Historically known as “The Friendly City” Ellsworth is framed by the Union River, three substantial lakes and innumerable ponds, and a marina along on of Maine’s dramatic coastlines. Its historic downtown (walkable, intact, and increasingly vibrant) sits alongside trail systems, waterfront access, forests, and nearby mountains. While Ellsworth is widely known as a gateway to Acadia National Park and the Downeast Maine region, it is very much a destination in its own right: a place where people live year-round, and thousands of people from the region come to work every day build careers, raise families, and invest for the long term.
Incorporated in 1800 and named for Oliver Ellsworth, a framer of the US Constitution and appointed Chief Justice of the Supreme Court by George Washington , the city blends early American roots with a forward-looking civic culture. That blend is visible today in restored public spaces, a growing arts and cultural scene, expanding recreational assets, and a downtown that serves both residents and millions of annual visitors.
At the same time, Ellsworth is experiencing some of the fastest growth in Maine. Population has increased more than 37 percent since 2000, which is 26 percent higher than the Maine average, and more in real population gains than Augusta and Bangor combined. The city has experienced around $800 million in new valuation over the past five years alone. Major public and private investments – including a new $55 million courthouse, hotels, mixed-use developments, housing, and large-scale state and federal infrastructure projects – are reshaping the city’s role as the economic and service center of Downeast Maine.
This growth brings opportunity and responsibility. Ellsworth’s City Government is actively modernizing its systems, professionalizing its workforce, and strengthening financial and operational capacity so that growth enhances, rather than erodes, quality of life. The goal is not growth for growth’s sake, but a livable, resilient, and well-managed city that remains grounded in its people and place.
Incorporated: 1800
Size: 93.8 square miles
Population: 7,741 (2010 Census)
Density: 97.6/sq mi
Elevation: 108 ft
Time zone:
• Eastern (EST) (UTC-5)
• Summer (DST) EDT (UTC-4)
ZIP code: 04605
Area code: 207
County: Hancock
