Is It Hard to Live on an Island in Maine Full Time? (Peaks, Chebeague, Great Diamond & Long Island)
For many people, buying a home on a Maine island sounds like the ultimate dream. Casco Bay—just off Portland’s coast—offers stunning communities like Peaks Island, Chebeague Island, Great Diamond Island, and Long Island. But what’s it really like to live on one of these islands year-round? If you’re actively looking to buy in the next 3 months, here’s what you need to know before making the leap.
Considering a move to the coast? Explore Southern Maine real estate for sale.
Transportation: Ferries Are Your Lifeline
Each island has its own ferry schedule. Peaks Island has the most frequent runs—almost hourly—while Chebeague and Long have fewer trips each day. Bad weather can delay or cancel ferries, which means planning ahead for work, school, and appointments.
Groceries & Services: Planning Ahead
Peaks has a few local shops, Chebeague and Long each have small stores, and Great Diamond is quieter with limited services. For larger grocery runs, you’ll take the ferry into Portland. Heating oil, propane, or service calls for plumbing and electrical may take longer—and cost more—than on the mainland.
Community: Close-Knit and Supportive
Island living isn’t just about the views—it’s about people. These islands have year-round residents who know each other well. Chebeague has its own school, Peaks offers a mix of year-round and seasonal families, and all the islands rely on community spirit. If you value strong connections with neighbors, you’ll feel at home.
Lifestyle Trade-Offs
Living on an island means trading convenience for beauty and quiet. The winters are quieter and more isolated, but the reward is unmatched oceanfront living and access to some of the most stunning spots in Maine.
Should You Buy a Home on a Southern Maine Island?
It comes down to lifestyle. If you’re someone who can plan ahead, enjoys tight-knit communities, and doesn’t mind ferry schedules, island living can be deeply rewarding. But if convenience is more important, the mainland may be a better fit.
Final Thought:
If you’re considering buying a home in Maine within the next 3 months, I can help you decide whether Peaks, Chebeague, Great Diamond, or Long Island is the right fit—or if a mainland property better meets your needs.
And remember—If you Make Maine Your Home, you don’t have to do it alone!
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To reach out to Doug you can call or text 207-838-5593, search listings, or contact him with any questions.
Here at The Make Maine Your Home Team at RE/MAX Oceanside, we are your dedicated partners in navigating the real estate market of Greater Portland, Maine. Specializing in helping both buyers and sellers, our mission is to provide unparalleled expertise and personalized service to make your real estate journey as smooth and successful as possible. Whether you’re moving to Maine or looking to sell your current property, we have the local knowledge and professional resources to help you achieve your goals.
