Plow & PromiseState guide
Land Finder

Country land in Maine

How much good country Maine has, where it is, and what to know before you buy: growing season, homeschool rules, internet and prices. "Good country" here means land past the suburbs and their buffer, off the busiest roads, scored by the Land Finder.

90%of the state scores as good country
123–172 daysfrost-free growing season (most of the state)
76%of households have broadband (typical neighborhood)
Moderatehomeschool rules

The best counties for country living

Ranked by how much of each county scores as good country (fast-growing counties ranked a little lower).

County (towns)Good countryGrowth
Piscataquis County
Greenville, Brownville Junction
100%+0.9%/yrScore a spot
Franklin County
Rangeley, Kingfield
99%+1.1%/yrScore a spot
Somerset County
Greenville
99%+0.4%/yrScore a spot
Aroostook County
Ashland, Mapleton
99%-0.1%/yrScore a spot
Oxford County
Rumford, Mexico
99%+0.9%/yrScore a spot
Waldo County
Belfast, Searsport
97%+0.6%/yrScore a spot
Penobscot County
Mattawamkeag, Lincoln
93%+0.7%/yrScore a spot
Washington County
Woodland, Calais
89%+0.2%/yrScore a spot
Lincoln County
Newcastle, Damariscotta
88%+0.8%/yrScore a spot
Hancock County
Ellsworth, Brewer
78%+0.6%/yrScore a spot

Homeschool rules

Notice of intent to the local superintendent (and the Commissioner of Education) within 10 days of starting. 175 days a year in the required subjects. By September 1 each year, a letter to continue plus a year-end assessment (a standardized test, a certified teacher's review letter, or another approved option). Another option: a Recognized Equivalent Private School (REPS).

Not legal advice; laws change. Verify with the state and your school district. Source

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A shortlisting guide from public data (Census, USGS, USDA, NOAA, FCC, FEMA) and our principles. Visit the land and verify water, septic, zoning and access with the county.