Portland Maine: A City to Sink Your Roots Into

The secret lies in the charm and small-town vibe of this New England destination. Portland’s eclectic downtown areas and rugged coastline beckon boomers, and retirees to experience its rich history and cultural attractions, and who can forget the infamous lighthouses, and lobster rolls?

Named one of the nation’s most affordable cities by AARP, and featuring twenty-six active adult communities, 55+ boomers will find Maine’s largest city to be the perfect place to explore picturesque scenery, enjoy outdoor recreation, and savor a life of leisure in a town designed for all ages.

With plenty of outdoor space to take a bike ride, enjoy a stroll, or do some shopping, it’s no surprise that Portland is an idyllic location to age in place. The median home listing price is $475k according to Realtor.com, which is surprisingly less expensive than most cities along the east coast, and depending on income, seniors 62+ may be eligible for subsidized housing assistance. Portland is the city’s efficient public transit system serving those 65 and better, or disabled individuals. Providing affordable discounted fares, and door-to-door assistance, getting around the city is made easy, and accommodating.

A city for all seasons is true of Portland where residents can expect cold snowy winters and hot summers. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy recreation any time of year from hiking, sailing, and camping, to winter sports. The city’s parks and recreation guide provides a list of activities, and classes for all age groups from preschool to senior programs offering events such as the Fall Foliage Dinner Train, and a variety of fitness opportunities. The goal of any age-friendly community is to promote wellness and provide ways to be socially engaged while having access to state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, and human services. Portland’s age-friendly initiative has made designing a city geared toward an active lifestyle a priority for its aging population.

Portland is well known for sustainable living and preserving its iconic landmarks. The waterfront district of Old Port, and the arts district, highlight historic architecture, and boast a youthful vibe, with plenty of unique shopping, high-end cuisine, and galleries as far as the eye can see. Active seniors can visit the Portland Museum of Art, and the Maine Historical Society, and cap off the day by sampling local brews, or taking one of Portland’s wine or cocktail tours. Boomers can choose their own flavor, taking their retirement to the suburbs, or into the city, but whatever they decide, Portland is ready to meet their goals.