Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most important steps when relocating to Bar Harbor. Each part of the area offers something different—whether you're looking for walkability, privacy, views, or proximity to the ocean. With its mix of year-round homes, historic districts, and seasonal properties, Bar Harbor gives you several options to match your lifestyle.
If you're preparing to make a move to this coastal community, it's important to understand how neighborhoods differ and what to consider before making your decision. This guide walks you through the key factors to keep in mind when searching for the right place to call home.
Define Your Lifestyle Priorities
Start by thinking about how you plan to live in Bar Harbor. Your daily habits, work schedule, and preferred pace will influence which neighborhood makes the most sense for you.
Ask yourself whether you want to walk to local shops and restaurants or prefer more separation from activity. If you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, proximity to trails, parks, or the shoreline may be a top priority. If you’ll be commuting or traveling often, easy access to main roads could be more important than view or walkability.
Knowing how you want to use your home helps narrow your search and keeps the focus on areas that will suit your needs both now and long term.
Consider Proximity to Downtown
Living near the center of town offers convenience and community. Homes close to downtown Bar Harbor give you easy access to restaurants, galleries, the Shore Path, and seasonal events. If you're looking for a walkable lifestyle, this may be the best fit.
That said, living in the center also comes with higher traffic in summer, more foot traffic, and a faster pace during peak tourism months. If you prefer quiet surroundings but still want to be close to downtown, look for neighborhoods a few blocks outside the core. These areas offer more space and privacy while still being just minutes away from shops and amenities.
Keep in mind that neighborhoods further out typically offer larger lots and more parking, but may require more driving, especially in the off-season.
Think About Year-Round Living vs Seasonal Use
Bar Harbor is known for its seasonal charm, but many neighborhoods are active year-round. If you're planning to live in your home full-time, look for areas with consistent year-round residency. These parts of town tend to have better snow removal, steady utility access, and a stronger sense of community outside the summer months.
If you're looking for a seasonal getaway or second home, you may prioritize access to water views or short-term rental potential over year-round infrastructure. Just be aware that not all neighborhoods allow short-term rentals, and some have strict rules about property use and occupancy. Make sure you check the association or zoning guidelines if you plan to rent the home part-time.
Knowing whether you want the home to function as a full-time residence, vacation home, or part-time rental will help shape your search and clarify which neighborhoods fit your goals.
Explore Historic vs Modern Areas
Bar Harbor includes both historic districts with 19th-century architecture and newer neighborhoods with updated layouts and modern systems. Older areas often offer charm, detail, and mature landscaping, but they may also come with restrictions on renovation or expansion.
If you’re drawn to period homes with character, you’ll find several streets with preserved cottages and original stonework. These homes are ideal if you're looking for unique architecture and walkable proximity to the town center.
In contrast, newer neighborhoods or rebuilt properties provide modern conveniences and more flexible design features. These may include open floor plans, energy-efficient systems, and contemporary finishes. They may also be easier to maintain and customize over time.
Deciding between traditional charm and modern features will help guide you toward the right part of town for your preferences.
Evaluate Water Access and Views
Living near the ocean is one of the most desirable features in Bar Harbor. Some neighborhoods offer direct water access, while others provide partial or elevated views of Frenchman Bay or the nearby islands.
Homes with waterfrontage typically command higher prices and may be more limited in availability. If view is a top priority, be prepared to adjust the size or layout to secure a lot in these areas. If privacy or square footage is more important than the view itself, look inland for properties that still provide access to natural surroundings but at a lower price point.
In some neighborhoods, slight changes in elevation or direction can significantly affect the view. When evaluating homes, visit at different times of day and consider how light, visibility, and landscape impact the overall setting.
Assess Privacy, Traffic, and Noise
Some neighborhoods in Bar Harbor remain peaceful year-round, while others become busier during the tourism season. If privacy is important to you, look for side streets or cul-de-sacs with limited through traffic. Homes on quiet roads or with natural buffers tend to offer more seclusion and less seasonal activity.
During peak season, some areas near major roads or popular paths experience increased foot traffic and street parking. If that environment feels too active for your taste, consider homes set farther back or with private driveways.
Conversely, if you enjoy being part of a lively, active setting, you may appreciate the energy of neighborhoods closer to Acadia National Park entrances or within walking distance of downtown.
Your comfort with seasonal rhythm will influence which part of town feels right.
Review Lot Size and Surroundings
Lot size varies widely across Bar Harbor. Some homes sit on compact parcels with limited outdoor space, while others offer multi-acre properties with forested buffers or room for gardens, additions, or outbuildings.
If outdoor space is important, pay close attention to topography and natural features. Flat lots are easier for gardening or outdoor entertaining. Wooded lots offer privacy, while open land gives flexibility for future projects. Consider whether the land can support what you want to do with the property, especially if you're thinking about building a garage, studio, or guest quarters later.
Also consider how the surrounding homes are situated. Some neighborhoods offer generous spacing, while others have homes placed closer together. Think about whether you prefer a neighborhood feel or more separation between properties.
Contact Steve Shelton
If you're preparing to buy a home in Bar Harbor, Steve Shelton can help you explore neighborhoods that match your goals. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the area’s character, Steve helps buyers find the right fit—whether you're looking for year-round comfort, seasonal enjoyment, or long-term value. Reach out to Steve Shelton today to schedule a consultation and begin your search for the perfect neighborhood in Bar Harbor.
