Question 1

Is Lewiston, ME or Portland, ME cheaper to buy in?

Accepted Answer

Lewiston, ME is cheaper. The median home price in Lewiston, ME is approximately $189,500 and in Portland, ME it is approximately $575,900 — a difference of $386,400.

Question 2

Is Lewiston, ME or Portland, ME safer?

Accepted Answer

Portland, ME scores higher on safety. Lewiston, ME has violent crime rated Moderate and property crime rated Moderate. Portland, ME has violent crime rated Low and property crime rated Moderate.

Question 3

Is Lewiston, ME or Portland, ME more walkable?

Accepted Answer

Portland, ME is more walkable. Lewiston, ME has a Walk Score of 12/100 and Portland, ME has a Walk Score of 90/100.

Question 4

Which has better schools, Lewiston, ME or Portland, ME?

Accepted Answer

Lewiston, ME has higher-rated schools. Lewiston, ME has a school rating of 6.4/10 and Portland, ME has a rating of 5.6/10.

Question 5

Should I live in Lewiston, ME or Portland, ME?

Accepted Answer

Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.

Category	Lewiston, ME	Portland, ME
Housing
Verdict	Think twice	Think twice
Median Price	$190K ✓ Lower price	$576K
Median Rent	$903 ✓ Lower rent	$1K
Median Income	$54K	$55K ✓ Higher income
Price Volatility	Moderate	Moderate
Getting Around
Walk Score	12/100	90/100 ✓ More walkable
Transit Score	Minimal transit	35/100 ✓ Better transit
Bike Score	N/A	40/100 ✓ More bikeable
Commute	N/A	20 min
Safety & Environment
Safety Grade	D+	B ✓ Safer
Violent Crime	Moderate	Low ✓ Lower risk
Property Crime	Moderate	Moderate
Flood Risk	Low	Low
Air Quality	Good	Good
Community
Schools	6.4/10 ✓ Better schools	5.6/10
Best for	Families seeking a small-town vibeHomebuyers with budget constraints compared to larger citiesPeople who prefer outdoor activities	Young professionals who can afford the cost of livingFoodies and craft‑beer loversFamilies looking for good schools and parks

Lewiston, ME vs Portland, ME

Bottom line