About Living in Maine

Life in Southern Maine

“The way life should be” is our state slogan, and you’ll notice that Maine life embraces seeming contradictions — down-to-earth yet exciting, gritty yet sophisticated. Naturally breathtaking and culturally fascinating, Maine is a special place that captures the heart and imagination. At UNE, you’ll live along a storied coastline, in a world-famous food and lifestyle destination.

The Portland Head Light on the rocky coast of Maine overlooking the ocean

Biddeford

Home to UNE’s innovative coastal campus,

Stretching from the storied beachside communities of Biddeford Pool and Fortunes Rocks, to the downtown district's shopping and cafes, Biddeford will keep you busy and entertained. With a population of about 23,000, Biddeford is right-sized for a college town — big enough to stay interesting and small enough to stay comfortable.

Explore downtown’s renovated mills and storefronts full of coffee shops, restaurants, and stores, and experience the many community arts and entertainment festivals from Downtown Art Walks, to WinterFest, to the renowned Franco-American cultural festival La Kermesse.

A 20-minute drive from Portland and a 90-minute drive from Boston, Biddeford is easily accessible by car and by the Amtrak Downeaster line.

Students prepare to put string lights up around downtown Biddeford, Maine

Several U N E students preparing to sail

Four students cheering on the U N E football team at a home game

Students roast marshmallows and drink hot cocoa by a bonfire

Two students planting succulents outside on the Biddeford Campus

Explore Life Outdoors On Our Biddeford Campus

Portland

UNE’s health professions campus is located in and .

Portland is a historic and creative city famously known for its food, arts, and working waterfront. It’s also a healthcare hub — home to the largest medical center north of Boston. If any of this resonates with you, then Portland is calling your name.

UNE’s Portland campus for the Health Sciences is situated just outside of downtown among the residential Deering and Riverton neighborhoods. As a student, you’ll have ample opportunities to explore the city and live like a local.

Take a study break and run or bike along the waterfront Back Cove with scenic views of the Portland skyline. After a busy school week, you can eat and drink your way through the cobblestone streets of the Old Port. Portland is four-season friendly with enough to keep you busy rain, shine, or snow.

A dental student stands at Widgery Wharf in downtown Portland, Maine

Brick buildings and cobblestone streets of downtown Portland, Maine

Discover Portland

Outdoor Adventure in Our Backyard

From surfboard to snowboard, adventure awaits through the great outdoors when you live in Maine.

Oceanfront destinations along the southern Maine coast allow for endless beach walks and sunset moments. Rent a wetsuit and surfboard from UNE’s fitness centers and learn to surf. Go kayaking along the Saco River or in one of our state's many tranquil lakes.

Take a weekend trip to Acadia National Park where you can hike and explore the rocky downeast coastline. UNE-sponsored trips to Acadia occur multiple times a year.

If you’re into skiing or snowboarding, take advantage of college discounts at nearby Pleasant Mountain (formerly Shawnee Peak), located less than an hour from Portland. .