Community Information
Scarborough, Maine Real Estate
Scarborough, Maine offers an exceptional quality of life where coastal beauty, outdoor recreation, and everyday convenience come together, all just minutes from downtown Portland. One of Southern Maine's fastest growing and most sought-after communities, Scarborough consistently attracts buyers seeking the perfect balance of natural surroundings, strong neighborhoods, and easy access to everything the Greater Portland area has to offer.
Scarborough actually has five distinct beaches within its borders, including Scarborough Beach, Pine Point Beach, Higgins Beach, Ferry Beach, and Western Beach.
From waterfront properties along Prouts Neck and Pine Point to established family neighborhoods, new construction, and charming New England colonials, Scarborough real estate offers a diverse range of homes across a broad spectrum of price points.
The market here is active and competitive, driven by limited inventory, top-rated schools, and strong sustained demand from both local buyers and those relocating to Southern Maine from out of state. With its beaches, trails, and thriving commercial corridor, Scarborough continues to be one of the most well-rounded communities in the region and one of the smartest places to invest in Maine real estate.
Living in Scarborough
Residents enjoy access to some of Southern Maine's most beautiful natural landscapes, including the pristine shores of Scarborough Beach State Park, the expansive tidal marshes of the Scarborough Marsh (the largest salt marsh in Maine) and the beloved beaches of Pine Point and Higgins Beach. Whether you spend your weekends paddling through the marsh, walking the shore at low tide, or watching the sunset over the Atlantic from Prouts Neck, Scarborough delivers an outdoor lifestyle that is genuinely hard to match anywhere in New England.
The community is further defined by its highly regarded public schools through the Scarborough School Department, a strong sense of civic pride, and well established neighborhoods that attract long term residents and growing families alike.
With a population of approximately 22,000, Scarborough offers the feel of a close-knit community with the infrastructure and amenities of a thriving town. Its location along Route 1 and the Maine Turnpike makes it one of the most accessible communities in the region with world-class restaurants, arts, healthcare, and the Portland International Jetport all within minutes. For buyers seeking space, beauty, and convenience without compromise, Scarborough stands out as one of Greater Portland's finest places to call home.
-
Scarborough is a growing coastal community of approximately 22,000 residents, known for its strong quality of life, access to nature, and convenient location just south of Portland.
The median household income is around $95,000, reflecting a mix of professionals, families, and long-time residents.
The median age is approximately 43–45, and the town offers a balance of homeowners and newer residential developments.
Scarborough’s workforce spans healthcare, education, and service industries, and its continued growth is driven by its coastal setting, excellent amenities, and accessibility within the Greater Portland area.
At a Glance:
Population: ~22,000
Median Household Income: ~$95,000
Median Age: ~43-45
Education: ~45-50% hold a bachelor’s degree or higherSource: U.S. Census Bureau; Census Reporter; World Population Review
-
Scarborough offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle centered around its natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
With miles of sandy beaches, protected marshlands, and scenic trails, it’s an ideal setting for those who enjoy time on the water and in nature.
Popular spots include Higgins Beach and Pine Point Beach - perfect for long walks, surfing, and summer days by the ocean - as well as Scarborough Beach State Park and Ferry Beach.
The Scarborough Marsh, the largest salt marsh in Maine, provides opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring a unique coastal ecosystem. Residents and visitors also enjoy the Eastern Trail for biking and walking, along with seasonal events and concerts held at Memorial Park.
Some of my favorite local places include;
Black Point Inn. A historic oceanfront inn offering classic New England charm, elevated dining, and sweeping views from its perch on Prouts Neck -perfect for a memorable coastal experience.
The Bait Shed. Waterfront dining with fresh seafood and views near the marsh.
Higgins Beach Inn. A charming, boutique-style inn just steps from the beach, known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere and popular restaurant, Shade, offering fresh, seasonal cuisine.
-
Scarborough is known for its highly regarded public school system, consistently ranked among the top districts in Maine.
The Scarborough School Department serves students from kindergarten through high school, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, community engagement, and well-rounded student development.
Scarborough High School is recognized for its robust academic offerings, including Advanced Placement courses, along with strong athletics and extracurricular programs.
The district also benefits from modern facilities and a commitment to continuous improvement, making it a top choice for families.
In addition to public schools, nearby private school options and proximity to Portland’s higher education institutions further enhance educational opportunities in the area.
Scarborough Real Estate Market Snapshot.
Scarborough Real Estate Market Snapshot. Single-Family Homes | Last 12 Months
Scarborough remains one of the most active and competitive markets in Southern Maine, and the numbers reflect it. In May 2026, 17 single-family homes sold in Scarborough, with a median sold price of $870,000. With prices up 16% compared to the same time last year, the demand for homes in this community shows no signs of slowing.
Homes in Scarborough moved exceptionally quickly, with a median of just 7 days on market, and sellers received a median of 104% of asking price — a clear indicator that well-priced homes are attracting multiple offers and selling above list. The range of sales activity spans from established family neighborhoods to coastal and waterfront properties, with sold prices reaching well into the millions.
Data reflects single-family home sales in Scarborough, Maine for May 2026. Source: Maine Listings MLS.
Pine Point | Scarborough
Scarborough, Maine Real Estate. Frequently Asked Questions.
-
Scarborough is one of the most competitive markets in Southern Maine. In May 2026, the median sold price for a single-family home was $870,000, homes sold in a median of just 7 days, and sellers received 104% of asking price on average. Inventory remains limited relative to demand, which means well-priced homes attract multiple offers quickly. Buyers should be prepared to move decisively and work with an experienced local agent who knows the market well.
-
Scarborough is approximately 8 to 10 miles south of downtown Portland, making it one of the closest suburban communities to the city. Most areas of Scarborough are just a 15 to 20 minute drive to Portland's waterfront, restaurants, and business district, with convenient access via Route 1 and the Maine Turnpike.
-
Scarborough is served by the Scarborough School Department, which is consistently regarded as one of the top public school systems in Maine. The district includes Scarborough High School, which regularly earns recognition for academic achievement, athletics, and extracurricular programs. Strong schools are one of the primary reasons families choose Scarborough, and they contribute significantly to the town's sustained real estate demand.
-
Yes. Scarborough offers a variety of waterfront and water-access properties, including oceanfront homes along Prouts Neck, Pine Point, and Higgins Beach, as well as properties bordering the Scarborough Marsh and several ponds throughout town. Waterfront inventory is limited and highly sought after, with prices ranging from the mid-$500,000s to well into the millions depending on location and property type.
-
Scarborough encompasses several distinct areas, each with its own character. Prouts Neck is known for its private, coastal enclave setting. Pine Point and Higgins Beach offer a classic Maine beach community feel. The Oak Hill area serves as the town's commercial hub with shops, restaurants, and services nearby. Dunstan and Pleasant Hill are popular with families seeking established neighborhoods with more space. This variety gives buyers a wide range of lifestyle options all within the same town.
-
Scarborough's current mill rate is approximately 11.9 per $1,000 of assessed value, though this can change annually with the town budget. Property taxes are an important consideration when evaluating overall housing costs, and we recommend confirming the current rate with the Town of Scarborough Assessor's Office for the most up to date information.
-
Scarborough is conveniently located near a range of lodging options. The Higgins Beach Inn offers a charming coastal stay right in Scarborough itself. Nearby Portland provides a wide selection of boutique hotels, inns, and short term rentals just a short drive away. Old Orchard Beach, just to the south, also offers seasonal accommodations with easy access to Scarborough's beaches and neighborhoods.
Whether you are considering selling your Scarborough home or searching for your next property here, understanding current market conditions is essential to making a confident decision.
Get in touch to start the conversation.