Augusta, ME

Augusta sits right along the Kennebec River, which naturally divides the city into two distinct sides. On the west bank, downtown Water Street runs along the waterfront while the gold dome of the Maine State House rises on the hill above. Across the water on the east side, Old Fort Western sits as a reminder of the area's early trading days. As Maine's capital, state government is a major presence here, with the Capitol Complex, the governor's residence at the Blaine House, and various state offices shaping the cityscape. Even with all the civic activity, Augusta keeps a relaxed, small-town atmosphere framed by the river and surrounding green hills.

ATTRQuintin Soloviev / CC BY 4.0

House hunting here offers several different settings depending on what you are looking for. Options range from classic older homes on the west side near the Capitol to quiet residential neighborhoods across the river, suburban streets near the medical center, or larger wooded lots on the outskirts of town. When shopping for a place, be sure to check on insulation, heating setups, and roof condition, since winter weather in central Maine is no joke. A reliable driveway is practically a must-have as well, because Augusta bans overnight street parking throughout the winter to keep roads clear for snowplows. Consider which side of the river you will spend most of your time on, as bridge crossings will become part of your daily routine.

ATTRJohn Phelan / CC BY-SA 3.0

State agencies provide a large share of local jobs, alongside major employers like the MaineGeneral Alfond Center for Health and the University of Maine at Augusta. In your free time, downtown Water Street offers a growing lineup of local diners, pubs, coffee shops, and riverfront apartments in historic brick buildings. For outdoor recreation, the Kennebec River Rail Trail is a local favorite, giving runners, walkers, and cyclists a scenic route all the way into neighboring Hallowell. With seasonal events, the weekly farmers market at Mill Park, and the beautiful Lithgow Public Library, Augusta offers plenty of comfortable community anchors without the traffic or expense of larger cities.