Downtown access and national parks at the Gateway to Downeast Maine
Known as the "Gateway to Downeast Maine" as it is located at a major crossroads for Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, the city of Ellsworth offers natural serenity, a thriving community and a retail area. The city is the seat of Hancock County and has a population of around 8,800 people, an increase of about 15% in the last 15 years. Throughout the community, homebuyers can find options close to downtown or near the parks and trails that Maine is known for. The area's major industries include, healthcare, retail and educational services. “It’s become a hub city for a lot of people,” says James Spear, an associate broker with RE/MAX Collaborative who has been serving the area since 2020. “It’s the last stop for rations and restaurants for those heading to Deer Isle and Acadia National Park.”
The many different types of medical services provided at Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital, allow the people of Ellsworth to recieve a wide range of care without traveling long distances.
The heart of Ellsworth beats within its downtown, a vibrant hub of local businesses, where quaint shops, cozy cafes, and family-owned restaurants offer a delightful array of goods and culinary experiences.
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Acadia National Park and local green spaces
One of the main draws to Ellsworth and the reason for its growth is the city’s proximity to Acadia National Park. The National Park Service ranks it as one of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the United States, with over 158 miles of hiking and walking trails. Spear notes that one of the park's key attractions is Cadillac Mountain, the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise because of its elevation. Residents can also check out Knowlton Park's playset and manicured fields or explore the indoor gym at Moore Community Center.
Acadia national Park provides year-round recreational opportunities near Ellsworth.
Ellsworth serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of Acadia National Park, offering visitors a convenient base from which to explore the park's breathtaking landscapes.
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Cape Cods and ranch-styles on larger lots
Cape Cod, ranch-style and New Englander-inspired homes built in the early to mid-1900s make up the majority of the market. Most homes are designed with steep roofs, which help the snow fall off in winter. Homes are often built on lots of at least one acre, allowing for plenty of yard space. The median home price is around $350,000, which is lower than the U.S. median. “Homes there end up costing just a bit more money than the rest of northern Maine, but you get a lot of really nice suburbs that have a lot more space to spread out,” Spear says.
The small, yet efficient design of cape cod houses make them ideal for the sometimes harsh winters of Ellsworth.
Ellsworth's newer neighborhoods showcase modern New Englander homes, blending classic architectural cues with contemporary design elements, reflecting the region's evolving aesthetic.
The allure of lakeside living in Ellsworth is undeniable, with homes ranging from cozy cottages nestled among the trees to spacious retreats designed for entertaining and relaxation.
The enduring popularity of ranch homes in Ellsworth speaks to their practicality and charm, offering a blend of traditional style and modern livability.
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Burritos and craft beers on Main Street
Most of the dining and shopping options can be found along Main Street and High Street, the city’s main roads. Residents can eat burritos on the patio at 86 This or order an India Pale Ale at Fogtown Brewing, just a short walk away. The nearby L.L. Bean outlet is a popular spot to shop for gear before heading to the parks. Local grocery options include Hannaford at the Maine Coast Mall and the Ellsworth Farmers Market, which operates every Saturday.
Whether you're heading out for a hike, camping trip, or simply enjoying the outdoors around Ellsworth, L.L. Bean has everything you need to stay comfortable and prepared.
86 This, a culinary gem nestled in Ellsworth's downtown, beckons with its warm brick exterior and the enticing aromas of freshly prepared food.
Fogtown Brewing in Ellsworth is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of handcrafted ales and lagers crafted with passion and expertise.
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Performing art programs at Ellsworth Public Schools
Students in the city are served by Ellsworth School Department, which receives an overall C-plus rating on Niche. Kindergarten through eighth-grade students can attend Ellsworth Elementary-Middle School, which receives a B-minus rating. Ellsworth High School scores a C-plus and is known for its performing arts programs, including show choir.
Ellsworth High School stands as a pillar of education in the community, providing a comprehensive and enriching learning experience for students in the area.
Ellsworth Elementary/Middle School offers a wide array of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and athletic opportunities, ensuring that students have diverse pathways to success.
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Coastal Maine highways and commutes
Main Street and High Street connect the residential areas to downtown shopping and dining. These roads are part of U.S. Route 1 and 1A, which connect to major hubs like Bay Harbor and Bangor. Downeast Transportation also has a bus stop in the local shopping center, and Bangor International Airport is 31 miles away. The city is home to the Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital.
Ellsworth Pridefest and community events
One of the largest annual events is the Ellsworth Pridefest in June. Held in Knowlton Park, the festival has vendor booths, a silent auction and a small zoo. The community comes together once again in November for the Downeast Cider & Cheese Festival, which includes food trucks and cider and cheese demonstrations.
Crime rates in Ellsworth
According to the Maine Statistical Analysis Center, the city of Ellsworth has a lower overall crime rate compared to national rates. The area saw a slight increase in criminal instances between 2022 and 2023.
Written By
Braxton Puentes
Photography Contributed By
Jeff Tippett
Video By
Ruo Zheng
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Linda Williams,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Welcome to ''The Old Maine Barn''. This beautifully converted/restored, 1900s barn is located within the heart of Ellsworth. This contemporary home features a large granite island in the kitchen (with matching granite in the bathrooms and on the living room banquet), custom cabinets and stainless steel appliances. The ground floor features an open concept kitchen/dining room/living room with a
Great bones, great location, great opportunity. Located near heart of Ellsworth, 5 Liberty Street offers a chance to bring your vision to life in a well-established neighborhood. This 3-bedroom, 1-bath home is an ideal spot for homeowners or investors alike. The property is a true fixer-upper with solid potential, offering the opportunity to renovate and build equity in a desirable area. Whether
Welcome to lot 13-1 Shore Road. Boasting 16.72 beautiful pristine acres with 910 ft of water frontage between Leonard's Lake and an unnamed brook. This rare gem is just moments to all that historic downtown Ellsworth has to offer. With all of the amenities needed for seasonal or year round living just around the corner. Come build your dream home on the shores of Leonard lake on a property that
Lucinda SargentBetter Homes & Gardens Real Estate/The Masiello Group
Expansive Contemporary Loaded With Possibilities Including Rental Income. This home sets on 1.46 acres and boasts a spacious updated kitchen with massive center island, abundant cabinets, and access to the back yard.Primary bedroom and 5 more bedrooms located on the second level including a large bonus room, full laundry room and private home office. The first floor includes a mudroom, kitchen,
80 Acres - High Visibility Commercial Land on Bangor RoadExceptional opportunity to own 80 acres of prime commercial land with 803 feet of frontage on busy Bangor Road. This highly desirable location offers excellent visibility and a very high daily traffic count, making it an ideal site for a wide variety of business uses. The size and frontage provide flexibility for development, while the
Robert McKenneyBetter Homes & Gardens Real Estate/The Masiello Group
Very energy efficient cape steps from Graham Lake Seller offering concessions to buyers closing if closed before March 30, 2026Just 1,000 feet from the Graham Lake boat launch and the end of the road, this freshly updated country home offers the perfect blend of peaceful rural living and easy access to boundless recreational opportunities. Set on a quiet, welcoming street with mature trees
Marc RichBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Northeast Real Estate
4 Addie Road is a surveyed and soil tested 1.23 acre lot on a city maintained road in a well established subdivision. Located minutes from the center of Ellsworth and a short distance from Bucksport and Surry. Close to Acadia National Park, hiking trails, many lakes and ponds and many outdoor activities.
PRICE IMPROVEMENT on this lovely, single level home just 5+ miles from Ellsworth Center and conveniently located on the way to Bangor. Fieldstone Estates is a thoughtfully developed subdivision with spacious lots, privacy and no thru traffic. This attractively designed home has direct entry from the attached 2car garage. The kitchen features refurbished cabinets, updated/new stainless steel
Kiki KatsiaficasBetter Homes & Gardens Real Estate/The Masiello Group
Discover a unique opportunity at 272/282 Gary Moore Rd in Ellsworth, where seasonal, stunning views of Graham Lake await you! This property features a 3.11-acre flat, level, and open lot, conveniently located close to town, offering both tranquility and accessibility. The existing single-wide home is in need of a full remodel or can be easily towed away, making this an ideal canvas for your dream
Poplar Knoll is not just an island.. It's a 31-acre world of your own. With over 5,700 feet of water frontage on Graham Lake, a scenic reservoir near Ellsworth, Maine, this extraordinary property offers both grandeur and intimacy in one unforgettable setting.For the adventurous spirit, the island promises endless exploration, with a 50-foot rise at its center and ancient oak and hemlock
Property Id: 2358757Welcome to 147 State Street, Ellsworth, a spacious, newly renovated first-floor 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment offering comfort, convenience, and a fantastic downtown location.Apartment Features Bright, spacious layout Newly renovated throughout First-floor apartment (easy access) Off-street parking Coin-operated washer & dryer in the
Charming 2-Bedroom Townhome in Ellsworth Located in a quiet neighborhood, this spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom townhome offers 1,500 sq ft of comfortable living space. Key Features:- 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom- 1,500 sq ft of living space- Private off-street parking- All utilities included (except electric)- Laundry hookups with washer & dryer available for
Surry Road TownHomes. available APRILSmoke & Vape Free building and entire complex. Quiet complex.Map does not depict actual location please map distances using actual address. The map depicts townhomes on Mount Desert Island (MDI). These are not located on MDI. Townhomes are located in Ellsworth, across from Josie's Country Store & cafe- Less than .5 mile to downtown ELLSWORTH, only 1.5
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