If you thought the scramble to move to Maine that we witnessed in 2020 and 2021 was over, we’ve got some news for you.  It is definitely not over.  It may not be as intense as it was a few years ago, but people are still making the move from the East Coast’s major cities to Maine.

According to Atlas Van Lines, Maine was the most moved-to state in 2023.  According to the shipping company’s latest study, 64% of interstate moves involving Maine were moves were into the state.

That compares to the 36% of state-to-state moves involving Maine where people left the state.

So, why was Maine the most moved-to state in 2023?  While there are probably many more reasons, here are three good reasons why people are migrating to Maine.

3 – Low Crime

Of course, we have all been shocked by a few incidents over the last few years.  Most notably, the mass shooting that occurred in Lewiston in October of 2022.  However, overall, Maine has a very low crime rate.  According to US News & World Report, Maine was named the safest state in 2023.

scott-rodgerson, Unsplash
scott-rodgerson, Unsplash
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2 – It’s Remote Worker-Friendly

If the pandemic has taught us one thing, it is that many of the jobs that previously required people to be in the office can be done basically anywhere.  All you need is a decent internet connection.  While many complain about the cost of living in Maine, it is still cheaper to live in Maine than Boston, New York, or Los Angeles.

Pradamas Gifarry - unsplash
Pradamas Gifarry - unsplash
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1 – The Lifestyle

Whether you make your home in Augusta, Portland, Presque Isle, or a secluded island, you’ll be surrounded by good people, great restaurants, cool shops, and some amazing views.  Maine really does have a great quality of life.

Luke Keith / Unsplash
Luke Keith / Unsplash
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What about the other most moved-to states in 2023?  The United Van Lines study found that the second most moved-to state was North Carolina.  Maine’s neighbor, New Hampshire, came in third place.

Counties with the highest unemployment rate in Maine

Stacker compiled a list of counties with the highest unemployment in Maine using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

Most popular boy names in the '00s in Maine

Stacker compiled the most popular baby names for boys of the 2000s in Maine using data from the Social Security Administration.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

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