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Bangor

city

Bangor, Maine, is a city located in Penobscot County, serving as its county seat. Situated on the Penobscot River, it is the third-most populous city in Maine, with a population of approximately 32,809 in 2026. Known as the "Queen City," Bangor blends urban amenities with a small-town atmosphere, offering a mix of historical charm and modern services. Bangor's economy is diverse, with key sectors including healthcare, retail, education, and services. Major institutions such as Eastern Maine Medical Center, Husson University, and Bangor International Airport contribute significantly to the city's economic stability. The city has a rich history in lumber and shipbuilding, which shaped its early development and architectural character. Bangor is distinctive for its historical significance as the "Lumber Capital of the World" in the 19th century, its well-preserved Greek Revival and Victorian architecture, and its location on the Penobscot River. The city offers a high quality of life with access to outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and a welcoming community.

Bangor, Maine

Overview
Classification
City
FIPS Code
23-02795
Country
United States
County
Penobscot County
Geography
Region
Penobscot Valley
Total Area
34.59 sq mi
Land Area
34.26 sq mi
Water Area
0.33 sq mi
Latitude
44.8
Longitude
-68.8
Climate
Humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers.
Notable Features
Penobscot River · Kenduskeag Stream
Neighboring Areas
Brewer
Demographics
Population (2020)
31,753
Est. Population (2026)
32,809
Median Age
41
Median Income
$59,942
Poverty Rate
17.87%
Family Households
47.3%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial composition of Bangor includes 88.34% White, 2.99% Black or African American, 1.68% Asian, and smaller percentages for Native American, other race, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.
Governance
Government Type
Mayor-Council
Governing Body
City Council
Body Size
9 members
School District
Bangor School Department
Municipal Services
Police · Fire · Public Works · Parks & Recreation
Economy
Unemployment Rate
4.9%
Economic Profile
Commercial · Retail · Service
Employment Sectors
Healthcare · Retail · Education · Services
Major Employers
Eastern Maine Medical Center · Husson University · Bangor International Airport
Education
Students
3,434
Student-Teacher Ratio
13:1
School Districts
Bangor Public Schools
Colleges & Universities
Husson University · University of Maine at Augusta (Bangor campus) · Eastern Maine Community College · Bangor Theological Seminary
Infrastructure
Transportation
Interstate access · Highways · Bangor International Airport
Utilities
Municipal water · Sewer · Storm drainage
Major Facilities
Hospital · Airport
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Bangor City Forest · Parks along Penobscot River
Parks & Trails
Bangor City Forest · Parks and trail systems
History
Founded
1769
Incorporated
1791
Named After
Likely named after a Welsh hymn tune.
Historical Significance
Significant as a major lumber port and shipbuilding center in the 19th century.
Key Events
European settlement began in 1769. · Became a major lumber port in the 19th century. · Briefly held by the British during the War of 1812.