Here Are The 10 Fastest-Growing Towns In Maine And Why
By Michelle|Published December 14, 2017
×
Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
We can hardly blame people who move to Maine – there’s a reason Mainers stay here! From beautiful winter hikes to wacky and eccentric small towns, Vacationland might just be the best place on the globe to call home! Surprisingly, The Press Herald recently reported that the US Census revealed data showing that Maine might be losing residents. But a few towns in the state are actually seeing huge growth. Despite the losses, Maine has actually gained about 3,000 residents in the period between 2010 and 2016. Here’s where the most growth is happening!
Scarborough has led the charge in Maine population growth. Between 2010 and 2016, the town added over 1,100 residents. That might seem like a lot, but when you consider a small town with a population of only about 19,000, that many people can make a huge difference. But, it's no wonder people are flocking to the town. Located on the water, Scarborough is home to Scarborough Beach State Park. It's also the home of the Hannaford Supermarket Headquarters.
Windham had a population of about 17,000 people in 2010. They've since added 1,000 new residents. Windham is a beautiful, small town perfect for raising a family. Located a bit more inland, things are quiet here but oh-so-beautiful. It's home to Babb's Bridge and the Presumpscot River.
Gorham has added about 1,000 to it's population of 16,000 in just over 6 years. Pretty impressive for a town that's also synonymous with the word "village." Gorham has seen an increase in economy and it's proximity to Portland means it's a great place from which to commute.
Falmouth had a population of just over 11,000 in 2010. Today they've seen an increase in 917 residents, growing at a rate that some might find surprising for a little town. Falmouth hugs the Fore River, which is why you may have heard some areas referred to as "Falmouth Foreside."
Adorable Westbrook has slowly become one of the hippest spots in southern Maine. With new businesses and restaurants, folks are flocking to Westbrook as an alternative to Portland. They've grown their population by about 900 people since 2010, when they had nearly 17,500 residents.
It's a bit surprising that Orono has only added about 800 residents in 6 years. but its 2010 population of about 10,300 makes this a huge growth percentage. A college town rich with arts and culture, living in Orono is the best of both worlds. The forward thinking of a college town, surrounded by the beauty of the best state in the country!
Is anyone shocked that Portland made this list? The real surprise is that it's not higher! Those living in the city will tell you that it feels people are coming in droves. And, while they might wish things could stay small and quaint forever, Portland can't stay hidden forever. With new businesses and jobs, not to mention the culinary and arts scene Portland is a natural choice for making a home. The population in 2010 was just over 66,000 (the largest on this list) and it's added 743 residents in 6 years.
Saco is the only town on this list that has an easy way to recognize new transplants. Are they pronouncing it correctly? The population in 2010 was about 18,000, and they've added 731 people since then. Is it the people who come to OOB during the summer and can't bear the leave? Perhaps!
Sitting pretty on the Kennebec River, this town is home to Colby College. We suspect its the size of the city and promise of economy and jobs that draw people, but perhaps it's just a lot of people who love the idea of history. Colby has a long one! Waterville has added 684 people to its population, which was about 15,700 in 2010.
The last little town on this list, Cumberland County just squeaked in. In 2010 the population was the smallest on this list at about 7,200. It's since added 632 people to those who count this beautiful place home.
Living in Maine is sweet, but not as sweet as our candy shops. Here are the 8 best ones to get your sugar fix!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.