Between the sandy beaches, surf scene, and friendly locals, Scarborough almost feels like some sort of Californian escape at first glance. But this city is unmistakably Maine, and that’s why about 20,000 folks love calling it home.

Perched on the coast about 15 minutes south of downtown Portland, Scarborough offers a little bit of everything for everyone. Beaches await nearly everywhere you look, including popular spots like Higgins and Pine Point. The robust shopping district has everything you need from big box stores to locally-made goods, balanced by green spaces like Memorial Park and the Warren Woods Trail. And the streets are lined with a range of charming homes. Last but not least, Scarborough has a well-loved school system, making it a great city for families of all sizes.