Portland, Maine

What's the cost of living in Portland, ME?

Public officials and residents are increasingly concerned about Portland's affordability because Portland's housing costs are rising steadily. Given the high cost of living, the region has a sizable homeless population – some members of which came to the metro area from elsewhere to benefit from regional social services. 

What's the best way to get around Portland, ME?

Although many Portland residents prefer to get around by car, a traffic jam they'll usually encounter is one caused by the Casco Bay draw bridge opening for a passing ship.

The region has invested in its bus system, which provides service throughout the peninsula and into nearby communities like South Portland and Westbrook. But a growing group of vocal cyclists gets the most notice. Bike and pedestrian advocates have successfully pushed for safer and more accessible streets and a place at the table in the planning process.

The region's residential islands can be reached by water taxi or the Casco Bay Lines ferry system.

Portland is home to a small airport, the Portland International Jetport, located just southwest of the peninsula. The airport is serviced by major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and JetBlue. However, nonstop service is limited to destinations on the east coast (plus a few flights to the South and the Midwest). For more options, residents often head about two hours south to Boston's Logan International Airport. The Portland Transportation Center is frequented by Amtrak and coach bus passengers.

Who lives in Portland, ME?

Although Maine has a rapidly aging population and workforce, Portland has experienced notable population growth over the past several years.

College students are a visible presence in the region, and they have helped develop Portland's reputation for liberal politics. Portland was the first East Coast region to legalize recreational marijuana.

Maine has the lowest percentage of religious residents in the nation and Portland mirrors that trend. Less than 30 percent of Maine residents identify as religious, and those who do practice most commonly identify as Catholic.

Portland is also a refugee resettlement area. Immigrants, primarily from Africa and the Middle East, have been part of a cultural shift for an area not known for its diversity. Meanwhile, the sizable LGBT community is an active part of civic life. Local activists from Equality Maine were critical in adopting same-sex marriage at the state level in 2012.

What is there to do in Portland, ME?

Portland is a great region for those who enjoy the outdoors. In the winter, popular walking trails convert for snowshoeing, and cross-country skiers can be seen all throughout the region.

In the summer, the area's rocky coast draws locals who like to fish and sail, while during the fall, residents head to local orchards to pick apples. Portland's fresh seafood has been elevated at modern oyster bars and foraged foods are frequent menu options, though the traditional lobster roll is still a staple snack.

The metro area also has a thriving music and nightlife scene with crowds buzzing along Congress Street and Old Port almost any night of the week.