Lewiston-Auburn, often called L-A, forms the second-largest metropolitan area in Maine. Located along the Androscoggin River, these twin cities provide a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. Lewiston and Auburn are connected not just by bridges, but also by community values and shared services. Newcomers find a welcoming atmosphere, affordable living options, and access to important facilities. This guide explores housing, transportation, and vital services in Lewiston-Auburn to help residents and new arrivals live comfortably and confidently.
Table of Contents
Housing in Lewiston-Auburn
Affordable homes and a variety of housing styles make Lewiston-Auburn attractive for families, retirees, and young professionals.
- Housing Types Available
- Apartments, duplexes, and townhouses
- Single-family homes and mobile homes
- Historic buildings converted into residential units
- Popular Neighborhoods
- Downtown Lewiston – Historic architecture, walkable streets
- New Auburn – Affordable rentals, close to the river
- College Street Area – Family homes, near Bates College
- Lake Street (Auburn) – Quiet, residential atmosphere
- Average Rent Prices (2025 Estimates)
| Housing Type | Lewiston (Monthly) | Auburn (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | $850 | $900 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | $1,000 | $1,050 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | $1,250 | $1,300 |
| Single-Family Home | $1,700 | $1,800 |
- Home Buying Trends
- Median home price in Lewiston: $230,000
- Median home price in Auburn: $240,000
- First-time buyers benefit from local loan assistance programs
Transportation in Lewiston-Auburn
A reliable transportation system supports daily commutes, school runs, and access to workplaces or hospitals.
- Public Transit: Citylink Bus System
- Operates across both cities
- Fixed routes connect downtown, schools, shopping centers, and medical facilities
- Fare: $1.50 per ride, discounted passes for seniors and students
- Major Routes Covered
| Route Number | Areas Served |
|---|---|
| Route 1 | Downtown Lewiston – Auburn Mall |
| Route 2 | Bates College – Sabattus Street |
| Route 3 | Auburn Residential – Lewiston Walmart |
| Route 4 | Lewiston High School – CMCC – Malls |
- Walking and Biking
- Greenways and riverside trails support pedestrian access
- Auburn’s Riverwalk is popular for biking
- Many schools and parks have dedicated sidewalks and paths
- Taxi and Rideshare
- Services like Uber and Lyft available, though limited during late hours
- Local taxis provide 24/7 service for emergencies
- Car Ownership
- Most residents use personal vehicles
- Parking is widely available and often free
- Snow tires and 4-wheel drive cars are popular for winter roads
Essential Services in Lewiston-Auburn
Vital services meet daily needs, support public health, and ensure community safety.
- Healthcare Facilities
- Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) – Major hospital in Lewiston
- St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center – Full-service hospital with urgent care
- Community Clinics – Offer affordable or free services to uninsured people
- Key Healthcare Information
| Facility | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Central Maine Medical Center | Emergency, Surgery | Main Street, Lewiston |
| St. Mary’s Health System | Primary, Maternity | Campus Ave, Lewiston |
| Community Clinical Services | Low-cost care | Bates Street, Lewiston |
- Education Institutions
- Bates College – Liberal arts college with a strong reputation
- Central Maine Community College (CMCC) – Technical and career programs
- Lewiston Public Schools and Auburn Public Schools – K–12 education
- Adult Education Centers – GED, ESL, and job training
- Emergency Services
- Joint fire departments and police forces
- 911 available throughout the region
- Emergency shelters open during snowstorms or heatwaves
- Utilities and Public Works
- Electricity provided by Central Maine Power
- Water and sewer services managed by the Lewiston-Auburn Water Pollution Control Authority
- Garbage collection available weekly, with recycling bins provided
- Internet and Communications
- High-speed internet from Spectrum and TDS
- Public libraries offer free computer access and Wi-Fi
- Auburn Public Library and Lewiston Public Library are hubs for learning
- Grocery and Food Services
- Chain supermarkets like Hannaford, Shaw’s, and Walmart
- Farmers’ markets and ethnic grocery stores (especially Somali, Middle Eastern, and Latin food)
- Meals-on-Wheels and food pantries help low-income families
- Community Resources
- Lewiston’s Immigrant Resource Center – Supports new Americans
- Auburn Recreation Department – Organizes youth and senior programs
- Local churches and mosques – Offer free meals, clothes, and emotional support
Community Engagement and Support
Lewiston-Auburn values neighborhood participation and social support, especially for immigrants and low-income groups.
- Support Services for Immigrants
- Translation and legal aid available through nonprofits
- Job readiness and resume help offered by CareerCenters
- Free ESL (English as a Second Language) classes
- Job Opportunities
- Manufacturing, healthcare, and education are major employers
- Temp agencies help find hourly work in warehouses or offices
- Downtown development has increased service-sector jobs
- Recreation and Parks
- Pettingill Park and Simard-Payne Memorial Park provide green spaces
- Auburn’s Norway Savings Bank Arena offers public skating
- Summer festivals and Riverfest events build community spirit
- Local Government and Civic Life
- City council meetings open to public participation
- Voting made accessible with community outreach programs
- Nonprofits collaborate with the government to reach underserved people
Wrapping Up
Lewiston-Auburn offers a balanced lifestyle with affordable housing, solid public transportation, and easy access to important services. The twin cities welcome newcomers with programs that support every stage of life, from schooling and job training to healthcare and recreation. Living in Lewiston-Auburn brings a sense of belonging, where diverse people come together to shape a safe and vibrant community.
