Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Living in Maine can usually be an automatic cure for what ails you. But, every so often, even the saltiest of sea breezes, the greenest trees and the smiliest of people can’t get you out of a funk. When that happens, you might want to head to one of the towns on this list. Based on data that includes education, employment, short commute time, low cost of living, family life, home ownership and low poverty rate, he criteria was then measured against towns with populations higher than 2,000. Website, Zippia, then gathered together the top ten happiest towns in Maine. Take a look and find out if you already live in one. If you don’t, maybe a move is in order! Note that for each town we’ve highlighted just two criteria – percent of residents who are married and percent that own their own home. But, this is by no means, the most important indicators for happiness. We all know that ice cream is the most important thing.
Perhaps it's the cool ocean breeze that's seemingly always around. Or, maybe it's the fact that so many tourists flock to this place, making it look like permanent smiles are constantly around. From a data perspective, more than half the people that live here are married and nearly 60% own their own home. Not the only measures of happiness, but according to this study they drive the town to the top of the list.
This little town feels small and full of community, plus it has the added benefit of being near the art scene in Portland. From a data perspective, nearly half the population is married and about 66% own their own homes. Sounds pretty good to us!
A town that shines rainbows over the fields HAS to be happy, right? In addition to being near some of the best shopping in Maine, more than half of Yarmouth's population of about 5,600 people are married and 65% own their own homes.
Named after its first settler, Colonel John Brewer, this small town sits in close proximity to Bangor making it the best of both worlds. Of its nearly 10,000 population, about 53% are married and 58% own their own homes.
The second largest city in The County also boasts some seriously happy vibes. Maybe it's being far from the hustle and bustle of southern Maine or maybe it's the fresh air. Whatever it is, people here are willing to lend a helping hand to neighbors and are quick to support their friends and family. Of the 8,000 residents, 47% are married and 59% own their own homes.
Located near things like the beautiful Babb's Bridge, Gorham is a great place to get some peace and quiet without having to live totally off the grid. The small town has a lovely community of hard-working folks who've made this place their home. Of the 6,500 residents, 43% are married and 66% own a home.
Sitting along the pretty Kennebec River, Winslow is home to Fort Halifax Park. Of its more than 7,500 residents, 50% are married and nearly 70% own their own homes.
How could anyone not be happy in a town that can claim A1 Diner as its local hot spot?! In addition to great eats, Gardiner has a population of which 50% are married and 58% own their own home.
Over the years South Portland has created a distinct name for itself despite sharing part of its name with a bigger, older brother. South Portland is home to some great restaurants, bars, arts and culture so its no surprise that it's a pretty happy place. Of its more than 25,000 residents, 43% are married and 57% own their own homes.
This lovely town is a great place to get outside, especially in Maquoit Bay Conservation Land. Of its more than 15,000 residents 45% are married and 57% own their own homes.
Another interesting way to review Maine towns is by how fast they’re growing. Here’s a list of the top ten fastest growing towns in the state.
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