🏡 Why Move to Maine’s Lakes Region?

🏡 Why Move to Maine’s Lakes Region?

Maine’s Lakes Region is known for its crystal-clear lakes, rolling hills, and abundant outdoor activities. Spanning Cumberland and Oxford counties, the region includes Sebago Lake, Long Lake, Highland Lake, Brandy Pond, and Moose Pond, among many others.

 

Here’s why so many people are drawn to this area:

 

✅ Affordable homes compared to Maine’s coastal real estate

✅ Stunning lakefront properties with private docks and breathtaking views

✅ Four-season recreation—boating, fishing, hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling

✅ Charming small-town communities with strong local pride

✅ Proximity to Portland—easy access to restaurants, shopping, and job opportunities

 

According to the Maine Association of Realtors (2025 Report), home prices in the Lakes Region remain more affordable than coastal Maine towns, making it an attractive destination for families, retirees, and second-home buyers.

 

📍 The Best Towns to Live in Maine’s Lakes Region

Each town in the Lakes Region has its own unique personality. Some offer bustling summer attractions and nightlife, while others provide quiet, off-the-grid living. Let’s break down the top places to live in this picturesque region.

 

1. Bridgton – The Outdoor Lover’s Paradise

📍 Location: 45 miles from Portland (1-hour drive)

💰 Median Home Price (2025): ~$400,000

👥 Population: ~5,300

 

Bridgton is a vibrant small town with a mix of year-round residents and seasonal homeowners. Nestled between Highland Lake and Moose Pond, it’s a dream location for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

 

🌲 Why Move to Bridgton?

✅ Access to Pleasant Mountain (formerly Shawnee Peak) for skiing & snowboarding

✅ Plenty of hiking trails, including Bald Pate Mountain

✅ A charming downtown with shops, restaurants, and a hospital

 

⚖️ Pros & Cons of Living in Bridgton

✔️ Four-season recreation—skiing, hiking, and lake life all in one spot

✔️ More amenities compared to smaller lakeside towns

❌ Gets tourist-heavy in the summer

❌ Winters can be long and snowy

 

🏡 Real Estate Market: The Bridgton real estate market is strong, with a mix of historic homes, new developments, and waterfront properties.

 

📚 Sources: Maine MLS, Visit Maine

 

2. Naples – The Heart of the Lakes Region

📍 Location: 35 miles from Portland (45-minute drive)

💰 Median Home Price (2025): ~$425,000

👥 Population: ~3,900

 

If you love lake life, boating, and summer fun, Naples is the place to be. Home to Long Lake, Brandy Pond, and Sebago Lake, this town is the epicenter of water recreation in Maine.

 

🚤 Why Move to Naples?

✅ A lively summer community with waterfront dining and entertainment

✅ Home to the historic Songo River Queen II paddleboat

✅ The Sebago Days Festival brings locals and tourists together every year

 

⚖️ Pros & Cons of Living in Naples

✔️ Lots of activities, restaurants, and marinas

✔️ Stunning lakefront properties with private docks

❌ Gets crowded in the summer with seasonal visitors

❌ Quieter in the winter, with fewer stores open year-round

 

🏡 Real Estate Market: Naples has some of the best lakefront properties in Maine, but expect higher home prices for waterfront homes.

 

📚 Sources: Maine Tourism Association

 

3. Sebago – A Quiet Lakeside Escape

📍 Location: 30 miles from Portland (40-minute drive)

💰 Median Home Price (2025): ~$375,000

👥 Population: ~1,800

 

Sebago is a peaceful retreat known for its stunning lake views, excellent fishing, and a relaxed lifestyle.

 

🌊 Why Move to Sebago?

✅ Less crowded than Naples & Bridgton

✅ Top fishing destination (home to landlocked salmon and lake trout)

✅ Douglas Mountain offers incredible hiking trails

 

⚖️ Pros & Cons of Living in Sebago

✔️ Very quiet and private—perfect for relaxation

✔️ Great for nature lovers & those who love a slower pace

❌ Fewer restaurants and stores—must drive to Windham for shopping

❌ Limited job opportunities in town

 

🏡 Real Estate Market: Sebago offers a mix of affordable homes, lakefront cottages, and vacation rentals.

 

📚 Sources: Portland Press Herald

 

4. Casco – A Lakeside Community with History

📍 Location: 30 miles from Portland (35-minute drive)

💰 Median Home Price (2025): ~$385,000

👥 Population: ~3,700

 

Casco is a classic New England town known for Sebago Lake access, historic homes, and a strong local community.

 

🏡 Why Move to Casco?

✅ Affordable compared to Naples & Raymond

✅ Casco Days Festival is a highlight of the year

✅ Great access to Pleasant Lake & Sebago Lake

 

⚖️ Pros & Cons of Living in Casco

✔️ Tight-knit community with a lot of local pride

✔️ Beautiful natural surroundings

❌ Fewer dining and nightlife options

❌ Can feel too quiet in the off-season

 

📚 Sources: Maine Living

 

5. Raymond – Lakeside Living with City Access

📍 Location: 25 miles from Portland (30-minute drive)

💰 Median Home Price (2025): ~$450,000

👥 Population: ~4,500

 

Raymond is a perfect mix of lakeside charm and city convenience, offering some of the best schools and high-end homes in the region.

 

🏡 Why Move to Raymond?

✅ Tassel Top Park—one of Maine’s best sandy beaches

✅ Quick commute to Portland

✅ Great schools & high-end waterfront properties

 

⚖️ Pros & Cons of Living in Raymond

✔️ Lakeside luxury—many high-end homes available

✔️ Best of both worlds—nature & city access

❌ Higher property taxes

❌ Real estate is more expensive than in other towns

 

📚 Sources: Maine MLS

📞 Ready to Find Your Dream Home in Maine’s Lakes Region?

I specialize in helping buyers find the perfect home in the Lakes Region—whether it’s a waterfront estate, a cozy retreat, or a year-round home.

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To contact Doug you can call or text to 207-838-5593, email to doug@makemaineyourhome.com or check out http://www.MakeMaineYourHome.com.