Cities and Towns in Knox County, Maine

Founded in 1860, Knox County is one of 16 counties in the state of Maine. Historically, Knox County was formed from parts of Lincoln County and Waldo County. The city of Rockland is the county seat. With FIPS code of 13, Knox County has a population of 41,084 and area of 1,142 square miles (2,958 km²).

List of all cities in Knox County, ME alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Appleton, ME 04862 207
Camden, ME 04843 207
04847 207
Cushing, ME 04563 207
Friendship, ME 04547 207
Glen Cove, ME 04846 207
Hope, ME 04847 207
Isle au Haut, ME 04645 207
Matinicus, ME 04851 207
North Haven, ME 04853 207
Owls Head, ME 04854 207
Port Clyde, ME 04855 207
Rockland, ME 04841 207
Rockport, ME 04856 207
Saint George, ME 04860 207
South Thomaston, ME 04858 207
Spruce Head, ME 04859 207
Stonington, ME 04645 207
Tenants Harbor, ME 04859 207
04860 207
Thomaston, ME 04861 207
Union, ME 04862 207
Vinalhaven, ME 04863 207
Warren, ME 04864 207
Washington, ME 04574 207
West Rockport, ME 04865 207

Major Cities and Towns in Knox County, Maine

Rockland

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 15.07 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 7,004 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 04841
  • Latitude: 44.1037° N
  • Longitude: 69.1081° W

Location and History

Rockland is located along the central coast of Maine, on Penobscot Bay, about 80 miles northeast of Portland. The town was settled in the late 18th century and officially incorporated in 1848. Originally known for its lime production, Rockland’s economy flourished with shipbuilding and fishing in the 19th century, becoming a central hub for trade and transportation. By the late 1800s, Rockland was home to a booming commercial fishing industry, particularly lobster. Today, Rockland is known for its vibrant arts scene, as well as its role as a gateway to nearby islands such as Vinalhaven and North Haven. Its working harbor still plays a key role in the local economy, and tourism has grown significantly over the past few decades.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rockland is part of Regional School Unit 13, with Oceanside High School serving as the main secondary school. Major landmarks include the Farnsworth Art Museum, renowned for its collection of American art, and the Maine Lighthouse Museum. Rockland is also home to the annual Maine Lobster Festival, drawing visitors from around the world. The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, a mile-long granite breakwater extending into Penobscot Bay, offers stunning views of the coastline and is a popular tourist attraction.

Camden

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 26.65 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 5,232 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 04843
  • Latitude: 44.2098° N
  • Longitude: 69.0648° W

Location and History

Camden is located along the mid-coast of Maine, nestled between the mountains and the sea, about 10 miles north of Rockland. The town was settled in the late 1700s and incorporated in 1791. Camden’s early economy was centered on shipbuilding, with its harbor serving as a key point for maritime trade. The 19th century saw the town grow as a summer destination for wealthy visitors, leading to the development of grand summer homes. Camden is famous for its scenic beauty, with the Camden Hills providing panoramic views of the coastline. The town’s motto, “Where the Mountains Meet the Sea,” reflects its unique geography, and it remains a popular destination for both tourists and seasonal residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Camden is part of the Five Town Community School District, with Camden Hills Regional High School serving the area. Major landmarks include Camden Harbor, known for its historic schooners and boating activities, and Camden Hills State Park, offering hiking trails that lead to the summit of Mount Battie, with views of Penobscot Bay. Camden’s historic district, with its charming shops, restaurants, and galleries, is a major draw for visitors. The Camden Opera House, built in 1894, remains a hub for cultural events, including concerts, plays, and film screenings.

Thomaston

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 18.49 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 2,739 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 04861
  • Latitude: 44.0786° N
  • Longitude: 69.1817° W

Location and History

Thomaston is located on the western shore of the Penobscot River, about 5 miles southwest of Rockland. The town was settled in 1605 by Europeans and incorporated in 1777. Named after Captain Samuel Thomas, Thomaston became known for its shipbuilding industry, producing some of the largest wooden ships of the 19th century. It was also home to Maine’s State Prison for nearly 200 years until its closure in 2002. The town has preserved much of its historical charm, with many of the old ship captains’ homes still standing along Main Street. Thomaston’s economy today is a blend of tourism, light industry, and local services.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Thomaston is served by the Regional School Unit 13, which includes Thomaston Grammar School and Oceanside High School in nearby Rockland. Major landmarks include the Montpelier Museum, a replica of General Henry Knox’s mansion, which showcases the life and legacy of the Revolutionary War hero. The Maine State Prison Showroom, a unique retail space featuring goods made by inmates, is another local attraction. Thomaston’s historic downtown, lined with 18th- and 19th-century buildings, retains the town’s rich architectural heritage.

Rockport

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 33.34 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 3,644 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 04856
  • Latitude: 44.1876° N
  • Longitude: 69.0713° W

Location and History

Rockport is located just south of Camden along the mid-coast of Maine, about 6 miles north of Rockland. The town was incorporated in 1842, having previously been part of Camden. Like many coastal towns in Maine, Rockport developed around shipbuilding, lime production, and fishing. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rockport was home to one of the largest granite quarries in the region. Over time, the town became known for its artistic and cultural community, attracting painters, musicians, and writers. Today, Rockport is a picturesque town with a strong focus on arts, education, and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rockport is part of the Five Town Community School District, with Camden Hills Regional High School serving the area. Major landmarks include the Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA), which showcases work by local and regional artists, and the Rockport Opera House, a historic venue for music and theater performances. Rockport Marine Park, located on the harbor, offers walking paths, picnic areas, and scenic views of Penobscot Bay. The Andre the Seal statue, commemorating a famous harbor seal, is a beloved landmark that draws visitors to the waterfront.

Vinalhaven

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 168.71 square miles (21.61 square miles land, 147.10 square miles water)
  • Population: Approximately 1,279 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 04863
  • Latitude: 44.0473° N
  • Longitude: 68.8318° W

Location and History

Vinalhaven is an island town located about 12 miles off the coast of Rockland, in Penobscot Bay. The island was first settled in the 18th century and was named after John Vinal, an early settler. Vinalhaven’s economy historically revolved around granite quarrying, with stone from the island used in major projects such as the Brooklyn Bridge and Washington Monument. The island’s fishing industry, particularly lobstering, has long been a key part of the local economy and continues to be so today. Accessible by ferry, Vinalhaven is known for its natural beauty, with rugged coastlines, quiet coves, and a peaceful way of life attracting summer residents and tourists.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Vinalhaven’s schools are part of the Vinalhaven School District, with Vinalhaven School serving students from pre-K through 12th grade. Major landmarks include Lane’s Island Preserve, a 45-acre nature reserve offering trails and scenic views of the island’s shoreline. The Vinalhaven Historical Society Museum provides insight into the island’s past, particularly its granite and maritime industries. Additionally, the town’s working waterfront, filled with lobster boats and fishing gear, offers a glimpse into the daily life of this close-knit island community. The ferry service to Rockland is a vital link for residents and visitors alike.

St. George

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 121.98 square miles (23.67 square miles land, 98.31 square miles water)
  • Population: Approximately 2,631 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 04860
  • Latitude: 43.9682° N
  • Longitude: 69.2339° W

Location and History

St. George is located on a peninsula extending into the Gulf of Maine, about 12 miles south of Thomaston. Settled in the mid-18th century, St. George became a fishing and shipbuilding center, with several small villages, including Port Clyde, Tenants Harbor, and Martinsville. The town has maintained its maritime character, with fishing—especially lobstering—remaining an important part of the local economy. St. George’s coastal location and picturesque harbors have also made it a popular spot for artists, photographers, and tourists, particularly during the summer months.

Major Schools and Landmarks

St. George is served by the St. George Municipal School Unit, which includes St. George School for grades K-8, with high school students attending nearby regional schools. Major landmarks include Marshall Point Lighthouse, famously featured in the movie Forrest Gump, and Port Clyde, known for its ferry service to the island of Monhegan. The town’s numerous beaches, hiking trails, and working harbors offer plenty of outdoor activities. The St. George Historical Society and Ocean View Grange are important cultural institutions preserving the town’s history and traditions.