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Saco, Maine Overview
The historic city of Saco, Maine, is one of the northeast's most livable cities. Just 90
miles north of Boston and 15 miles south of Portland, Saco and its sister city of Biddeford
comprise the banking, retail, service, and manufacturing center for the bustling southeastern
corner the state of Maine. Welcome to the City of Saco's Web site, where we will give visitors a
taste of our unique area, and provide residents with civic information for daily life.
Saco enjoys miles of beautiful, uncrowded beaches, and a picturesque fishing harbors
for fishermen and pleasure boaters at the mouth the Saco River. Natives and visitors alike enjoy
boating and fishing on the Saco River and Saco Bay. The city's high tech and traditional
industries provide employment for residents of the region. High quality residential areas are
located near the beaches and the Saco River, downtown, and in the western areas of the two
cities. The historic downtown shopping district is just steps from the scenic river front and five
minutes from the beach.
Public landings, fine restaurants, and family entertainment attractions make the area
especially welcoming to the visitor. Tourism services include motels, campgrounds, water parks,
and a theme park. South coastal Maine enjoys a climate that is relatively mild compared to the
rest of the state.
Civic and educational institutions, social organizations, city services, and health services
all contribute to the high quality of life here. The City has a stable Mayor-administrator-City
Council form of government.
Saco and Biddeford share an industrial history with red brick mills along the Saco
River. Some still house historic textile operations, while others have been renovated for high
tech incubators and office use. Metal working, manufacturing machinery, plastics, and
electronics are among the areas industries located in several modern industrial parks.