What is the capital of Maine?

The capital of Maine is Augusta, a small and historic city on the Kennebec River featuring the impressive Maine State House.

How many people live in Maine?

Maine has a population of approximately 1.4 million people, making it the 42nd most populous state in the U.S.

What is Maine known for?

Maine is known as the Pine Tree State and is famous for its rugged Atlantic coastline, Acadia National Park, lobster fishing, iconic lighthouses, vast wilderness, and being the first state to see the sunrise in the U.S.

Maine

Q: When was Maine admitted to the Union?

Maine was admitted to the Union on March 15, 1820, becoming the 23rd state as part of the Missouri Compromise.

The Pine Tree State

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Quick Stats

1.40MPopulation

#42Rank

1820Joined

35.4kArea (mi²)

Map

Seal & Motto

"Dirigo"

Additional Information

AbbreviationME

Motto Origin

Latin for "I lead."

Adopted 1820.

Official WebsiteMaine.gov

Population Growth

Overview

Maine, affectionately known as the 'Pine Tree State,' boasts a dramatically rugged coastline punctuated by iconic lighthouses and expansive forests. Renowned as a major producer of lobster and timber, this northeastern state offers breathtaking natural beauty alongside a thriving fishing and forestry industry, creating a unique legacy of maritime excellence and environmental stewardship.

Historical Significance

Maine officially joined the Union on March 15, 1820, becoming the 23rd state as part of the Missouri Compromise. Prior to statehood, it was part of Massachusetts, and its history is rooted in a proud maritime and timber-cutting tradition, shaped by Wabanaki Native American heritage and a fierce independent New England spirit.

Top Cities & Hubs

Portland

Population: ~68,000

Maine's largest city and a celebrated culinary and arts destination, known for its historic Old Port district, working fishing wharves, and one of the most vibrant restaurant scenes in New England.

Lewiston

Population: ~37,000

Located on the banks of the Androscoggin River, this historic mill city is undergoing a major urban renaissance and is home to a rich Franco-American heritage and Bates College.

Bangor

Population: ~32,000

The "Queen City of the East" and a major commercial and cultural center for Northern Maine, also famous as the hometown of author Stephen King.

South Portland

Population: ~27,000

Located directly on Portland Harbor with a working waterfront, known for its significant retail center and its proximity to the scenic Portland Head Light lighthouse.

Auburn

Population: ~24,000

Twin city to Lewiston, together forming the second-largest metropolitan area in the state, serving as a regional center for healthcare and manufacturing.

Neighbors

New HampshireCanada

Region: Northeast

Capital: Augusta

Key Landmarks & Economy

Acadia National Park: Located on Mount Desert Island, this stunning park offers soaring granite peaks, dramatic ocean views, and extensive coastal hiking trails, welcoming millions of visitors annually.

Portland Head Light: One of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, this iconic 1791 landmark dramatically perches on the rocky coast of Cape Elizabeth near Portland.

Lobster Industry: Maine harvests over 100 million pounds of lobster annually, making it by far the nation's most dominant lobster-producing state and a cornerstone of its food identity.

Did You Know?

Maine is the first state in the U.S. to see the sunrise each morning, as its easternmost point at West Quoddy Head is the nation's easternmost point.
The iconic lobster roll sandwich is said to have been invented in Maine, cementing the state's deep connection to its celebrated maritime culinary heritage.
Maine has more coastline than California, with over 3,500 miles of rugged shoreline when including all its islands, bays, and inlets.