$670,537Average Value$419Average Price per Sq Ft5Homes For Sale
Walkability with a suburban feel
Once an undeveloped estuary basin off Casco Bay, present-day Back Cove is a desirable residential community known for its waterfront walkways, neighborhood restaurants and friendly feel. Originally envisioned as part of a ring of connecting parks encircling the city, Baxter Boulevard hugs the coast of the cove and offers views of downtown Portland from across the water. Today, this main thoroughfare is both a boundary and a community backbone — neighbors gather along it every week for Sundays on the Boulevard. “All the houses were built around the Boulevard, and it’s great, because people can walk or bike into town,” says Amy Mulkerin, who owns Mulkerin Real Estate and recently sold a lot in the neighborhood. With schools, restaurants and parks nestled alongside homes, and downtown Portland a stone’s throw across the bay, it should come as no surprise that Back Cove is commonly ranked as one of the best neighborhoods in this Maine city.
Back Cove has a population of 4,527 and is located just outside of Portland, Maine.
The lovely neighborhood of Back Cove with Downtown Portland on the horizon.
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Classic home styles on slightly larger city lots
Despite being just a few minutes' drive from downtown, the streets of Back Cove are decidedly residential, lined by sidewalks and mature maples. It’s possible to find a home on a quarter-acre lot here, though others sit closer together, with just enough of a front yard to plant some shrubbery or perennial blossoms. “It’s a pretty settled area in terms of development. Lots can be tight, too; some are just 5,000 square feet,” Mulkerin says. Development in this area first began in the early 20th century and continued steadily through the 2010s, though most recent builds are condos or townhouses on the outskirts of the neighborhood. Single-family homes come in at a median price of $600,000 and come in typical New England styles, from quaint Cape Cods to charming Dutch Colonials and classic Colonial Revivals. Homes close to Baxter Boulevard and its views of the cove can sell for upwards of $900,000, but three-bedroom ranch-style houses start at around $400,000.
Colonial ranch style homes line the streets of Back Cove.
Dutch Colonial homes are a lovely twist on the colonial home in Back Cove.
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Games at Payson Parks and walks along the Boulevard
Payson Park borders the neighborhood to the east, popular for its paths along Baxter Boulevard that span the Back Cove shoreline. Portland is home to a well-maintained network of urban trails, and the Back Cove Trail — with its shady trees and views of the city from across the tranquil waters — is easily one of the most scenic. Races and walk-a-thons along the Boulevard often start or end at the park, the Portland 10 Miler being one example. The park is also a favorite among athletes who flock to the courts for pickup tennis or basketball games, and it hosts organized youth baseball games on the diamond. Kids enjoy year-round fun letting loose on the playground or sledding down the hills in winter.
Play some basketball on the courts at Edward Payson Park in Back Cove.
Go for a run along the Back Cove trail which spans throughout Back Cove.
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Casual dining right outside residents’ doorsteps
Local restaurants are within walking distance from many homes. Some, like Tipo, are even surrounded by residences. This Italian restaurant’s sleek, modern interior should clue patrons into its creative plates, with an outdoor patio that’s perfect for sipping on a craft cocktail. Forest Avenue is the main commercial thoroughfare bordering the neighborhood to the west and is home to specialty markets, art shops, a bookstore and a diverse array of cuisines. Residents can grab a loaf for their French toast at Big Sky Bread Company or dine out for breakfast at Bayou Kitchen, a colorful, bustling diner serving Cajun fare. For lunch, Bird & Co. is the place to go for a taco, or folks can head to Maiz for Colombian arepas. In the evenings, draft beer enthusiasts from across town flock to the Great Lost Bear for its draught list that regularly features more than 50 taps. Home cooks can grab all their supplies at Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods in the Bayside neighborhood, roughly 5 minutes away.
Enjoy some delicious Columbian food at Maiz in Back Cove.
Enjoy your lunch on Tipo's exquisite outdoor patio in Back Cove.
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Private and public schools right in the neighborhood
Kids can attend Portland Public Schools, beginning at Ocean Avenue Elementary and Moore Middle, which both score a B-minus from Niche. As a high school choice district, families can select which of three area high schools they’d like their children to attend. Casco Bay High is the most selective, accepting students based on a lottery system. The high school, which receives a B rating, utilizes Expeditionary Learning by incorporating outdoor experiences into the classroom. Those seeking a private alternative can enroll at Cheverus High, a Catholic preparatory school that balances academics with faith and service.
Ocean Avenue Elementary School serves students in kindergarten through fifth grade.
Cheverus High School has a student-teacher ratio of 12 to 1.
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Baxter Boulevard is a point of pride for residents
Back Cove is moderately walkable and bikeable, with the Back Cove Trail stretching along the entirety of the shore and connecting the neighborhood to the city’s other urban trails. The Back Cove Neighborhood Association also hosts Sundays on the Boulevard, an initiative that shuts down Baxter Boulevard for one day a week so that locals can use the thoroughfare for outdoor recreation. Both downtown Portland and the Portland International Jetport are approximately 10 minutes away, with I-295 access further down Forest Avenue. Great Portland Metro buses stop along Forest Avenue and travel to Monument Square in the heart of downtown.
Enjoy the gorgeous views of the cove along the Back Cove Trail.
Enjoy a run through the Back Cove Trail that stretches along beautiful Baxter Boulevard.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Frank Barry,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Edward Payson Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Picnic Area
Heseltine Park
Picnic Area
Playground
Multi-Purpose Field
Canco Woods
Bike Trails
Trails
Canco Woods
Bike Trails
Fishing
Lake
Longfellow Park
Bike Trails
Picnic Area
Trails
Baxter Woods
Bike Trails
Fishing
Lake
Transit
Airport
Portland International Jetport
11 min drive
Bus
Woodford I & B
Bus
Washington Ave & 975 Washington Ave
Bus
Woodford O & B
Bus
Forest Ave & Belmont St
Bus
Forest Ave & Arlington St
Reviews
Niche Reviews
4.09 Reviews
4.0Niche User
2/24/2015Niche Review
There are many unemployed/homeless people in this area but the people who are working are happy with their jobs and hold a positive outlook on working.
4.0Niche User
2/24/2015Niche Review
There is a great variety of different stores in my neighborhood and they are all within walking distance from my home.
4.0Niche User
5/22/2015Niche Review
There are so many option for good food here. Within walking distance there are Italian, Mexican and Irish pubs and restaurants. The need for suitable foodstuffs isn't lacking here.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Back Cove
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
2
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Back Cove, Portland sell after 21 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Back Cove, Portland over the last 12 months is $687,312, up 12% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Open House Sunday, April 27th from 1:00 to 3:00, or schedule a private tour.Charming. Updated. Perfectly located. This sun-filled Back Cove Victorian, circa 1915, blends period charm with thoughtful modern updatesâ€''offering the ideal mix of timeless style and today's conveniences, all at a remarkable price.From the welcoming front porch to the gleaming hardwood floors, original trim, and lovely
Welcome home to 52 Melrose Street! This stately 5 bedroom (or 4 bedrooms plus a roomy office), 2.5 bath home located on a corner lot in coveted Back Cove is just steps from Baxter Blvd, vibrant local restaurants & shopping and moments to all that Portland's Old Port has to offer. This wonderful home has been freshly painted throughout and features stunning period details alongside modern
OPEN HOUSE CANCELED on this Ranch-Style Unit in Back Bay - Modern, Sunny & Move-In Ready!Looking for the perfect mix of city access, chill vibes, and stylish living? This is it. This newly updated, ranch-style end unit in Portland's Back Bay neighborhood has just hit the market—and it's packed with upgrades.This bright and sunny 2-bedroom condo offers a smart, single-level layout with an
Enjoy direct access to the renowned Back Cove Trail via the private gated footpath, or get your game-on in adjacent Payson Park with this sun-filled 2BR,1.5BA townhouse that offers the perfect blend of city living and coastline adventures! The updated kitchen features granite countertops, stainless appliances, tile floors, and a cozy breakfast bar. Step outside to a sunny private patio, ideal
Peter CoyneCoyne Webber Real Estate Associates, LLC
Experience the charm of living near the scenic Baxter Boulevard trail, where an array of local favorites awaits—savor the rich aromas of Coveside Coffee, indulge in sweet treats from Sammy's Scoops, or explore the diverse flavors of Food & Beverage Restaurant, Bayou Kitchen, Bird & Co., and more. Book lovers will enjoy Back Cove Books, while top-tier educational institutions like Ocean Avenue
WOODFORDS CORNER - CLOSE TO BACK COVE! GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A REASONABLY PRICED 3 UNIT. THE TYPICAL 2 BR, 1 BA FLOOR PLANS, NEED UPDATES. THE CLASSIC FEATURES, SEPARATE UTILITIES, SIDE YARD, PARKING, STORAGE, ETC. ARE ALL BONUSES. THE PRICE REFLECTS THE WORK NEEDED.
This is an exceptional location with sweeping water views of Back Cove and the Portland city skyline from one of the highest points on the property. The townhouse is bright and airy. Its open concept and many windows offer stunning views from many angles. Granite kitchen with breakfast bar. Brand new finishes throughout. Crown molding. This 2 bed, 1 full 1 half bath property is steps to Back Cove
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Frank Barry,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
3,615
Median Age
43
Population Density
7 ppl/acre
Population under 18
17.7%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
23.5%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$93,291
Above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$131,115
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
95.3%
College Graduates
69.2%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
34.3%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
74%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
49''
Average Winter Low Temperature
16°F
Average Summer High Temperature
79°F
Annual Snowfall
36''
Area Factors
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
73/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
44/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®
30/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
