Moving to Maine

Still not over deciding whether or not to move to Maine? Here are some few things to help you decide:

The beautiful state of Maine lies in New England in the northeastern part of the U.S. It’s the largest among the 6 states in the area and borders New Hampshire, and Canadian provinces such as Quebec and New Brunswick. It is composed of 2,300 square miles of inland water which makes it 12^th smallest by area. Maine was once part of Massachusetts until 1820. It then became its own state and was the 23rd state to be admitted to the United States of America. Today, it has about 1.344 million in population with the city of Augusta as it capital city. Known as Vacationland, the state has plenty of exciting and marvelous destinations. From outdoor adventures to culinary delights, Maine will surely give you a memorable experience.

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• The picturesque image of the town of Cape Elizabeth in Maine
• A captivating view of  Cape Elizabeth in Maine

Contents:

Pros and Cons

Like any other state, Maine has its own advantages and disadvantages that you will encounter when you move. If you’re scared to move then below are some of its pros and cons to help you out:

The Good

• Plenty of Forest: The state is rich in greenery especially forest. With about 90% part of it covered in forest, it is nicknamed as the Pine Tree State. So, whether you’re a nature lover or not, you’ll enjoy the state’s beautiful greenery.
• Tons of Seafood: Most of the lobsters that are ready for purchase in the U.S as 90% of it comes from the fishing activities done in Maine. This is why the state is filled with many tasty seafood cuisines for you to enjoy when you come to visit or move.
• Low unemployment rate: The state has a low unemployment rate which means there are tons of job opportunities for its locals. This is a great advantage as finding a job before or after you have move is essential.
• Friendly neighborhood: Maine is known for its friendly and hospitable people. You will find that people here have a certain level of common courtesy which you might not be able to see on other states.
• Fair wage: The state offers a minimum wage of $12 per hour which makes it one of the highest in the U.S. This would be a great start especially if you have just moved to the state.
• Safest state: Maine is considered to be the safest state in the U.S. It ranks #1 in public safety which is good news as don’t have to worry a lot about crimes happening in your neighborhood.
• Less traffic: If you’re used to traffic in other states, then you would be happy to know that it’s not a problem here in Maine. Even during rush hour periods, you’d be surprised that there is minimal to no delays at all.

The Bad

• Pricy homes: The home value in Maine is quite high compared to others states. The cost of rent is also high with about $1,900 per month. So, make sure to save up some cash if you decide on moving here.
• Slow internet: The state has a slow-paced internet speed which can be a problem for some entrepreneurs. There is also limited access to High-speed internet services outside of urban areas.
• Few diversities: Most people here follow past traditions often. You’ll notice as you move here that nothing changes much even in food as lobster dishes would be often served.
• Retirement community: Though of course there’s no problem with having more of older citizens, it’ll be quite a problem for younger generations to adapt. Due to being one of the oldest states, the community enjoys a quiet and slow-paced life.
• Harsh Winters: Winters in Maine can often be long, cold and harsh. Average temperatures can go as low as 13 degrees. So, make sure to bring winter clothes when you move here.
• Strange laws: Most of the strange laws here in Maine are strictly enforces hence why you should be careful of what you do. Make sure to research what these laws are to avoid any conflict with the law.
• No real commercial entertainment: If you’re a sports fan or a concert goer, you’d have a big problem when you move here in this state. This is because it no real commercial entertainment wherein only minor leagues are only played here and concerts are only done by local groups.

Fun Facts

Here are some cool facts about the state of Maine:

• Maine is the only state in the U.S that borders only one other state.
• Bath, Maine is known as “The City of Ships”.
• Famous Hollywood actors who are born in Maine are Anna Kendrick, Patrick Dempsey, and Victoria Rowell.
• Eastport, Maine is the city in the U.S to first receive morning sunshine.
• It’s the only state in the country that has a one-syllable name.
• 90% of the lobster supply in the U.S. is caught off the coast of Maine
• With about 76,000 moose roaming the state, it the highest moose population in America. The moose is also the state’s official state animal.
• The state the largest producer of blueberries in the U.S.
• Capt. Hansen Gregory invented the holes in the donut by punching a hole in its center in Rockport, Maine.
• The honey bee is the state’s official state insect. This is because of Maine’s rich beekeeping culture.

Funny State Laws

Maine is not spared with weird laws wherein some of these are strictly enforced. This is the reason why you must be informed of what they are before you decide in moving in its cities. Here are some:

• Blowing your nose in public is strictly prohibited by the law.
• It’s illegal to tickle a woman’s chin with a feather duster.
• Christmas Decoration must not still be hanged up after January 14 as it is illegal.
• It is illegal to advertise a cemetery.
• It is illegal to have a dog leash that is over eight feet in length.
• Parking in front of Dunkin Donuts in South Berwick is illegal.
• Selling mercury thermometers in in the city of Freeport is not permitted by the law.
• Feeding a deer is illegal in Wells, Maine.

Weather and Climate

The state of Maine has a humid continental climate and is divided into three climatological divisions which are Coastal, Southern Interior, and Northern Interior. It experiences warm humid summers and long, cold winters. Summer season in Maine is very comfortable. During this season, it has an average day temperature that goes up about 70°F (21.1°C) while nights are mild and temperate. Winter season are very cold and sometimes even harsh with temperature going below 12°F (-11.1°C). These comes with snow fall throughout the state wherein it begins from November to February. Spring has a warm temperature that is sometimes accompanied by rain while Autumns have cold temperatures.

Nature

Maine is abundant with natural wonders in its vicinity. Its is filled with beautiful forest, dazzling coastline, and breathtaking mountains for you to enjoy. The state has 1.7 million acres of nature conserve wherein it is also home to various wild life. You’ll surely have a memorable experience as you get to explore and view some of its breathtaking natural attractions. Here are some:

• Acadia National Park
• Old Orchard Beach
• Vaughan Woods
• Smalls Falls
• The Reversing Falls
• The Bar Island Trail

Natural Disasters

No state is complete without experiencing natural disasters. Just like its neighbors, Maine also experience it in its area but luckily for the state, these are relatively infrequent. Some of the natural disaster it encounters are earthquakes, floods, hurricanes and fires. The Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has provided its locals information about these disasters in order for them to be aware of what to do during these bad circumstances. Some of these natural disasters common here are:

• Floods: It is one of the most common disasters in the world. Floods in Maine usually fast rising but doesn’t last very long. The types of flood often experience in the state are Flash Floods/Urban Flooding and Riverine/Ice Jams.
• Wildfires: These are sometimes caused by lightning strike but are often caused by humans especially in the forest of Maine. One of the most notable fires that was experienced in the state was the Wildfire of 1947 wherein it destroyed $30,000,000 in property damages and 3,000,000 feet of cut lumber with 15 deaths.
• Earthquake: These are very unpredictable wherein it could destroy building and cause death. Though Maine has not experienced any major damage to these, it has recorded plenty of earthquakes felt in the state.
• Tornadoes: The state experiences an average of 2 tornadoes every year which is why it is important to be always prepared when you come to move in Maine. Know important emergency hotline to call for help.

Moving Prices from Major Cities

Moving from a city to another state will surely cost you an amount of money especially when it has a long distance. This is why it essential to know how much is the moving cost from your chosen moving company. Getting moving estimates will help you be aware of how much money you’ll need an be able to save and budget it wisely for your relocation day. You can try our free moving calculator from our site. Below are some moving estimates from major cities:

• Los Angeles, California to Maine: $3,893
• Chicago, Illinois to Maine: $1920
• Phoenix, Arizona to Maine: $3,500
• Houston, Texas to Maine: $2434
• New York, New York to Maine: $1620

Housing / Real Estate

Maine is known to have a high housing and rental cost. The median home cost in main is about $249,550 wherein it has increase by 7% from the past years. So, if you’re looking to buy a house when you move here, make sure to save a lot as houses here are quite expensive. However, if you don’t want to spend that much amount, you can always look into renting. The median rental price is about $1700.

Price of Living

Determining the cost of living is essential when you want to effectively save and budget your money wisely. Maine has high cost of living in which it is 13% higher than the national average. To be able to live here comfortably, you should have an average income of about $2,500 a month. Those are quite big numbers hence why you need to estimate and plan your spending. A way to do this is by estimating the cost of living in each city you plan to move into. The Economic Policy Institute (EPI) has a Family Budget Calculator to help you determine the average amount you need to live in Maine. Below are some examples for a family with 2 adults and 2 children:

1. Portland metro area

2. Bangor metro area

3. Cumberland County

4. York County metro area

5. Hancock County

Demographics

Today, the state of Maine has a population of 1,345,790 wherein its locals median age is 44 years old. It consists of approximately 51% female to 49% male. According to United States Census Bureau, Maine racial composition include:

• White: 94.48%
• Two or more races: 2.19%
• Black or African American: 1.34%
• Asian: 1.12%
• Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.02%
• Native American: 0.62%
• Other races: 0.22%

Education

Maine has numerous educational institutions that provides quality education to its locals. With about 87% Highschool graduation rate, the state is higher compared to the national average. It also has a 284 NAEP Math Scores which is also high. Some of its top educational institutions are:

Top High Schools:

• Greely High School
• Kennebunk High School
• Yarmouth High School
• Cape Elizabeth High School
• Camden Hills Regional High School

Top Colleges and Universities

• University of Maine
• College of the Atlantic
• University of New England
• Maine Maritime Academy
• Bowdoin College

Healthcare and Medical Institutions

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services is responsible in promoting health, safety, resilience, and opportunity for its locals. It offers various services and programs about a third of the State’s population from the children to elderly. The state is ranked 19 in healthcare. Some of its top medical institution are:

• Maine Medical Center
• Eastern Maine Medical Center
• Aroostook Medical Center
• Charles A. Dean Memorial Hospital
• Cary Medical Center

Tourism / Attractions

Maine has plenty of tourist attractions under its belt. It is known as Vacationland due to its wonderful destinations that will surely give you a memorable experience. There are many things to enjoy here whether its an outdoor adventure by exploring its amazing forest or view its unique museums. You’ll be captivated by its simple and unique attractions. Here are some of its top tourist attraction:

• The Old Port and Portland Head Lighthouse
• Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
• Asticou Azalea Garden
• Grafton Notch State Park
• Rangeley Lake

Top Cities

The cities of Maine are all filled with simple yet wonderful things to explore and experience. Each has its unique stories hence why it makes Maine known for what it is today. Here are some of its top cities:

1. Portland: It is the most populous city in the state. It is located on a peninsula that extends into Casco Bay. The city is known for various attractions such as Casco Bay Islands, Old Port, Western Promenade and many more.
2. Bangor: Known as the Queen City, it was established European Americans during the mid-1800s. The city’s industry is based on lumber industry and that of building ships. Some of its well-known attractions you can visit are Cole Land Transportation Museum and the Paul Bunyan Statue.
3. Rockland: The city is located in the Midcoastal of Maine. It known for its natural coastal beauty and magnificent, rocky shoreline. Locals and guest can go sailing, boating, or hiking in its inlets and harbors.
4. Augusta: It is the capital city of the state and is known to house a National Historic Landmark, Fort Western, which is an 18th-century wooden fort. Some of its other famous attractions include Maine State Museum, Blaine House, and the Maine State House.
5. Lewiston: It is the second largest city in Maine and is located between Augusta and Portland. Lewiston is known for its numerous parks and walking trails. Some of its gems include Lake Auburn and Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary.
6. Waterville: The city of Waterville is located near the west bank of the Kennebec River. It known as the Elm City due to its numerous elm trees and is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities of the state.

Job Market

Maine has an unemployment rate of 2.7% which is below the national average. It also has a minimum wage of $10/hour. Due to this, there are plenty of job available for its locals that offers high pay. This is a good sign for those who are just starting out their life in the state. Some of the top hiring companies here are:

• Maine Health
• Hannah Ford Bros Co.
• Bath Iron Works Corp Gen Dynamics
• Eastern Maine Medical Center
• LL Bean
• Maine General Medical Center
• T D Bank
• Unum Group

Economy

The state’s economy continues to grow due to the support of the government through the Department of Economic and Community Development. It has various economic development program to promote growth for its industries and businesses. Maine’s top industries are:

• Healthcare Industry
• 2WC,Technical Industry
• Management Industry
• Education, Training, and Library Industry
• Community and Social Service Industry
• Architecture
• Engineering Industry

Things to do

Maine offers exciting and fun activities to its locals and tourist. Though most of it involves nature and the outdoors, these tourist spots will surely provide you with tons of things to do such as explorations, camping, hiking, fishing and many more. Here are some of its top attractions:

• Desert of Maine: It is one of the most unique attraction in the state. It features 30-acres of sand dunes that is formed by a glacial outwash. Go on guided walking tours and nature trails, go camping, and take a picture with sandy the camel!
• Acadia National Park: The popular park offers picturesque landscape that will surely make you relax and take your breath away. There are various things you can do here such as go hiking on its mountain trails, camping, biking, fishing and many more.
• Kennebunkport: It was known as a fishing village but today it is has become a famous tourist spot. It offers a range of attractions which includes an attractive seaside location, an art gallery and the Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge.
• Baxter State Park: The park is a huge wilderness area that features over 40 peaks and ridges, and also the Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak. You can hike, camp and explore its terrain while enjoying its magnificent views.
• Boothbay Harbor: The harbor has numerous things to offer for its locals and visitors who want to seek to have an adventure or relax. Some of the activities it offers are yachting, hiking, sightseeing and many more.
• Old Orchard Beach: The popular beach in Maine has tourist go flocking it during the summer. It’s crystal clear waters and sandy beach will surely make you enjoy your stay. It offers various outdoor activities such as swimming, diving jet skiing, etc.
• Mount Desert Island: It is referred to as Gem of New England due to its lush natural preservation. It offers a ton of activities such as hiking trails, scenic views as you dine in its restaurants, camping, etc.
• Victoria Mansion: The antique building dates back to the mid1800s and has become a national landmark. It is a very popular tourist spot due to its unique design. Visitors can go inside and explore its grand interiors

Public Transport

Public transportation is very essential as it provides you to have access to the towns and other cities of the state. It is essential for you to know some of the states public transport especially if you have just moved. Below are some:

Crime and Safety

According to U.S. news, Maine is the safest state in the U.S. With violent crime rate at 1.1 which is below the national average of 3.7, people here are assured for their safety and well-being. Property crime rate is also low with 13.6 compared to the national average which is 22. This may because of the state’s quaint and timid lifestyles which makes the neighborhood more safe and secure. The government, the Maine State Police, also provides various programs and services to its locals in order to further promote safety for them. Having a low crime rate is essential if you’re looking for a place to move in especially with your family.

Acquire a New driver’s License

In order to drive around your new town or city, you must have acquired the state’s driver’s license. To do this, you can follow some of these simple steps:

1. Locate and schedule an appointment to your nearest driving license office
2. Make sure to obtain the required documents such as: proof that you are a Maine resident and a U.S. citizen or are in the country lawfully, two forms of proof of identity, and your Social Security Number Card.
3. Complete the application form. You can either download it or get it from a BMV branch.
4. Next submit the application and your supporting documents.
5. Pay a fee of around $35.
6. Take and make sure to pass the written and vision test.
7. A temporary license will be given to you as you wait for new driver’s license to be mailed to you.

Road Safety, Highways and Routes

When moving to the state of Maine, it is essential that you are familiar with the state’s main highways and routes. Knowing some this will make it easier for you to go where you want faster. Here are some:

Routes:

• SR2
• SR3
• SR4
• SR5
• SR7

Highways:

• I-95
• I-195
• I-295
• I-395
• I-495

Museums

Maine has many wonderful and unique museums under its belt. This is because numerous artists are captivated with the state’s coast, countryside, and townscapes wherein they use it for inspirations in creating art. Below are some famous museums in the state:

• Penobscot Marine Museum
• Farnsworth Art Museum
• The Seal Cove Auto Museum
• The Ogunquit Museum of American Art
• Monhegan Museum of Art and History
• Colby College Museum of Art

In the end, is moving to Maine worth it?

After everything that was said, I bet you’re asking yourself if moving to Maine would be worth it? Let’s first make a quick run through. The state offers a lot of promises for those who are planning to move and start a new life in its cities. With breathtaking sceneries and relaxing nature attractions, you will not only be able to explore its beauty but also have fun as you do exciting activities in its areas. It also has a friendly and welcoming community that will make it easier for you to adjust and adapt. This is also the reason why the state has low criminal rate as most people here choose to help out and be kind to others. Though home and rental prices are high, there are plenty of jobs available in the market with a high minimum wage. There are so many things you’ll love about the Maine which will make your move definitely worth it.

How to Move to Maine

Moving isn’t just a bed of roses. There are plenty of things you need arrange and organize in order to have a successful relocation to your new home. This is also the reason why booking from Moving Companies are essential. Below are some tips to help you make your move easier. You can also check our downloadable moving checklist for a quick guide.

1. Plan Ahead: Planning ahead is the first step of any successful move. Make sure to carefully research the place you have chosen and organize the things you’ll need.

2. Downsize: One way to make it much easier for you to pack is by downsizing. List all the things that are important and leave out the things you might not need to bring.

3. Get Moving Quotes: Moving companies have different cost. Being able to get quotes from them will make it easier for you to book cheap movers hence be easier for you to save up for your moving day.

4. Book Movers: In order to make your move flawless, it is important to book movers for their service. They will make sure that all your things will be transferred to your home safe and secured.

5. Visit Your New Area: Make a visit to your new neighborhood ahead of time. This will help you be familiar on how to get there and also have a glimpse of what it looks like.

6. Start Packing: Make sure to pack your things ahead of time especially when you have a lot. It will prevent you from forgetting anything and also have the time to organize it properly. An example is by using moving boxes to securely store all your belongings

7. Create Essential Box: Having an essential with you will help you get the things you need faster. This is very convenient as you won’t have to look for it on your piles of boxes. Its very easy to create one!

8 Say Farewells: Bid a simple goodbye to all friends, co-workers and relatives that you’ll leave behind. Saying goodbyes will make it easier for them to know where’d you go and also contact you faster.

9. Get Some Rest: Moving can cause a lot of stress hence why getting enough sleep and rest is essential. Not only will it make you more focused but also avoid you from getting sick. Who wants that right?

10. Enjoy the Move: Finally, make sure to enjoy it by making moving fun. Take a picture of the places you’ll be able to stopover during the drive. Then, as you settle down to your new home, make new friends.

Moving Services to help you relocate to Maine

• Movers lifting storage boxes to the moving truck.
• Two movers who are lifting boxes to their trucks

Moving companies have plenty of services they offer to their customer. Their movers are trained to help you relocate your things securely and quick. Here are some of their services:

• Furniture Transportation: Moving furniture such as sofas, cabinets, dinning tables are hard due to their size and weight. Movers are experts with furniture transportation by moving it without a scratch to your new home.
• Residential Movers: If you’re moving residentially, then these movers will take you there fast and safe. They will move your things from your home to your new one.
• Piano Transportation: Moving pianos are hard as not only is it huge but also sensitive due to its keys and parts. Piano movers are trained in handling your precious pianos and transport it to your new area safely.
• Art and Antiques Movers: If you have these then you’ll know that they need special handling especially when it will be moved. Moving art and antiques are some of the services movers have. You’ll be assured that it will be transported safe and sound.
• Hot Tub Movers: Moving a hot tub with you? Hot tub movers are experts with moving your hot tubs. As they will help you dismantle it and install it to your new home.
• Pool Table Movers: Pool table are huge and have various that may be hard to put together. Whether if it’s for your personal use or business, pool table movers are there to help you transport it without a scratch.
• Office Movers: Relocating to a new office location? The office movers are trained to help you move your office needs.
• Long Distance Movers: Long distance move is relocating city to city or across a state. If you’re planning to have one, then long distance movers are your guys. They will help you move along with your things to any city or state you choose.
• Last Minute Movers: Fretting on last minute moving? Last minute movers offer their services for these kinds of circumstances. They will assure you that everything is in order and will be there on the day of your move.