2 Maine Towns Named 2024’s Best in America with Fewer Than 10,000 Residents

Some cities in our country have several million residents, but these towns in Maine don’t quite reach those numbers.

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Despite being the largest state in New England by land area, its towns and cities are notably small. Even Portland, our largest city, is often referred to as 'mini Boston,' highlighting the state's overall sense of smallness and tight-knit communities.

That being said, Maine’s size can be hard to explain to those who haven't experienced it firsthand. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of July 1st, 2022, Maine’s population estimate is 1,389,338. To put that into perspective, New York City has 8,335,897 residents.

But size really doesn’t matter. What does matter is what you do with it. The land, that is.

The newspaper publication Far & Wide released a list of the '100 Best Small Towns in America to Live In or Visit,' and Maine made a couple of appearances. Additionally, Far & Wide’s list specifically focused on towns with a population of less than 10,000 residents.

The first entry for Vacationland on the list is at #79 with Camden, Maine.

Far & Wide justifies Camden’s placement on the list with the following:

Boats line the harbor and hills rise above 19th-century red brick houses in this perfect Maine town. The harbor commands attention, as people head out to enjoy days in the water or simply delight in the views from land. To nourish your mind and soul, catch a show at the Camden Opera House.

Next on the list from Far & Wide, is no surprise, at #76 is Bar Harbor, Maine.

And as to why Bar Harbor is a great small town? Far & Wide says:

Mountains, harbors and sheer seaside cliffs make Bar Harbor a place where bringing the camera is mandatory. Colorful houses line the shore and boats dot the pier to create the quintessential picture of seaside Americana. Even better, the town is an entry point to Acadia National Park, where hikers come to conquer rocky trails that lead to views of neighboring islands. Bar Harbor is a town for any season, with mild summer for swimming and boating, spring and fall for hiking, and winter for skiing.

What are your thoughts on Far & Wide’s Maine picks?