What's the weather like in Portland Maine?

In January 2010 my husband and i are relocating to maine for his PHD program. I was wondering what the weather would be like... lots of snow....freezing?? and if we should wait till May to move there or go ahead and move in the winter.



also what are some nice areas to live in? by the beach? or downtown?



and what should we stock up on before coming? snow pants? snow shoes? etc? we have winters in KY but nothing more than 3-4 inches of snow maybe a foot sometimes... a dusting...What's the weather like in Portland Maine?
I live in Portland, so you can trust me. It really doesn't matter if you move here in the winter or May, as KY and ME weather isn't extremely different. For winter you should just bring the necessities, a hat, gloves, boots, and a pair of snowpants. You really don't need wear these things as winters can get into the 30's and 40's. However, all of the other seasons in Maine are beautiful and unique. Fall=foliage Spring=blosseming and rain often times and summer= perfect beach days but not TOO hot. If you like a city feel, move downdown. There are many restaurants, shops and other things to do there. If you like a suburban setting on the beach, move to Cape Elizabeth, Falmouth, Cumberland, Freeport or Old Orchard Beach.

Again, people make such a big deal about winter but it is not bad at all as long as you find activities like snowboarding or XC SkiingWhat's the weather like in Portland Maine?
Portland Maine isn't very cold except in te winter. THere is no day when you NEED to wear shorts in the summer. But you will probally use shorts once in a while. But from vacation I can tell you that you'll most likely wear long pants especially near the water. In the winter it gets rather cold. So I would would bring lots oof warm clothes!!!