Dayton, Maine

Rural Saco River town near Biddeford and Sanford

Overview

Dayton sits between Biddeford and Lyman, blending dairy farms with forested ridges. Though inland, it is minutes from Saco’s services and the beaches of Old Orchard. The town’s quiet roads and river proximity make it a commuter-friendly spot with a strong rural feel.

Key Facts

Population 2,100

Region Southern Maine

County York

Founded 1854

Nearest City Biddeford (15 minutes)

Town Office Visit official website

What Dayton Is Known For

Dayton Local Highlights

Commuter convenience

Quick access to I-95 and Route 5 toward Sanford and Biddeford.

Farm country

Open fields and family farms characteristic of inland York County.

Trail access

Local snowmobile clubs link Dayton to neighboring towns each winter.

Things to Do

Paddle the Saco

Launch upriver in Buxton or Hollis for warm-weather floats.

Ride rural loops

Cycle or drive quiet roads toward Lyman and Waterboro.

Beach day

Pair Dayton’s quiet with a quick trip to Old Orchard Beach.

Living in Dayton

Dayton offers rural housing within a short commute to Biddeford-Saco employers and coastal amenities. Most shopping and services are in Biddeford or Saco.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 72-85 F

winter

Cold, 10-30 F with regular snow

spring

Cool and muddy, 40-58 F

fall

Crisp, 45-62 F with strong foliage

How to Get There

Access via Route 5 and Route 35; I-95 exits in Biddeford and Saco provide regional connections.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Dayton outline

Outdoor Recreation

Boating & Sailing

June - September

Fishing in Maine 2026: Complete Freshwater & Saltwater Guide

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Snowmobiling in Maine: 14,000 Miles of Trails & Complete Guide

Winter (December - April)

Related Guides

Cross-Country Skiing in Maine

Guide to Nordic skiing in Maine. Top groomed trail systems, backcountry routes, equipment advice, and everything you need for winter adventure.

Complete Guide to Skiing in Maine

Everything you need to know about alpine and Nordic skiing in Maine, from Sugarloaf to Sunday River, with tips on passes, timing, and mountain culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dayton known for?

Dayton is known as a rural Saco River town offering farm country and wooded backroads within easy reach of southern Maine's beaches and job centers. The town blends dairy farms with forested ridges while maintaining a strong rural feel.

How far is Dayton from Biddeford?

Dayton is about 15 minutes from Biddeford via Route 5 and Route 35. Residents enjoy quick access to I-95, Saco's services, and the beaches of Old Orchard Beach while living in a quieter rural setting.

What outdoor activities are available in Dayton?

Dayton offers paddling on the Saco River from upstream launches in Buxton or Hollis, cycling and driving on quiet rural roads toward Lyman and Waterboro, snowmobile trail riding in winter, and easy day trips to Old Orchard Beach.