Maine.

Maine is the easternmost US state, famous for its rocky Atlantic coast, lobster fisheries, and dense forests covering nearly 90% of the state.

Geography & climate

Maine lies in the Northeast of the United States, set at approximately 45.4°N, 69°W and falling within a cool temperate climate band. The state covers around 91,646 km² of land, with topography that runs from coastal lowlands and river basins to interior plains and (where present) mountain ranges. Local weather, growing seasons and outdoor recreation in Maine all flow from this geographic profile.

Capital, principal city & population

The capital of Maine is Augusta, where the legislature, governor’s office and state supreme court are based. The largest city by population is Portland, often the economic and cultural anchor of the state. Total population sits at around 1.4M, distributed across metropolitan areas, smaller cities, and rural counties — each with its own dialect, demographics and economic character.

Statehood & history

Maine was admitted to the Union in 1820 as the 23rd state. The path to admission typically passed through territorial status, an enabling act of Congress and the drafting of a state constitution. Each generation since has added its layer to the state’s political and cultural identity — from frontier settlement and industrial expansion to the civic and demographic shifts of the modern era.

Symbols & emblems

Maine is nicknamed “The Pine Tree State”, with the state motto Dirigo (I direct/lead). The state seal, flag and coat of arms each carry historic meaning, often referencing founding settlers, native communities, agricultural roots or pivotal episodes of state history. State legislatures have additionally adopted official symbols — a state bird, flower, tree, song, fossil and more — chosen by lawmakers (and sometimes by schoolchildren) to celebrate distinctive elements of the state’s natural and cultural heritage.

Economy & industry

The economy of Maine is shaped by its geography, infrastructure and population centres. Major sectors typically span agriculture, manufacturing, energy or natural resources, services, tourism and (in metropolitan corridors) finance and technology. Federal facilities, military bases and research institutions can also be substantial regional employers in Maine.

Travel, food & culture

For visitors, Maine offers a mix of urban culture (museums, music venues, sports teams, cuisine) and outdoor experience (state parks, trails, coastline or mountains, depending on the geography). Regional foodways, festivals and dialects make travel between counties feel meaningfully different — even short drives across Maine can shift the cultural landscape noticeably.

By the numbers

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Did you know?

Maine has more than 65 lighthouses along its rugged 5,500 km coastline — more lighthouses per kilometre than any other US state.