33,039
Population
Sunny Days: 177
49100 Affordability
90100 Schools
23100 Diversity
83100 Safety
Bangor, Maine
Queen City
Bangor Downtown
Bangor Waterfront
Downtown Bangor
Cascade Park
The Best Thing About Bangor
She's a Beauty
Bangor is an absolutely beautiful part of the New England landscape. Its lush forests, clean air, seaside cliffs, and neighboring mountains make for some of the best preserved nature in the country. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, someone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of big cities, or someone looking to raise a family in a picturesque rustic paradise, you will find Bangor to your liking. This also extends to the city itself, filled with gorgeous architecture and striking landmarks such as the Paul Bunyan statue, as well as a downtown area that practically leaps off of a postcard, the views in Bangor are second to none.
The Worst Thing About Bangor
Isolation
Bangor is in many ways an isolated part of the country. While its rural charms and out-of-the-way nature are part of the appeal, to some this can prove a bridge too far. The brutally long and cold winters can be a dealbreaker to many, as is the fact that it’s a long drive from most major cities. There is also a lack of diversity in terms of ethnic and religious makeup, with the majority of the population being white and Christian; if this is something you might find isolating, perhaps another location is to your liking. The lack of diversity also extends to the job market- if you are not in retail, healthcare, or education, and you do not work remotely, you may struggle to find jobs in the area.
Lifestyle of Bangor
Small Town Life
The lifestyle of Bangor favors those who enjoy a simpler life. While there are a decent number of historic sights, bars, restaurants- particularly for seafood lovers-, concert venues, sporting events at the local colleges, and tourist spots such as the house of noted horror author Stephen King, Bangor is ultimately a small city (albeit with a pretty cool downtown) located in the heart of the wilderness. There are an abundance of trails for biking, running, and hiking, easy access to both the river and the seashore for fishing, and plenty of public parks for simply relaxing in the sunshine. Additionally, Bangor is considered a good place to raise a family and a good place to retire by most residents.
Schools of Bangor
B+
Bangor’s public schools are rated well by most ratings agency, scoring a B+ on niche.com, an acclaimed public high school, and a serviceable trade school. Beal University, University of Maine at Orono, and Husson University all provide higher education options in the area, with strong discounts offered by public universities to in-state residents. Part of the reason for the city’s popularity with families is the plentiful options for schools, so consider your educational needs met.
Why You Should Move Here Now?
Zen-like Charm
If you’re looking for a quiet life of rustic charm and spectacular natural landscape in a secluded part of the country, are looking to start a career in healthcare or education, or simply want to raise a family somewhere with clean air and friendly locals, Bangor, Maine, may just prove to your liking.
Living in Bangor
Neighborhoods in Bangor
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Fairmount
Families
Fairmount is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Bangor. Located near the Fairmount Park and the Bangor Golf Course, recreation options are in no short supply in Fairmount. Also of note is the Fairmount Market, a deli of nearly one hundred years of age, prized by locals for its delicious sandwiches. Fairmount Elementary School is a part of the Bangor School District, and ranks highly amongst the populace while retaining a 7/10 rating. A wide variety of homes, with a myriad of size and price options, also decorate the area, making it accessible to families of all sizes and income levels. Median home price is $289,000.
Whitney Park Historic District
Families/DINKs
Home to the city’s most famed resident, Stephen King, the Whitney Park Historic District is where the upper crust of Bangor resides. With wide streets and luxurious mansions built by the lumber barons of yesteryear, wealthy residents of Bangor have little to complain about when it comes to this upscale neighborhood. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and flanked by the Bangor Theological Seminary, Whitney Park is a truly scenic residential area for those in a higher income bracket. Fairmount School, Vine Street School, James F. Doughty School, and Bangor High School, all acclaimed and accredited, all serve the neighborhood as well. Median home price is $500,000.
Little City
Families/DINKs/SINKs
Little City is a quiet and highly sought-after area. US Senator Susan Collins is a resident. Median real estate price clocks in at over $300,000, making it a middle-tier neighborhood for costs in the state, with most homes being single-family residences and apartment buildings, and many of them historic homes. A common boast among residents is the ability to ride your bike to work every day. Mary Snow School, a small elementary school, is in the neighborhood.
Bangor Gardens
Families
Home to one of the most lovely parks in all of Bangor, Bangor Gardens features easy access to walking trails and basketball courts. Bangor Gardens is also home to Abraham Lincoln High School and The Learning Garden, both highly regarded schools. Rental homes in Bangor Gardens are relatively affordable for those in lower income brackets, while single-family homes are available for purchase at around $185,000.
Judson Heights
Families
Single-family homes in the beautiful Judson Heights neighborhood range in price from approximately $250,000-$450,000. The area boasts a very strong sense of community, with trick or treaters, lost and founds, and classified ads helping to foster bonds between families. Elementary schoolers frequently attend the well-regarded Mary Snow School for elementary and William S. Cohen for Middle School before going on to Bangor High School. Residents often praise the abundance of yard space and wide-open land in Judson Heights, giving it a sprawling and natural vibe that can be difficult to resist.