Hardship in the Pine Tree State: Maine's Top 5 Most Miserable Cities

Known as the “Vacationland” state, Maine entices tourists with its breathtaking coasts, quaint towns, and mouthwatering lobster rolls. For some locals, however, the picture-perfect scenery and charming lighthouses conceal a different reality.

This is not to suggest that Maine is a hopeless place to live, but it is important for anyone thinking about moving to have a whole picture. Thus, consider these places to determine if they fit your goals and way of life before packing your bags and moving north.

Gardiner

In the 5,944-person community of Gardiner, the percentage of people living in poverty is 11.5%. With a median home price of $153,900, it is a reasonably priced option for anyone looking to buy a property.

A consistent, family-oriented demography is seen in the approximately 34.0% of married families. Gardiner’s appeal as a residential area appropriate for raising families is further highlighted by the fact that 22.37% of homes are made up of families with children.

Auburn

There are 23,790 people living in the town of Auburn. With 11.1% of people living in poverty, the economic climate is very steady. Auburn is a reasonably priced alternative for homebuyers, with a median property price of $190,000.

Hardship in the Pine Tree State: Maine's Top 5 Most Miserable Cities — Image By: Wikipedia

A sizable percentage of stable family units may be seen in married households, which make up 26.0% of the population.

Furthermore, the town’s appeal as a family-friendly neighborhood is highlighted by the fact that 25.57% of households are made up of children.

Augusta

There are 18,895 people living in the town of Augusta. With a 19.3% poverty rate, the community’s many economic backgrounds are reflected.

Affordable housing in comparison to national averages is indicated by the median home price of $149,500.

Families are a large demographic in Augusta, as seen by the fact that married households make up 20.0% of the population and homes with children make up 22.14%.

Biddeford

There are 22,331 people living in the city of Biddeford. With 13.3% of people living in poverty, the economic climate is comparatively stable.

In Biddeford, the median house price is $278,300, suggesting a modestly priced housing market. 24.0% of households are made up of married individuals, indicating a sizable component of the community’s families.

Furthermore, Biddeford’s appeal as a family neighborhood is highlighted by the fact that 22.56% of households there have children.

Lewiston

The 36,615-person city of Lewiston is representative of a varied community with a range of socioeconomic metrics. With 16.3% of people living in poverty, there are both opportunities and challenges for economic growth and support services.

Lewiston is reasonably priced compared to many other urban regions, with a median property price of $157,500. 23.62% of homes have children, indicating a sizable section of the population focused on family life and childrearing, while approximately 28.0% of households are married.

To Conclude

Even while Maine has a beautiful environment and a strong feeling of community, particularly for families, the economic reality in these cities can be challenging. Poverty rates are higher than the national average in Gardiner, Auburn, Augusta, Biddeford, and Lewiston.

Even when housing expenses could be alluring, people may experience additional stress due to a lack of employment options and possible isolation.

Recall that Maine is home to much more than just these five cities. Prioritize places that fit your requirements and goals after carefully weighing your priorities and conducting extensive study.

For those looking for a satisfying life in the “Vacationland” state of Maine, smart planning can help you appreciate its beauty and charm.