List of Cities in Maine Alphabetically

by btobers · Published September 29, 2024 · Updated November 11, 2024

Maine has around 488 municipalities, many of which are towns rather than cities. The state capital is Augusta, while the largest city is Portland, known for its coastal charm and growing food scene. Other significant cities include Lewiston, Bangor, South Portland, Auburn, Biddeford, Sanford, Saco, Westbrook, and Waterville. Maine is largely rural, with a population concentrated along the coast and in a few urban centers. Much of the state’s economy revolves around fishing, tourism, and small manufacturing industries.

1. Portland

City Facts

Population: Approximately 68,000 (as of 2020 Census)
Area Codes: 207
ZIP Codes: 04101-04109
County Affiliation: Cumberland County

Geography and History

Geography:
Portland is located on a peninsula in Casco Bay, on the southern coast of Maine. The city covers about 69.44 square miles, with 21.31 square miles of land and the remainder being water. Its coastal setting provides a natural deepwater port, making it an important hub for commerce.

History:
Portland was originally named “Falmouth” when it was founded in 1632. The city’s history is marked by several devastating events, including attacks during the French and Indian War and the Revolutionary War, as well as the Great Fire of 1866, which destroyed much of the downtown area. Portland became the capital of Maine when it became a state in 1820, though Augusta later took over as the capital in 1832. Over time, Portland has grown into a cultural, economic, and educational center for the region, known for its maritime history and vibrant arts scene.

Colleges and Universities

University of Southern Maine: The largest public university in the city, offering undergraduate and graduate programs across a range of disciplines.
Maine College of Art: A premier institution for creative studies in fine arts, design, and related fields.
University of New England (UNE): With a campus in Portland, UNE focuses on health sciences, including osteopathic medicine and nursing.

Major Landmarks

Portland Head Light: One of the most iconic lighthouses in New England, located in nearby Cape Elizabeth, but closely associated with Portland.
Old Port District: Known for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant waterfront area filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Victoria Mansion: A historic mansion featuring stunning architecture and preserved 19th-century furnishings.
Eastern Promenade: A popular park offering scenic views of Casco Bay, with trails, beaches, and recreational opportunities.

2. Lewiston

City Facts

Population: Approximately 36,000 (as of 2020 Census)
Area Codes: 207
ZIP Codes: 04240-04243
County Affiliation: Androscoggin County

Geography and History

Geography:
Lewiston is situated in the south-central part of Maine, along the banks of the Androscoggin River, and covers about 35 square miles. The river forms the western boundary with its twin city, Auburn, and together they make up the Lewiston-Auburn Metropolitan Area.

History:
Founded in 1795, Lewiston has roots as an industrial town, especially known for its textile and shoe manufacturing in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its economy was driven by the availability of water power from the Androscoggin River. By the mid-20th century, industrial decline led to economic challenges, but the city has seen revitalization in recent years with a growing emphasis on education, healthcare, and service industries.

Colleges and Universities

Bates College: Founded in 1855, Bates is one of the oldest and most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the United States, known for its academic rigor and commitment to egalitarian values.
University of Southern Maine (Lewiston-Auburn College): This campus focuses on continuing education, nursing, and community health.

Major Landmarks

Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul: A striking Roman Catholic basilica, the second-largest church in New England, renowned for its Gothic architecture.
Museum L-A: This museum showcases the industrial history of Lewiston-Auburn, with exhibits about the region’s textile and shoe industries.
Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary: A 450-acre wildlife preserve offering hiking trails and nature walks, providing a peaceful retreat from the urban environment.
Androscoggin Riverwalk: A scenic pathway that connects Lewiston with Auburn, offering beautiful views of the river.

3. Bangor

City Facts

Population: Approximately 31,000 (as of 2020 Census)
Area Codes: 207
ZIP Codes: 04401-04402
County Affiliation: Penobscot County

Geography and History

Geography:
Bangor is located in eastern Maine along the Penobscot River, about 30 miles inland from the coast. The city covers approximately 34.7 square miles and is a gateway to both the coast and the forests of northern Maine.

History:
Bangor was established in 1791 and quickly became a major hub for the timber and shipbuilding industries due to its proximity to vast forests and navigable rivers. It was one of the leading lumber ports in the world during the 19th century, earning the nickname “The Lumber Capital of the World.” Bangor’s economy diversified over time, and it is now a regional center for commerce, healthcare, and education.

Colleges and Universities

University of Maine (UMaine, Orono Campus): While the main campus is located in nearby Orono, UMaine plays a significant role in the Bangor area. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Husson University: This private university offers programs in business, health, communications, and legal studies, and has a strong focus on professional education.

Major Landmarks

Paul Bunyan Statue: A 31-foot-tall statue of the legendary lumberjack, which is one of Bangor’s most iconic landmarks.
Bangor Opera House: A historic venue for live performances, home to the Penobscot Theatre Company.
Mount Hope Cemetery: One of the oldest garden cemeteries in the United States, with beautifully landscaped grounds and significant historic monuments.
Stephen King’s House: The home of the famous author is a popular tourist attraction, even though it is a private residence.

4. South Portland

City Facts

Population: Approximately 26,000 (as of 2020 Census)
Area Codes: 207
ZIP Codes: 04106, 04116
County Affiliation: Cumberland County

Geography and History

Geography:
South Portland lies on the southern side of the Fore River, directly across from Portland. It spans 14.03 square miles, with 11.99 square miles of land and a significant waterfront area along Casco Bay. South Portland’s location makes it a key industrial and shipping hub.

History:
Incorporated as a city in 1898, South Portland has a rich history linked to shipbuilding, oil refineries, and trade. During World War II, the city was home to the South Portland Shipyards, which produced Liberty Ships for the war effort. In the post-war era, South Portland evolved into a suburban community with a strong industrial base, and it is now known for its shopping centers, transportation networks, and thriving economy.

Colleges and Universities

Southern Maine Community College (SMCC): One of Maine’s largest community colleges, offering associate degrees and certificates in various technical and professional fields.

Major Landmarks

Bug Light Park and Portland Breakwater Light: A small lighthouse with Greek Revival architecture, located at the mouth of the Fore River, offering panoramic views of Portland Harbor.
Maine Mall: The largest shopping mall in the state, a regional shopping destination.
Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse: Located near SMCC, this lighthouse guides ships safely into Portland Harbor.
South Portland Historical Society & Museum: Dedicated to preserving the city’s history, particularly its maritime and industrial past.

5. Auburn

City Facts

Population: Approximately 23,000 (as of 2020 Census)
Area Codes: 207
ZIP Codes: 04210-04212
County Affiliation: Androscoggin County

Geography and History

Geography:
Auburn lies on the west side of the Androscoggin River, opposite Lewiston. It covers 65.74 square miles, of which 59.54 square miles is land. The river forms a natural boundary between the two cities, and their combined region is often referred to as Lewiston-Auburn (L-A).

History:
Auburn was established in 1842 and quickly became a manufacturing hub, especially for shoes and textiles, benefiting from its location on the Androscoggin River. Like Lewiston, Auburn experienced economic shifts as industrial jobs declined, but it has since diversified into retail, education, and healthcare sectors.

Colleges and Universities

Central Maine Community College (CMCC): Located in Auburn, CMCC offers a range of associate degree programs, with a focus on technical education and workforce development.
University of Southern Maine (Lewiston-Auburn College): Though based in Lewiston, this institution serves the educational needs of both cities.

Major Landmarks

Festival Plaza: Located in the heart of downtown Auburn, this plaza is a venue for concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year.
Auburn Riverwalk: A scenic trail along the Androscoggin River, connecting Auburn with Lewiston, offering picturesque views and a space for outdoor activities.
Mount Apatite: A park offering hiking trails and areas for rock-hounding, particularly for those interested in minerals and gems.
Androscoggin Historical Society: The society maintains a museum and library in nearby Lewiston, focusing on the history of the Lewiston-Auburn area.

List of Cities in Maine Alphabetically

1. Portland

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

2. Lewiston

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

3. Bangor

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

4. South Portland

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

5. Auburn

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

List of All Cities and Towns in Maine in Alphabetical Order

Related Posts:

Recent Posts

Browse U.S. Cities by State