Augusta, Maine 

Augusta is Maine's capitol city and straddles the Kennebeck River, slightly to the southeast of the center of the state.  English settlers first came to the area in 1607, and a trading post, later a fort, was established in 1646.  A variety of French and English trappers and traders inhabited the area throughout the 16th and 17th centuries until 1827 when Augusta became Maine's capitol.

Today Augusta is a vibrant city (population 25,000) and home to the University of Maine.  Home prices here are quite reasonable and violent crime is rarely a problem.  This is rural New England, quiet and unassuming.  Click here for real estate information.