Why People Prefer Living in Maine to Massachusetts

Why People Prefer Living in Maine to Massachusetts: Housing Costs and Lifestyle Differentials

Living off the cost of housing has significantly driven the migration trend from Massachusetts to Maine. My cousin and his wife exemplify this trend, deciding to buy a house in Wells, Maine, upon their retirement. Their primary goals were proximity to the beach, a spacious home, and reduced mortgage payments. In the early 1990s, the disparity in housing costs made such a move highly sensible. They sold their home in a wealthy suburb of Boston, securing enough funds to purchase a comfortable home on a half-acre lot, a mere five-minute drive from the beach. At that time, the differential in home prices in Southern Maine was considerably greater. Many others took notice, and now, the home prices in Southern Maine are nearly as high as in Boston's metropolitan area. As a result, York County has almost become a suburb of Boston.

Far-Left Politics, Taxes, and Cost of Living

Far-left politics in Massachusetts, coupled with high taxes and a high cost of living, have driven many from the state. People seeking the tranquility of country or small town life head north to Maine or New Hampshire. Meanwhile, those desiring a thriving city life migrate to Providence in Southern Massachusetts, rather than northward.

Negative Influences on Maine

Sadly, many of the migrants to Maine believe they are making a positive contribution to their community, a sense of missionary zeal. However, my experience leads me to believe that they are actually refugees from the far-left, chaotic politics and urban environments of Massachusetts. These individuals have been attempting to impose their version of society on Maine, transforming what was once a peaceful state into a volatile area.

Comparing Massachusetts and Maine

Compared to Massachusetts, Maine is less crowded, more rural, and people-oriented. Sadly, this is not uniformly true for all of Massachusetts, particularly in the eastern part around "Bean Town." The areas around Boston and other urban centers are far less desirable to most people. Only those who support the Boston sports teams and events seem to enjoy the city life there.

Job Opportunities and Quality of Life

Another significant factor is the job market. Beyond the Portland area, rural Maine offers limited opportunities. This challenge is not limited to Massachusetts alone. Many young people are moving to places with more job prospects in the search for success. During the tourist season, people struggle to make ends meet; during the off-season, they must find alternative ways to earn a living, such as side jobs.

The Desirability of Maine

Naturally, I long to return to Maine, despite its imperfections. Here are a few reasons why I hold Maine in such high regard:

Natural Beauty: From the ocean to the mountains to the vast woodlands, Maine is breathtaking. Massachusetts has its beautiful spots, but to many, including myself, Maine remains the most beautiful place on Earth. People and Social Beliefs: Maine values people more than their income. Massachusetts, ironically, is highly fixated on money and social class. Towns or cities are often judged based on income levels, which is not the case in Maine. Maine’s unique culture and way of life are evident in the way people talk and think, showcasing a more relaxed and humorous demeanor. Community Feel: Maine’s strong sense of community is something that permeates social interactions. Even though everyone isn’t necessarily fond of each other, there is a sense of belonging. People in Maine remember who you are and where you came from. This feeling of being part of a community is something that permeates every aspect of life in Maine.

In conclusion, while it’s hard to definitively say one state is better than another, Maine certainly seems the more desirable place to live. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, social values, and a strong sense of community that can be hard to find in other states.