Maine Retirement Communities
Maine offers numerous retirement communities along the southern beaches and mid-coast region.
Although some soon-to-be retirees think of Arizona or Florida when planning their retirement, many seniors prefer the changing seasons and natural beauty of Maine. The Pine Tree State appeals to active older adults with an appreciation of culture, history, beautiful scenery, and outdoor opportunities. According to the 2010 census, nearly one-quarter of Maine residents were over the age of 60, making it one of the most senior-friendly states in the country.
Why Is Maine a Great Place to Retire?
Some seniors are wary of retiring in Maine because of its reputation for high taxes. Although the tax rate is higher than some other areas, the state is working to reduce tax rates for retirees. Most seniors find Maine to be very affordable, with lower home prices, inexpensive recreational activities, and affordable dining opportunities. Due to Maine’s natural beauty and culture, it has developed a reputation as a vibrant area for active retirees. According to state officials, nearly twice as many retirees are entering the state as are leaving it.
In addition to being affordable, Maine offers a wealth of activities for seniors. Those who enjoy the outdoors may enjoy beach walks, mountain hikes, sailing, kayaking, golfing, playing tennis, or fishing. Maine also has excellent cultural opportunities, with world-class museums, fine restaurants, music festivals, and active theater companies. There are dozens of retirement communities in Maine, with more being constructed each year. These top-quality communities offer a variety of social activities, fine amenities, and luxury accommodations to residents.
The Maine Beaches
The Maine Beaches Region of Maine features a variety of retirement communities in York, Kittery, Kennebunkport, and Old Orchard Beach. Riverbend Woods, a group of neighborhoods in Wells, offer upscale condominiums with the finest amenities. The 200-acre community consists of several neighborhoods, each with its own style and charm. Purchase a 1, 2, or 3-bedroom townhouse, traditional saltbox home, or Cape Cod-style cottage. Every home features an expansive living room, modern kitchen, and private brick patio. There’s no need to worry about building maintenance, as all snow removal, mowing, irrigation, landscaping, insurance, and exterior maintenance are covered by helpful community staff. Plus, Riverbend Woods is pet-friendly, allowing your four-legged friend to join you in your retirement adventure.
Greater Portland and Casco Bay
In 2011, the AARP named Portland one of the top 10 affordable places to retire in the United States. Piper Shores, located in the Portland area, is one of the premier retirement communities in Maine. This facility offers private cottages or apartments for independent, active retirees. Piper Shores features spectacular views of Casco Bay, and many cottages are located in a charming wooded grove. The community features a cafe, health clinic, library, cocktail lounge, swimming pool, fitness room, woodworking shop, putting green, beauty salon, music room, and convenience store to give you easy access to the daily activities you enjoy. Weekly housekeeping services are available to save you time and energy. Many residents of this active retirement community socialize with one another through book clubs, game nights, gardening, or local history interest groups. When venturing out into dynamic Portland, explore the city’s excellent restaurant scene, historic architecture, museums, spas, local breweries, or shopping areas.
Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
For seniors who enjoy outdoor activities, mountain scenery, and beautiful lakes, the Kennebec and Moose River Valleys region may be appropriate. Granite Hills Estates, located near Hallowell, offers spacious homes in a vibrant, active retirement community. Residents may choose from three styles of cottages or six apartment layouts to find the home that best suits their needs. Cottage-style homes feature a fully equipped kitchen, in-unit washer and dryer, state of the art security system, full-sized garage, and spacious storage areas. Both the cottages and apartments offer large windows to let the sunlight stream in. Granite Hills Estates features a central Maine Lodge, which houses game rooms, meeting places, billiards rooms, a pool, the fitness center, and a hot tub. A chef prepares gourmet meals every evening if you prefer not to cook your own meal. The lodge also serves as the social hub of the community, with many groups, clubs, and friends meeting to catch up.
Midcoast
Money magazine twice named Brunswick, Maine, one of the top communities in which to retire. The Thornton Oaks Retirement Community lives up to this reputation by providing high-class private homes and apartment units. The management company allows you to build equity in your property, making this a smart real estate investment. Thornton Oaks provides all maintenance, landscaping, snow removal, lawn care, painting, and window washing, giving you more time to enjoy your beautiful surroundings in Midcoast Maine. A diverse community of retirees plan events, create clubs and groups, play bridge and other games, and arrange guest lectures. Thornton Oaks also arranges shuttles to Bowdoin College, Portland, and Boston for cultural excursions.