Moving to Saco
Saco, Maine, a city of about 21,000 residents, is a vibrant and family-friendly community located in York County along the Saco River and just a few miles from Maine’s southern coast. Known for its historic downtown, thriving schools, and proximity to beaches, Saco offers the perfect mix of small-town charm and modern convenience. Its location along I-95 makes commuting to Portland or Boston straightforward, while still offering a quieter lifestyle. Families, young professionals, and retirees are drawn to Saco for its safe neighborhoods, community events, and access to coastal and outdoor recreation.
Why More People Are Moving from Other States to Saco
Saco has become a relocation hotspot thanks to its affordability compared to Portland and its proximity to beaches and nature. Families appreciate its strong public schools and recreational opportunities. Professionals benefit from short commutes to Portland while enjoying lower housing costs. Retirees are drawn to its slower pace, cultural offerings, and healthcare access. Saco’s location near Old Orchard Beach and its revitalized downtown also attract people seeking a balance of lifestyle, community, and convenience.
Pros of Living in Saco
Saco offers numerous advantages. Its housing is more affordable than Portland or coastal resort towns, while still close to beaches. The city’s public schools have strong reputations, and there are plenty of parks, trails, and family-friendly amenities. Downtown Saco features historic architecture, shops, and restaurants, providing a blend of tradition and modern life. Proximity to Portland International Jetport and Boston further boosts its appeal.
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Cons of Living in Saco
There are some challenges. While affordable by Maine standards, housing costs in Saco have been rising quickly due to demand. The job market within the city is smaller, so many residents commute to Portland or elsewhere. Winters are long and snowy, and public transportation is limited, making car ownership necessary. Despite these drawbacks, the city’s quality of life makes it worth considering.
What Life is Like in Saco
Life in Saco is community-driven, coastal, and family-friendly. Residents enjoy neighborhood events, parks, and proximity to Old Orchard Beach. Families benefit from schools and recreational programs, while retirees appreciate the quieter pace and cultural offerings. Daily life may include shopping downtown, walking along the Saco River, or visiting nearby beaches. The city’s balance of affordability and coastal living attracts newcomers from all over.
Living Costs in Saco
| Category | Saco | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent per Month) | $1,500 | $1,570 |
| Utilities | $175 | $180 |
| Groceries | $320 | $330 |
| Transportation | $155 | $140 |
| Healthcare | $445 | $440 |
Saco is relatively affordable compared to Portland and Boston, though housing prices are steadily rising due to demand for coastal living.
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Schools and Education in Saco
Saco Public Schools serve the community with elementary, middle, and high schools rated above average for Maine. Thornton Academy, a well-known private school, also serves local students and offers strong academic and extracurricular programs. Families have access to nearby colleges, including the University of New England in Biddeford, and educational opportunities in Portland.
Transportation and Getting Around
Saco is car-dependent, but it has excellent regional connectivity. I-95 provides direct routes to Portland and Boston, and Amtrak’s Downeaster stops in nearby Saco-Biddeford, offering train service to Boston. Local bus routes are limited, so most residents rely on cars. Portland International Jetport is less than 30 minutes away, adding convenience for travelers.
United Local Movers: Our Services
Relocating to Saco is seamless with United Local Movers. We provide professional moving services including local moves, long-distance relocations, full packing, and secure storage. Our experienced team knows the challenges of Maine relocations and delivers reliable service. With transparent pricing and a customer-focused approach, United Local Movers makes moving to Saco stress-free.
Average Cost to Move to Saco
| Move Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Local Move (1-2 Bedrooms) | $1,100–$1,700 |
| Cross-Country Move | $3,900–$6,900 |
| Full Packing Services | + $300–$700 |
| Storage Options | $140–$280 per month |
Relocation costs to Saco are moderate, reflecting its suburban location and proximity to Portland.
How to Choose the Right Moving Company
When moving to Saco, it’s important to choose a moving company with Maine relocation experience. Look for licensed, insured movers with positive reviews and transparent pricing. Extra services like storage and packing can simplify the process. United Local Movers provides all these services, ensuring your relocation to Saco is efficient, reliable, and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Saco, Maine, offers affordability, community spirit, and proximity to beaches and Portland’s urban amenities. While housing costs are rising and winters can be long, the city’s quality of life, strong schools, and location make it a top relocation destination in southern Maine. With United Local Movers as your trusted partner, your move to Saco will be smooth, efficient, and the beginning of an exciting new chapter on Maine’s southern coast.
