WELCOME TO MAINE
WHAT TO DO
WHERE TO EAT
We love our local community and we know you will too! PLACES TO SHOP
L C O M E
E
WSouthern Maine
IS EXCITED TO WELCOME YOU!
Speckled with lobster shacks, shingle style houses, trail heads and trendy coffee shops, Southern Maine is New England’s coolest hub The absence of traffic, abundance of nature and an extraordinary food scene are luring many urbanites north Morning commutes behind bumpers are replaced by ocean views, and workdays end with live music shows, walks on the beach or cross-country skiing
As a native Mainer, I understand firsthand that this state offers a lifestyle and a culture that transcend description. Whether you ' re seeking a seasonal escape or a lifelong journey, I am thrilled to share the wonders of this incredible state with you
I hope this guide to the Greater Portland area answers any questions you may have
My team is here to help with any of your real estate or local needs, and we are excited to have you as a part of our community!
Warmly,
Taylor TAYLOR + MCFARLANE FIELD ASSOCIATES
NOTES ON MAINE
LOCAL LIVING
COMMUNITIES
SCHOOLS
LOCAL FAVORITES
SPRING + SUMMER
FALL + WINTER
WHO WE ARE WORKING WITH US
PORTSIDE + 1% FOR MAINE
Notes on Maine
Maine is the first state in the US to see the sunrise
Maine has the highest success rate of small businesses in the country
Maine has over 5,000 miles of coast including the islands, offering unparalleled access to beaches, boating, and coastal living
Maine has 546,629 acres of State + National Parks
With 17 million acres of forest, Maine is 90% forested, offering extensive opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation
Portland, Maine is Bon Appétit's Foodiest City in America
Portland, Maine is Huffington Post's Top 10 Coziest Cities in America
Unemployment in Maine is below average at 2 4%
Maine supplies nearly 90% of the United States' lobster supply
Maine supplies more than 90% of the United States' blueberry supply
Maine has more than 6,000 lakes and ponds
Local Living
CLIMATE
Maine's weather is as real and varied as its people Though geographically Maine has four seasons - Summer, Spring, Fall, and Winter - an old joke about Maine is that there are only two seasonsWinter and August We will complain about every kind of weather except a rare, sunny 70-degree day with no humidity. But we also won't let it hold us back We like to say there's no bad weather, just bad gear This is true whether we are swimming in our admittedly shockingly cold ocean or skiing at 20 below zero It's not that we ' re tougher than other people; we just might be more stubborn.
Winters can be downright cold, with temperatures routinely below freezing Bundle up and brace yourself for some snowy days! One way to get around the winters is to embrace the cold season fully. Take up skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing to make the season pass faster otherwise, it has the ability to feel brutal and never-ending Winters help keep the population down.
Summers, on the other hand, are a breath of fresh air and what makes the winters worth it Along the coast, temperatures hover in the 70s°F, while inland areas warm up to the 80s-90s°F. Spring and fall provide transitional weather, but it's the fall that steals the show The foliage paints the landscape in breathtaking, vibrant colors and, in my opinion, is Maine's best-kept secret
While usually free from natural disasters, Maine can occasionally throw some wild weather your way, like fierce nor 'easters and blizzards during winter. Truthfully though, those can be part of the Maine charm!
Local Living
COST OF LIVING
The cost of living in Maine is generally considered to be slightly above the national average While as a state the cost of living in Maine is rated 96 5 (and the United States average is 100) the Greater Portland area certainly sits higher than much of the state Housing costs have increased significantly since the pandemic with some markets rising nearly 50% in 3 years Groceries, healthcare, and transportation expenses are generally in line with national averages, if not slightly above.
Property tax rates in Maine are above the U S average Maine’s average effective property tax rate is 1 30% The U S average is 1.07%.
Maine’s income tax ranges from 5 80% - 7 15%
Sales tax in Maine is 5 50%
Maine’s gas tax is 30 cents per gallon of regular gasoline
The cost of housing in the Greater Portland area of Maine has been on the rise in recent years due to the region's desirability and strong demand. There is still a wide range of economic diversity in the Greater Portland offering options for everything from $300,000 to $3,000,000 and beyond
Despite the higher costs, many residents find the quality of life, cultural offerings, and natural beauty of Portland well worth the investment
Local Living
EMPLOYMENT
Portland boasts an impressively low unemployment rate of just 2 2%, a great achievement when compared to the national rate of 3 4% The median household income in the city was reported as $66,019 according to the last census. It's important to note that this figure reflects data from 2021, before accounting for inflation, the influx of new residents, and the recent increase in the state's minimum wage
Nevertheless, Maine is currently experiencing an unprecedented surge in job opportunities, with a staggering 648,000 positions available as of January 2023.
The biggest employer in the state is MaineHealth, and Portland is home to multiple hospitals The city also has a hefty tourism industry, counting 11,500 jobs The area attracts 5 4 million visitors every year, whose spending has reached $682 million.
TOP 5 MARKET INDUSTRIES
Life Sciences + Medicine 1 Forest Products 2 Marine Aquaculture 3. Food + Agriculture 4. Outdoor Recreation 5.
TOP 5 EMPLOYERS
MaineHealth 1 Hannaford Bros Co 2 Walmart / Sam's Club 3. Bath Iron Works 4. LL Bean 5.
"Maine, where you move to make a life not just a living.”
Communities
CAPE ELIZABETH
Cape Elizabeth is an iconic example of a quiet seaside town meets vibrant community Picture this: only two traffic lights, over a third of the town preserved as conservation land, and the world's most photographed lighthouse right in your backyard Not to mention, the award winning schools Cape Elizabeth offers a non-commercial vibe that keeps things downto-earth while still being close enough to Greater Portland for urban needs. To live in Cape is to value nature and community.
CUMBERLAND
Just 10 miles from Portland, Cumberland's magic is that you feel like you are in a sweet countryside destination Enjoy privacy while also being super close to excellent schools, restaurants, and shopping There are three areas: Cumberland Center, Cumberland and West Cumberland The Foreside rolls beautifully into the Atlantic Ocean while West Cumberland holds on to its Agricultural roots with even a few working farms remaining! A true blend of all that is beautiful in Maine
FALMOUTH
Falmouth kicks off the extraordinary stretch of Portland's northern coastal suburbs In Falmouth you can strike a great balance between true convenience and quiet surroundings Falmouth is home to three country clubs, a skating rink, the historical Portland Yacht Club, an abundance of moorings, and both larger and local shops in the center of town With the schools being among the top in the state it is great place to settle down and enjoy a high quality of life surrounded by the beauty of Maine's coastal living
Communities
FREEPORT
Beyond Freeport's impressive commercial district and flagship LL Bean campus lies a tight-knit community that relishes its proximity to beaches, trails, and Portland Despite feeling miles away from civilization, residents enjoy quick access to shopping, restaurants, and the train station Maine shingle-style cottages, barns and Victorian homes grace the town, with many offering access or views of Casco Bay or the Harraseeket River Freeport combines a serene atmosphere with convenient amenities
SCARBOROUGH
This vibrant town captivates with its pristine beaches, marshland, scenic trails, and a warm community spirit. Scarborough offers beach-town vibes and urban conveniences, making it a desirable destination for those seeking a balance of everything Ample newer developments provide a number of ll as a new and evolving modern town s nearly 50 square miles and one of est growing communities and a great
SOUTH PORTLAND
Voted one of the Best Places to live in Maine, South Portland is a coastal gem with a working waterfront, beaches, historic lighthouses, large commercial areas and a wide variety of homes and condos. Enjoy waterfront dining, hit the trails and take in stunning sunsets over Casco Bay and Portland Skyline With its rich history, thriving arts scene, and proximity to Portland, it is an ideal destination for those seeking a vibrant community with a coastal flair
Communities
PORTLAND
The largest coastal city in Maine has basked in the limelight as one of the most livable places in the US With its rich history and working waterfront, Portland attracts both food enthusiasts and art aficionados Serving as Maine's largest urban hub, the heart of Portland lies in the "Old Port" area, characterized by its cobblestone streets, active wharves, galleries, boutiques, and acclaimed dining options Nestled on the scenic Casco Bay, the city is a gateway to numerous accessible islands and coastal communities
NORTH YARMOUTH
A quiet rural town, North Yarmouth is loved for its rolling landscapes, rich historical ambiance, and charming downtown. It offers a plethora of hiking trails, open-air spaces, and an ever-evolving town center, making it ideal for those looking for the right balance of space and convenience A quick trip to Portland or more urban settings sets this town apart from others as a true gem
YARMOUTH
With its charming Main Street Village, scenic parkway along the Royal River, and sheltered harbor, Yarmouth offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. Explore the historic streets, enjoy green recreational spaces, and experience the warmth of community events like the annual Yarmouth Clam Festival With sidewalks that welcome pedestrians, Yarmouth invites you to immerse yourself in its oldworld charm and embrace the idyllic village atmosphere
"I would rather feel bad in Maine than feel good anywhere else."
Public School Districts
Cape Elizabeth Public Schools
cape k12 me us | 207 799 2217
Falmouth Public Schools
falmouthschools.org | 207.781.3200
Yarmouth Public Schools
yarmouthschools org | 207 846 5586
Regional School Unit No. 51: (Greely)
North Yarmouth + Cumberland
msad51 org | 207 829 4800
Portland Public Schools
portlandschools org | 207 874 8100
South Portland Public Schools spsd.org | 207.871.0555
Scarborough Public Schools
scarboroughschools org | 207 730 4100
Regional School Unit No. 05: Freeport, Durham + Pownal rsu5 org | 207 869 0928
Notable Private Schools
Roots Academy (K-6th)
rootslearningcommunity com
Waynflete
waynflete.org
Friends School
friendsschoolportland org
Maine Coast Waldorf School mainecoastwaldorf org
St. Brigid sbrigids com
The French School efdm org
Cheverus Catholic High School cheverus.org
North Yarmouth Academy nya org
Holy Cross School holycrossmaine org
Breakwater School (Middle) school breakwaterlearning org
What’s Hot FOOD + DRINKS
Luke's Lobster | Portland
Eventide | Portland
Portland Lobster Co | Portland
High Roller | Portland
Bite Into ME | Cape Elizabeth/Portland
The Lobster Shack | Cape Elizabeth
Shipwreck Foods | Old Orchard Beach
Hanks | Scarborough
Woodford Food & Bev. | Portland
Pai Men Miyake | Portland
Izykaya Minato | Portland
SoPo Seafood | South Portland
Terilingua | Portland
Công Tù Bôt | Portland
The Good Table | Cape Elizabeth
Wander | Cumberland
Green Elephant (vegan) | Portland
Vickie’s Veggie Table (vegan) | Biddeford
Rosella KPT (sustainable sushi) | Kennebunk
Trudy Bird’s Ølbar (Scandinavian) | N Yarmouth
ok Mali (Thai) | Portland
Via Vecchia (Italian) | Portland
Papi (Puerto Rican) | Portland
Leeward (Handmade Pasta) | Portland
What’s Hot FOOD + DRINKS
Wayside Tavern | Portland
Chez Rosa | Kennebunkport
Regards | Portland
Quanto Basta | Portland
Fore Street | Portland
18 Central Oyster Bar + Grill | Rockport
Dara | Cumberland
The Garrison | Yarmouth
Norimoto Bakery | Portland
Scratch Baking | South Portland
Two Fat Cats | Portland & South Portland
Jack Rabbit | Biddeford
Bread & Friends | Portland
Standard Baking Co. | Portland
BLVL | Portland
Time + Tide | Biddeford
dem | Portland
Purple House | North Yarmouth
e Foods | Portland
y Duckling | Portland
ad & Friends | Portland
anda Bean | Various Locations
L | Portland
e + Tide | Biddeford
What’s Hot FOOD + DRINKS
Hot Suppa | Portland
The Sinful Kitchen | Portland
The Front Room | Portland
Union | Portland
Miss Portland Diner | Portland
Otherside Diner | Portland
Palace Diner | Biddeford
Frog + Turtle | Westbrook
Smalls | Portland
LB Kitchen | Portland
Yosaku | Portland
Mae’s | Bath
Central Provisions | Portland
Lenora | Portland
Ugly Duckling | Portland
Batson River Brewing | Biddeford
The Well at Jordan Farm | Cape Eliz
Earth at Hidden Pond | Kennebunkport
Crown Jewel | Great Diamond Island
Black Point Inn | Scarborough
Primo | Rockland
White Barn Inn | Kennebunk
Chebeague Island Inn | Chebeague Is. Magnus on the Water | Biddeford
What’s Hot FOOD + DRINKS
Goodfire | Portland & Freeport
Maine Beer Co | Freeport
Aprés | Portland
Root Wild Kombucha | Portland
Nonesuch River | Scarborough
Rising Tide | Portland
Mass Landing Brewery | Westbrook
Foulmouth | South Portland
Hunt + Alpine | Portland
Maine & Loire | Portland
Royal River Grill House | Yarmouth
Blyth and Burrows | Portland
Helm Oyster Bar | Portland
Scales | Portland
The Jewel Box | Portland
43 North | South Portland
Clayton's Deli | Yarmouth
C*Salt Gourmet Market | Cape Eliz
Rosemont Market | Various Locations
The Cheese Iron | Scarborough
Brown Trading Co | Portland
Big Tree Grocery | Biddeford
Veranda Asian Market | Portland
Micucci's Grocery | Portland
What’s Hot AROUND
TOWN
Aragosta | Deer Isle
The Francis | Portland
Blind Tiger | Portland
The Federal | Brunswick
Camden Harbour Inn | Camden
The Cliff House | Cape Neddick
Hidden Pond | Kennebunkport
The Lincoln Hotel | Biddeford
Zane (women’s clothing) | Portland
Bliss (women’s clothing) | Portland
Portland Dry Goods | Portland
Judith (women’s clothing) | Portland
Viand Mercantile (unique goods) | Portland
North Optical (eye glasses) | Portland
Folly 101 (home + gifts) | Portland
Evangeline (home + gifts) | Portland
Nine Stones Spa | Portland
Inn By The Sea | Cape Elizabeth
The Samoset Resort | Rockport
The Cliff House | Cape Neddick
Spruce Point Inn | Boothbay Harbor
Washington Baths | Portland
Lucinda’s | Cumberland
Pure Vida Day Spa | Brunswick
SUMMER GLAMPING
Choose one of many glamping sites throughout the state From Top'sl Farm A frames to treehouses in the middle of the state and yurts on islands the options are plentiful
BERRY PICKING
Stay along the coast and pick Maxwell or Jordan farm
B
Don t own a boat? Join a boat club where you have access to a number of boats all season long for the fraction of the price of owning your own! Port Harbor Marina and Freedom Boat Club are two of the local favorites
Stop by the Deering Oaks Farmers market in Portland on Saturday mornings The further into summer it gets, the more amazing produce and offerings they will have You can also find a number of small local markets throughout the week.
ISLAND HOPPING
Jump on the Casco Bay Ferry
SUNSET SAIL
Choose from a number of wine or evening sunset sails in Casco Bay. The Frances is a personal favorite.
DAY TRIPS
Head north or south along the coast and pick a different town to explore Drive the Kangamangus or visit the botanical gardens
WINTER GLAMPING
Choose one of many glamping sites throughout the state From Tops'l Farm A frames to treehouses in the middle of the state to ski in - ski out huts, there are endless awesome glamping options year round
SKIING & SNOWBOARDING
Whether you downhill, cross country, snowboard, or AT Ski you will have options abound Sugarloaf, Sunday River, Pleasant Mountain and Saddleback are among the favorites
BREWERY TOURS
Hop on the Maine Brew Bus and explore Portland breweries and distilleries
HIKING
Hiking in Maine offers breathtaking natural landscapes, from rugged mountains and dense forests to picturesque coastal trails There are endless opportunities for adventure and exploration from beginner to expert.
ISLAND HOPPING
Jump on the Casco Bay Ferry and head out to a few different islands for the day Bring or rent a bike and grab lunch along the way!
SURFING
Winter surfing! Yes, it's a thing that many Mainers love doing Cozy up in a winter wetsuit and beat the crowds when the waves are the best!
APPLE PICKING
Start with picking and then see how many apples you can actually eat or make into something delicious! Many orchards also have accompanying activities!
THE ARTS
Explore Portland's dynamic community of artists From galleries to the theater to hands on classes there is always something to enjoy!
DAY TRIPS
Head north or south along the coast and pick a different town to explore Drive the Kangamangus or visit the botanical gardens.
Meet Our Team
NOW THAT WE’VE INSPIRED YOU TO COMMIT TO THE MOVE, LET’S FIND A HOUSE!
At McFarlane Field, we ' re deeply committed to providing an outstanding real estate experience. We combine our extensive knowledge of the Coastal Maine and the Greater Portland market with a focus on making your journey enjoyable and seamless Our team values building strong, trusted relationships through education, transparency, and unwavering integrity.
McFarlane Field has been a top team in Maine for more than 40 years We know the ins and outs of Maine that make it so special and we love sharing it with our clients. Our experience sets up apart and we love sharing it with our clients.
NANCY FIELD Broker
JEN MONSULICK Operations Manager
JENNIFER TABB Associate Broker
FERRELL Broker Associate Broker
Meet Taylor
CLIENT FOCUSED. RESULTS DRIVEN.
Taylor McFarlane
BUYER’S AGENT • ASSOCIATE BROKER
Taylor's network, knowledge, and approachability are what set her apart. She is passionate about delivering the highest level of service to her clients, whether they are new to the process or experienced She epitomizes integrity and attention to detail in every transaction, and it’s what contributed to her rapid success in the industry
Taylor was recently honored as one of Maine's emerging leaders with the MaineBiz 40 Under 40 Award, celebrating rising stars of Maine’s business community
Taylor is the archetype of what a great buyer's agent should be She has deep knowledge of homes and the local environment along with strong connections with other brokers. We would highly recommend Taylor to anyone looking for a well-informed, fun, and attentive buyers agent in the Portland area
- DANIELLE & BRIAN | BUYERS IN PORTLAND
c: 207-233-3933 • taylor@portsidereg com • @livingamainelife
Record of Success
THE MCFARLANE FIELD AND PORTSIDE ADVANTAGE
Working With Us
SEASONED AGENTS
McFarlane Field continues to be top-producing team in Maine, and has been for nearly 40 years We have navigated diverse markets and we are locals who are deeply rooted in our communities Experience matters in this market and we would be honored to share ours with youl
FRESH APPROACH
Simply put, we love what we do, and it makes all the difference between providing a service and delivering an experience We fully commit to every task, we innovate strategies and leveraging modern technologies to enhance the buying and selling experience We go above expectation, pay attention to the details, and genuinely enjoy building our relationships with our clients
COMMUNITY DRIVEN
As agents we are committed to supporting the communities that we live and work in. We host annual events supporting local non-profits as well as donate 1% of our top line revenue to 1% Back to Maine; a foundation dedicated to supporting Maine's youth We appreciate, respect and support all of our neighbors here in Maine and hope to help strengthen the Maine tapestry
Working with Porside
THE MCFARLANE FIELD ADVANTAGE
We Are:
CLIENT CENTRIC
Our philosophy is to love, serve, and care for each and every one of our clients
COMMUNITY FOCUSED
We give back and get involved; over $75,000 donated annually to local non-profits! We know people We use our connections
CREATIVE AND INNOVATIVE
Our marketing strategy is simple: differentiate and personalize You won’t find a more nimble or responsive team
Investing in Maine’s Tomorrow, 1% At a Time.
AT PORTSIDE, WE ARE MAINERS HELPING MAINERS, IT'S WHAT WE DO EVERY DAY!
1% for Maine™ focuses on the next generation, Maine’s youth Supporting and addressing systemic Maine problems including generational poverty, substance abuse, and limited access to medical care, education, and food Portside is committed to giving 1% of gross revenue to Maine's future.
To learn more visit www.onepercentformaine.com
