Biddeford

Biddeford is a city in York County, Maine, United States, located at the southern end of the Portland–South Portland–Biddeford metropolitan area along the Saco River near the Atlantic coast. The city is home to a population in the low tens of thousands, with about 21,000 residents reported in recent estimates. It sits adjacent to Biddeford Pool, a coastal area known for its beaches and marshlands.

Historically, Biddeford developed as a mill town in the 17th through 19th centuries, with textile and other industries powered by the Saco River. The city experienced industrial growth and later faced mill closures, followed by economic diversification. In recent decades Biddeford has seen redevelopment of its historic mill buildings, including the Pepperell Mill Campus, which has become a hub for arts, offices, and residential space. The University of New England maintains a campus in Biddeford, contributing to the city’s educational and healthcare sectors.

Education and economy form the city’s backbone. Biddeford Public Schools serve the local community, and higher education and health services play significant roles in employment. The Pepperell Mill Campus and related redevelopment projects reflect ongoing efforts to revitalize the urban core. The city also offers coastal and riverfront recreation, parks, and nature areas that attract residents and visitors.

Geography and climate are characteristic of coastal Maine, with a humid continental climate that features cold winters and warm, sometimes humid summers. Biddeford operates under a council-manager form of government and is part of Maine’s 1st congressional district.