Why Greater Portland Keeps Attracting New Residents
Greater Portland — covering Portland, South Portland, Westbrook, Scarborough, Falmouth, and Cape Elizabeth — is where most people land when they move to Maine. It's the state's economic engine, food capital, and cultural center rolled into one. If you want Maine's natural beauty without giving up urban conveniences, this is your region. It's also where you'll find the most diversity, the best healthcare access, and the widest range of housing options in the state.
The Job Market
Portland's economy runs on healthcare (Maine Medical Center is the state's largest employer), insurance (UNUM, Anthem), financial services, and a booming food and beverage scene. Remote workers have flooded in since 2020, and coworking spaces like Think Tank and Venture Hall have popped up to meet demand. If you're bringing a remote job with you, you'll fit right in. If you need local work, healthcare and trades are always hiring.
Where to Live
- Portland peninsula: Walkable, expensive, best restaurant access. Expect $1,800+ for a one-bedroom apartment.
- South Portland: More affordable, excellent schools, easy access to the Maine Mall area and the waterfront.
- Westbrook: The most affordable option close to Portland. Downtown Westbrook has been revitalizing fast.
- Scarborough: Suburban feel, great beaches, family-friendly. Scarborough Marsh is gorgeous.
- Falmouth and Cape Elizabeth: Higher-end towns with excellent schools and coastal access. Budget accordingly.
Housing is tight across the region. Start your search early and be ready to move fast. Check our Portland town guide and South Portland town guide for neighborhood details.
Getting Around
You'll want a car. Metro bus service covers the basics, but it's not a replacement for driving. I-295 is the main artery, and the Casco Bay Bridge connects Portland to South Portland. Traffic on Route 1 through Scarborough can be brutal in summer. The Portland International Jetport (PWM) has direct flights to major East Coast cities.
Cost of Living
Greater Portland is the most expensive part of Maine, but still cheaper than Boston by a wide margin. Groceries, utilities, and insurance run about average for New England. Property taxes vary significantly by town — Scarborough and Cape Elizabeth are notably higher. Heating costs matter: budget $2,000–$4,000 per winter depending on your home's size and fuel type.
What Makes It Worth It
Within 20 minutes of downtown Portland, you can be on a beach, hiking a trail, kayaking on a lake, or eating at one of the best restaurants in New England. The Old Port is walkable and lively year-round. The food scene punches way above its weight — James Beard winners, craft breweries, and lobster shacks all within arm's reach. And the community is genuinely welcoming to newcomers.
Greater Portland's food scene alone is worth the move — James Beard-nominated restaurants, craft breweries on every corner, and lobster shacks that locals actually eat at. The arts district, First Friday Art Walks, and a thriving live music scene mean you're never bored, even in February.
Need a contractor for your new home? Browse Maine Trades Directory for vetted local tradespeople. For more relocation tips, check out our full guide library.