Founded in 1834, Bangor, Maine, was then home to more than 300 sawmills, leading it to become known as the nation’s lumber capital. Today, healthcare, education, retail and services have replaced lumber as its economic engine. The city now spans 34.5 square miles, and its median age is 37.9 (2022).

Urban redevelopment in Portland, Maine’s historic waterfront has given the state’s largest city fresh life in recent years. Beautiful, historic landmarks now coexist with trendy eateries and art galleries. The 69.4 square-mile city was founded in 1786. Set on a peninsula extending into Casco Bay, its population has a median age of 35.6 (2022) and an economy that relies mostly on tourism and the service sector.