see the bottom 30 feet below the boat. Food was awesome, especially the poutine....French fries with gravy....and other delicious stuff. Allot of folks spoke french where we were close to the Canadian border. Had a great time!!
@@mannyquintana8074 I would say you don't get the hot, humid summers of Maine (yes, really), but in about the past 15 years or so, I'd also say the monsoon season in SoCal has gotten more protracted and summers there have gotten more humid. That's part of the reason why I live in Seattle now (which actually has rather dry summers; most of the famous rain falls in the winter).
I went to college in Maine, still have friends living there, and visit quite often. People are overwhelmingly friendly, kind and considerate. But understand, if you are not a native, you will always be considered "from away." this fact will not in any way change how you are treated. But you could live there for 40 years, and the natives will still describe you as 'from away."
We were in BarHarbor and Portland in October it's beautiful and the people were very nice and friendly. We visited NH and Vermont to see the colors and did not disapoint. However, the winters back east are a no go for me.
Good video and you know it's coming.......but any New England State with median home prices @ or below $200k means that there are a lot of marginal and derelict houses for sale. In Maine, away from the ocean, any house in good condition and in a respectable area will be going for $350k+ and it goes up fast from there. btw - I'll have to eat @ Rollies next time in Belfast. Next time you're there, go to Marshall Wharf Brewery/Three Tides at the water.....
Been wanting to move here for a while - but can't get my work to transfer me so far LOL. I am sure if I ever do? By the time I get there it will cost 1 million dollars for 200 sq foot house from the 1920,s LOL. Great video ! Thanks Briggs you rock!
Your work would be crazy to let you go...many supervisors SECRETLY sabotage good employees' efforts to transfer, despite saying otherwise to your face.
I spent some time in Maine in 2013 when I was in americorps. We were helping a habitat for humanity restore store build an extension Rockwall. Our housing was a summer camp. Cabins were insulated but heated by wood burning stoves... That was an experience in October. One of my team mates almost got kicked out cause I'd get the fire going getting it nice and toasty yhen middle of the night he'd get hot and open the window... 20 something degrees in the morning freezing in the cabin as a result we were pissed off.
Took my mom on vacation in Maine in 1992. She wanyed to meet a Lobster fishermen. And see Lighthouses. She got both. I for one have never forgot the beauty of the state and the people. Now that I'm retired I would love to live there!
We I was thinking of buying house for retirement the coast gave me two options Idaho or Maine. Not a choice…only Maine. Had house since 2006 and permanently here since fall 2021.
From someone who's lived here my whole life, if you have it in your finances take a few weeks up here in the middle of December to see if you really want to live here before you fully commit. It's gorgeous in the summer time but the winter time is hell, and there's not much to do outside of major cities unless you hunt or like other outdoor activities. Oh and 90% of your Fire/EMS services outside of any of the cities is going to be paid on call /Volunteer personnel which means we have to leave our day job to respond to your emergency call so the response times aren't going to be like they are in cities with full-time fire departments
The last commentor is right about bulk of Jobs being confined to the Portland area. Closer you live to that area, The more the cost of living gets insane. Unaffordable rentals if you only make 40-50 k per year. Add in the cost and time of commute if you CAN FIND affordable arrangements, and it becomes a nightmare when the winter sets in. Because it's BRUTAL. This video seems to be geared towards those that A) Aren't a working slob in a manufacturing position. B) Aren't from there, and are fleeing from the rest of the country. Be sure you go into a move there with your eyes open if your money is tight, and you are in manufacturing without a college degree. I repeat: It will NOT be easy for you to survive there.
@@Atrasky I'm from Maine, born and raised by blue collar folks in Westbrook. Modern career/work Life there is hard if you're not in the medical profession sphere, or don't have some kind of business degree. I live in economic exile from my own home state. There are lots of my classmates (Grad yr 1990) That simply had too move away. It's hard to talk about, but I'm glad you replied to my comment. Let's me know Someone gets it.
This was a great YT. I'd never move there because of the winters & snow. But I loved all the video with this YT - food, coast, scenery, nature & non-nature, . It's so quintessential New England. Thanks for a wonderful tour of Maine.
Maine being affordable is probably the most untrue statement I’ve ever. People are only paying these prices out of necessity and the poverty here is absolutely comparable to Hawaii . Maybe do a little more research or live in different states. I’ve lived in almost half the sates in the US and Maine is by far the most expensive. To heat your home in Maine is astronomical and the wages are the lowest in New England and close to the lowest in all of the states . When I lived in Hawaii it was way more affordable than here . Almost everything he has said is untrue
Yup, it is only affordable to those who are already financially stable. Definitely not a place to try to come up from nothing. Maine makes me feel like I have to work 2 part time jobs half the time. Most places don’t even want you full time. Job opportunities here are limited. Rent & taxes are high. Sad that I will have to leave my home state. But Maine really is a “vacation land”
Their is a 24/7 place to buy excellent baked goods in my town. It’s in a tent on the side of the road. Works on the honor system. NEVER BEEN ROBBED OR VANDALIZED!!! We leave keys in cars and house unlocked. This place is a Gem!
From CT and I love Maine. I put an offer on a house recently but lost it to over a bidding war and me not wanting to play the game. I keep watching out for another house. I will look at Augusta. It really is a great place to live. :)
I'm from Maine and I suggest looking further south, maybe Brunswick or Freeport. Augusta is seeing an influx of violent crime lately, and Augusta is only roughly an hour north of the Freeport/Brunswick area.
I've lived in Maine my whole life. I love it, but to move here: you need to actually consider your lifestyle and if you can actually envision living here, especially anywhere north of say, Brunswick/Topsham. I know a lot of people who have had a rough transition because they didn't expect the friends they make to live a 40-minute drive away, or for it to get dark in the 3 o'clock hour in November, or to wait 30 minutes in the drive-thru of the only starbucks within an hour drive. If being in a church community is important to you, you best research ahead of time - I've met a number of people bumming out because there are no vibrant churches nearby they enjoy attending. How much variation in ethnic food do you do enjoy now, and how little could you endure? Housing is cheaper, but how much room do you have in your budget for regular payments? Do your research regarding utilities and heating in particular (can you pay $4-6k to heat a house each winter?) Can you afford to replace your new vehicle every 10 years when it rusts out? What do you like about the outdoors, and do you have an activity for every season? (if not, you will feel like a prisoner inside for half the year.) The great things about Maine are great, but the frustration can be intense if you're unprepared for reality.
ALL you said is so true. Also, one should bear in mind that Maine is the least church-going states in the country.
@@saraalexander9589 I disagree about church. I would like to add that Maine is very high, 1st or 2nd in the nation for opiate addition, see the CDC. Vehicles need to be replaced much more often than 10 years due to calcium chloride instead of salt used on roads. Also tires need to continuously need to be changed over for snows (more money). Maine has very high taxes that this channel never includes in their data. The very high heat is accurate, also include snowplowing which is expensive and VERY required. Today it was dark by 3:30pm but it will continue to get darker into December, and sunrise isn't until after 7am, which also extends until then. My location being more northern, we have less than a 6 month good season, I would say 8 month winters. 2 month summers.
@@SirenaSpades To clarify: it is a statistic that Maine has fewer people attending church per capita than most other states.
Born and raised right here in Maine. 51 years so far and I’m going to agree with Scott 110%.
get your car/truck undercoated every year. I drive an 07 truck. No rust, except the bumper and we replaced it and the breaks once and knuckles everything else is original.
I moved to Maine after I finished 20 years in the military. I lived in 3 other countries outside the US and 5 other states with my family. I’ve traveled to 42 other countries. So, I feel slightly qualified to compare and talk about the climate, costs and culture. The people here are the kindest, most polite and friendly I’ve met in my travels (yes, even in the cities like Portland and Bangor). The cost of living is a bit higher than the average pay which can make things difficult to find housing. Depending on how close you live “to town” will determine if you get decent internet or not. The crime situation is astoundingly low from what I’m used to in my travels. The climate can be a bit of a smack down for the unprepared, including driving in winter. Just be thoughtful and prepared, things will work out just fine. Overall, I love it here and I’m proud to be a Mainer.
Thank you for the write up and your service. My wife and I are also retired Army veterans. She did 20 and I did 25. We are in Texas now, but going to visit Maine in October 2023 during my last child's school fall break. I am going to look at Bangor area, but am definitely open to other small towns. I plan to do some visiting around different areas and finding some land to put a house on when we decide to make that move.
Love the channel Briggs!
I love living in maine but have noticed people from mass and New York buying all the houses then just coming fir the summer. It makes it so people that actually live here year round can't afford to buy a house. So my opinion is if you are going to live here year round I have no problem but if your gonna just come for the summer no most mainers don't like it at all.
@@johannakeller7903 yes! very good point
Yes this is a major problem. Housing too expensive and it’s not with the area filling up; because these homes are vacant for a chunk of the year. It’s also very harmful to the local businesses….
I grew up in Maine and it is gorgeous. I was a long bike ride with some friends when we were young, way before Google maps, and were looking for a town called Waldoboro, as that was where a friend's uncle had a cabin we were using. We pulled up to this little general store and asked the gents on the front stoop if they could give us directions to Waldoboro and one of them paused for a moment, looked up and said, "Don't move a goddamned inch, you're standing right in the middle of it.".
I live in Waldoboro buhaha.
That is fantastic
ayuh
Thats an old Tim Sample story
Hello! I am from Maine .
64 years in Maine. My wife has lived in 11 states since childhood. She said she will never leave Maine because it has everything we could ever want. Yes, winter is cold but as mentioned in the video, it is safe, great for families and schools, great towns with awesome shopping and great food and breweries, rugged coastline and gorgeous sandy beaches in southern Maine. And yes, we would love for you to visit and perhaps move here.
Thank you 👍
Just stay out of Somali-land (Portland)!😂
@@AZVIDS 🤦🏾♀️ 😢😮😅
I might go to a community college in Maine.I like the thought of tuition free community college in Maine and Massachusetts.Where as Maine community colleges has dorms but Massachusetts community colleges don’t.I can only think of MassBay Community College that has a partnership of some sort with Framingham State University.
I love it here.
I got gentrified out of Portland up to rural Kennebec County, and its all been great.
I'm 57, moved to Maine at the age of 16, raised my kids here and I can say with all honesty my kids had a safe well rounded life with lots to do outside, good schools, most everyone knows everyone else or knows your cousin or ex LOL I never felt a need to lock my door or my truck, neighbors help each other out especially after a harsh winter storm, Winters aren't long but can be hard if you live in the woods, but for the most part roads are well taken care of in the winter season. I did move away for a few years but the day I came back, I felt like I could breathe, there is a peace in the air here, a relaxing pace of living. As big as the State of Maine is, It is truly a small town.
It’s safe because it’s not very diverse...sad but true
@@Landonmoto39 Safety has nothing to do with ethnic diversity. It is not ones ethnicity that determines ones propensity towards crime, It is however, the content of ones character that does. Diversity here is changing and has been for a while I mean, look at my name LOL I'm Puerto Rican, know quite a few other Hispanics that live here as well as people of other ethnicities. Either way I love Maine.
@@angelcastro3129 I’m mostly referring to black people, in which case, safety does have to do with ethnicity...
My door is only locked when Im inside it. You never know, bears up here can figure out how to get in.
@@johnnypinestead7879 LOL so true they are smart critters. never crossed my mind to think about that LOL
As someone from a small city in Maine - sure, it's beautiful, generally safer, and somewhat more affordable than a lot of the rest of the country, however if you're moving there then you better have your income situation squared away because by and large the viable economic opportunities are confined to the Portland area/coastal York county. Lewiston/Auburn, Augusta and Bangor may have some limited opportunities but Portland is really where the bulk of the jobs are, or if you're lucky you can get an in at the Shipyard on the border with Portsmouth, NH. I'm from a depressed mill town that has yet to recover from those jobs leaving the state decades ago, and the opioid epidemic is still very real amongst the townies there. So in my opinion there's a ton to consider before moving to Maine
Have you seen any remote workers moving into your town.. I was curious with averyone moving all over the place working from home even some of our more depressed areas would see some movement. Good luck!
I did very well in Hancock! Opportunity all over the place!!!
I grew up in Bangor & by the time I was 30, still couldn't land a full time job. Left 15 years ago for the Washington D.C. area and haven't regretted it a day. Walked into a full time job. Cost of living is much higher here, but the pay is much, much higher. And the opportunities? It might as well be a different planet. You don't have to hold on to a job with terrible hours, an abusive boss & no safety procedures because it's the only job you can find.
flycessna We do yay for good Internet pick up so we can have remote workers but we have too many Granite Shoals inland, and too many bodies of water and too many hills and dales and rivers and woods to be able to get good reception. We have a terrible terrible terrible connection across the state with Wi-Fi and Internet and the children have suffered through Covid because of it with their online courses that cannot be reached.
In other words, stay the hell out, we don't want you.
I've been to Maine twice while hiking the Appalachian Trail. I loved it! The wilderness is spectacular and the coast even better. EVERYONE was very friendly and always trying to help. On my way home, I stopped into a bar in Belfast for lunch. 1. When they found out that I had just completed the trail, they wouldn't let me leave. 2. they wouldn't let me pay for anything. They kept buying me drinks and I was still there when they called "Last call". The entire bar chimed in together and told me " You'll go to hell fast in Belfast!"
I grew up there, and the outdoors is spectacular, as Maine has a rugged coast, some sand beaches, vast forests, and some nice, albeit small, mountains. Living there wasn't great, as the winter really, really wore on you.
WTF Nobody here is going to be paying for your lunch. We can't even pay for our own.
Which restaurant?
@@SirenaSpades lol probably was a hot girl or something lmao
I lived in Belfast from '74-'79 as a little kid. K-3 schooled there. Yes, that is the town slogan of Belfast. Used to be a cute sleepy fishing village. Rockport is down the road where Andre the Seal used to do tricks in the summer for tourists. There's a movie about it, loosely factual. I saw Andre many times. Cherished childhood memory.
I’ve lived my whole life in Maine(so far at lease), and I’ve got to say, it’s amazing. Most Mainers don’t think their state is amazing because it’s just the normal for them, but once tourists come here and talk about it they finally understand how great the state is. It is genuinely one of the coolest places on earth. You can go from the city life of Portland to a place where no civilization is around for miles. Visit if you get a chance, you surely won’t regret it.
Despite being a UK resident for most of my life, I have decided to return to live in America.
I have traveled extensively throughout the US and the only area that makes sense is New England.
I’ve been watching the market for the past 2-3 years now and I have decided that Maine is the best possible location for me.
I love the seasons and it’s changes & couldn’t live in a bland state where the weather remains pretty constant.
I have lived in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont but I love Maine.
Crime is an important factor in where I live and from what I see it’s virtually non existent. Prices are very modest in comparison with the United Kingdom and other parts of America.
I’m moving to Maine and I’m really excited. Looking for something special for my home. Either a farm or something that can provide an income stream. I know an Amish family of builders who can build a large house so I’m even considering buying just land.
I’m on my way 🥰🦞🎃🍎🎄
There's a housing crash underway in America, will eventually reach Maine. Take your time looking, now is NOT the time to buy. See you in Maine!
@@flynnjp19 I’m more than aware of the housing crisis happening as it’s not just in America it’s global. I’m speaking with realtors most days and have been watching the market for 2 years now. Each time I find something I love it’s sold within days. I’m looking for farms and land around 100 acres plus. The problem is that so many people are jumping on the bandwagon from New York and Pensilvania they are selling very fast 💨 People are wanting to buy more than a home but also they want land to build on in the future. It’s a very mixed market right now. I’m very fortunate in that I don’t need a mortgage as, I have been buying properties since I was twenty years old. Each property was completely renovated and I always bought the next one by going upmarket. It’s tax free in the United Kingdom. I’m now looking for my last property and will probably spend the remainder of my life there.
Thanks for the warning though it’s very kind of you.
Happy Thanksgiving 🦃🥂
@@lorrieleaver2447 Happy Thanksgiving to you! While looking for land in Maine I discovered a huge PFA contamination issue with land, animals and especially ground water. Very few are talking about this for obvious reasons. Please look into it. Good luck!
@@flynnjp19 Thanks. I’d expect it to show up on my inspection report. I’m aware of the situation.
You really are a trooper in my eyes 😊
That’s awesome I’m from England originally and I ges up in Maine. We’ve got a great British community here and even have a guy faux party every year !
I was "forced" to live in Maine from '76 through '80. The USAF insisted on it. I was stationed at Loring AFB in northern Maine near towns like Caribou, Limestone and Presque Isle. As native southern Californians, my wife and I were not happy with moving to Maine. Eventually, we adapted to the extreme weather. The first winter there we saw 188 inches of snow. Ambient temps down to -29 degrees F (not counting chill factor). We actually started liking life in northern Maine. When we decided to not re-enlist, we talked about staying in Maine as civilians. We decided against it due to the lack of tech jobs in northern Maine. So, we bought a new car and drove back to southern California. We have great memories of the 4 years we lived in Maine. Great experiences and great people.
You were in the most extreme environment in Maine so no wonder 😅😅
Extreme environment,in crazy California,... high taxes, woke joke politicians, homeless people, narcotics flowing across the border, sanctuary cities,....
I know the Presque Isle Caribou area. Flattish bare-land potato and blueberry country where there's little tree cover shielding the brutal Northwest Canadian winds. That's why for the severe storms and biting winds.
I'll like to add a few points not mentioned people should consider:
• Weather - Maine has 4 seasons with cold winters like the rest of New England. Maine's winter weather temperature & snowfall varies depending on location. The coastal / southern region gets much less snow & temperature extremes compared to central & Northern Maine.
I relocated from another lower New England state too far southeastern region of Maine. The winters day time temperatures & snowfall are basically the same from where I lived previously with 2 major exceptions:
1st - night time temperatures really drop dramatically compared to lower New England states.
2nd - This is the biggest drawback with winter in Maine - early sun rise & sun set in the winter. The sun starts to set around 3:30pm & dark by 4:30pm. Most of New England this is about half hour earlier. It can make winters seem longer.
Summer temperatures are wonderful generally in the 70's - low 80's.
You don't get the extreme heat or humidity. Coastal areas always have ocean breezes. Northern Maine is generally cooler.
Spring - Summer = bug season!
Maine has some of the most extensive lakes, marshes & river systems in the USA. All make ideal habitat for black flies & mosquitoes. Some areas like where I live it's intense & I can't wait for fall weather
Maine is ideal for people seeking a simple way of life while being more self sufficient like homesteading / farming. Land is still reasonably affordable compared to other states. They offer tax breaks, educational programs & tremendous help to new farmers & homesteaders. Once outside oceanfront locations zoning regulations are very friendly with few restrictions. Especially ideal if you have property with woods for your own firewood.
• Income / Jobs - Maine has a shortage of tradesmen & healthcare professionals of all kinds.
Majority of skilled workers are older with few younger workers able to replace them. Current minimum wage is $15.
Wifi isn't the best in many locations in Maine. You should check out a location even has high speed internet / cable service available.
Where I live it's not available & rely on dish satellite with spotty service.
Maine has many retirees, disabled & veterans relocating to the state. The state gives discounted park passes & tax breaks for veterans, seniors & disabled. As mentioned in video it's a huge advantage to be next to Canda for RX, dental & healthcare.
Especially if you look into purchasing Canadian travel insurance to take advantage of the affordable healthcare benefits across the border. Now you'll also need a passport.
Maine is heaven for people that love the outdoors & outdoors activities.
You have everything from skiing with ski resorts & activities. Thousand of miles of well kept recreational trails for; horseback riding, dog sledding, hiking, biking, atv & snowmobiles.
White water rafting, kayaking, boating, fishing, bird watching, hunting. Plus various nature watching from whale, seal, puffin cruises too Moose safaris.
But if the outdoors isn't really your thing then you'll most likely become bored. Near Portland there's museums, amusement parks, beaches, escape rooms, indoor mini golf, etc... movie theaters & drives throughout the state.
Young singles might get bored in Maine. It seems most younger people leave the state for education or better job opportunities. Most people I've met left after high school & returned to retire.
@Dan Stewart Thanks, that is an honest assessment of the State of Maine, IMO. The people from away are bringing their huge money with them, driving up the housing prices for everyone else who have been impoverished by the high taxes and high fuel costs and low wages and lack of opportunity.
@Dan Stewart Maine is a lot friendlier for tax than CT that is for sure, but still high here. Many didnt realize that some areas do not even have internet connection like Woodland and came to work remote then were shocked.
dang i wanna move to maine portland.. but i promise im not built for wild winters dang yall..
This was so nice to read. You were very thorough, thank you.
Maine summers ALWAYS get into the mid to upper 90's during the summer with humidity in the 80% usually in mid-late August and into September
As a Mainer of 27 years, I'm excited to leave. Pay isn't fantastic, winter is tough with young kids and it's getting more expensive to live here. Very safe, food is good and the country is beautiful.
I think Maine and Florida are two peas in a pod: fantastic for vacation and to visit, but living there isn't all it's cracked up to be.
I agree completely. I lived in Maine for 33 years and left in 2019 and am so glad I did. Maine has changed so much over the past decade, and not for the better.
@@Dave04222 How so?
I left in 2007 and it was the best thing I ever did. My folks moved away from Maine in their 20s to live in San Francisco and north of NYC for a few years before they had me, then they moved back. In the back of my head, I've never quite forgiven them for moving back to Maine. I have a lot of good childhood memories, but from about the age of 12 on, most of my memories are of how little was happening, how the only way to do anything was to get a parent to drive me there. Forget about cycling, because you will be killed by a crazy driver.
As I've said to a few people thinking about moving there, "it's the land where opportunity went to die."
Ah……Florida has become a very sucky place to live. The metro areas are among the most congested in the country and anything outside the metros is full of racists and gun-toting MAGA crazies. It’s become a dangerous place.
Wow, that's an excellent fair text.. Beautiful Area, for some it can get rough in the winter.. Most that don't understand just aren't there yet when those bones feel it.., Safe, good people and excellent place to raise children..👏😎🙏💪☝👍🇺🇸
Briggs you made my sweet boys day! We lived in Eastport for 2 years and my son thinks it’s the greatest place on earth. When he heard you mention it his face lit up and said see I knew it was great!!! It is such a wonderful town. The elementary school was by far the best school we’ve encountered. The educator’s are so passionate and care so much about the kiddos. Christmas 2020 The school staff drove around together in the school bus and in their personal vehicles delivering gifts to the students. Our daughter was only two at the time and even brought something for her. Great place, great memories.
We moved to northern Maine from Seattle two years ago. It is literally the best decision we ever made. Maine is AMAZING!!!
As someone who lives here I clicked on this so fast🤣
winters are long and cold, if you don’t like the cold, November through April, will have regular snow and there is normally a stretch in January to February where the temp stays in the negatives F.
Winter may not be the problem but it’s half of the year and in general, winters are harder and more expensive here. It’s affordable if you can be self sufficient with fuel, food, and other essentials but if you have an oil heated home, you are running oil for 6 months guaranteed, normally more.
The cost of living here is better than New York but it’s still not great, everything is more expensive on the coast and in southern Maine. Which is where most everything is located, it is walkable if you live there, but in other parts of the state it can be a drive to get anything and even then options are limited. I think there’s like 2 chick fil a’s here now 🤣
I like the outdoors a lot so Maine has been pretty good to me, the summers are so nice for camping and hiking.
The thing that gets to me the most are the winters and the lack of things to do, outside of being outside 😂 there isn’t much for attractions or entertainment but if you can keep yourself happy and find things to do it’s pretty great!
Buy a snowmobile
I spent the first forty years of my life in Massachusetts, but moved to Texas in 2010. Maine is absolutely beautiful and I really miss northern New England.
We want people to move in, but we don't want more summer people. If you're moving in permanently, we want you, but if you're just buying a summer house and only using it a few weeks per year, you are part of the reason why a lot of Mainers are being priced out of the market. Massachusetts is the worst offender of this, but it isn't just them, and there is nothing more sad than seeing a beautiful house on the water that is always empty.
Me and my wife and 2 kids want to move but the US don't make it easy or cheap
maybe make it a better financial option for young people. if young people cant afford or wont stay, who do you think will buy. maine does this too them self 😂
Moved here 2 years ago, one of the best decisions ever! The peace you have is amazing 🙏🏽
My husband and I are moving to Herman in the fall of 23. I fell absolutely in love when I visited for the first time in 2018. It took one step in Bar Harbor and somehow I knew I never wanted to leave. I couldn’t believe that there was a place so beautiful. We stayed in Bar Harbor and did all the things around there. We went back in 2019 and I knew I had to convince aka beg to get my husband to move us. I felt such a sense of peace there that I’ve never felt anywhere before or since. I became obsessed with getting there. I just turned 50 and I want to spend the rest of my days going to the forests, being near the ocean, hiking and biking all of the gorgeous trails.
I’m so glad you’re enjoying it! I hope I do as well.
whos paying you to say that...whatta bout the riots?? portland is a baby seattle.. you guys have lost all control of the homeless vets my god! drugs and high property taxes from california is creeping in ...what? wrong portland? so which one has all the crime and drug cartels and protest and blm and the proud boys?
@@nikkivenable73 How has your experience been so far?
As a Canadian, Maine resonates hugely.
Personally I think we belong in Canada and I so wish we did -we certainly are surrounded by Canada and are completely sorrow fed but for
one little edge.
@@deborahcaldwell9775 No, we absolutely *do not* belong in Canada.
@@hypnotoad8871 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 they’re wonderful neighbors, though 🙂
Maine is like the Maritimes, but with guns.
Worse than a lot of snow is the concentrated roadsalt when the snow vanishes. Cold discourages physical crime, outdoors. $200,000 is an awful lot for a house when you shell clams for a living, replace your car every two years, and your house has two bedrooms and one of them is the living room. ( I'm not criticizing small houses. Only $200,000 ones. )
It's calcium chloride, not salt. It disintegrates vehicles. Vermont and NH use regular salt.. so their vehicles last longer... we continue to beg politicians to go back to salt but they seem to need us to spend more and more money ??? like we aren't spending enough just to live here, we need to replace vehicles every 3 years also!
@@SirenaSpades grade F
I travelled through Maine more than twenty years ago. I remembered the coastline of Maine is absolutely gorgeous and beautiful.
I lived in Maine for 15 years and went to graduate school there. Loved it, and almost wish I'd stayed there.
why almost? i lived there for a few years and miss it - would go back in a heartbeat. just curious.
You could always come back.
Might I ask where you currently reside? Is it due to work or family that keeps you away from somewhere you love? Just curious 🌟🕊️💫
@@lorrieleaver2447 Life's circumstances, including my wife, keep me here in Oklahoma for the moment.
A deputy I work with went to Maine once and immediately fell in love. He'll probably retire there. I been a few times. Absolutely stunning.
I grew up on the Seacoast of NH, about 10 minutes from the border of Kittery. I haven't lived there in almost 20 years but it took leaving to really appreciate New England. Looking back, I was really lucky to grow up there. Good schools, decent people, nice communities. It's not perfect and there are plenty of rough areas....but even the rough areas are a million times safer than the nicest area of SoCal (where I spent the last 15 years before moving to Dallas last year).
I was born and raised in Dallas and always thought about moving to New England any advice from a Texan moving up there ?
@@will-2339 how well do you handle February here in North TX? Think you can tolerate 4 straight months of it? If so, you'll be fine! lol
I haven't lived there since mid-00's but here is what I remember from growing up there:
Weather: Spring and Fall are the best. Summers (after this summer in TX) are much nicer than here. Winters suck but snow during the holidays is nice.
Politics: Pretty evenly split and more common sense than anywhere else in the country. It's a rare section of the country where both sides usually work together and tolerance is much more common.
Schools: I went to a top-rated public school. Lots of good public schools to choose form and good private schools as well that aren't too expensive.
People: They're stand-offish and kind of assholes at first. Snobbish, too, depending on where you're at. It IS the area of the country where the majority of the best colleges are. You might also get some snide remarks about being from the South. The South was heavily looked down upon while I was growing up (80's/90's). But things probably have changed due to the heavy migration rate of people from around the country. Also, outside the cities it's very white. Like VERY white. 95%-99% white. Diversity isn't New England's strong suite outside the cities.
Food: The best in the country. I've never had food as fresh as I have in New England. But good luck finding real Mexican (whomp whomp).
Sports: If you like sports, Boston is hands down the best city to live near. I've traveled and lived all around the country and I have never been to a bigger sports town (NYC comes in a close second). We LOVE our teams. They're basically our religion.
Travel: Speed limit is 65 max. So that will probably take some getting used to, coming from TX. Summers are annoying because of all the tourists but you learn to tolerate them. You're in close proximity to Boston, NYC, even DC and Canada. Traffic sucks immediately near the cities but overall, it's not bad.
Things to do: If you're in to nature, you will have a TON of things to do. Lakes, Ocean, Rivers--lots of spots to swim or hang out on the beach. Bonus: no water moccasins in the bodies of water up there! Also, lots of museums in the cities and even in the smaller towns.
I'm sure there will probably be someone who can provide a more current update of the area. But that's what I know if it. I do visit a few times a year so I shouldn't be too off. I say give it a try. If you don't like it, you can always come back to TX. Nothing in life is permanent. :)
@@aliamarieruns ok then I’ll be fine lmao thanks
@@aliamarieruns Once heard this on a radio talk show and, as an adult in my 40's at the time, who could never understand the fascination and interest with professional sports.......''Professional sports....adults still playing children's games." Yup....sums it up.
I applaud you. You sound like an amazing person. Thank you for sharing!
As a guy who moved to maine from arizona, no regrets... I moved to a small town of 5000 compared to a city of millions in phx, az..
My husband was born and raised on Vinalhaven, Maine but we now live in CA. He is very homesick for Maine and is looking forward to returning sometime soon, even for a visit. Maine is a beautiful state and does have a lot to offer.
If you’ve lived in CA, Maine will be a shock to you. Have you thought about some of the islands of the Washington / Oregon coast? They have a similar feel but a much more open-minded population and more services nearby.
Vinalhaven is the middle of absolute nowhere.
A ferryboat ride to and from the mainland.
Born and raised in Maine and I’m so grateful for that! If I could convince my Oklahoma wife to embrace the cold I’d be moving right back in a heartbeat!
I'm in Maine. My mother left here and is in Apache Oklahoma. She always tries to get me to move there. I love the changing seasons here tho.
It's cold in Oklahoma! I live near Houston TX 🤣
isn't it just as cold in oklahoma in the winter though?
@@jaxx0707 I wouldn’t say just as cold, though the wind can sure make it feel that way. If it snows in Oklahoma from what I’ve seen, it’s usually gone by noon. It’s a very different kind of cold than you’ll find in Maine
I’ve lived in Maine for 35 years and spent my summers here at our family cottage growing up. Our winters are November -April. Usually last big snow storm is April. Temperatures drop well below zero. I commute an hour each way to work. Property taxes are high. I keep thinking of moving to Asheville area where they have seasons but not the extreme winters here. You will need a back up heat source for when power goes out. Luckily my husband has a plow for his truck. Small towns are nice but not much to do in them.
All so true. Long cold winters. Cabin fever is a real thing. Thought of moving a million times.
you are right on the money .....back up heat is vital
asheville is really nice and cozy, great weather
I lived in maine for 45 years before moving to Mass--family still there. No one had a backup heating source nor a plow truck? Lived in Norway Oxford- not much different there than living here in Mass. Guess some of you live way out in the woods.
Maine native, thus the name, cumulatively 51 in Maine. Most of what Briggs is saying is relative, not actual. Keep that in mind. Cost of living is cheaper than the other new England states but wages are very very low, stable jobs are scarce and utilities and all heating methods are absurdly expensive. People forget that maine does exist beyond 20 miles inland from the ocean, thats where your "affordable" properties are, its not just one big recreation area and many people are painfully poor. Wealth is not common because you can never get ahead of rising property taxes, incomes taxes, fees to do anything and it takes all years to recover financially from home heating season(late August through June most years). I foolishly moved back and stayed 4 and a half years in 2015, colossal mistake. Briggs is 100% right on the food thing though, fantastic eats. All the towns he mentioned by name are tourist traps with extremely limited housing, wicked high rent when you can find one and more transplants than a hospital. By all means, move to Maine, enjoy its jaw dropping beauty INLAND and bring your own stable employment, you'll need it.
That’s the thing for us, my wife and I live in Connecticut, at we love visiting our friends in Maine and doing outdoor stuff, but houses aren’t any cheaper in Maine, and like you said unless you’re near Portland or something jobs are scarce. We have family in Connecticut still who would help us once kids come along, and everything here is close by. I’m a mechanic so I’ll always find a job anywhere, but hospitals are close here, grocery stores, everything. There’s at least 3 hospitals within 20-30 minute drive from our house. We love Maine and are up there all the time but practical things keep us down here.
Maine is a great place to visit…when visiting it’s easy to get carried away into “i want to live here”. But there is a big difference between the two. Other than the Portland area, there are few well paying jobs, and the Portland area is getting quite pricey (and yuppie-fied).. So unless you want to wait tables or be a barista, better have a good plan.
Agree. They don't call it "vacationland" for nothing.
This is something I think a lot of folks miss. Cost of living is low, but jobs are lower. I had a nice sized apartment for $500. a month. That sounds great, but I had 4 jobs and was still only getting 12 to 16 hours of work a week...at minimum wage. And that was after 15 years of struggle. As a working age adult, leaving Maine was the best thing I ever did.
Up here in the mid coast region, BIW is hiring and training like crazy. Lots of opportunities
100%. Lifelong Mainer here. With all of the Massachusetts and other tourists that have moved here and destroyed our way of life and cost of housing.. etc etc etc.. I won't even get into the New Yorkers... Maine is completely different than the folks commenting that they loved it 30 or 40 years ago.
@@SirenaSpades exactly !!!
Cold winters, hot buggy summers, wet muddy springs and woods and fields ringing with the sound of gun-shots in the fall. If none of that appeals to you, we'd prefer that you stay where you are!
I love the outdoors, hike and kayak and fish, but you're right, the bugs can make you miserable.
Amen!
I’ve spent a lot of time in Maine. Moving there for the lobster is like moving to Paris because you like the fashion. If a city is offering incentives to move there, there’s a reason. It’s because nobody wants to live there. I’m very familiar with Augusta. The cost of living may be low but so are wages. Tourism is Maine’s biggest industry unless you live up north in the wilderness and then it’s logging. Many Mainers work multiple jobs. Maine has very harsh winters. They are long, dark and cold. Oh and you’ll pay an annual car tax for road maintenance due the harsh climate. Maine is a beautiful state. Beautiful. The coast is fabulous. You couldn’t pay me to live there year round. If you’re considering moving to Maine, make sure to research the area thoroughly.
Agree - I chose eastern Tennessee- never looked back
Yeah I live here, stay the f**ck away.
Access to Canada didn't used to require passports, or the restrictions of COVID.
I lived in southern Maine for ten years before moving out of the state. I also recently spent a month in southern Maine visiting friends and relatives. The best time to visit the state is July through October. Aside from that timeframe, the weather turns very quickly with snow beginning sometime in November. There is a February thaw and then the rain begins through June. I have witnessed snow flurries in June. What I found most appealing about Maine was their independence related to politics. It was common to have a republican senator and democratic U.S. representatives. With one exception, Maine has lost their independence and become a one-party state. Maine is also broken up into two categories: The “haves” and the “have nots.” Poverty is abundant although not readily apparent to most people, particularly poverty in northern Maine. Personal income tax is high and home prices have skyrocketed over the past few years. There are not a lot of high paying jobs available for most and the cost of living, i.e., groceries, fuel, heating cost, etc. is higher than many other states. As for dining out, I sum that up into three things: Overpriced, poor service, and mediocre food. I think that folks from Maine care about each other, crime is extremely low in comparison to other states, schools are better than average, and if you love the outdoors, particularly the winter months, this is the place to be. I encourage anyone complicating moving to Maine to do their homework before deciding.
To me (I have relatives in the Augusta area, so I go back there regularly), the best time to visit is in the spring or fall, so you avoid the humidity and bugs of summer and the bitter winters.
Thanks to climate change😭, Maine winters are not what they used to be, so sad.
You hit the Neal on the head . But crime is rising now that the democrats are importing illegal aliens .
@@paulmarion7578 If you actually believe that shit, you're beyond help.
Portland was named the best food city in America several years ago by Bon Appetit magazine so I wouldn't knock the food and beverage/brewery scene. We are #1 in breweries per capita. Southern Maine has excellent restaurants of every cuisine, and the seafood is some of the best in the country.
I live in Connecticut, and Maine and New Hampshire are easily my 2 favorite states. Have been to both many times, and this year`s vacation was in the Kittery Maine/Portsmouth NH area. Absolutely love it.
Coast
You were in North Massachusetts
Live in CT as well, but am looking to live in ME in a few years or build a small year round cabin. I visit Northwest ME several times a year as well as Pittsburg, NH. I snowmobile up there as well as camping since the 1980's.
Nice spots but not really maine Kittery Camden bar harbor all beautiful spots but not real maine they all shut down in the winer it's like they are Amusement parks the beauty in maine is the struggle and strife of the hurting working class
Who do everything they can to make ends meet
@@roozief9349 Wow, a whole paragraph without any punctuation and not enough capitalization! WTH?
I moved to Maine from LA a couple years ago. I like it a lot! I finally got brave enough to walk through the "sketchy" part of town at night, and was like "That's it?"
Thank you so very much for doing a video on Maine. You hit the top reasons why I relocated to Maine.
Absolutely love it
Bought a place in coastal Acadia twenty years ago for summer and x-c skiing. No regrets. I've lived in the Northeast since birth. Love the fish. Love the Maine winters. My husband is Scandinavian. He just laughs when people ask if the dark winters here bother us. Much more ice and darkness in the Nordic countries. Maine is lovely. 💐☺️
I traveled with my Airstream trailer and 1000 other Airstream trailers in June thru July 2022. Fryeburg was so welcoming to all 2500 of us. I’ve traveled east of the Mississippi with my trailer. Maine is hands down my favorite of all places I’ve taken the Airstream. In 2023 I head west…. But after 8 years of traveling…Maine had my heart! And yes the people are awesome! And I criss-crossed the state 7 times over 9 weeks and I did not want to leave. Loved every place.
MAINE! I grew up in it I live there for 18 of my beginning year's. I loved it, the small town community especially up in Lincoln or Millinockett, East millinockett. It's amazing the houses out there are anywhere between a $110 to $200,000 with good amount of land. If you get away from the coast more center of Maine there's not really much to do, its kind of boring and there is quite a bit of drugs. We used to be able to go to Canada without a passport but now you have to have a passport to go to Canada. I remember going on a school trip and we went to Canada for the day it was a 2 hour drive. The people in Maine are very nice even a drug loving people. The snow is a pain in the ass you have to have 2 vehicles a winner vehicle that you don't give a damn about that's going to rust and a June to October car which is for gas mileage and to travel anywhere because it's a 30 minute drive for anyone to go anywhere may specially off the coast. Great video, you sure do make me miss Maine and consider on retiring there.
I'm Canadian and used to tell people in high school that I had a girlfriend who lives in Maine.
Used to visit Bar Harbor almost every summer. Most beautiful town on the east coast. With regard to #4, the most common bumper sticker you see there was "OK, you've seen it. Now go home".
Live in rural Maine, absolutely love my state.
Have always liked your videos, even when I disagree, but here you have nailed it with my home state. Maine is all those things, and a hidden vibe you would only know by living here.
I grew up in Brooklyn, NY. My wife and I moved to Lewiston in 2019. The "Dirty Lew" is actually nothing compared to Bk! I feel the safest I have EVER felt in my 53 years on 3rd Rock. Love it here!
I agree with another commenter that if you are moving to Maine, make sure your financial situation is rock solid. Cost of living is lower (though it's jumped up in recent years) than a lot of places, but jobs, especially good paying, full time jobs are rare. And because even the cities are basically small towns, a lot of getting jobs is about who you know (I literally only ever got one interview at a place where I didn't know people). I also generally agree that, at least in the towns, it's probably a good place to raise kids. But by the time they're teenagers or young adults, they're going to start running into trouble. There's very, very little to do as a young person. The primary activities for teens are drinking, smoking weed (or snorting coke if you're in Hampden), and having babies (not sure if Maine is still top on teen pregnancy, but it was when I was a teen).
The coast is beautiful. Towns like Castine, Belfast, and Camden. All very pretty and quaint. Heck, even Rockland isn't the hole it was back in the 80s. But you should also know that you're never close to anything. Like movies? It's a long drive to a theater. Like the theater? Longer. Folks commuting for 30 or 60 minutes without traffic are not uncommon. And that's all weather, because businesses don't close for a foot of snow in Maine. And the downtowns may be walkable, but your job is likely not. If you live in Maine, you need a car. There's no public transit to speak of, no passenger trains north of the Portland area, no Greyhound past Bangor. Nothing. You'll be shackled with a car that will have a rough life on potholed roads covered in salt & sand for six months a year.
Also, on crime. I know the stats. But you know how when it's 85 degrees out, but it's so humid the "real feel" is 95? Maine is like that. For example, I was never actually the victim of a violent crime. However, I was chased by a pick-up truck full of good ol' boys looking to cause some trouble. I was threatened by a junkie while walking home from school one night. I was nearly run over by a pick-up truck doing 60 through a 4-way stop in a residential area. I did wait 45 minutes for the cops to show up when a 30+ person brawl broke out behind my mother's house, but dissipated by the time the cop car finally rolled by. And they clean dirty needles out of that same park once a week, so while it's there, the neighborhood kids don't use it. Conversely, in "high crime" Washington D.C., I've strolled around all hours of the day & night and never felt threatened. Stats are one thing, but "real feel" is important, too.
Anyway, I'm glad some folks like it. I lived there for my first 30 years and my biggest regret in life is that I didn't leave when I had the opportunity in my early 20s. You literally couldn't pay me to live there again. Most years, my wife & I visit in September and by day three I'm climbing the walls, ready to leave.
I relate to what you are saying. My daughter left Maine as soon as she could go to college, and was mad we ever came here, because there isn't much here for opportunity for young people. Maine is great for retirees and tourists, not so great for people who need to work at a decently paying job and build a career. Beautiful coasts inhabited mainly by beautiful people in the summer, and then the rest is inland. And the driving through snow and long ice cold winters... and high taxes....sigh....
I was born in Sanford, ME and grew up in a small town called Acton. I knew I had to get out if I was going to have a chance. I left when I was 27 and haven't been back since. I'm 39 now. I have a wife, 2 kids, a house, a dog, 3 cats, chickens and a career. I don't think I would have what I have now if I had stayed. If you're moving to Maine, you better have a plan. At the same time I do miss it there. There was a feeling of peace there that I've not found anywhere else. I loved the lakes and the outdoors. It was a great place to grow up as a kid but not a great place to be a teenager or young adult.
I was born and raised in a fishing family on an island here in midcoast Maine ~ I have lived all over this nation, but returned here to raise my children, best decision ever!
Just remember. ..There is 6 months of winter, & it rains 3 out of the other 6 months. You will have to drive for a while to get to services, airports, shopping, & healthcare.
Of the 14 US states I have personally visited, Maine is my 'Maine' Squeeze. I always feel content and at home when I'm there.
Several sinclairs up this way
@@kevo8225 I'm from Newfoundland, not many of us around here. A lot more up in Nova Scotia, NB, New England and in the Prairies.
I moved up to Maine from Florida 15 years ago and I don't regret it !!
Do you do a lot of snow shoeing? Genuinely asking. In FL now. Maine seems to tick a lot of boxes for me. However, I just love being outside and moving around. Not sure if y’all ever get stir crazy during winter when you can’t snow board or ski?
Hi Briggs. I know many folks that moved to Maine and they all say the same thing. As far as the native born are concerned you might have lived there for 35-40 yrs and you're still considered "from away". Also, Moose are pretty big critters with nasty dispositions when someone pisses them off (that being said Rocky and Bullwinkle is my favorite cartoon of all time).
If you weren't born in Maine, you will always be "from away."
As Sara says, you will never be a Mainer. Maybe your great-great grandchildren will be. Maybe.
I was stationed at Naval Station Winter Harbor about 37 years ago.
If you like wide open spaces and small towns Maine is definitely the place for you.
Wide open spaces? Maine is the most forested state of all 50 states.
And now the navy base is a place for all sorts of artists to come , find their true selves and chant
Local here. No negative comments, this is all accurate. I love that we got shown some love. Wouldn’t want to live anywhere. Things are pretty great here. Can’t complain.
Mooses may have such majestic beauties, but I can still recalled the knowledge our professor had shared, you’ll have to remain distant, you’ll need to find a cover quickly if they haven’t got their eyes on your direction, behind *SOLID* objects, you can hide behind your car or if there’s a tree, any solid object that’s enough huge to conceal yourself. And he also had mentioned that incase it attacks you, you’ll have to curl up in circle forms hiding your head and don’t move, if the moose looks elsewhere, try moving slowly, until it had walked away on a longer distant from you, away on a longer distant from you.
Great video! I love Maine for all the reasons you mentioned. The walkability of cities is a bit false tho, it is lovely to walk downtown for sure but areas are very spread out so you will need to know how to drive and own a car to realistically get around since we don't have much public transportation here. You could get very isolated. Other than that great video!
Plus lots of places where there are no sidewalks!
You are so right about the moose........ Would love to move back to Maine but the property taxes are on the high side.....
Most people decide to move to Maine when they visit in the summer or fall, beautiful seasons! However winters can be brutal and expensive with the cost of fuel ever increasing. And winter can last until April or even into May. Don’t say you weren’t warned!! This morning, Nov 21, it was 22 degrees Fahrenheit at 11a.m.!!
Warned??!! Seriously???? You must be from away?!!
Who wants to live in Maine?
@@marknewton6984 Exactly ... Nothing to see here folks move on along
truth
@@marknewton6984 answer Massholes. Maine was a good place to live but it is increasing being ruined by out a state aholes who want it to be like Massachusetts and they are winning.
I’ve grown up in Maine my whole life, it’s pretty awesome here. I love traveling, but I love coming home. The small town thing is so true … my wife and I love finding small towns to spend the day at and there are 100’s more we want to visit!
One nice thing that Maine has been doing is developing rail passenger service - for now Boston to Brunswick, but I hope they can expand it. I have used it to go to visit Portland and Brunswick. Nice way to travel there. Brunswick is a great town - I loved it.
45 years born & raised here, love it!! Central and northern maine are my favorite
I’m originally from outside New York City, however, I went to boarding school in New Hampshire and ended up at Colby in Waterville for college. I’ll never regret my choice to live in Maine for four years. I’d rather live there than New York, and hope to return to live in central Maine at some point.
My best friend moved to Maine with his wife several years ago from our home state of Connecticut. They love it up there and my wife and I have been tempted to make the move ourselves. We’re New Englanders at heart and Maine is such a beautiful state.
As someone from Maine I can confirm we do want people to move here
Except if you're from Massachusetts
Brazil is in the house
As another person from Maine, this is true.
I would like to add.. including Massachusetts... New York AND CALIFORNIA
@@SirenaSpades those places are really expensive to live
Massholes LOL
I grew up in Maine and now live in NH. I have always left my keys in the ignition and have never had a truck stolen from me. Maine is great and so is NH>
Just wanted to add a few that could have been mentioned.
1- Livable cities, Portland has every amenity that a large City has while still having affordable quiant neighborhoods with local schools and off street parking 5 min from down town.
2. No traffic.. well at least compared to almost every other metro area on the east coast. If you drive more than 25 min to work your not trying..
3. Sweet spot. Portland Maine in particular is in the sweet spot for a growing metro area.. though we are experiencing unbelievable investment and growth we dont have sprawl.. its still affordable comparatively and there are some changes in the pipeline coming that will transform the region.
4. North maine woods. Ostensibly a privately owned 3.5 million acre section of maine with just over 60 remote campsites. un-matched outdoor activies with remote camp sites, lakes, rivers, off roading, hiking etc.. primarily logging land with well maintained dirt roads.
Affordable in what income bracket?
If you have a trade AND find a job
This. I moved here from Massachusetts so much more liveable.
We really dont want you on the logging roads.
Affordable for millionaires 600sq ft costs half a million dollars!
Great video, my GrUncle moved to Maine in the 1930's... He worked for the State as an inspector of the Logging Camps.. lots of travel in the deep woods... he retired in Belfast, Maine. I have been there a few times myself.. drove thru there to visit Canada and see the Grandy Zoo... thanks.. 👍👍
Maine has a very relaxed atmosphere. It's not so busy and the people feel very mellow. Also, it really is a great place to be if you hate big cities. Just don't bring a big city attitude when you go to Maine, the people are nice, you don't have to assert your dominance and be a jerk like in the big cities.
They always bring their Mass & NY far leftist ideas with them
In other words dont be a prick
I have lived in Maine my entire life. I would never call it walkable. Maybe the big(er) cities yes, but most people need a car to get to other towns/cities because if you live in a small town and you want to go out after, like, 6pm, you need to travel.
I would say basically any city is maine is livable without a car. It’s not a necessity to go to other town. Public transportation isn’t to bad
sounds rancid there.
@@Dr.LongMonkey What public transportation??? There is none.
@@BlissfulDeeevery county I’ve lived in has had their own bus service that runs multiple times a day. I never see anyone using the public transportation, but it’s there!
Lived 20min south from Maine Absolutely beautiful! Beaches are stunning.
A tourist stopped at the general store in Troy, Maine one morning and asked a local there"How do you get to Bangor from here?". The local promptly replied "My Brother in-law usually takes me."
It’s funny enough. I did chuckle. But it’s sadly true too because there’s no public transportation north south east or west or even in Augusta. None. No trolley no train no bus. There is a medical bus for old age and the impoverished that goes in a little figure eight loop called K V cap but it’s not a bus that goes anywhere except in a little figure 8 circle
@@deborahcaldwell9775 I'm not sure if cigarette soup is a typo or a recipe?
I swear I drive past the Concord bus station on Union St in Bangor every time I go to the commissary, but you know best dude.
Oh. Jacob it was a typo ha ha I fixed it
Katherine Collins yes, we too have a Concord bus station in Augusta but there is no local bus to serve it. So, because it’s in the woods 2 miles from the nearest Civic Center, Walmart store, as if that would do any good anyway, the passengers are stranded, unless they have a prearranged pick up.
People laugh about moose but they can be very aggressive, very big, and very dangerous. A colleague of mine owns property up around Fryeburg and he and his brother were out snowmobiling one day when they came upon a moose. The moose just took a dislike to them and chased them for mile after mile. If they had been on foot I'd hate to think what would have happened.
Moose are quite dangerous. One guy in Alaska was asked why his neighbors had a garden protected like a fortress. He said "that's for moose. But if the moose really wants in, you can't stop him. I read where in North America 1000 people are killed be moose every year.
Moose are no joke. HUGE and angry animals. And fast.
If your on foot and moose charges you. You don't run you step behind the nearest biggest tree and repeat after he regroups until you can get away or it gets tired.
That's what I've been told anyway I haven't had to put it in practice yet 😁
moose TERRIFY me. there's no trick for dealing with them, if they hate you (which they usually do) they are extremely determined to make you dead in a violent way. the narrator is probably not from maine lol
Be glad it wasn't a bear ;)
We were considering moving to ME. Many areas appealed to us. And we traveled to ME every year for the last 30 years. The really nice spots are not cheap. And while there is a great outdoor culture it is not available all the time. eg- in January when the temps drop to way below zero, you are going to be inside. And according to many we spoke with that could be for weeks. They call it DARK WINTER, if you are prone to depression this is a killer. After considering the above and a lot more we just enjoy our vacations there.
Lived in Maine in the early 2000's - and we just could never get ahead so had to leave. Sure may be considered affordable, but incomes really were not very high. A lot of the folks we met that were moving to southern Maine while we were there were from the Boston area and comminuting or just buying vacation homes and driving up the prices.
Yeah, we Mainers consider large areas of Southern Maine to be Northern Massachusetts........liberal, far left massholes.
That was my experience. I grew up in Maine, but could never get my head above water. Cost of living was low, but wages were much lower. Left 15 years ago for Northern Virginia, and ever looked back. Haven't regretted that choice for a minute. Cost of living here is much higher, but the wages are much, much higher and there are *gasp* full time jobs! I don't have to work 4 part time jobs to afford ramen noodles anymore. Amazing.
This (driving up the prices) is happening even more now in the last few years since Covid.
@@VaxtorT EXACTLY!!! Agree 100%. -- Another Mainer.
@@saraalexander9589 exactly driving up prices and wanting to change our state to whatever state they come from is like I don't mind tourists but do not care for the out of stater buying everything up and raising prices and trying to change things
I lived in Maine for 7 years. I had to chuckle at the way this vid glossed over the winters. Lemme tell you what. My father had to lower me from the 2nd story bedroom window by rope to shovel off the porch so we could get the door open. Open that kitchen door and see a wall of snow built 3/4 of the way up the storm door. Oh ya, you gonna love Maine winters. Ever hear of a Nor-Easter?
Fr the winters are so brutal here😢 Born & raised in Maine & the only reason why I don’t want to live in Maine anymore is because of the winters
To me, states in the upper northeast, Maine, Vermont, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, all for rich ppl. Obviously not everyone is rich but most. And they all/almost all have great schools
New England is expensive, but you don't have to be rich to live there if you have good salary at a job. It's when you retire and are collecting SS where you'll suffer. If you didn't invest or save enough for a pension, then it is very expensive to stay there. I know. I never made a lot of money but lived in CT and MA most of my life. I could have stayed there into retirement but the amount of property taxes, and other taxes plus the cost of heating a home in winter would eat into a lot of my monthly retirement dividends. It's why so many retire in other states with less taxes for retirees. It matters.
I struck while the iron was Hot by selling my house in Manchester, NH. The house I bought 12 yrs ago more than doubled in price! The Property Taxes were high, over 6K a year. I sold, profited 200K, and paid cash for my home on Mattanawcook Pond in Lincoln. My Property Taxes are a grand a year, and Safe, Clean and great place to live. I have a CDL B, so jobs are plentiful... I'm actually making MORE than I did when in Southern NH.
Cold...? Yes! Safer...? Definitely. No regrets here!
I wanted to live in Maine, years ago. So I did my own research and I loved the cost of the houses there. My problem was the property taxes 🙄. Yikes!
It's not just property taxes that are high, it's all the other taxes as well
High property taxes depends on where you looking to live. If you live in a unorganized town, there is super low taxes but you may not be near anything. So, yeah, look around Portland it's high, but look North or Northeast of Bethel it's much less. It all comes down to what you want the town to offer. Do you need a Home Depot, Costco, shopping mall, boutique shops, Supersize Hannaford's with in 10 minutes drive? Do you have to have a paved road? If so for all of this, your going to pay for it.
Same with NH.
As a former licensed realtor, walkability is a great advantage. This state has many, many pluses that outweigh the drawbacks.
I was at Pease AFB during winter 79 for training and I really enjoyed eating at The Weathervane in Kittery. I was able to visit a few more times the last being in 2011.
Sadly the Weathervanes have closed :(
@@SirenaSpades I used to go to the one in brewer a lot
I was raised in Ogunquit, thank you for the shoutout
I was born and raised in California, lived in seven states but Maine was by far the most beautiful state where I have lived. I just had to move out of Maine because I’m a retired teacher and I cannot afford to live there on a retirement check. It saddens me so much to have been forced to leave due to high cost of taxes, property taxes and utilities. I love Maine and I love the people.
You sure aren’t alone. We have lost so many residents. Everything the gov does makes all those problems so much worse.
@@jeremyantworth5704 i have no clue how she got re elected
@@wicked-smaht absentee ballots (?). We have same in CA. I probably stay put in California.... sigh 😔 I will keep working and pay more taxes until I drop ....dead.
🙏 God that I still have a job and my health is alright. 🙏 Amen 🙏
I live in Québec and go down to Maine every chance I get. It's my paradise. Would do anything to live there.
One more thing, Maine has some of the best Cannabis in the whole country. Lots of Californians even consider Maine to have some of the best caregivers in the state since it’s many many small caregivers
Maine used to be affordable, but it is becoming much less so.
Love Maine. I think you nailed it in this video. Great job. And yes, I’m thinking of retiring there. I know it gets cold, but I’ll take that over humidity any day.
Oh you get humidity too..a thing called the ocean! And snow in the winter.
@@rcd4466 if you think Maine is humidity you don’t know much about the east coast. Try South Carolina, Florida or even southern New England in the summer. Maine is a cakewalk.
@@MK-zy3yd I spent most of my life in San Diego so maybe I'm not qualified to comment, but visiting my relatives in New England, even Maine, the humidity is very noticeable in summer.
I went to maine in 1969 and fell in love with my ancestors state!!! The air smelled of pine, and portage lake was so clear because of the artesian well, i could see the bottom 30 feet below the boat. Food was awesome, especially the poutine....French fries with gravy....and other delicious stuff. Allot of folks spoke french where we were close to the Canadian border. Had a great time!!
So funny. I live in San Diego and I've met so many people that have moved here from Maine...and most of them have moved back recently 😂
Do us a favor and convince them to move back.
😂
Yep I’m a cali native and love the great weather only you got to work and sit in traffic all damn day so what’s the point
@@mannyquintana8074 I would say you don't get the hot, humid summers of Maine (yes, really), but in about the past 15 years or so, I'd also say the monsoon season in SoCal has gotten more protracted and summers there have gotten more humid. That's part of the reason why I live in Seattle now (which actually has rather dry summers; most of the famous rain falls in the winter).
I went to college in Maine, still have friends living there, and visit quite often. People are overwhelmingly friendly, kind and considerate. But understand, if you are not a native, you will always be considered "from away." this fact will not in any way change how you are treated. But you could live there for 40 years, and the natives will still describe you as 'from away."
We were in BarHarbor and Portland in October it's beautiful and the people were very nice and friendly. We visited NH and Vermont to see the colors and did not disapoint. However, the winters back east are a no go for me.
Good video and you know it's coming.......but any New England State with median home prices @ or below $200k means that there are a lot of marginal and derelict houses for sale. In Maine, away from the ocean, any house in good condition and in a respectable area will be going for $350k+ and it goes up fast from there. btw - I'll have to eat @ Rollies next time in Belfast. Next time you're there, go to Marshall Wharf Brewery/Three Tides at the water.....
Been wanting to move here for a while - but can't get my work to transfer me so far LOL. I am sure if I ever do? By the time I get there it will cost 1 million dollars for 200 sq foot house from the 1920,s LOL. Great video ! Thanks Briggs you rock!
Your work would be crazy to let you go...many supervisors SECRETLY sabotage good employees' efforts to transfer, despite saying otherwise to your face.
@hitman.radio30 Yes sir! sounds good to me! it is a shame, the company I work for runs Acadia national park so.. It would be nice.
@@shellchenonceau6987
I understand. That would not be the case with these guys though. But I get what your saying
Enjoyed a wonderful trip through Maine in the fall with my daughter. Ready to go back!!!
I spent some time in Maine in 2013 when I was in americorps. We were helping a habitat for humanity restore store build an extension Rockwall. Our housing was a summer camp. Cabins were insulated but heated by wood burning stoves... That was an experience in October. One of my team mates almost got kicked out cause I'd get the fire going getting it nice and toasty yhen middle of the night he'd get hot and open the window... 20 something degrees in the morning freezing in the cabin as a result we were pissed off.
Took my mom on vacation in Maine in 1992. She wanyed to meet a Lobster fishermen. And see Lighthouses. She got both. I for one have never forgot the beauty of the state and the people. Now that I'm retired I would love to live there!
We I was thinking of buying house for retirement the coast gave me two options Idaho or Maine. Not a choice…only Maine. Had house since 2006 and permanently here since fall 2021.
From someone who's lived here my whole life, if you have it in your finances take a few weeks up here in the middle of December to see if you really want to live here before you fully commit. It's gorgeous in the summer time but the winter time is hell, and there's not much to do outside of major cities unless you hunt or like other outdoor activities. Oh and 90% of your Fire/EMS services outside of any of the cities is going to be paid on call /Volunteer personnel which means we have to leave our day job to respond to your emergency call so the response times aren't going to be like they are in cities with full-time fire departments
The last commentor is right about bulk of Jobs being confined to the Portland area. Closer you live to that area, The more the cost of living gets insane. Unaffordable rentals if you only make 40-50 k per year. Add in the cost and time of commute if you CAN FIND affordable arrangements, and it becomes a nightmare when the winter sets in. Because it's BRUTAL. This video seems to be geared towards those that
A) Aren't a working slob in a manufacturing position.
B) Aren't from there, and are fleeing from the rest of the country.
Be sure you go into a move there with your eyes open if your money is tight, and you are in manufacturing without a college degree. I repeat: It will NOT be easy for you to survive there.
All true
So real, I’m 22 born & raised in Maine. Struggling financially & Maine doesn’t have much job opportunities for the career fields I’m interested in
@@Atrasky I'm from Maine, born and raised by blue collar folks in Westbrook. Modern career/work Life there is hard if you're not in the medical profession sphere, or don't have some kind of business degree. I live in economic exile from my own home state. There are lots of my classmates (Grad yr 1990) That simply had too move away. It's hard to talk about, but I'm glad you replied to my comment. Let's me know Someone gets it.
This was a great YT. I'd never move there because of the winters & snow. But I loved all the video with this YT - food, coast, scenery, nature & non-nature, . It's so quintessential New England. Thanks for a wonderful tour of Maine.
Maine being affordable is probably the most untrue statement I’ve ever. People are only paying these prices out of necessity and the poverty here is absolutely comparable to Hawaii . Maybe do a little more research or live in different states. I’ve lived in almost half the sates in the US and Maine is by far the most expensive. To heat your home in Maine is astronomical and the wages are the lowest in New England and close to the lowest in all of the states . When I lived in Hawaii it was way more affordable than here . Almost everything he has said is untrue
Yup, it is only affordable to those who are already financially stable. Definitely not a place to try to come up from nothing. Maine makes me feel like I have to work 2 part time jobs half the time. Most places don’t even want you full time. Job opportunities here are limited. Rent & taxes are high. Sad that I will have to leave my home state. But Maine really is a “vacation land”
Their is a 24/7 place to buy excellent baked goods in my town. It’s in a tent on the side of the road. Works on the honor system. NEVER BEEN ROBBED OR VANDALIZED!!! We leave keys in cars and house unlocked. This place is a Gem!
From CT and I love Maine. I put an offer on a house recently but lost it to over a bidding war and me not wanting to play the game. I keep watching out for another house. I will look at Augusta. It really is a great place to live. :)
I'm from Maine and I suggest looking further south, maybe Brunswick or Freeport. Augusta is seeing an influx of violent crime lately, and Augusta is only roughly an hour north of the Freeport/Brunswick area.
@@Dave04222 plus augusta is just kinda sad. ive never liked it honestly
Great. :/
I've loved Maine all my life and still love ❤️ it!!