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What's It Like Living in Wells, ME? - A Local Guide
- Hunter Letendre
- Jan 15
- 4 min read
Living in Wells, ME offers a coastal lifestyle shaped by seasonal energy, natural scenery, and a strong year-round community. The town is busy and tourism-driven in the summer, then noticeably quieter in the winter, creating two distinct rhythms of daily life. Residents are drawn to Wells for its beaches, access to southern Maine and New Hampshire job centers, and a slower pace compared to nearby cities.
Located in York County, Wells sits between Kennebunk and Ogunquit and is one of the more accessible coastal towns in southern Maine. While housing costs are higher than inland communities, Wells appeals to buyers looking for coastal living with commuter access and established amenities.
Where Is Wells, ME and How Is the Town Laid Out?
Wells is organized into several recognizable areas rather than a single dense downtown.
Key areas include:
Route 1 Commercial Corridor: Restaurants, shops, seasonal businesses, lodging, and services
Residential Neighborhoods: Spread throughout the town, ranging from beach-adjacent streets to inland subdivisions
Coastal Zones: Wells Beach, Crescent Beach, and Moody Beach with a mix of seasonal and year-round housing
Unlike compact downtown towns, Wells feels spread out, with daily errands often centered along Route 1 rather than a traditional town square.
What Is the Population and Cost of Living in Wells, ME?
Population: Approximately 11,500 year-round residents
Seasonal Population: Increases significantly during summer months
Cost of Living: Higher than the Maine average, driven primarily by housing
Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs track close to regional averages, but housing remains the largest expense for residents.
How Is the Housing Market in Wells, ME?
The Wells housing market includes a broad mix of property types:
Seasonal condos and cottages
Single-family homes
Newer subdivisions inland
Waterfront and water-adjacent properties
Current market characteristics:
Median home prices typically above inland York County towns
Limited inventory near the coast
Strong demand for year-round residences
Fewer long-term rental options due to seasonal use
Property taxes in Wells are generally lower than many coastal towns in neighboring states, which partially offsets higher purchase prices.
How Are the Schools in Wells, ME?
Wells is part of the Wells-Ogunquit Community School District, which consistently receives strong reviews.
Key schools include:
Wells Elementary School: Grades K–4, strong academic performance and community involvement
Wells Junior High School: Grades 5–8, solid proficiency levels and extracurricular participation
Wells High School: Grades 9–12, rated highly on Niche for academics, teachers, and college readiness
According to Niche, the district earns an A- overall rating, with above-average test scores and graduation rates relative to Maine averages.
What Are Job and Commuting Options Like?
Wells itself is primarily residential and tourism-oriented.
Local employment includes:
Hospitality and seasonal tourism
Retail and small business
Education and municipal services
Many residents commute outside town:
Portsmouth, NH: 35 minutes
Portland, ME: 45 minutes
Biddeford/Saco: 15 minutes
The Wells Regional Transportation Center provides Amtrak Downeaster service to Boston and Portland.
What Is Everyday Life Like in Wells, ME?
Daily life in Wells feels different depending on the season.
Summer:
Busy roads and restaurants
Active beaches and events
Seasonal businesses fully open
Winter:
Quieter streets
Fewer dining options
Stronger sense of local routine
Outdoor recreation remains a constant, with walking trails, wildlife refuges, and beaches accessible year-round.
Pros and Cons of Living in Wells, ME
Pros:
Coastal setting with public beach access
Strong public schools
Regional commuting options
Established community for year-round residents
Cons:
Higher housing costs
Seasonal business closures
Limited long-term rental availability
Traffic congestion during summer months
How Does Wells Compare Regionally?
Compared to nearby coastal towns:
More accessible pricing than Ogunquit
Similar coastal appeal to Kennebunk but with more seasonal housing
Quieter year-round feel than tourist-heavy destinations
Compared to inland towns, Wells commands a premium for location and amenities.
Annual events and attractions include:
Wells Harbor Park Summer Concert Series
Laudholm Farm seasonal programs
Fourth of July Fireworks at Wells Harbor
Wells Chili Fest
Beach access at Wells Beach, Crescent Beach, and Moody Beach
Hiking and birdwatching at Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
Kayaking and paddling near Webhannet River
Final Thoughts
Living in Wells, ME means balancing coastal beauty, seasonal energy, and long-term livability. It appeals to those who value outdoor access, a smaller-town atmosphere, and proximity to southern Maine and New Hampshire job centers, while understanding the realities of a seasonal economy and higher housing costs.
If you are considering a move to Wells or exploring nearby towns, reach out to me, Hunter Letendre, REALTOR® with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Verani Realty. Whether you’re interested in Wells, ME or a nearby town, I can help you across NH, ME and MA. As an area expert, I work with buyers and sellers throughout the region and can help you evaluate which communities align best with your goals.
Hunter Letendre, REALTOR®
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Verani Realty
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Sources: Niche.com, U.S. Census Bureau, Maine Department of Education, Maine MLS data, Town of Wells Maine website
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice. Market conditions and regulations vary and may change. Readers should always consult qualified professionals regarding their specific situation.