A population of approximately 1.3 million people, Maine is just south of the Canadian border and the easternmost state in the contiguous 48 states. The largest and the northernmost state in New England, it is appropriately called the “Pine Tree State,” as 90 percent of its land is forest. Equally known for its dramatic ocean scenery, Maine boasts 62 lighthouses, jagged rocks, cliffs and thousands of bays and inlets. The famous rock coast of Maine also offers sandy beaches, fishing villages and thousands of offshore islands. The rugged beauty of Maine’s coast is contrasted by the lakes, rivers, green forests and mountains of inland. Maine is rich in historical significance and offers the infamous seafood dining, arts and culture, a growing economy, an abundance of outdoor activities and a high quality of life.
      With 16 counties, Maine offers several housing options for its residents. From seaside cliff homes to city condominiums, rural farm and historic homes to grassy and wooded suburban lots, there is the perfect home waiting in Maine. Within a half-day drive or less to New England’s major cities, Maine offers quiet, family-oriented living alongside dramatic sea side waves.

Did You Know...

State Nickname: The Pine Tree State State Capital: Augusta State Flower: White pine cone and tassel State Bird: Black-capped Chickadee

Unique geographical features such as Machias Seal Island and Old Sow reside in Maine. Old Sow is the largest tidal whirlpool in the world. Additionally, Acadia National Park is located in Maine, the only national park in New England. A wonderland of natural attractions is found here, including waterfalls, caves, estuaries and wildlife reserves. Whale and puffin watching excursions, moose safari trips along with the picturesque coastline allow residents to reap the benefits of their beautiful state.

Maine offers a bevy of activities to residents, depending on the season. Through summer and spring, Maine is an outdoor wonderland. Exploration of the coast, mountains, woods, rivers and lakes by kayak, bike or seaplane is the most common, while camping, hiking and wildlife watching is also popular. Locals frequent summer festivals, lobster bakes, sandy beaches or tee off at a lakeside golf course. Winter boasts beauty like no other, whether on a horse-drawn sleigh or on a pair of snowshoes. A multitude of cross-country and snowmobile trails beckon the family for fun. Celebrate the holidays by visiting lighthouses decorated with lights, quaint shops in the small fishing villages or just a cozy night by the fire.
      Agriculture is a major emphasis in Maine, from maple season in March, apple-picking in fall and Christmas tree season in December. Farms sell directly to the residents, while agricultural fairs offer the crops of the rural landscape. Maine’s agricultural outputs are seafood, most notably lobsters, poultry and eggs, dairy, cattle, blueberries, apples and maple sugar. The state’s economy is boosted by such items along with western Maine’s aquifers and springs as major sources of bottled waters.
      Maine’s industrial yields consist of paper, lumber and wood products, electronics, leather products, textiles and biotechnology. Naval shipbuilding and construction remain a key factor in the state’s economic strength with Bath Iron Works and Portsmouth Naval Yard. Some of the large companies that contribute to the economy and maintain headquarters in Maine include Fairchild Semiconductor, IDEXX Laboratories, insurance giant Unum Provident, L.L. Bean and MBNA. Playing a key role in national transportation, Maine’s largest city of Portland surpassed Boston as New England’s busiest port. Additionally, Portland International Jetport was recently expanded, providing the state with increased air traffic.

Maine’s culture is steeped in history, home to many historic homes preserved as museums and more surviving forts than any other state. The history of the state and its people are highlighted in the Maine State Museum, the Acadian culture in the St. John Valley and nautical heritage at the Maine Maritime Museum. The family can ride a trolley at the Seashore Trolley Museum or watch a bi-plane at Owl’s Head Transportation Museum. With two symphony orchestras, opera companies and a long list of theatre companies, Maine offers a distinctive list of options for the performing arts and cultural entertainment.