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
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an experienced agent in this area.
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New Construction in the sought after Tinker Hill Development just outside of town on the Union River. Two bedroom unit with attached heated garage and private back patio area. Upstairs of garage finished with full set of stairs and baseboard heat and laundry room area in garage that is finished. Radiant heat and a heat pump for air conditioning downstairs. Walk down to the river on the
Steve Shelton
Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate/The Masiello Group
THE ONE ON THE HILL -- A Corner with OptionsPerched at the meeting of Union and Main, this property takes in a commanding view over Ellsworth and offers something you don't see every day--true flexibility. Inside, it's currently split into two defined spaces: a three-bedroom, one-bath living area upstairs, and a first-floor layout that's been operating as a medical office.The main
194 and 195 Branchview Drive is an extremely rare combined 7 bedroom spectacular lake front retreat with two homes on one of Maine's most pristine 3000 acre lakes, close to Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor Airport. Both homes fully remodeled in 2022 with new appliances, flooring, all furniture, fully paved drive, new bedrooms, kitchens, plumbing, bathrooms, electrical and anything that was dated
Steve Shelton
Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate/The Masiello Group
Combine the room of a larger home inside without spending weekends taking care of the outside and you've arrived at 14D Beckwith Court. This spacious, well-maintained Ellsworth condominium offers approximately 2,600 square feet to spread out, relax and make yourself at home--all while putting shopping, nature and some of Downeast Maine's most popular destinations within easy reach. With three
Looking for a great piece of land for your new home? Look no further!! Located minutes from iconic Green Lake. This lot is located second to last in this established subdivision, is very quiet and remote yet 35 -45 minutes to both Bangor and Ellsworth. Don't miss an incredible opportunity for this lovely house site!
3.6± acres with approximately 500 feet of frontage located in the busy and growing community of Ellsworth. This unique property offers excellent investment potential with existing infrastructure already in place. Improvements include three septic systems designed to service up to seven mobile home pads. Currently, there are three mobile homes situated on the property, which do not convey with the
Robert McKenneyBetter Homes & Gardens Real Estate/The Masiello Group
New to the market, this 8.3 acre property offers approximately 280 feet of frontage along the Union River and 166 feet of frontage on Bangor Road. An existing well is located on the property. The combination of acreage, road frontage, and river frontage offers potential for a variety of uses. Conveniently located along Bangor Road with easy access to downtown Ellsworth and Route 1, as well as a
Nicole RichardsonLegacy Properties Sotheby's International Realty
Villa Vie: An extraordinary lakefront retreat offering turnkey luxury on one of Maine's most pristine 3,000-acre lakes. Fully renovated in 2024, the residence seamlessly blends contemporary design with refined European influences, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere throughout. The home features five beautifully appointed bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths, thoughtfully designed for
Abigail CurlessLegacy Properties Sotheby's International Realty
This 1920's Bungalow is a treasure.Though it has had many very tasteful updates,it retains that feeling of solidity and craftsmanship for which this style is so valued.The current owner has added a great many windows, flooding the home with natural light. The kitchen is a great example of this and is a welcoming space with excellent lighting,, unique built-in seating which doubles as storage, a
Ann SeyfferBetter Homes & Gardens Real Estate/The Masiello Group
Completely remodeled and thoughtfully maintained, this spacious in-town Ellsworth property offers a versatile layout. The open kitchen features granite countertops and flows seamlessly into the dining area, complemented by hardwood floors and beautiful woodwork throughout. The first floor offers the convenience of laundry, a bedroom, a large mudroom, and a spacious pantry. Upstairs, you'll find
Turnkey Historic Charm in the Heart of Ellsworth! This 2-bedroom 1.5-bath home offers the perfect blend of classic character and modern convenience. The property has original wooden banister staircase and bay window, with updated kitchen and bathrooms. The home was fully renovated in 2022 with new boiler and heat pumps for A/C. Situated near downtown, this property features a bright and spacious
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
Jefferson Luxe in Ellsworth — Newly Constructed Apartments Conveniently Located Between Bangor & Bar Harbor!Rent: $2,000/monthBedrooms: 2Bathrooms: 1Available: August 15Lease Term: 10-12 monthsUtilities Included: Trash, Water/SewerTenant Responsibilities: Heat, Hot Water, ElectricPets: One Cat or dog under 25lbs negotiable with a recurring monthly fee
This spacious 3-bedroom apartment in downtown Ellsworth is within walking distance to library, schools, YMCA, shopping, dining, and local amenities. This charming home features beautiful hardwood floors, original woodwork, large windows, along with plenty of natural light. The apartment includes a full kitchen with dishwasher, spacious living and dining areas, three bedrooms, a full bath
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