Augusta
RANK #549 / 996 NAT · POP 124,003
1YR FORECAST: +1.0%
5YR OUTLOOK: +23%
Hallowell, Maine, a small city on the Kennebec River, offers a distinctive blend of historic charm and artistic flair, often called "The Little Easy" or "New Orleans on the Kennebec." Located just south of Augusta, the state capital, Kennebec County provides a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. Commuting within the county is generally manageable, with Augusta and Waterville serving as central hubs, though some residents experience commutes over 30 minutes. The Kennebec River Rail Trail connects Augusta, Hallowell, and Gardiner, offering a scenic route for walking and biking. The region features rolling hills, numerous lakes, and access to the Kennebec Highlands, providing ample outdoor recreation opportunities.
Life in Kennebec County appeals to a range of residents, from families drawn to communities with local schools like those in Winthrop and Oakland, to individuals seeking a balance of small-city vibrancy and outdoor access. The economy, historically rooted in industries along the Kennebec River, is seeing new activity. Recent developments indicate investment in infrastructure, including broadband expansion, and growth in clean energy. Efforts are also underway to support small businesses and entrepreneurs, with a focus on revitalizing downtown areas in towns like Augusta, Gardiner, and Waterville.
Prices declining
Below-average climate & terrain
Housing looks undervalued at 3.7x — home prices are low relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Estimated local headcount ranges. Larger employers shown as floor + "+"; smaller employers show exact counts where reported.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
Source: CDC/NCHS vital statistics via County Health Rankings (2020–2022 avg). Rates per 100,000 population. Grade based on homicide rate relative to national average (~6.3). Learn more →
Source: EPA Air Quality System (2021–2023). Grade based on 3-year average median AQI. Learn about AQI →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Kennebec Valley Natural Gas Pipeline Expansion
Summit Natural Gas of Maine, Inc.
|
$240M | Operating |
|
Three Corners Solar
Longroad Energy
|
$200M | Operating |
|
Amazon Distribution Center (Waterville/Sidney)
Amazon
|
$50M | Proposed |
|
Community Solar Portfolio (multiple projects)
Various (e.g., AES Distributed Energy, Maine DG Solar Monmouth, LLC, BD Solar Augusta LLC, BD Solar 2 LLC)
|
$50M | Operating |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Kennebec County scores 44/100 on the Boom Town Index, landing in the middle of the pack among 996 U.S. counties (#549). Median household income is $62,118 and job growth is running at +1.1%. The data points to a county with mixed signals — some positive indicators alongside areas that lag faster-growing peers.
Housing in Kennebec County is roughly in line with national affordability norms. The median home costs $198,300 and the income-to-home-value ratio sits at 0.31, with rents averaging $900/month. Not a bargain, but not a stretch for most local earners either.
Kennebec County is growing on multiple fronts. Population is up +0.6% year-over-year while employers added jobs at a +1.1% clip. Home values shifted -0.0% in the past year.
There's a moderate stream of newcomers. About 3.09% of residents moved from another state, which is above average and suggests Kennebec County has appeal as a relocation destination — though it's not among the highest-inflow counties nationally.