Maine continues to gain national attention as a desirable place to live and work, and two cities stand out in particular for job seekers: Portland and Lewiston. Both communities are ranked among the top places in the state to find employment, offering strong labor markets, diverse industries, and a quality of life that appeals to newcomers, families, and professionals alike.
Portland: Maine’s Economic and Employment Hub
Portland remains Maine’s strongest job market and economic engine. As the state’s largest city, Portland benefits from a diverse employment base that includes healthcare, education, tourism, technology, finance, and professional services. Major employers such as MaineHealth, IDEXX Laboratories, WEX, and Unum provide a steady pipeline of professional, technical, and administrative jobs.
Healthcare is one of Portland’s most resilient employment sectors, anchored by Maine Medical Center, the largest hospital in the state. The region also supports a growing technology and life sciences presence, attracting skilled workers and remote professionals who want urban amenities paired with coastal living.
Portland’s working waterfront and tourism economy further strengthen job availability, supporting roles in hospitality, marine trades, logistics, and small business entrepreneurship. With Portland International Jetport offering convenient regional and national connections, the city is especially attractive to employers and workers who value accessibility.
For newcomers, Portland offers walkable neighborhoods, highly rated schools, cultural institutions, and a vibrant food and arts scene—all of which help draw talent to the area and support continued job growth.
Lewiston: Affordable Living Meets Job Growth
Lewiston has also emerged as a top city for job seekers, particularly for those looking for affordability and stability. Located in Androscoggin County, Lewiston has a long-standing industrial and manufacturing base that continues to evolve, alongside growing healthcare, education, and logistics sectors.
Central Maine Medical Center is a major employer, driving demand for healthcare professionals and support staff. In addition, manufacturers, distribution centers, and food processing companies provide steady employment opportunities for skilled trades and production workers. The city’s revitalized downtown and growing small business scene have also contributed to job creation in retail, services, and hospitality.
One of Lewiston’s biggest advantages for relocating families and workers is cost of living. Housing remains more affordable than in coastal Maine, allowing residents to stretch their income further while still accessing stable employment. Easy access to the Maine Turnpike connects Lewiston to Portland and other employment centers, expanding job options for commuters.
A Strong Choice for Job Seekers Moving to Maine
Together, Portland and Lewiston highlight Maine’s evolving economic landscape. Portland offers a dynamic, high-opportunity environment for professionals and entrepreneurs, while Lewiston provides accessible, affordable pathways to stable employment across multiple industries.
For individuals and families considering a move to Maine, these two cities consistently rank high for job availability, economic diversity, and long-term opportunity—making them smart places to build both a career and a life in the Pine Tree State.