Coastal Communities

Discover Homes and Coastal Living in York County, Maine

York County, Maine, is a stunning coastal destination that offers retirees the perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and modern conveniences. From the sandy shores of York Beach to the picturesque villages of Ogunquit and Kennebunkport, this region provides a peaceful yet vibrant lifestyle by the sea.

Whether you’re drawn to outdoor activities, a thriving arts scene, or a welcoming community, York County has something for everyone. With easy access to top-tier healthcare, scenic walking trails, and a variety of cultural experiences, it’s no wonder so many retirees choose to call this coastal paradise home. Enjoy fresh seafood, breathtaking coastal views, and the relaxed pace of life in one of Maine’s most desirable areas.

Arundel, Maine

Arundel, Maine, is a charming town with a population of about 4,500, according to 2023 data, and is perfect for retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle. Enjoy access to beautiful hiking trails and nearby parks. Healthcare is conveniently located with nearby services in Kennebunk and Biddeford. With a friendly community, local shops, and a low cost of living, Arundel offers a serene setting for a relaxed, active life. The median home sale price, as of November 2024, is $662,500.

Kennebunk, Maine

Kennebunk, Maine, is a picturesque town of about 3,500 residents, ideal for retirees. Known for stunning beaches and a vibrant downtown, it offers hiking trails and easy access to outdoor activities. Kennebunk has local healthcare facilities for primary care and specialty services, while more comprehensive medical care is available at the nearby Southern Maine Health Care in Biddeford. With its charming shops and renowned seafood restaurants, Kennebunk is perfect for enjoying a fulfilling coastal lifestyle. The median home sale price, as of November 2024, is $705,000.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport, Maine, is a scenic coastal town with about 3,700 residents, according to 2023 data. Its stunning ocean views and historic charm are attracting retirees. Enjoy beautiful beaches and outdoor activities like hiking. For healthcare, residents have access to local services in Kennebunk, along with comprehensive care available at Southern Maine Health Care in nearby Biddeford. With a thriving arts scene and delightful dining options, Kennebunkport is an ideal place for a relaxed coastal life. The median home sale price, as of November 2024, is $2.125M.

Wells, Maine

Wells, Maine, is a coastal town with approximately 10,000 residents, offering a peaceful retirement destination. Enjoy beautiful beaches and scenic hiking trails. The York Hospital satellite location ensures convenient healthcare access. With local shops and a friendly community atmosphere, Wells provides a perfect blend of relaxation and activity for retirees. The median home sale price, as of November 2024, is $649,550.

Ogunquit, Maine

Ogunquit, Maine, is a coastal gem with a population of around 1,600, according to 2023 data, and is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant arts scene. Ideal for retirees, it offers scenic walking trails like the Marginal Way and convenient access to healthcare in nearby towns. With charming boutiques and seafood restaurants, Ogunquit is perfect for a fulfilling coastal lifestyle. The median home sale price, as of November 2024, is $1.196M.

York, Maine

York, Maine, is a picturesque coastal town with about 13,000 residents, known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. The town includes the communities of Cape Neddick, York Harbor, and the village of York. Home to 12,529 residents year-round, the population swells to an estimated 52,000 during the summer months, according to 2023 data. This welcoming community is great for retirees, offering outdoor activities and access to York Hospital for healthcare needs. With local shops and dining options, York provides a vibrant yet relaxed lifestyle by the sea. The median home sale price, as of November 2024, is $899,000

York Beach, Maine

York Beach, Maine, is a charming seaside village within the town of York, Maine. York Beach is perfect for retirees seeking coastal living, offering stunning beaches like Long Sands and Short Sands, ideal for relaxation and recreation. Healthcare is available nearby at York Hospital. With local shops and a friendly community spirit, York Beach provides an enjoyable, tranquil lifestyle by the ocean.

York Beach is located in the town of York, with a median home price of $899,000. Seaside properties here typically cost 25% to 50% more.

Cape Neddick, Maine

Cape Neddick, Maine, is a serene coastal community that is part of York, with a population of about 2,400, according to 2023 data. Ideal for retirees seeking tranquility, it is famous for the Nubble Lighthouse and offers beautiful natural scenery and nearby hiking trails. Healthcare services are available at York Hospital. With a close-knit community and picturesque surroundings, Cape Neddick is perfect for a peaceful coastal retirement.

Cape Neddick is located in the town of York, with a median home price of $899,000. Seaside properties here typically cost 25% to 50% more.

Retiring in York County: A Perfect Place for Your Golden Years

York County, Maine, offers retirees the ideal combination of exceptional healthcare, outdoor activities, and a relaxed lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a vibrant community, this region provides everything you need for a fulfilling retirement.

Renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, affordable cost of living, and world-class healthcare options, York County makes an excellent choice for retirement. The area boasts diverse living options, including quiet rural settings and lively coastal communities, so you can find a place that fits your lifestyle. With top-tier medical facilities, abundant outdoor recreation, and rich cultural experiences, York County offers retirees a perfect environment to enjoy their golden years.

Access to Healthcare: Comprehensive Care Close to Home

York County offers retirees a wealth of healthcare options, ensuring both routine and specialized care are easily accessible.

Local Healthcare Facilities

Key medical centers in York County include:

York Hospital: Offers a full range of services, including senior care, wellness programs, and general medical care.
Maine Medical Center: A leading hospital providing advanced care, specialized treatments, and outpatient services.
Martin’s Point Health Care: Specializes in primary care and services tailored to the needs of retirees.

Additionally, primary care providers and specialists in the area cover a wide range of medical fields, from cardiology to orthopedics, giving retirees access to expert care as they age.

Easy Access to Boston’s World-Class Medical Facilities

York County’s prime location also makes it easy to access Boston, a global leader in medical care. Just a few hours south, retirees can benefit from world-renowned hospitals and specialized treatment centers:

Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH): Known for groundbreaking treatments in cardiology, neurology, and cancer care.
Brigham and Women’s Hospital: A leader in women’s health, heart care, and surgery.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: Famous for cancer research and advanced treatment options.

Boston’s world-class medical facilities are just a short drive away, offering retirees access to cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and specialized care in fields like cancer, neurology, cardiology, and more. This proximity provides peace of mind, knowing that top-tier medical care is easily within reach.

Active Lifestyle & Outdoor Recreation

York County offers abundant opportunities for retirees who enjoy staying active and immersing themselves in nature. From hiking and biking to boating and birdwatching, there’s always something to explore. Some of the top spots in the area include:

Hiking and Nature Reserves

Mount Agamenticus: A popular spot for hiking with scenic views of the coastline and forested areas. The summit offers a 360-degree view, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge: A tranquil area for walking, birdwatching, and nature photography. The refuge spans several thousand acres and offers trails through salt marshes and tidal pools.
Cape Neddick’s Cliff Walk: A beautiful, easy trail offering ocean views and a chance to see wildlife along the rocky coastline.

Boating, Kayaking, and Fishing

York County offers a variety of waterways for retirees to enjoy, from peaceful rivers to serene ponds, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and boating.

Kennebunk River: Ideal for kayaking and small boating, this scenic river flows through historic Kennebunkport, offering views of charming landmarks and nature.
Mousam River: A tranquil spot for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, this river provides a quiet, scenic environment perfect for outdoor recreation.
Kennebunk Pond: A peaceful location for boating, fishing, and swimming, surrounded by nature.
York River: Known for its calm waters, ideal for kayaking and small boating, with beautiful views of wetlands and wildlife.

Local Marinas

York County boasts several marinas for docking or renting boats, to just name a few:

York Harbor Marina (York Harbor): Full-service marina with boat slips and access to the Atlantic.
Kennebunkport Marina (Kennebunkport): Offers boat slips and rentals with access to the Kennebunk River.
Chick’s Marina (Kennebunkport): Located on the Kennebunk River, offering boat slips and nearby dining.
Wells Harbor Marina (Wells): Situated along the scenic Wells Harbor, this full-service marina offers boat slips, rentals and is ideal for those looking to explore local waters.
Perkins Cove Marina (Ogunquit): A small, picturesque marina providing boat slips and rentals

Cycling and Scenic Routes

Eastern Trail: A multi-use path that stretches for miles, offering scenic cycling routes through forests, marshlands, and along the coast. It’s perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a brisk walk.
Ogunquit to York Beach Biking Route: This coastal route offers cyclists a chance to ride along beautiful beaches, rocky shorelines, and picturesque towns.
Kennebunkport to Wells Bike Loop: A scenic loop that takes riders through charming seaside towns, offering coastal views and forested trails.

These outdoor locations offer a variety of ways to stay active and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of York County. Whether you enjoy a peaceful hike, an exciting boat ride, or a scenic bike ride, York County provides endless opportunities to stay fit and connected with nature.

Dining, Entertainment, and Cultural Attractions

Retirement in York County isn’t just about relaxation—it’s about enjoying life to the fullest. With a vibrant cultural scene, the region offers a variety of dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences for retirees.

Award-Winning Dining Options

York County features a diverse range of dining options, from fine dining to casual seafood spots:

The White Barn Inn (Kennebunk): A Five-Star, Five-Diamond restaurant offering a seasonal, world-class menu in a restored barn..
Arundel Wharf (Kennebunkport): A waterfront spot specializing in fresh seafood.

The Cliff House Maine (Cape Neddick/Ogunquit): Upscale dining with breathtaking ocean views.
Five-O Shore Road (Ogunquit): Elegant seafood with inventive dishes and outdoor seating.
Barnacle Billy’s (Ogunquit): A beloved spot for fresh Maine seafood with views of the harbor.:

The Lobster Cove https://www.lobstercoverestaurant.com/(York Harbor): Casual seafood dining with beautiful harbor views.

Live Music and Theater and the Arts

York County also offers a vibrant entertainment scene:

Ogunquit Playhouse: Renowned for Broadway-caliber summer theater performances.
Vinegar Hill Theatre (Arundel): A cozy venue offering live music, comedy, and performances.

Ogunquit Museum of American Art (Ogunquit): A small but acclaimed museum, featuring works by iconic American artists and offering stunning views of the coastline. It’s a great place to explore contemporary and classic art.

Farmers’ Markets: Fresh Local Produce and Goods

York County’s farmers’ markets offer retirees the chance to shop for fresh, seasonal produce and artisan goods from local vendors:

York Farmers’ Market (York Beach): Open seasonally on Sundays, this market offers fresh produce, homemade jams, baked goods, and handcrafted products in a charming beachside location.
Kennebunk Farmers’ Market (Kennebunk): Open May-November on Saturdays, this market is one of the largest in the area, with offerings including fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and artisanal products.
Sanford Farmers’ Market (Sanford): Open seasonally on Saturdays, this market provides fresh fruits and vegetables, local cheeses, and baked goods from nearby farms and artisans.

Cultural Festivals and Events

York County is home to several celebrated cultural festivals and community events that retirees will enjoy, including the famous Christmas Prelude:

Christmas Prelude (Kennebunkport): The Christmas Prelude is a nationally recognized holiday festival, known for its charming small-town atmosphere and breathtaking displays. It has won numerous awards. This month-long celebration features parades, carolers, light displays, and festive shopping. The event draws thousands of visitors each year, making it one of the most beloved holiday traditions in the region.
York Harvestfest & Parade (York Beach): A popular annual event celebrating the fall season with parades, music, arts and crafts vendors, and local food vendors.