Maine has a low population density, ranking 43rd in the U.S. with just over 1.385 million residents.

One could surmise that with a lack of people that perhaps small-town town commerce would be the norm. However, this couldn't be further from the truth.

Maine is Home to Many Large Employers

Despite its relatively small population, Maine is not struggling in the employment department. Many of the jobs available are with some of the largest employers, not just in Maine, but in the entire country

I came across a list from the Maine Department of Labor highlighting the state's 40 largest private employers. It offers a fascinating look at Maine's diverse economy and the locations of these major companies.

It’s no surprise that many of Maine’s largest employers are in the healthcare field. The impact of these employers is significant, as their services are used by the entire population. Naturally, some are larger than others, with a wide variety of companies making the list.

National Companies Found in Maine

Numerous major chains, such as McDonald's, Lowe's, Home Depot, Walgreens, and others, are scattered across the state, employing thousands of Mainers.

It’s also great to see many locally owned companies on the list. Longstanding Maine businesses like Bath Iron Works, L.L. Bean, and even private institutions are represented.

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Maine's Largest Private Employers

You can see the entire list below. Many names will be well-known, while others may surprise you. There may even be one or two you've never heard of. The one thing all of these companies have in common is the incredible number of Mainers they employ.

40 Largest Employers in Maine

Below is a list of the 40 largest employers in Maine. Some are locally owned, while others are national brands. These are provided by the Maine Department of Labor. The numbers are from 2024's 3rd quarter. They are the most recent available.

Gallery Credit: Chris Sedenka

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