Deciding between Washington and Maine (Portland, Bangor: school districts, train, relocating to)

[ImaginationStation]

Hey, everybody. I have only posted on this site a few times before, although I must admit this site is absolutely fantastic at giving me a better idea for my next big move. My boyfriend and I are both in our twenties and have grown up in the Mid-West near relatively large cities. That being said, we have always fancied the whim of relocating to a small town (within a close proximity to a big city). I work for the government, as does he, and we have been given the opportunity to suggest the next place we will be working. We like the idea of a coast, mountains, 4 seasons, and great school districts (on the hope we will someday have a family). Maine and Washington both seem like great options! I am well aware of the fact that Portland is the biggest city in Maine and I wonder if that will suit us or not. Also, I am aware that the seasons in Washington are not as vibrant compared to Maine's seasons. Boston and Seattle would probably be the big cities we would work or just entertain ourselves in. I know a train runs from Portland to Boston, I wonder if that's too long of a commute, though. I know Snoqualmie is 30 minutes outside of Seattle and therefore probably better work-wise, and aesthetically. I am willing to bet that the mountains are much more grand in Washington, while the seasons are better in Maine. My boyfriend and I are both avid hikers so this is a consideration. Anyway, I apologize if this seems uninformed or idealistic, but we have visited neither place and are judging from pure hearsay. One day we will make the trip to both places before coming to a decision, though. Thank you! I realize I posted in the "Bangor" thread, so instead I will be posting in the general Maine thread. Can't delete this one, but feel free to answer anyway. Sorry!