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South Portland, ME

Frequently asked questions

South Portland, ME

South Portland is a city in Cumberland County, Maine, United States, and is the fourth-most populous city in the state, incorporated in 1898. Known for its working waterfront, South Portland is situated on Portland Harbor and overlooks the skyline of Portland and the islands of Casco Bay. Due to South Portland's proximity to air, marine, rail, and highway transportation options, the city has become a center for retail and industry in the region.

Despite the name, South Portland was never part of the city of Portland, but rather part of Cape Elizabeth. It broke off in 1895. However, both Cape Elizabeth and Portland were once part of Falmouth. Cape Elizabeth, then including what later became South Portland, broke away from Falmouth in 1765. South Portland is a principal city of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford metropolitan area.

South Portland was first colonized in 1630, and it grew to become a small residential community with many farms. The village was raided by natives in Father Rale's War (1724). In 1858, the City of Portland purchased land near the Fore River for the Forest City Cemetery. On March 15, 1895, it was incorporated as a town after it broke away from Cape Elizabeth, based on a disagreement on a future source of public drinking water. Three years later South Portland became a city, destined to receive its drinking water, like Portland, from Sebago Lake, while Cape Elizabeth used wells or other local sources.

South Portland is bordered by Portland to the north, Cape Elizabeth and Scarborough to the south, and Westbrook to the west. The city is located at 43°37′54″N 70°16′22″W. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 14.02 square miles (36.31 km2), of which 11.99 square miles (31.05 km2) is land and 2.03 square miles (5.26 km2) is water.

South Portland, Maine, is a city with diverse major industries, including maritime activities, healthcare, and a growing technology sector. Its strategic location near Portland Harbor makes it a hub for shipping, fishing, and trade, contributing significantly to the city's economic vitality. South Portland is also recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability, with initiatives aimed at preserving its coastal beauty and promoting green practices.

South Portland has a number of parks and open spaces. One of the main features of South Portland is the historic Greenbelt walkway, which is a three-mile (5 km) paved trail that crosses through several neighborhoods and provides views of the harbor. Mill Creek Park is located in South Portland's downtown area and has landscaped pond area and rose garden. The park hosts several local events, including summer concerts, Art in the Park, holiday tree lighting and ice skating in the winter. Other local parks include Wainwright Farm, which is a recreational facility and Hinckley Park which is a 40-acre (160,000 m2) wooded area that has two ponds. The city's waterfront has several recreational marinas and is home to the last free beach in the area, Willard Beach.

Health and wellness are integral to the South Portland community, with institutions like Maine Medical Center providing comprehensive healthcare services to residents. The city boasts numerous parks and recreational areas, including Bug Light Park and Willard Beach, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The South Portland Greenbelt, a scenic trail system, provides residents and visitors with a beautiful space for walking, running, and biking, enhancing the overall well-being of the community.

The top Sites in South Portland, ME are Bug Light, Willard Beach, and Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse.

Population: 27,026 (2022). ZIP Codes: 04106, 04116. Area codes: 207. Elevation: 23 ft (7 m). Incorporated: March 22, 1898. Area: 14.01 sq mi (36.29 km2).

FAQs

Is South Portland, ME a suburb?

Known for its working waterfront, South Portland is situated on Portland Harbor and overlooks the skyline of Portland and the islands of Casco Bay. The suburban community offers many quiet neighborhoods, great for families or anyone who wants to live close to, but outside of the excitement of Portland. The city’s strong commercial center and serene neighborhoods make it a convenient and peaceful place to live.

Is South Portland, ME walkable?

South Portland is the third most walkable city in the state and a suburb or Portland. Particularly walkable areas in South Portland include Mill Creek and Willard Square. These places are home to amenities like Mill Creek Park, Scratch Baking Co., and Willard Beach.

What is the crime rate in South Portland Maine?

The crime rate in South Portland is considerably higher than the national average across all communities in America from the largest to the smallest, although at 20 crimes per one thousand residents, it is not among the communities with the very highest crime rate. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in South Portland is 1 in 51. Based on FBI crime data, South Portland is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Maine, South Portland has a crime rate that is higher than 94% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of South Portland

Maine Hospital Association

Bug Light

Willard Beach

South Portland Greenbelt

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse

Portside Real Estate Group

Redfin

Neighborhood Scout

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