Portland Area 55+ Retirement Communities

The Portland area is located in the southern part of Maine and is a popular destination for retirees looking to settle down in a comfortable community with easy access to larger city amenities. 55+ adults have many options for retirement communities including homes in nearby small towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm. 

Major cities in the Portland area include Portland, South Portland, and Auburn. Portland is the largest city in the region and is known for its lively arts and culture scene, historic architecture, and excellent dining options. South Portland is a bustling coastal community with stunning views of Casco Bay and easy access to recreational opportunities like biking, hiking, and boating. Auburn is a vibrant city located north of Portland with a strong economy, rich history and scenic beauty. 

Cost of Living

The cost of living in the Portland area is generally higher than the national average, primarily due to high housing costs. However, the area's high quality of life and the state's natural beauty still makes the Portland area a great place to retire. 

Maine is known for having a relatively high tax burden, with the state's income tax rate ranging from 5.8 percent to 7.15 percent, depending on income level. Overall property taxes in Maine are very high but do vary depending on the town or city in which you live. Visit the Maine Revenue Services website for more information on Maine's taxation system.

Climate and Geography

The Portland area features a temperate climate with mild to warm summers and cold winters. Summer average temperatures are in the 80s and winter temperatures average between 18 and 33 degrees with an annual snowfall of 66 inches. 

The area is known for its natural beauty, which includes rolling hills, dense forest, scenic lakes, and a rugged coastline. The city of Portland sits on a peninsula and its deep water harbor is an important commercial port.

Recreation, Culture, and Entertainment

There is a lot to do and see in the greater Portland area. Active 55+ adults who enjoy outdoor pursuits will find golf courses, hiking and biking trails, boating, and skiing. Retirees who prefer less active pursuits can enjoy museums, botanical gardens, live performances, and more. 

Golfing

The Portland area has a variety of golf courses to choose from, including the Riverside Golf Course in Portland, the Martindale Country Club in Auburn, and the Dunegrass Golf Club in Old Orchard Beach. These courses offer scenic views and challenging holes for golfers of all skill levels.

Outdoor Activities

The Eastern Trail runs from South Portland to Kennebunk, offering a scenic route for walking, hiking, and biking. Other popular hiking trails in the area include trails at the Presumpscot River Preserve and the Bradbury Mountain State Park. For those who prefer a more leisurely stroll, the Portland Trails system offers a variety of urban trails and the Auburn Riverwalk is a popular scenic walkway along the Androscoggin River.

Boating

The Maine coast offers endless opportunities for boating and water activities. The Casco Bay Islands are a popular destination for boaters, with several islands accessible by ferry or private boat. The Portland Paddle offers kayak and paddleboard rentals for those who prefer to be closer to the water.

Skiing

The Shawnee Peak Ski Area is located just 30 minutes from Portland and offers skiing and snowboarding for all skill levels. The resort also features night skiing, making it a popular destination for after work and long weekend skiing.

Parks and Gardens

The Portland area has several beautiful parks and gardens, including the Portland Head Light and Fort Williams Park, which offer stunning views of the ocean and the historic lighthouse. The Longfellow Garden in Portland is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, while the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay Harbor feature over 300 acres of cultivated gardens and natural landscapes. There are many state parks and nature reserves to enjoy, including Bradbury Mountain State Park, Sebago Lake State Park, and the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. 

Museums, Dining, and Performances

The Portland Museum of Art features a collection of American and European art, while the Maine Historical Society Museum offers a glimpse into the state's rich history. The area is also known for its diverse dining scene, with options ranging from traditional Maine seafood to international cuisine. The State Theatre in Portland and the Franco Center in Lewiston host a variety of concerts, plays, and other cultural events throughout the year.

Here are some other helpful guides to activities in the Portland area:

• Maine Trail Finder: A comprehensive database of trails and outdoor recreation opportunities in Maine.
• Visit Portland Maine: A guide to local attractions, restaurants, and events in the Portland area.
• Maine Foodie Tours: Information on guided walking tours of Portland's culinary scene.
• FreeportUSA: A guide to shopping and dining in the nearby town of Freeport, home to the famous L.L. Bean flagship store.
• Casco Bay Lines: Ferry service to the Casco Bay Islands.
• Portland Stage: A nonprofit theater company in Portland, offering a variety of plays and performances throughout the year.

Health and Wellness

When it comes to health and wellness resources in the Portland area, there are a number of options available to retirees and active adults. Hospitals in the area include Maine Medical Center Bramhall in Portland, Northern Light Mercy Hospital in South Portland, and Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston.

The MainHealth Learning Resource Center offers information and resources on a variety of health and wellness topics, from nutrition and exercise to stress management and chronic illness. For those interested in fitness activities, the Portland Parks, Recreation and Facilities Department website provides information on a variety of programs and facilities available throughout the city including access to community centers, fitness classes, swimming pools, and sports leagues. The Portland branch of the YMCA also offers a variety of fitness programs and classes.

Planning Your Portland Area Retirement Visit

If you're considering Southern Maine for retirement, spending a weekend there is a great way to learn about the area. To make the most of your weekend, here's a sample itinerary:

Day One

Morning: 

Start your day with a visit to the Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, just a 15-minute drive from downtown Portland. This historic lighthouse dates back to 1791 and offers stunning ocean views.

Afternoon: 

After visiting the lighthouse, take a short drive over to the quaint coastal town of Kennebunkport. Enjoy lunch at one of the town's many seafood restaurants and take a walk and enjoy the picturesque homes and boutique shops.

Evening: 

Return to Portland for dinner at one of the city's many fantastic restaurants. For a true taste of Maine, try Eventide Oyster Co., which offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes and an impressive selection of oysters.

Day Two

Morning: 

Start your day with a visit to the Portland Farmers' Market, located in Deering Oaks Park. Enjoy a cup of coffee and browse the many stalls offering local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. 

Afternoon: 

Spend your afternoon visiting the area's 55+ communities to get a sense of what the community is like as well as what activities and amenities are offered. Your 55Places real estate agent will be happy to help you find communities that fit your lifestyle preferences and budget.

Evening: 

Return to Portland for dinner at Central Provisions, a small plates restaurant that offers a creative and delicious menu. After dinner, take a stroll through the Old Port district, enjoying the historic brick buildings and waterfront views.

Of course, there are many other great options for things to do and places to eat in the Portland area, but this itinerary should give you a good starting point!

Getting to the Portland Area

The Portland Maine area is a well-connected region that can be easily accessed by multiple modes of transportation, making it a convenient destination for retirees looking to visit or relocate to the area.

By Air: The Portland International Jetport (PWM) serves as the primary airport for the area, with non-stop flights from major hubs like Boston, New York, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia. Airlines that service the airport include American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and Frontier. For those who prefer private aviation, the Portland Jetport also has a general aviation terminal.

By Car: The Portland area is easily accessible by car since major highways like I-95 and Route 1 run through the area. From Boston, the drive is approximately 2 hours, and from New York City, it takes around 5 hours.

By Train: Amtrak provides daily service to Portland from Boston, New York, and Washington D.C. The Downeaster train is also a popular option for those traveling within Maine and New Hampshire, with stops in Portland, Freeport, and Brunswick.

By Bus: Greyhound and Concord Coach Lines offer daily service to Portland from various locations throughout the Northeast.