City: Portland, ME

Category: Retirement

Telephone: (207) 772-2675

Address: 75 State St.

Description: State Street is hands down the oldest retirement community in Maine, predating the Civil War. It was founded as a home for three elderly Portland women and has grown from there, now housing 159 residents in as many apartments. Unlike many of the other senior housing options in the state—and else-where—this is a nonprofit organization, with all resident-derived income being reinvested to enhance the facilities and provide more services. So this building in the West End, one of the nicer residential neighborhoods of Portland, feels a little warmer than some of the operations that are obviously out for money first. The average age here is a little steeper than some other places—the last survey found most occupants to be in their 80s—but the amenities are many. The apartments are all rentals and come in a variety of layouts, from efficiencies to full suites, and they range in price from $2,100 to $4,700 per month. Concierge service is available seven days a week, as is nursing care.