Here, the term ‘golden years’ is less about serene living and more about the survival of the fittest.
If you enjoy the quaint charm of limited access to the necessities, like grocery stores or hospitals, then buckle up!
Let’s embark on a journey through Maine’s least retiree-friendly towns, where ‘peace and quiet’ takes on a whole new meaning.
1. Millinocket, Maine
Millinocket once thrived as a paper mill town. Now, it’s quieter with fewer job opportunities. The population is aging, and the town has seen better days.
The cost of living is low, but so are the amenities. Healthcare services are limited, which is a concern for many retirees.
Winter here is harsh. Snow and cold can last longer than most retirees would prefer, making it difficult for outdoor activities.
Retirement Drawback: Limited healthcare options and harsh winters make it less appealing for retirees.
2. Eastport, Maine
Eastport is the easternmost city in the U.S. and has stunning ocean views. However, it’s quite remote.
Access to major hospitals or specialized healthcare is problematic. The nearest major city is several hours away.
The population is small, and while the community is tight-knit, some might find it too quiet.
Retirement Drawback: Its remoteness and lack of healthcare facilities place it on this list.
3. Caribou, Maine
Caribou boasts a rich history and beautiful landscapes but has a declining population.
The local economy relies heavily on agriculture and manufacturing, sectors that don’t offer much for retirees.
Winters are long and brutally cold, which can be a major deterrent for anyone looking to enjoy their golden years in milder weather.
Retirement Drawback: Severe winters and a declining population are major cons for retirees.
4. Rumford, Maine
Rumford is known for its paper mill, which is a major employer but also brings pollution. This might be a concern for those with health issues.
The town has some cultural activities, but they are limited compared to larger towns and cities.
Property taxes are relatively high, which could eat into a fixed retirement budget.
Retirement Drawback: High property taxes and industrial pollution are key negatives for retirees.
5. Madawaska, Maine
Located at the northern tip of Maine, Madawaska suffers from extreme weather conditions.
The town is far from major urban centers, making it difficult for retirees who need regular medical services.
While the cost of living is low, so is the availability of modern conveniences and shopping options.
Retirement Drawback: Extreme weather and isolation from urban amenities make it less suitable for retirees.
6. Houlton, Maine
Houlton is a border town with a small community vibe. It’s quiet and the pace of life is slow.
However, the town has limited medical facilities, which is a significant issue for retirees needing specialized care.
The local economy isn’t very dynamic, offering few opportunities for those who wish to stay active in their retirement years.
Retirement Drawback: Lack of medical facilities and a sluggish economy are downsides for retirees.
7. Dover-Foxcroft, Maine
Dover-Foxcroft is the largest town in Piscataquis County, yet it feels small with limited recreational and social activities for seniors.
The healthcare services are basic, and more complex medical needs require travel to larger cities.
The town has a quaint charm, but the lack of amenities can be a turnoff for many retirees.
Retirement Drawback: Basic healthcare services and limited social activities are not ideal for retirees.
8. Fort Kent, Maine
Fort Kent is known for its strong French Acadian culture and being a gateway to scenic outdoor activities.
However, the town is isolated, and the nearest major hospital is over two hours away.
The long, snowy winters make it difficult for year-round enjoyment, particularly for those with mobility issues.
Retirement Drawback: Isolation and severe winters are challenging for retirees.
9. Lincoln, Maine
Lincoln once had a thriving paper industry but now struggles with unemployment and a lack of new businesses.
The town is scenic with several lakes, but lacks major healthcare facilities, a crucial factor for retirees.
While the cost of living is low, the lack of amenities and services can be problematic.
Retirement Drawback: Lack of healthcare facilities and economic opportunities are drawbacks for retirees.
10. Machias, Maine
Machias is historic, known for the first naval battle of the American Revolution. It has a unique charm with access to rugged coastal scenery.
However, the town is small and remote. Services like healthcare and entertainment are minimal.
It’s great for peace and quiet but might be too cut off for many looking to retire comfortably.
Retirement Drawback: The remoteness and minimal services make it less attractive for retirees.
11. Skowhegan, Maine
Skowhegan, known for its annual fair, lacks the cultural and social amenities that attract many retirees.
Public transportation options are limited, which can be a hurdle for those who no longer drive.
The town has a lower cost of living but also fewer healthcare options, essential for aging residents.
Retirement Drawback: Limited healthcare and transportation make it less appealing for retirement.
12. Pittsfield, Maine
Pittsfield is a small town with a tight-knit community, but it lacks diversity in dining and leisure activities.
The job market is geared more towards younger individuals, with few opportunities for retirees to find part-time employment.
The weather can be a challenge, with long, cold winters that may deter those looking for a milder climate.
Retirement Drawback: The lack of leisure activities and harsh winters are significant negatives for retirees.
13. Newport, Maine
Newport offers beautiful lakes and is relatively quiet, which could appeal to some retirees.
However, it lacks modern healthcare facilities. The nearest hospital with full services is over an hour away.
The town’s small size also means fewer social opportunities and community services that cater to the elderly.
Retirement Drawback: Inadequate healthcare services and limited social opportunities put it on this list.
14. Presque Isle, Maine
Presque Isle acts as a hub in northern Maine but is quite remote from larger urban centers.
While it offers some amenities, the cost of living is higher due to its location, which can strain a retirement budget.
The cold climate persists for much of the year, limiting outdoor activities.
Retirement Drawback: High living costs and a prolonged cold climate are drawbacks for retirees.
15. Old Town, Maine
Old Town is near the University of Maine, which provides some cultural benefits. However, it primarily caters to the younger population.
The industrial sectors dominate the economy, which doesn’t provide much for retirees looking for leisure or service-oriented jobs.
Despite its name, the town has a limited historical charm, which might not appeal to those seeking a quaint retirement setting.
Retirement Drawback: An economy focused on industrial jobs and limited charm are less enticing for retirees.
16. Van Buren, Maine
Located on the Canadian border, Van Buren offers unique cultural experiences but suffers from economic stagnation.
The population is declining, and with it, essential services are dwindling, including healthcare and entertainment.
Its remote location makes it difficult for retirees who need regular access to larger city amenities.
Retirement Drawback: Economic decline and remoteness make it challenging for retirees.
17. Dexter, Maine
Dexter has picturesque landscapes but lacks significant investment in public infrastructure.
Public transportation and healthcare facilities are inadequate for the needs of a growing retiree population.
The community is small and while friendly, may not offer the variety of social interactions sought by retirees.
Retirement Drawback: Poor infrastructure and limited social venues are major cons for retirees.
18. Buckfield, Maine
Buckfield, while scenic, is far from major medical centers, a key consideration for retirees.
The town has a very small population, which might appeal to those seeking solitude but not to those looking for community activities.
Recreational and leisure activities that cater to seniors are also sparse.
Retirement Drawback: Lack of medical facilities and recreational activities are significant drawbacks for retirees.
19. Calais, Maine
Calais is located on the border with Canada, offering beautiful river views and access to cross-border amenities.
However, the local economy is not very robust, and job opportunities are limited, which may affect retirees looking to supplement their income.
Healthcare options are limited, and the community, while close-knit, may not offer all the services needed by retirees.
Retirement Drawback: Limited healthcare and economic opportunities place Calais on this list.
20. Greenville, Maine
Greenville is at the heart of Maine’s wilderness, ideal for those who love the outdoors. However, it’s quite isolated from urban centers.
Medical services are minimal, and the nearest major hospital is far away, making healthcare access challenging.
The harsh winters can be a deterrent for those accustomed to milder climates.
Retirement Drawback: Isolation and limited healthcare make Greenville a less desirable location for retirees.
MAINE, LACK OF A GOOD GOVERNOR FOR YEARS .. TRUTH..
So basically Maine sucks. Especially Northern Maine. Because of lack of medical. Seems being close to Canada is no reward.
I would disagree. Northern Maine is the future. If you don’t like cold go south in the winter. Health care varies with your needs. If that worries you rent an apartment in a hospital.
It’s not about grocery stores, it’s all about people. The communities you listed have some of the nicest, friendliest and most accommodating people in this country.
RANGELEY should be on this list. No Pharmacy, no mail delivery, no trash pick up, no car wash,. no bottle redemption, one grocery store with prices way above other stores in other towns, no designated parking space for postal customers, making a long walk most days in the summer due to no parking available on the street, many elderly cannot walk the distance req;uired to pick up mail at the post office and as stated before, no mail delivery in this town. One more thing, the local newspaper which has been delivered in this town for years is no longer available here.
You forgot Jonesport, ME !!!!!!
As a long time Millinocket resident we have everything we need and more! No traffic, quite, great people and beautiful area to live! Get sick if cold weather? Go vacation in Florida or where ever!
Maine could be two different states. If you want to see the real Maine, get above Bangor, the real State of Maine.
You forgot Bar Harbour and most of the coast , where things are more expensive and tourists make summers congested . No peace to be found there .
Your article consistently mentions inadequate access to health care.
True so make that an introduction statement and save print space.
You use the term “close” or “tight” knit community. Those are euphemisms for “if you are not from here you better have a large family because you will always be an outsider.” This is not unique to Maine. Small towns across the country are closed to outsiders.
It would’ve been easier if you had just said stay out of Aroostook County. As far as the rest of the state is concerned, Maine stops at Bangor anyway. I grew up in Presque Isle and proud of it.
Ì live in Maine because of the small communities and there are plenty of things to do. I’d rather travel for amenities than have traffic and people.
The person who wrote this obviously prefers places like Portland, and Augusta, which are basically extensions of Boston. If that’s your cup of tea, go there now. We have a unique way of life in upper Maine, and if you want to be 5 minutes from a hospital, factory, or night club, you won’t like it here. Neighbors take care of each other, and it’s very peaceful here, and we enjoy winter. We also have some of the best food in the world at affordable prices in our local restaurants!