Cities & Towns
Select a town name in the list below to view information on specific Maine communities.
When visiting a Maine community you have access to:
- Community Profiles & Historic Information
- Real Estate and Homes for Sale
- School and Demographic Information
- Home Buyer, Home Seller and Relocation Guides and Reports
Local ME real estate professionals will provide additional community information that you may request.
Overview
From the rocky cliffs of its rugged Atlantic Ocean coast to the rolling mountains and dense forests of its interior, Maine offers a bounty of spectacular natural scenery for residents and visitors alike. The state's 5,500 miles of coastline are home to sandy beaches, historic ports, towering granite cliffs and beautiful Acadia National Park. Further inland is an unspoiled wilderness dotted by mountains and lakes. 5,267–foot Mount Katahdin is the state's highest peak and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, while Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in the entire New England region. To the north of the mountains is the sprawling, sparsely populated Aroostook County, famed for its potato crops and French culture.
New England's largest state, Maine has a history as vast and colorful as its gorgeous natural landscape. First settled by Europeans in 1604, Maine became part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1652. Ownership of the territory was disputed by England and France throughout the early 18th century. After the defeat of the French in the 1740s American and British forces contended for Maine's territory during the American Revolution and the War of 1812. Due to rapid population growth as well as its geographical separation from the rest of Massachusetts, Maine was admitted as the 23rd state in 1820 through the Missouri Compromise.
Maine's early economy consisted primarily of fishing, small farms and fur trade with the natives. Europeans fished along Maine's coast as early as the 16th century, and the first settlements depended on the sea for subsistence. By the 18th century settlers had spread to the interior and an extensive lumbering industry was established. Much of the wood from Maine's forests was floated down waterways to the coastal villages, where it was used in shipbuilding throughout the 19th century. In the same time period a number of mills were established along Maine's many rushing rivers, attracting a large population of French Canadians who would influence the local culture for decades to come.
By the early 20th century Maine had emerged as a major tourist destination, with its idyllic coastal villages, numerous ski resorts, and vast acres of inland wilderness attracting vacationers throughout the year. Tourism remains a staple industry in Maine, while a number of outlet malls in the southern part of the state have proven a boon to local commerce.
Facts
Originally inhabited by Algonquian peoples, Maine was settled by the French in 1604 and became part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1652. Maine became the 23rd state on March 15, 1820 as a component of the Missouri Compromise.
- 33,414 square miles
- 488 cities, towns and plantations
- Population: 1,321,574 (2006)
- Largest cities (2005): Portland, 63,889; Lewiston, 36,050; Bangor, 31,074; South Portland, 23,742; Auburn, 23,602
- Nickname: The Pine Tree State
- Per capita income: $32,348
- 5,500 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline
- 6,000 lakes and ponds
- 32,000 miles of streams and rivers
- 35 State Parks
- 16 State Historic Sites
- Highest point: Mount Katahdin (5,268 ft)
Climate
New England is famous for its four distinct seasons, with brisk, snowy winters giving way to colorful springs and hot, humid summers. Seasonal temperatures vary considerably throughout the state, with the coastal areas moderated somewhat by the Atlantic Ocean.
Winter
Winters in Maine are generally cold, with average January temperatures ranging from 21°F in Portland to 9°F in Caribou. Winter temperatures along the coast are somewhat warmer due to the moderating influence of the ocean, and while nighttime lows generally hover in the teens in the southwest they often plummet to below zero in the extreme north. Residents and visitors alike should prepare for temperatures below freezing throughout the season. Skiing is a popular activity in Maine, with a number of resorts in the center of the state.
Spring
Spring temperatures in Maine are variable, with frequent rainfall throughout the season. Temperatures begin to warm significantly in April, although snowfall can occur well into the month. By May, daily highs average between 60°F and 65°F across the state. Biking, hiking and day trips to some of Maine's historic villages are among the many recreational opportunities available to residents in the spring and fall. Light jackets, sweaters and long pants are generally sufficient after the snow subsides, although on warmer days shorts and T–Shirts may also be appropriate.
Summer
Maine summers are hot and humid, though the moderating influence of the ocean keeps temperatures slightly cooler than interior regions. Daily averages approach 70°F in July, though temperatures often reach into the lower 80s and 90–degree weather is not unheard of. With 5,500 miles of rocky cliffs and sandy beaches, Maine's Atlantic Ocean coast is the perfect weekend destination for families and professionals looking to escape the daily grind, while the state's rugged interior offers countless opportunities for fishing and hiking. Shorts, T–Shirts, and swimwear are appropriate throughout the summer months.
Fall
Temperatures in Maine begin to cool in September, with averages for the month ranging from 55 to 60°F. By October, the trees alight in brilliant colors, from bright red to yellow and orange. This eruption of color is the region's world famous fall foliage, the extraordinary last gasp before the leaves fall from the trees and the cycle begins over again. As the trees turn color and shed their leaves, temperatures begin to drop significantly, with the first frosts occurring in October. Residents can enjoy cycling and hiking in Maine's many State Parks and recreational areas along with tours of historical sites. Long sleeves and jackets are recommended, though you may want to bring layers for day trips in late October and November.
http://www.nrcc.cornell.edu/ccd/nrmmin.html
http://www.maine.gov/portal/customize/weathermap.php
http://www.rssweather.com/climate/Maine/Portland/
http://www.wunderground.com/US/ME/
Government
"The Maine State Constitution created Maine's government system, with three co–equal branches – the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches." – www.maine.gov, official website for the state of Maine.
The capital of Maine is Augusta, located at the head of the Kennebec River in the south–central region of the state.
Maine's three branches of government are organized as follows:
Executive
- The Rhode Island Executive branch is headed by the Governor. Serving under the governor are the following constitutional officers:
- The Secretary of State
- The Attorney General
- The State Treasurer
- One statutory officer serves under the Governor:
- The State Auditor
- The following State Departments are also contained within the Executive Branch:
- Administrative and Financial Services
- Agriculture
- Conservation
- Corrections
- Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management
- Economic and Community Development
- Education
- Environmental Protection
- Health & Human Services
- Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
- Labor
- Marine Resources
- Professional and Financial Regulation
- Public Safety
- State Planning Office
- Transportation
Maine Executive Branch Website
Legislative
- The Legislative Branch is responsible for making the laws and is made up of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate has 35 members who are elected every 2 years, and the House has 151 members who are also elected every two years. Other offices contained within the Legislative branch are as follows:
- Office of the Executive Director
- Office of the Revisor of Statutes
- Legislative Information Office
- Office of Policy and Legal Analysis
- Office of Fiscal and Program Review
Maine Legislative Branch Website
Judicial
- The Judicial Branch is responsible for interpreting the laws and is headed by the Supreme Judicial Court. All judicial officers are appointed by the Governor and serve a term of 7 years.
- The Supreme Judicial Court is the governing body of the Judicial Branch, and, sitting as the Law Court, it is the Court of final appeal. The court hears appeals of family, civil, and criminal cases from the District and Superior Courts, appeals from final judgments and decrees of the Probate Courts (which is a county system), appeals of decisions of the Public Utilities Commission and the Workers' Compensation Board.
- The Superior Court is located in 17 courthouses around the State. The Chief Justice serves as administrative head of the court. The court has original or exclusive jurisdiction over all criminal and civil matters that are not the exclusive jurisdiction of the District Court. The Superior Court is the only court where civil and criminal jury trials are held.
- The District Court, located in 31 courthouses around the State, hears both civil and criminal matters and always sits without a jury.
- Within the District Court is the Family Division, which hears all divorce and family matters, including child support and paternity cases. Case Management Officers hear family cases, and manage the case flow of primarily uncontested cases.
- Actions for protection from abuse or harassment, mental health, small claims cases (in which the damages are not more than $4,500) and money judgments are filed in the District Court.
- Traffic violations are processed primarily through a centralized Violations Bureau, which is part of the District Court system. Hearings contesting traffic or civil violations are heard by the District Court.
Source: "Structure of the Courts" (http://www.courts.state.me.us/mainecourts/structure/). For more information, see the Maine Judicial Branch Website.
Taxes
Individual Income Tax
- Maine generally imposes an income tax on all individuals that have Maine–source income. The income tax rates are graduated, with rates ranging from 2% to 8.5%.
Corporate Income Tax
- Maine imposes an income tax on all entities organized as corporations (except S corporations) and that have Maine–source income.
- The corporate income tax is graduated, with rates ranging from 3.5% (for income up to $25,000) to 8.93% (for income in excess of $250,000).
Estate Tax
- Maine imposes a tax on estates (gross estate plus prior taxable gifts) valued at $950,000 or more (for 05 decedents – $1,000,000 for 06 decedents) for all decedents with property taxable to Maine.
- The Maine estate tax is applied even if there is no federal estate tax.
- For those estates that are below the taxable threshold and that have real or tangible personal property in Maine, you may obtain a lien release for that property by filing Form 706EZ–ME.
Fiduciary Tax
- Maine imposes a tax on the income of estates or trusts. The tax rate is graduated and is equal to the individual income tax rates (2%, 4.5%, 7% and 8.5%).
- The fiduciary or trustee of a trust or estate must file Maine Form 1041ME if the trust or estate:
- has any Maine income
- has any Maine addition modifications
- or has gross income of $10,000 or more.
Franchise Tax
- The Maine franchise tax is imposed on banks and financial institutions. The franchise taxpayer can choose between two tax options.
- Option 1 is a two–part tax consisting of 1% of Maine income and 0.008% of assets.
- Option 2 is a tax on assets only and is imposed at 0.039%% of Maine assets.
- The tax is imposed on all financial institutions with Maine income, even if the entity is organized as a pass–through organization.
Property Taxes
- Property Taxes in Maine are determined through an annual State Valuation and differ from town to town. See the Property Tax Division Website for more information and links.
Sales & Use Tax
- Sales & Use Tax rates for goods or rentals in the state of Maine are as follows:
- General, Service Provider & Use – 5%
- Lodging & Prepared Food – 7%
- Short Term Auto Rental – 10%
Fuel Tax
- Fuel tax rates per gallon are as follows (effective 7/1/07):
- Gasoline – 0.276
- Diesel – 0.288
- Jet Fuel – 0.034
- Propane – 0.201
- Methanol – 0.157
- Ethanol – 0.196
- Compressed Natural Gas – 0.239 (per 100 cubic feet)
For all other taxes and additional information see the Maine Revenue Services website.
Licenses and Fees
Driver's License
- If you are moving to this state and have in your possession a valid out–of–state driver's license, you can obtain a Maine license by:
- Visiting the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles office nearest you.
- Completing a vision screening. You may not be required to take a written and road test.
- Turning in your out–of–state license.
- Paying the exam and license fees (these fees differ by class)
- To obtain a driver's license in Maine you must successfully complete a driver knowledge examination and vision screening.
- You must be at least 16 years of age and have completed an approved driver education course. If you are 18 years of age or older you are not required to complete driver education.
- You must successfully complete a road test. If you are under 21 years of age, you are required to complete 35 hours of practice driving, which must include 5 hours of night driving, and have held your instruction permit for at least six months. The 35 hours of practice driving must begin after you have been issued an instruction permit. You must be accompanied by a supervising driver who is a least 20 years old and holds a license that has not been suspended or revoked over the past two years.
- ME Driver's license renewals are $30.00.
Vehicle Registration
- Passenger vehicles are registered annually on a staggered basis. Generally, registrations expire one year from the month issued. In most cases, payment of municipal excise tax is a prerequisite to registration.
- To register a Dealer–Purchased Passenger Vehicle you must do the following:
- Pay excise tax at your town office. Excise tax is a municipal tax. Please contact your local municipal office for additional information.
- Documents needed:
- Green dealer's certificate (indicates sales tax was paid to dealer)
- Blue title application (if the vehicle is 16 years old or newer)
- Evidence of insurance (ID card, policy or binder)
- White & yellow copy of registration application and excise tax receipt (from town office)
- If your municipality does not participate in our registration program, you will need to visit a BMV branch office with the documents listed above. Please contact your local municipal office to find out if they participate in our registration program.
- Pay the appropriate registration fees based on type of plate selected.
- Vanity plates are available at any BMV branch office on selected plate types for an additional annual fee of $15.00. You may check the availability of a vanity plate online.
- Disability plates are available and a physician's signature is required on the application.
- To register a Private Sale Purchased Passenger Vehicle you must do the following:
- Pay excise tax at your town office. Excise tax is a municipal tax. Please contact your local municipal office for additional information.
- Documents needed:
- Signed bill of sale
- Title, if the vehicle is 15 years old or newer, signed over to new owner from previous owner(s)
- Evidence of insurance (ID card, policy or binder)
- White & yellow copy of registration application and excise tax receipt (from town office)
- If your municipality does not participate in our registration program, you will need to visit a BMV branch office with the documents listed above. Please contact your local municipal office to find out if they participate in our registration program.
- Pay 5% Maine sales tax on the purchase price of the vehicle.
- Pay the application fee ($23.00).
- Pay the appropriate registration fees based on type of plate selected.
- For vehicle registration renewal:
- If your town participates in Rapid Renewal, the online registration renewal service, you may be able to process your entire renewal online. Please visit the Rapid Renewal website for additional information.
- Pay excise tax at your town office. Excise tax is a municipal tax. Please contact your local municipal office for additional information.
- Documents needed:
- Evidence of insurance (ID Card, policy or binder)
- White & yellow copy of registration application and excise tax receipt (from town office)
- Pay the appropriate registration fees.
Source:Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Accessed April 20, 2007.
Fishing & Hunting Licenses
- Residents and nonresidents may obtain licenses and registrations from license agents throughout the state (sporting goods stores, many convenience stores, and town clerks), online, or by mail from the Department office in Augusta, ME.
- No resident of this state, 16 years of age or older, or nonresident, 12 years of age or older, may fish in open water or through the ice in inland waters, or transport fish taken from inland waters, without first obtaining a valid Maine fishing license.
- Fishing License Fees are as follows:
- Resident Fishing (16 and older) $21.00
- Combination Fishing and Hunting $38.00
- 1 Day Fishing (24 hours) $11.00
- Over 70 – $8.00
- Anyone 10 years of age and over must obtain a license to hunt wild birds or wild animals (except Maine resident landowners may hunt without a license on land they own and reside on provided the land exceeds 10 acres in size and is used exclusively for agricultural purposes).
- Children under 10 years of age are not allowed to hunt.
- Hunters between the ages of 10 and 15 must possess a junior license.
- Hunters 16 years of age and over must possess an adult license to hunt.
- Hunters 16 years of age and over wishing to hunt with bow and arrow during the Special or Expanded Archery Seasons must obtain the appropriate archery license.
- Applicants for an adult hunting license must show proof of having previously held an adult license to hunt with firearms in any year beginning with 1976 or successful completion of an approved hunter safety course. Residents must provide proof of residency when applying for a license.
- To obtain an adult archery hunting license, you must show proof of having held an adult license to hunt with bow and arrow in any year since 1979 or successful completion of an archery education course.
- Convicted felons who have not been issued a permit to carry a firearm CANNOT PURCHASE OR POSSESS a firearms hunting license in Maine or a Specialized Hunting Guide License (Title 15, sub§393, sub–§§ 1 & 2).
- Hunting License fees are as follows:
- Hunting (16 & older) $21.00
- Crossbow Hunting $25.00
- Small Game Hunting (16 & older) $14.00
- Junior Hunting (10 to 15 years inclusive) $7.00
- Combination Fishing & Hunting $38.00
- Combination Fishing & Archery $38.00
- Archery Hunting (16 & Older) $21.00
Source: Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife. Accessed April 20, 2007.
Marriage Licenses
- Marriage licenses are issued at the town or city level. Both the bride and groom must visit the town office in person to apply for the marriage license. You may want to check your
town's website for information.
- If both of you are residents of the state of Maine, you should both apply at the town office where at least one of you is a resident. If you are residents of different Maine towns, you both may apply in one town or the other – you do not need to apply separately in each town.
- If one is from out of state, then both of you should apply in the town where one holds residency.
- If neither of you is a resident of Maine, then you may apply in any Maine town office. It need not be the same town where you plan to be married.
- Your marriage license is valid for 90 days and can only be used within the State of Maine. There is no longer a Waiting Period from the time your marriage license is issued until your wedding can take place. The person performing the ceremony is responsible for filing the marriage certificate with the town office that issued the marriage license.
- To obtain a marriage license:<
- Photo ID such as a driver's license may be required.
- If this is not the first marriage for one of you, bring a certified copy (raised seal) of the divorce from or death certificate of the last spouse.
- Applicants must be over 18 years old. Written parental consent is required for an applicant under 18. Written parental consent and written consent of a judge are required for an applicant under 16.
- No blood test is required.
- You may want to check with the municipal clerk where you are filing before–hand to find out what that municipality's policies are.
- The following individuals are authorized to perform marriages in Maine:
- Ordained ministers of the gospel
- A person licensed to preach by an association of ministers, religious seminary or ecclesiastical body
- Judges or justices (residents of Maine only)
- Lawyers admitted to the Maine Bar (residents of Maine only)
- Maine Notaries
- Maine does not have Justices of the Peace. Out–of–state Notaries and Justices of the Peace cannot officiate weddings in Maine.
Source: "Getting Married in Maine," (http://www.maine.gov/portal/family/marriage.html). Accessed April 20, 2007.
Weapons Permits
- The Gaming and Weapons Unit provides concealed firearms permits for approximately 244 municipalities in Maine as well as all out of state permits. Approximately 3,000 permits are processed per year by this unit. This unit also is responsible for licensing private investigators, investigative assistants, and private security companies.
- To obtain an application for an In–State Firearms Permit or a Concealed Firearms Booklet, visit the Maine Department of Public Safety website.