Last Updated on April 16, 2025
Maine—the land of lobsters, blueberries, and pine trees—and maybe a new place to call home? No matter why you want to buy land in this state, the diverse regions make it suitable for year-round abodes, summer homes, or personal campgrounds.
That said, where are the best places to buy land in Maine? There’s the southern coast, western wilderness, lakes, and rivers—the list goes on. Finding the right property at the right price is critical, so we’re here to help.
Explore the many regions across Maine throughout this guide to discover the ones that are most opportune for your next endeavor!
Why Search For the Land in Maine?
Maine has a little something for everyone, whether you’re after off-grid living or lakeside life. Don’t believe us? If you need some more convincing that the Pine Tree State might be the best one for you, here are some other benefits of buying land in Maine:
- Economy – The economy is stable, with growth across economic output, population size, and the number of businesses all trending positively.
- Diverse landscapes – This state has it all—from ocean coastlines to rugged mountains, dense forests, and plenty of lakes. Whether you’re looking to buy a lakefront property, build a secluded woodland retreat in a rural area, or find your next coastal escape, Maine offers diverse landscapes to suit any lifestyle. You can also easily travel to all the other regions you don’t live in.
- Investment – Property and housing values in Maine have grown steadily in recent years and now exceed the national average. Although this means upfront costs might be a little higher than the previous norms, the rising values bode well moving forward for those seeking investment properties.
- Four seasons – If you want to experience all four seasons in all their glory, you’ve found the right place. The state has warm summers and snowy winters, making outdoor recreation a draw for many people.
Okay, now you’re convinced that Maine is the right place to buy property, right? Here comes the fun part: figuring out which region calls your name!
1. Coastal Maine: Perfect for Waterfront Views
Coastal Maine has a lot going for it—it’s likely one of the first places you think of when someone mentions the state, after all! With its serene ocean views and breathtaking landscapes, owning waterfront land here means waking up to a stunning scene right outside your window.
Here are some places to consider when buying land in Maine (that aren’t Portland—we’ll get to that later):
- Kittery – Interested in the oldest town in Maine? You’ve found it. Of course, there’s plenty to do, both new and old. With museums, shopping, walking trails, and beaches, this casual seaside town makes life a breeze.
- Bar Harbor – Another one of the best towns to buy land in Maine, Bar Harbor is a gorgeous area for those who want to relax by the ocean. You’ve got it made with access to Acadia National Park, local shops and restaurants, hiking and skiing trails, as well as ocean life.
The coastal region is expansive, meaning you have numerous places to choose from, ranging from larger cities to sleepy seaside towns.
2. Downeast Maine: A Quiet Retreat With Natural Beauty
Downeast Maine is another popular (and affordable) area for those interested in the beauty of nature. It’s a slow-paced region filled with coastal towns, outdoor fun, and many blueberries.
Washington County is one of the most well-known areas in the Downeast. Situated on the coast, this is the easternmost part of the continental United States, meaning you’ll see the sunrise first here!
You can drive on the coastal byway, visit historical forts, explore wildlife refuges, or watch birds. Popular towns include Cherryfield, Columbia Falls, Machias, and Roque Bluffs.
3. Southern Maine: Ideal for Accessibility and Growth
Southern Maine also offers coastal living if you’re looking for waterfront land, including in and around Portland. Easy access to the city and other towns allows for commuting to work or school and exploring local attractions.
Popular activities for residents in the southern areas include:
- Boating
- Hiking
- Lounging by the beach
- Perusing the farmer’s markets
- Exploring the city
Besides Portland, the Kennebunkport, York, and Ogunquit areas also appeal to many property buyers.
4. Midcoast Maine: A Blend of Charm and Opportunity
Still looking for oceanside life? The Midcoast might be the right choice for you if you’re looking to buy land in Maine. Many places in the Midcoast offer small-town charm and easy access to major cities like Portland. If you’re interested in a laidback lifestyle, you’ve found the right place.
Shipbuilding and farming remain popular occupations here. Areas to consider relocating or building a vacation home include:
- Boothbay
- Brunswick
- Owls Head
- Bath
- Belfast
- Bristol
In your free time, you can explore the scenic waterfront, state parks, nature preserves, or the Passagassawakeag River.
5. Northern Maine: Affordable Land and Vast Landscapes
If the coast isn’t for you, numerous inland communities are suitable for hunting, fishing, stargazing, and more—especially in the north. These northern parcels are ideal for those interested in year-round fun, from camping to skiing.
Aroostook County is an optimal location for those who want to go off the grid. It’s one of the largest counties in the state, situated near the Canadian border. It offers recreational activities such as:
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Wildlife observation
- Birdwatching
- Scenic byways
- Mountain biking
- Aurora borealis sightings
- Snow sports
With affordable property prices, farmland, forests, rivers, lakes, and plenty of other recreation, this part of Northern Maine is a haven for many.
6. Western Maine: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Did you know that Maine is one of the best states to buy lakefront land? If you want to be close to the Appalachian Mountains and glacial lakes, Western Maine is your best betOutdoor activities like hiking, skiing, swimming, fishing, and rafting are local favorites in this rural area. Get lost in the mountains, walk through the forest, or relax by the river.
Popular places to buy residential or recreational land in Western Maine include:
- Farmington – Farmington is a college town offering a lively atmosphere often uncommon in the western part of the state. With access to nature’s wonders, recreational fun like snow sports or hiking, and local amenities, this area is the best of both worlds.
- Franklin County – If you want to live further away from town, check out the rest of Franklin County. Aside from the outdoor activities accessible from Farmington, you can also camp, fish, and visit Mt. Blue State Park, or explore the Rangeley Lakes.
- Oxford County – Another rural area in the western region is Oxford County, where you can enjoy small-town charm and everything nature offers. Take a hike, fish at Androscoggin River, or visit Thompson Lake.
Whether you want to build a vacation home or own recreational tracts for snowmobiling, Western Maine has the undeveloped land you need for rural fun.
7. Central Maine: The Heart of the State’s Agricultural Land
If you want to establish a new farm, search for parcels in the central portion of Maine. The area has fertile soil that works well for many plants, making it a suitable place to grow crops to sell to the local community.
When you’re not busy on the farm, you can explore Central Maine’s outdoor activities, of which there are many. You’ll be surrounded by forests, greeted by rivers, and welcomed by lakes. Mother Nature encourages skiing and hiking, too. Start with these locations:
- Piscataquis County – Nature lovers rejoice for you have found paradise! You’ll always have entertainment from Elephant Mountain to waterfalls, forests, and Moosehead Lake.
- Somerset County – Another option for rural charm is Somerset County. For example, Skowhegan is a popular destination in the region with all your favorite recreation, from hiking to skiing and fishing.
If you prefer rural life, Central Maine is one of the best places to find it, whether for a full-time home, winter getaway, or vacation rental.
Choosing the Best Place to Buy Land in Maine
Now that you have a lay of the land (get it?), you have to decide which part of Maine is right for you. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your next land purchase:
- Goals – What do you want the land for? Consider whether you intend to build your dream home, start a farm, or create a magical vacation getaway. What types of activities or lifestyles are you after? For example, you may want coastal living or rural mountain adventures.
- Budget – You’ll also need to consider what you’re willing to pay for a parcel in Maine. Some places, like those surrounding the coastal city of Portland, will be more costly than others.
- Commute – If you plan to work or raise a family here, it helps to consider how easily you can get from one place to another. In-person work, schooling for children, medical care, and shopping are all crucial considerations.
Once you thoroughly understand your goals and preferences, you can narrow down your search for land for sale in Maine and decide which part of the state best suits your needs
Then, use Land.com’s tools to find available parcels in your preferred locations or connect with local Land Pros. Type in a desired county or city, search by plot type, and sort by acreage or price to find one that aligns with your needs.
Make Buying Maine Property Easier With Land.com
Ready to find a piece of Maine to call your own? Start the search with Land.com. Our platform makes browsing statewide listings easy, from coastal living to hunting plots and small-town life. With affordable prices, diverse landscapes, and plenty of rural charm, Maine property is a long-term investment likely worth your while.
Found the property of your dreams? Connect with a land professional today to learn more about it, schedule a tour, negotiate a price, and handle all legal parts of buying land in Maine.
Sources:
IBISWorld. Maine Economic Overview. https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/economic-profiles/maine/
Kilgore News Herald. 119.5% 10-Year Increase in Maine Home Prices, 11th Largest in U.S. https://www.kilgorenewsherald.com/119-5-10-year-increase-in-maine-home-prices-11th-largest-in-u-s/article_a22bf4f8-9885-5fa2-9896-cd7868ecb9c2.html
Maine. Kittery. https://visitmaine.com/places-to-go/maine-beaches/kittery/
Washington County Maine. Welcome to Washington County. https://washingtoncountymaine.com/
Live + Work in Maine. Discover Southern Maine. https://www.liveandworkinmaine.com/region/southern-maine
DownEast. The Best Places to Live in Maine Right Now. https://downeast.com/features/best-places-to-live-in-maine-2022/
