For our 2020 Best Places to Live feature, we asked some of the Down East staff and contributors what makes their town great. Here’s what photo director Mark Fleming had to say.
What I Love
Not only do we live in one of the city’s historic mills, I also have my studio in one. It’s great to see these gorgeous old brick buildings filling up with small businesses and entrepreneurs, along with new businesses popping up in once-empty storefronts downtown. I love living someplace that’s going through so much change. And you can’t beat the location — just 20 minutes to Portland, 30 to Portsmouth, 10 to the beach.
What I Miss
My wife and I relocated from rural Limerick, and we do miss the quiet from time to time. The only downside of a city on the rise are the sounds of construction.
Where to Find Me
Our favorite haunts include Elements bookstore (one-stop shop for free Wi-Fi, a great book, superior coffee, and a local beer), Palace Diner (there’s no contest for breakfast — national accolades, but it’s still a quiet locals’ joint in the off-season), and Round Turn Distilling (a great place to catch up with friends over gin-based cocktails).
| Population | 21,413 |
| Median age | 36 |
| Median household income | $49,812 |
| Families living below the poverty line | 8.8% |
| Walk Score | 39/100 |
| GreatSchools rating average | 2.5/10 |
See the rest of this year’s Best Places to Live in Maine!
