Lewiston Ranks in Top 5 for Healthcare Access, Economic Opportunity, and Quality of Life
Lewiston has earned national recognition as one of the best cities in the United States for people with disabilities, according to a new study released by personal finance website WalletHub. The city ranked in the Top 20 overall, and Top 5 in key categories such as healthcare, economic opportunity, and quality of life.
The annual WalletHub report evaluated over 180 of the most populated U.S. cities across 34 key indicators of disability-friendliness, including affordability, accessible healthcare, employment rates, housing availability, and quality of public transportation.
Lewiston’s High MarksLewiston stood out in several critical areas:
- #5 in Healthcare: Lewiston boasts access to highly rated medical centers, including Central Maine Medical Center, and specialized services that support people with physical, mental, and developmental disabilities.
- #4 in Economic Opportunity: A growing workforce development strategy, low unemployment, and targeted initiatives have helped position Lewiston as an economically viable option for individuals with disabilities seeking meaningful employment.
- Top 5 in Quality of Life: Inclusive recreational programs, strong community support networks, and access to essential services contribute to a high quality of life for residents with disabilities.
“This ranking highlights the progress we’ve made as a city to become more inclusive and accessible,” said Mayor Carl Sheline. “Lewiston is proud to be recognized for our commitment to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of ability.”
A Growing Hub of InclusivityLewiston has taken deliberate steps in recent years to create a more inclusive environment for all residents. This includes investments in ADA-compliant infrastructure, expansion of paratransit services, and partnerships with local and state agencies that support people with disabilities in housing, employment, and education.
The city is also home to several advocacy and support organizations, including Disability Rights Maine and local chapters of The Arc and Community Concepts, all of which provide crucial services to individuals and families navigating disability-related challenges.
Why Rankings Like These MatterAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 4 U.S. adults lives with a disability. Cities that prioritize accessibility and inclusion are not only helping a large and diverse group of residents—they’re also setting an example for other municipalities.
WalletHub’s rankings serve as a guide for individuals and families who may be considering relocation based on access to healthcare, job opportunities, affordable living, and community support.
Lewiston’s MomentumThis recognition adds to a growing list of accolades for Lewiston, which has been working to revitalize its downtown, invest in infrastructure, and support inclusive economic growth. With its blend of affordability, supportive services, and healthcare access, the city continues to draw attention from across New England and beyond.
As Lewiston continues to evolve, its commitment to equity and inclusion appears to be more than just words—it’s showing up in the data, and more importantly, in the day-to-day lives of its residents.