Eliot, Maine

Tucked along the Maine side of the Piscataqua River, Eliot is a welcoming town with a rich history, rural charm, and easy access to the Seacoast’s cultural and economic hubs. With its quiet neighborhoods, waterfront landscapes, and strong community values, Eliot offers a lifestyle that’s both laid-back and well-connected.

Founded in 1810 and formerly part of Kittery, Eliot has retained its small-town character while evolving into a desirable location for families, retirees, and professionals alike.

With a population of just over 6,000, Eliot is known for its civic pride, excellent town services, and strong community engagement. Local events, seasonal fairs, and a well-supported public library bring residents together throughout the year. Families are drawn to Eliot not only for its safe, peaceful setting but also for its excellent schools and recreational opportunities.

Eliot is part of Maine School Administrative District 35 (MSAD 35), which it shares with South Berwick. The district is widely respected for academic quality and community involvement.

Eliot is surrounded by rivers, salt marshes, and wooded landscapes that provide residents with an abundance of outdoor activities. Whether it’s paddling on the Piscataqua River, walking the trails of Dead Duck Farm Preserve, or simply enjoying a sunset over the water, nature is a constant presence here.

The town also offers a town boat launch, scenic drives, and several small parks that make it easy to get outside and stay active.

Eliot strikes an ideal balance between rural peace and regional convenience. It’s close to everything, yet feels worlds away.

• Just 10 minutes to downtown Portsmouth, NH
  
• Quick access to I-95 and Route 236 for commuting to Kittery, York, Dover, or Portland
  
• Around 1 hour to Boston or Portland by car
  
• Close to the beaches of southern Maine and the lakes of interior York County
  
• Nearby Amtrak stations in Dover and Wells offer rail access north and south
  

Whether you’re commuting daily or working from home, Eliot’s location makes travel easy without sacrificing the slower pace of small-town life.

Eliot takes pride in its deep New England roots, from its classic farmhouses and colonial-era cemeteries to longstanding family farms and traditions. At the same time, it’s a town with a forward-thinking mindset — embracing sustainability, supporting local businesses, and planning carefully for the future.

The Eliot Festival Day, held annually each fall, is a highlight of local life, celebrating community with a parade, craft fair, food, and live entertainment.

Eliot is ideal for those who value space, serenity, and a strong sense of place — but don’t want to be far from good food, vibrant culture, or the ocean. It’s a place where you can put down roots, watch the seasons change, and still be just minutes from everything the Seacoast has to offer.

Whether you're looking to raise a family, start a new chapter, or simply enjoy life at a more comfortable pace, Eliot, Maine may be just what you're looking for.