CAMDEN — Down East released its 2015 list of the best places to live in Maine in the March issue of the magazine, on newsstands now. The list pinpoints eight communities around the state that exemplify “the way life should be.”
 
The editors looked at all 494 of Maine’s cities, towns and plantations and took personal experiences and hundreds of reader opinions into consideration to narrow down the selection. The editors’ top picks were Bangor, Portland, South Bristol, and Yarmouth and Readers’ Choice winners include Camden, Hallowell, The Kennebunks, and Norway.
 
The article showcases the best elements of each location, including specifics on why it was chosen and area details, including population, median household income and age.
 
Readers’ Choice Winners:

“Camden is not hip,” and that’s why readers love it. One of the most beautiful towns in the country, Camden has maintained its coastal charm for as long as visitors and residents can remember. The village caters to food lovers (Natalie’s, Francine Bistro, Long Grain and Primo have all received national recognition) just as easily as it wins over fans of the outdoors with the trail system at Camden Hills State Park, Megunticook Lake and Camden Snow Bowl.

Hallowell is Maine’s second smallest official city, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in character. Dubbed “The Little Easy,” the city’s live music scene is prolific, supported by a growing number of restaurants and bars. Located just down the Kennebec from Augusta and with many residents involved in state government, Hallowell is comparable to Georgetown, Washington D.C.’s historic entertainment district.

The Kennebunks are lauded for sharing with nearby Arundel one of the top five high schools in Maine, but it’s more than just the educational opportunities that make this a hot spot for Mainers. The sense of community in The Kennebunks has led to the development of local hiking trails, a newly opened outdoor skating rink, and Kennebunk’s Dog Advisory Committee that maintains a balance between the dog-loving community and fans of the area’s white sand beaches.  

Mainers who make Norway their home take pride in their community, which is evident in the resident involvement and revitalization of eclectic local businesses. Locals call the commitment of their neighbors inspiring, and combined with its scenic location, Down East calls it a wonderful place to live.
 
Editors’ Choice Winners:

With nearly a third of its population between 20 and 40 years old, Bangor is booming. The downtown area has welcomed at least four new businesses in as many months to a downtown area already bristling with ethnic restaurants, boutiques, and bars. Redevelopment efforts promise new loft apartments, food trucks, and art installations — all this summer.  

Portland is Maine’s largest city, but there’s so much more than size that makes it a hot spot. Home to around 230 eateries and some of the state’s major educational and cultural institutions, Portland keeps topping national hot lists including America’s Greenest Cities and Best Places to Raise Children in addition to being named Bon Appetit’s Foodiest Small Town in America.  

Many residents disappear with the leaves, but those who call South Bristol home consider community its top selling point. Though there’s no town center, the locals have no trouble getting together at Tidy Island Grocery to gossip or taking in the scenic water views from one of Maine’s loveliest towns.  

Yarmouth is the only residential suburb of Portland with a distinct and intact downtown village. With some of the state’s best schools and a motto boasting the “always welcome” attitude of locals, the annual Yarmouth Clam Festival isn’t the only thing attracting newcomers to the area.  

About Down East Enterprise:
Down East Enterprise, Inc., is a multimedia company based in Camden. The company’s flagship publication, Down East: The Magazine of Maine, is the largest
paid-circulation magazine dedicated to the Pine Tree State, according to a news release.

A digital version of Down East was launched in February 2013. Down East has been the authority on Maine for over sixty years, and today continues to capture the reader’s attention with an insider look at contemporary life in Maine. People who love Maine love Down East.
 
Down East Enterprise currently publishes Shooting Sportsman, the world’s largest magazine dedicated to wingshooting and fine guns, and Fly Rod & Reel, a quarterly publication for fly-fishing enthusiasts, in addition to Down East.

Down East also produces Websites, mobile apps, and video programming via the Down East Channel.