Eliot, Maine
Gateway to Maine from New Hampshire
Overview
Eliot is Maine's southernmost coastal town, sitting across the Piscataqua River from Portsmouth, NH. This residential community offers rural character, historic farms, and convenient access to Portsmouth's amenities while maintaining lower property taxes.
Key Facts
Population 6,700
Region Southern Maine
County York
Founded 1810
Nearest City Portsmouth, NH (5 miles)
What Eliot Is Known For
Eliot Local Highlights
Portsmouth Border
First Maine town across from historic Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Raitt Homestead
Historic 18th-century farmstead and museum.
Working Farms
Active agricultural community with farms and farmstands.
Commuter Community
Residential town for Portsmouth and Boston workers.
Things to Do
1
Visit Raitt Homestead
Tour historic farm and learn colonial history.
2
Shop farm stands
Buy local produce at working farms.
3
Explore Portsmouth
Five-minute drive to historic seaport city.
4
Kayak Piscataqua River
Paddle the tidal river separating Maine and New Hampshire.
5
Visit Great Works River
Fish and kayak the scenic inland river.
Living in Eliot
Eliot offers the best of both worlds—Maine property taxes and rural character with Portsmouth, NH jobs and culture five minutes away. Popular with commuters seeking land, good schools, and lower costs than Portsmouth while maintaining easy access to the seacoast.
Weather & Seasons
summer
Warm coastal weather, 70-82°F
winter
Cold with moderate snow, 20-35°F
spring
Cool and wet, 40-55°F
fall
Beautiful autumn, 45-68°F
Local Wildlife & Nature
White-tailed deer Wild turkeys River otters Eagles along rivers
How to Get There
Routes 236 and 101 connect Eliot to Portsmouth via bridges over the Piscataqua River. I-95 runs through town with access via Kittery exits.
Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.
Satellite preview
Eliot outline
Key Facts
Population
6,700
Region
Southern Maine
County
York
Founded
1810
Nearest City
Portsmouth, NH (5 miles)