The Newest ‘Up-And-Coming’ Maine Town is One You’d Never Expect

Just like nearly everything else in life, towns and cities go through cycles.

For example, Houlton, Maine, used to be one of the most active towns in Maine.  Home to several large mills, it was a very active place.  These days, it is a shell of its former glory.

The same is true for Berlin, New Hampshire.  At one time, primarily because of the wood mills and the Brown Company research and development facility, Berlin was the largest city in New Hampshire.  In the early 1900s, it was even larger than Manchester, New Hampshire.

The same was true for Portland.

For the longest time, Portland was the Maine city where everyone in their 20s wanted to live.  The city had cool shops, great restaurants, and a nightlife.

For various reasons, the biggest of which is the insane cost of living in Portland, the city is no longer as popular as it once was.

The New Fastest Growing City in Maine

According to data recently released by the U.S. Census Bureau, Lewiston is the fastest-growing city in Maine.

As mentioned above, at one time, Portland was the city where everyone wanted to be.  That has changed.  In the last few years, the population of Portland has only grown by a few hundred people.

Meanwhile, the population of Lewiston has grown by over 1,000 people in the last few years.

Between April 1st, 2020, and July 1st, 2023 the population of the city increased from 37,124 to 38, 404.  That's a population increase of just under 3.5%.

While still the state's largest city, the population of Portland increased by significantly less.  Portland's population increased from 68,405 to 69,104.  That's an increase of about 1%.

Lewiston, Maine, Has So Much to Offer

In addition to being quite a bit more affordable than Portland, the city has a lot to offer.

The city is home to Bates College and several great parks & outdoor spaces, including the Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary.

In addition to many of the most popular chain restaurants, Lewiston is home to dozens of great local eateries.  These include Fish Bones Grill, The Pub at Baxter, and Food Point Brazilian Steakhouse.

There are even more great eateries and nightspots on the Auburn side of the river.

What's your opinion on Lewiston?  Do you live there now?  Would you ever move to Lewiston?