As the “Pine Tree State,” it’s no surprise that Maine is home to picturesque mountains like the rugged Acadia National Park to the serene Appalachian Mountains. With access to hiking trails, beaches, islands, and historic landmarks, there’s plenty to love about living in Maine. So if you’re looking to live the mountain lifestyle, make sure to check out Maine’s charming and quaint mountain towns.
From small towns to seaside cities, Rent. has collected a list of the best mountain towns in Maine to live in. Read on to discover which of these mountain towns best suits your dream of living in Maine’s natural beauty.
1. Bar Harbor
Mountain range: Acadia National Park
Population: 5,090
Apartments for rent in Bar Harbor, ME
Houses for rent in Bar Harbor, ME
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Bar Harbor is located on Mount Desert Island, near the stunning Acadia National Park, making it a perfect location for those looking for a blend of mountains and the waterfront. Residents enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the park’s rugged landscape. Popular areas for enjoying the outdoors include Wild Gardens of Acadia, Sand Beach, Cadillac Mountain, and Bubbles Divide Trail.
Bar Harbor is a cozy town with a population of just over 5,000. The town has a variety of dining options, from quaint cafes to gourmet restaurants, alongside unique shops and galleries. You can also enjoy the town’s historic architecture, museums like the Abbe Museum, and waterfront parks like Agamont Park. With its proximity to the mountains, Bar Harbor is an awesome place to call home.
2. Bridgton
Mountain range: White Mountains
Population: 5,400
Apartments for rent in Bridgton, ME
Houses for rent in Bridgton, ME
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Bridgton is a charming town that serves as a gateway to the White Mountains. The area is a favorite among hikers, skiers, and nature lovers, specifically at spots like Pleasant Mountain, Bald Peak Trail, Holt Pond Preserve, and Woods Pond Beach.
With a population of 5,400, it offers a small-town atmosphere that’s big on natural attractions and outdoor activities. Bridgton’s downtown area features historic buildings, local eateries, and boutiques. The town’s proximity to the mountains means that scenic views and adventure are never far away. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin or a waterfront home, Bridgton provides a picturesque setting to call home.
3. Dixfield
Mountain range: Western Mountains
Population: 2,250
Apartments for rent in Dixfield, ME
Houses for rent in Dixfield, ME
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Dixfield is a quaint town located near the Western Mountains. With a population of 2,250, this area is perfect for those who appreciate the quieter side of life with easy access to outdoor adventures. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, offering endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring the great outdoors.
For example, you can hike the Mt. Zircon Trail, camp at one of the sites, off-road at Rocky Mountain Terrain Park, and spend the day at Mt. Blue State Park. Dixfield’s community is close-knit, with local businesses and restaurants adding to its charm. For those seeking a peaceful, scenic place to live, Dixfield offers just that.
4. Farmington
Mountain range: Western Mountains
Population: 7,800
Apartments for rent in Farmington, ME
Houses for rent in Farmington, ME
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Farmington is a vibrant town located amidst the Western Mountains, near Mt. Blue State Park. There’s plenty to do, like skiing at Titcomb Mountain, hiking the Peter Miller Woodland Loop Trail, and nearby French Mountain.
This town is known for its educational institutions, like the University of Maine Farmington, a lively downtown that hosts various cultural events, like the Farmington Fair, and museums like The Nordica Homestead Museum. Farmington’s blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and cultural richness makes it an awesome place to live.
5. Greenville
Mountain range: Appalachian Mountains
Population: 1,440
Apartments for rent in Greenville, ME
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Greenville is a picturesque town located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, home to 1,440 residents. This serene location is ideal for those who love the great outdoors, offering unparalleled access to hiking, fishing, and boating. Whether you ski at Big Moose Mountain Ski Area during the winter, visit the Katahdin Iron Works State Historic Site, or spend the day at Lily Bay State Park, there are lots of options in Greenville.
Greenville’s small-town charm is complemented by its scenic landscapes and recreational activities. The town is home to an array of local shops, eateries, and museums like Moosehead Marine Museum that reflect its unique character. For those seeking a tranquil lifestyle amidst natural beauty, Greenville is a perfect choice.
6. Harrison
Mountain range: Western Mountains
Population: 2,450
Apartments for rent in Harrison, ME
Houses for rent in Harrison, ME
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Harrison is located in the Western Mountains along the shores of Long Lake. This area is known for its stunning landscapes, like Hawk Mountain and Crystal Lake, and outdoor recreational opportunities at Streaked Mountain and Hacker’s Hill Preserve. Harrison offers a peaceful setting for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The town features a variety of housing options, from lakeside retreats to cozy mountain cabins. Harrison’s community is warm and welcoming, with its markets and cafes, alongside waterfront and mountain views, making it a great place to call home.
7. Kingfield
Mountain range: Sugarloaf Mountain
Population: 970
Apartments for rent in Kingfield, ME
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Kingfield is a quaint town that lies in the shadow of Sugarloaf Mountain, Maine’s third-highest peak, popular for a variety of outdoor recreation. This town is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering easy access to skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. You can explore areas like Bigelow Preserve, Saddleback Mountain, and Quill Hill, all great areas for exploring Maine’s wilderness.
Kingfield’s community is close-knit, with a rich history and culture that is celebrated through local events, museums like the Stanley Museum, and traditions. The town has various living options, from charming historic homes to modern apartments. For those seeking a quiet, outdoor-oriented lifestyle, Kingfield is an ideal destination.
8. Milford
Mountain range: Appalachian Mountains
Population: 3,070
Apartments for rent in Milford, ME
Houses for rent in Milford, ME
Milford is situated near the Appalachian Mountains along the Penobscot River. As a community of 3,070 residents, this town offers a blend of rural charm and modern conveniences. Milford’s proximity to outdoor activities, like Sunkhaze Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, the Johnson Brook Trail, the River Trail, and Pavilion Park, makes it a great place to call home.
9. Monmouth
Mountain range: Androscoggin Riverlands State Park
Population: 4,130
Apartments for rent in Monmouth, ME
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Monmouth is a vibrant town with a population of 4,130, located near the Androscoggin Riverlands State Park. This area is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing as there are plenty of lakes like Cochnewagon Lake, Annabessacook Lake, and Cobbossecontee Lake.
Monmouth’s community has a variety of events and activities throughout the year, like at The Theater At Monmouth. Monmouth’s combination of natural beauty, community involvement, and housing options makes it an attractive place for many to call home.
10. Rangeley
Mountain range: Appalachian Mountains
Population: 970
Apartments for rent in Rangeley, ME
Houses for rent in Rangeley, ME
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Rangeley, with its serene setting in the Appalachian Mountains and beside the Rangeley Lakes, is home to 970 residents. This town is a paradise for those who love the water and the mountains, offering activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. Some of the popular spots include Rangeley Lake State Park, Quill Hill, Height of Land, and Saddleback Ski Area & Bike Park.
Rangeley’s small-town vibe is complemented by its natural surroundings, providing a peaceful retreat for those looking to spend time in the forest. You can find unique landmarks in town like the Wilhelm Reich Museum, the Maine Forestry Museum, and The Rangeley Inn & Tavern. The community is welcoming, and the area’s natural beauty is unmatched, making Rangeley a perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
11. Rumford
Mountain range: Mahoosuc Range
Population: 5,690
Apartments for rent in Rumford, ME
Houses for rent in Rumford, ME
Rumford is a lively town located near the Mahoosuc Range and the Sunday River Ski Resort. Home to about 5,690, this town is a hub for winter sports and outdoor activities. There are plenty of areas to explore such as Black Mountain of Maine, the Rumford Whitecap Mountain Preserve, the Mt. Zircon Trail, and Swift River Falls. Rumford’s community is vibrant, with a variety of events and recreational opportunities along the riverfront. For those seeking adventure and community, Rumford is an ideal place to live and play.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the mountain towns in Maine. Average rental data from Rent.com during September 2024. Population data is sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
