Report Claims Maine’s Capital Is the Worst in America to Live In

A new report claims that Maine’s capital is the worst capital to live in across the entire country. Out of all 50 state capitals, ours ranks dead last.

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Listen, we get it—nowhere is an easy place to live in 2025, but man, it stings to see Maine sitting at the very bottom of a list like this. It can't be that bad compared to everywhere else... right?

With that in mind, how exactly do we know this is the case? Who conducted this report, and what factors did they consider?

In WalletHub’s 2025 report on the ‘Best & Worst State Capitals to Live In,’ all 50 state capitals were ranked based on affordability, economic well-being, education and health, and quality of life. By analyzing these four key factors, WalletHub determined which capitals offer the best overall living conditions.

Now that we know Augusta ranked dead last, just how bad were the numbers?

While Augusta didn’t rank last in any single category, low scores in affordability (47th), economic well-being (43rd), quality of education and health (31st), and quality of life (44th) added up to make it the worst state capital to live in. However, Augusta did have one bright spot—it tied for 1st place for the lowest unemployment rate.

Well, there it is. We’ve definitely had better things to celebrate than this. But at least now we know! According to this report, Augusta is the worst state capital in America to live in.

What are your thoughts on WalletHub’s report? Do you agree, or do you think the ranking was unfair? We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.

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