Downtown Portland, ME

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

#4. Portland

Finding a doctor in Portland, ME is almost as easy as finding a lobster. The city’s ratio of doctors to residents (1-655) is among the highest in the nation. That ample amount of physicians, coupled with the large number of hospitals here (eight), help keep health-care costs low by giving residents more choices. Portlandians spend, on average, 19 percent less on medical costs than most Americans. They also enjoy a cleaner, healthier environment.

Life by the Sea

When they’re not getting their fill of fresh seafood, Portland residents partake in a variety of ocean-based activities like sailing, kayaking, sunbathing and swimming. Winter months bring plenty of snow and opportunities to cross-country ski, ice skate and sled. Beyond the natural beauty found here is a visual and performing arts scene that rivals those of larger cities. Cobblestone streets lead to small pubs, fresh food markets, art galleries, dance halls and theaters. Ocean views are never far away, and many residents spend their leisure time painting and photographing historic lighthouses and fall foliage that covers rural back roads leading to seaside villages.

High-Rated Hospital

Maine Medical Center provides nearly 23 percent of all charity care delivered in the state. The center consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the nation, and its nursing staff recently earned Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Vitals

• 8 hospitals
• High ratio of primary care physicians to residents (1-655)
• Clean water
• Cost of Heart Valve Surgery – $49,322*
• Office Visit, New Patient (minor problem) – $84*

*According to the Healthcare Bluebook

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