Measures of Growth
Since 1994, MDF’s annual Measures of Growth has tracked 25+ indicators that provide a comprehensive snapshot of how Maine’s economy is faring.
Each year, MDF works with the Maine Economic Growth Council to develop the Measures of Growth Report. The indicators included collectively support the idea that Maine’s quality of life depends upon a vibrant and sustainable economy, thriving communities, and a healthy environment. Past performance and current conditions inform the establishment of future benchmarks for each indicator that are aspirational, potentially attainable and against which we can measure our collective progress.
For 2022, the Council assigns Gold Stars for significant progress in:
We assign Red Flags for needed attention to:
- Labor Force Participation
- Research and Development Expenditures
- Cost of Health Care
- Cost of Energy
- Housing Affordability
- Mental & Behavioral Health
Fundamental Performance Indicators
Poverty-.3%
In 2020, poverty fell slightly from 10.9% to 10.6% due to federal stimulus measures.
Gender Income Equity+1%
In 2021, women’s median wages rose 1% compared to men’s, but remained about 83% of men’s earnings.
Racial/Ethnic Income Equity+3%
In 2016-2020, the average incomes of BIPOC* and Latino or Hispanic Mainers rose 3% but remained 33% below White Mainers, dramatically short of full equity. *Black, Indigenous, People of Color
Labor Force+1%
Maine’s labor force grew 1% in 2021 but remains below pre-pandemic levels.
Labor Force Participation0%
In 2021, 60% of Maine adults were in the labor force – unchanged since 2020 and below the U.S. average.
Value-Added+2%
In 2021 value-added per worker rose 2%, but remained 23% below the U.S. average.
Gross Domestic Product+5%
In 2021, Maine’s GDP rose 5%, resuming growth after its 2020 slump.
Environment
Air Quality+3 Days
In 2021, there were 28 moderately unhealthy days, three more than last year.
Sustainable Forest Lands+8%
In 2021, the growth-to-harvest ratio rose 8% to 1.43 and remained above the sustainability goal.
Economy
Research & Development+.2%
In 2019, Maine’s R&D spending rose from 0.8% to 1.0% of GDP.
International Exports+32%
Maine exports soared 32% in 2021, reaching their highest level in a decade.
Entrepreneurship+5%
In 2020, the number of business starts exceeded closures by 9%, up from 4% in 2019.
Prekindergarten Education-2%
In 2021-22, the share of schools with pre-Ks fell to 77%, partly due to COVID, but this is expected to rebound next year.
Fourth-Grade Reading0%
In 2019, 36% of Maine 4th graders were proficient in reading. 2022 results were not available at the time of publication.
Eighth-Grade Math0%
In 2019, 34% of Maine 8th graders were proficient in mathematics. 2022 results were not available at the time of publication.
Postsecondary Degrees and Credentials0%
In 2019, 53% of Mainers had a degree or a professional credential, below the New England average of 58%. 2022 results were not available at time of publication.
Cost of Health Care-0.4%
Health care expenditures fell 0.4% in 2021 but remain an ongoing challenge.
Cost of Energy+10%
The price of industrial electricity rose 10% in 2021, mirroring increases across New England.
State & Local Tax Burden-.5%
In 2020, Maine’s tax burden declined but remained above the New England average.
Community
Internet Connectivity0%
In 2022, 78% of locations have high-speed or broadband internet. Annual comparison not available due to changed data methods.
Transportation+7%
In 2021, 66% of Maine roadways were rated good or fair, a noteworthy 7% increase.
Housing Affordability0%
Home ownership affordability got much worse in 2021, but the full index (including rentals) was not available at the time of publication.
Safety0%
In 2020, Maine’s crime rate was 46% below the U.S. average. The 2021 rate was not available at the time of publication.
Physical Wellness+.1%
About 2/3 of Maine adults are overweight or obese, virtually unchanged for several years.
Mental & Behavioral Health (NEW)+2%
In 2019-2020, the percentage of children with a mental and/or behavioral condition rose over 2%.
Health Insurance Coverage+.4%
Maine’s health insurance coverage is stable and above the U.S. average.
Food Security-2%
In 2019-2021, the share of Mainers experiencing food insecurity fell about 2 percentage points.
Publication Archive
Measures of Growth 2020
December, 2020
Measures of Growth 2019
April, 2019
Measures of Growth 2019
April, 2019
Measures of Growth 2018
Maine’s quality of life depends upon a vibrant and sustainable economy, thriving communities, and a healthy environment.
June, 2018
Measures of Growth 2017
A long-term perspective on Maine’s economy
April, 2017
Measures of Growth 2016
At the heart of it all, it’s about our people
April, 2016
Measures of Growth 2015
A report card on Maine’s economy
April, 2015
Measures of Growth 2014
A high quality of life for all Maine people
March, 2014
Measures of Growth 2013
Maine’s prosperity action plan
March, 2013
Measures of Growth 2012
Policy recommendations for Maine’s economy
March, 2012
Measures of Growth 2011
Finding the way to move Maine’s economy forward
March, 2011
Measures of Growth 2010
Positioning Maine for growth in the new economy
February, 2010