Demographics

As of the 2022 Census estimates, Androscoggin County, Maine, has a population of approximately 111,076. The median age is about 41.2 years. Females make up 51% of the population, while males comprise 49%. Racially, the county is 89% White, 5.6% Black or African American, 2% Asian, 1.7% two or more races, and 1.6% Hispanic or Latino of any race. The county exhibits modest diversity, with a growing immigrant and refugee population, particularly in the cities of Lewiston and Auburn.

Elections

Androscoggin County, ME, had approximately 76,000 registered voters in 2022. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries and referendums. In the 2020 presidential election, about 62% turnout was recorded, with Joe Biden receiving 49% and Donald Trump 48% of county votes. There are over 20 polling locations managed by the county clerk’s office. Key election issues include taxes, healthcare, and education. The Democratic and Republican parties are the main political groups, though independent voters compose nearly 32% of registrants. Elections are administered per Maine’s strict absentee and same-day registration laws.

Education, Employment and Housing

Androscoggin County, ME, has 17 public high schools and several private institutions, with a high school graduation rate of approximately 87%. About 25.3% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county offers adult education through regional programs. Average standardized test scores in public schools are slightly below the Maine state average. School safety initiatives have reduced incidents by 10% since 2020. Educational programs emphasize STEM and career-readiness, with expanding AP and dual-enrollment options.

As of 2023, Androscoggin County, ME has an employment rate of approximately 59%. Leading industries include health care and social assistance (20%), manufacturing (14%), and retail trade (13%). Major occupation types are office and administrative support (12%), production (10%), and sales (9%). About 83% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 23 minutes; 68% work within the county, while 32% commute to nearby areas like Cumberland County and Kennebec County.

Androscoggin County, ME has a homeownership rate of around 66%, with median home values at approximately $260,000 in 2024. Median monthly rents are about $1,200. The market has seen values rise roughly 8% year-over-year. Housing types range from single-family homes to multifamily units, with prominent neighborhoods including Lewiston, Auburn, and Lisbon. Property taxes average 1.33% of a home’s assessed value, equating to roughly $3,450 annually on a median-priced home. The market is competitive, with low inventory keeping values elevated, particularly in sought-after school districts and walkable communities.

County Crime & Safety

Androscoggin County, ME experiences moderate crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported a violent crime rate of about 2.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, while the property crime rate stood at approximately 16.7 per 1,000 residents. Major cities like Lewiston and Auburn account for most incidents. Local law enforcement collaborates with community organizations, and crime reporting is facilitated through the Maine State Police’s annual Crime in Maine report. Overall, public safety initiatives have contributed to a gradual decrease in total reported crimes over recent years.