[68vette]

Originally Posted by co95

OK, guys/girls, it's crunch time for me to make a decision. We would like to move in the spring. My family has decided that between Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, we are dropping NH. It's now between VT and ME.

Assuming we have jobs waiting before we come up, why Vermont over Maine? Both places have high taxes, state tax, both are beautiful. Taking into account the above, because the benefits/drawbacks seems so close in both places, why one over another? The reason for the question is because I have never lived in either, and I may have missed or overlooked some aspect that I've yet seen mentioned on the boards. BTW, we are looking at Burlington and Portland. Thanks...

Both are similar cities. Portland is closer to Boston than Burlington and the winters are more mild, temp wise. Have you been to each of the states? If you are not moving until the spring, I would suggest spending time in each state. Don't do it as a tourist though. Walk through grocery stores, retail stores, driving distances, etc. Also try to take into consideration what the incomes will be in each area as well as general expenses. A guesstimate will be better than going in blind.
You may have to apply for jobs in each area. You may need to choose wherever you can both get a job. Another thing to consider is finding decent housing, especially in the Burlington area. It can be expensive and difficult to find good housing. Although the spring would be the best time to find a place because the schools will be getting out.

[pauldorell]

Having gone through a similar process myself recently, I'll just add that Portland, ME is on the fringes of the megalopolis that runs from Boston to Washington D.C.; Burlington is comparatively in the middle of a no-man's-land. If you like lots of people and creature comforts, Portland may be a better choice. In my choice I avoided both. Burlington, though small, is a growth area and is inundated with college students, big box stores, etc.

[co95]

Good info, guys, thanks.

We plan on looking at everything before we leap. Jobs are a must for both of us. Both places look great on paper, so unless I find some compelling reason against one or the other, I'll have to visit both as you suggest.