If you’re thinking about moving to Maine with your family, one of the biggest questions on your mind is probably: what kind of life will my kids have here? As someone who helps families relocate to Maine, I hear this all the time—and it’s a great question.
Give your kids a Maine childhood. Discover homes in Southern Maine.
Let’s dive into what it’s really like for kids growing up in Maine. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about lobster rolls and lighthouses—it’s about childhood the way it should be.
Education in Maine
Maine offers a mix of education options:
- Public Schools: Class sizes are often smaller, especially in rural areas, and districts like Portland and Falmouth boast strong extracurricular programs.
- Private Schools: Institutions like North Yarmouth Academy and Waynflete offer private education with low student-teacher ratios.
- State Support: Maine funds about 55% of K–12 education, and as of 2024, all public schools provide free lunch to students (AP News).
After-School and Community Programs
Whether it’s Before & After the Bell in Portland or K–8 Rec Camps in South Portland, you’ll find affordable enrichment options. The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine offers STEM activities, while The Telling Room provides literacy programs. Plus, there are active Boys & Girls Clubs in Portland, Auburn, and Biddeford.
Maine’s Legendary Summer Camps
Classic camps like Camp Timanous, Wyonegonic, and Nashoba North are thriving in 2025. There are also nature-focused experiences through Maine Outdoor Kids, designed to build confidence and a love of the outdoors.
Outdoor Life in Every Season
One thing Maine kids never lack? Outdoor adventure:
- Summer: Swimming at Old Orchard Beach or Reid State Park
- Fall: Hiking Bradbury Mountain or Wolfe’s Neck Woods
- Winter: Skiing Pleasant Peak, sledding, or snowshoeing
- Spring: Exploring muddy trails or Junior Ranger programs at Maine State Parks
The Pros and Cons of Raising Kids in Maine
While Maine offers fresh air, safety, and community, it’s not perfect:
- Rural areas may lack resources like mental health services and public transportation.
- Most families need a car for daily activities.
- Some towns have child poverty rates above the national average (JTG Foundation).
But here’s what I hear from families I’ve helped move here:
“My kids thrive here. They get to be kids again.”
If that’s the kind of life you want for your family, Maine might just be your perfect next chapter.
Ready to Make the Move?
If you’re considering Maine, let us help you find the right town, neighborhood, and even the best sledding hill! Reach out anytime—we’re real people ready to help you make a smart move.
And remember—If you Make Maine Your Home, you don’t have to do it alone!
Watch the Video:
vc
Listen the the Audio:
To reach out to Doug you can call or text 207-838-5593, search listings, or contact him with any questions.
