Maine and New Englanders, in general, have great pride in our sturdy work ethic and grit. Now that work ethic and grit have been recognized. In a list of the hardest-working cities in the country published by wallethub.com (website for personal finance), Portland, Maine, was named just barely out of the top 25%. Our city came in at 30th, following Boston, MA, in 29th out of a possible 116, also making it the third hardest working city in New England. 

Portland was able to score 68.41 out of 100 points. The cities were ranked based on their Direct work factors and Indirect work factors, with subcategories falling within those parameters. Direct work factors, where Portland ranked 33rd, are made of statistics like: employment rate, unused vacation time, and average hours worked in a workweek. Portland’s ranking so high on the list reflects its occupants’ long working hours, pushing through the sick days. 

Our city isn’t perfect, though. Portland lagged behind in indirect work factors. Those include: volunteering hours, the number of workers with multiple jobs, and the average commute time. These areas are where Portland is considered to be behind the curve. It’s no secret that Maine (and New England as a whole) is spread out, meaning a long commute is necessary to get nearly anywhere. With many employees of Portland making the drive there every day. Something many of SMCC’s commuting students can relate to. 

With Portland being recognized for its hard work, it gives us the push to keep that work up. To push through and not give up in the cold.