Where to Live Now
Best Places To Live in New Hampshire
Best Places To Live in New Hampshire
Though it may be tiny, these cities are mighty. From seaside towns to historical gems, these are the best places to live in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire’s reputation as a great place to live in the Northeast might have something to do with how it harmoniously blends a robust job market with abundant interesting stories and experiences. The thriving economy and a business-friendly environment offer residents plenty of career opportunities in industries like technology and health care. But what really sets New Hampshire apart from other states in the region is the chance to balance a fulfilling professional life with endless outdoor adventures. The state’s natural beauty ranges from the scenic White Mountains to water sports, hiking trails and autumn foliage.
You can’t help but feel drawn to the charm of quaint villages and historic towns like Portsmouth, Hanover and Concord, all of which boast a surprising array of cultural enrichment, local festivals and welcoming communities. You can even find a preserved Shaker community in Canterbury and the original copy of the U.S. Constitution in Exeter. With its wealth of local history and culture and a solid job market and economy, it’s no wonder New Hampshire is a wonderful place to call home. Here are our picks for the best places to live in New Hampshire.
In This Article
Concord
Why Concord is one of the best cities to live in New Hampshire.
Ask a local what the best things are about living in Concord, and they will probably mention the local history, culture and strong sense of community. Known for being the state capital, Concord boasts a storied history that played a significant role in the country’s formation. Still, it is also said to have a welcoming and neighborly vibe that makes newcomers feel like they live in a safe and tight-knit community. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with a strong emphasis on education, low crime rates and a reasonable cost of living compared with many comparable urban areas.
Life in Concord comes with access to a wide variety of perks. The cultural amenities include everything from theaters and museums to music venues and several annual festivals and events. The city’s beautiful natural surroundings are another major draw for people who want to spend time outside, with the Merrimack River providing opportunities to go boating or partake in riverside recreation. Nearby parks and outdoor spaces like White Park and Rollins Park are also hotspots for gathering with friends and family, and destinations like the White Mountains and Lakes Region are popular weekend getaways. Concord provides a top-notch blend of natural beauty and activity, making it an attractive place to call home.
Concord is a city steeped in history and known for its pivotal role in the founding of the United States. Established in 1733 and named the state capital in 1808, this charming city gained notoriety as the site of the Battle of Lexington and Concord in 1775, a conflict that marked the beginning of the war. Concord also played a significant role in ratifying the United States Constitution, hosting the convention that ratified the document in 1787.
Read more about living in Concord, NH.
Hanover
What makes Hanover one of the best cities to live in New Hampshire?
Are you interested in living in Hanover? This charming historic city is widely known as home to Dartmouth College, and it understandably boasts an intellectual and culturally vibrant vibe. Locals get to take advantage of all kinds of educational and cultural opportunities thanks to the school, including lectures, performances and art exhibitions. Dartmouth’s influence even extends to the grade schools, which consistently earn high rankings and make the city a great place to put down roots for families who are passionate about their children receiving a top-notch education.
Hanover’s natural beauty is another major draw for newcomers. Nestled in the beautiful Upper Valley along the Connecticut River, Hanover is a downright stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you want to hike the nearby trails, spend your winter on skies or take scenic drives amidst some of the country’s most vibrant autumn foliage, living in Hanover has abundant outdoor perks. The city’s strong local economy and commitment to sustainability further add to its appeal, enticing people of all ages to make their homes in a place that blends education and culture with that iconic New England scenery we all know and love. Hanover is handily one of the best places to live in New Hampshire.
Dartmouth College is a significant employer and contributor to the local economy in Hanover, offering opportunities in education, research and administration. The college also fosters a robust health care sector, with Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center playing a significant role in the local job market. Additionally, the Dartmouth campus is one of the most beautiful college campuses in the Northeast. The city’s location in the Upper Valley region also provides residents easy access to diverse businesses and industries in places like Lebanon and White River Junction. Because the city is strongly committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, it also draws in businesses and entrepreneurs interested in green and innovative practices, further diversifying the opportunities for new and established residents alike.
Read more about living in Hanover, NH.
Manchester
Manchester is a top city to live in New Hampshire.
As the largest city in the state, Manchester is home to a lively economy and diverse industries, making it an understandably attractive place to live for job seekers. The city boasts a burgeoning tech sector, health care industry, financial services, and a variety of retail and hospitality opportunities. The strong job market is complemented by a relatively low cost of living, with affordable housing and a lack of state income tax, which appeals to people in all stages of life. Families are particularly drawn to the city’s educational opportunities, with many top-rated public and private schools. You can also find theaters, museums and restaurants, all of which add up to plenty of things to do in Manchester, NH.
The economic appeal is inarguable. But Manchester also has a reputation for being culturally diverse and having tight-knit neighborhoods. City residents share a sense of pride in their community bonds, hosting various local events and festivals throughout the year that foster a welcoming and celebratory atmosphere. If that wasn’t enough, Manchester is also blessed with the classic natural beauty of New England. Its location along the Merrimack River and the availability of hiking trails, parks and recreational activities make it easy to get outside during its four distinct seasons.
When you add up the good schools, welcoming community and range of child-friendly events, most people would agree that Manchester is a great (and family-friendly!) place to live. The quality education and variety of public and private schools attract growing families, and the wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities makes it easy to indulge in the local culture and get to know your neighbors. Tack on the access to quality health care and essential services, and it’s understandable why many families are choosing to put down roots in Manchester.
Read more about living in Manchester, NH.
Nashua
Nashua is a best place to live in New Hampshire.
If you decide to put down roots in Nashua, get ready to enjoy a well-rounded and fulfilling life. This hopping city boasts a lively cultural scene with a myriad of things to do and see. Start with the historic downtown, brimming with charming shops, restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to stroll, window shop or meet up with friends. You could also indulge in a little local culture with hotspots like the Nashua Symphony Orchestra, Nashua Community Music School and Nashua Performing Arts Center right at your fingertips.
If city life isn’t your cup of tea, never fear. Nashua also offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for the nature enthusiasts in the community. Greeley Park, Mine Falls Park and the Nashua River Rail Trail are local favorites for hiking, biking and picnicking. Boating and fishing are also popular pastimes at Mine Falls Park and along the Nashua River. Families also appreciate the welcoming community atmosphere, coupled with the strong local emphasis on education and the multitude of historical sites that provide endless opportunities for education and entertainment.
Many people would describe the job market in Nashua as robust and diversified. The city benefits from its proximity to the high-tech corridor of southern New Hampshire, with several technology companies and manufacturing firms, especially in the defense and aerospace industries. Health care, finance and retail are other significant players in the local economy. The city’s unemployment rate tends to run lower than the national average, and its reputation as a business-friendly community makes it an attractive place for new businesses and entrepreneurs.
Read more about living in Nashua, NH.
Portsmouth
Why Portsmouth is a great place to live in New Hampshire.
If you want to live in Portsmouth, you ought to know it’s a city rich in history, natural beauty, and a lively local culture. The historic charm is evident in its wealth of well-preserved architecture, complete with colonial-era homes and cobblestone streets. Those who want to dig a little deeper into the area’s heritage can visit the renowned Strawbery Banke Museum, which is said to bring to life more than 350 years of local history with historic house tours, costumed reenacts and heirloom gardens. Residents can enjoy the city’s beautiful outdoor amenities, like Prescott Park and the stunning waterfront along the Piscataqua River.
One surprising detail that catches newcomers off-guard is that Portsmouth boasts a renowned culinary scene featuring a wide array of restaurants and eateries. The area is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly in the bustling downtown district. The city schools are also held in high regard, which attracts many growing families committed to providing their children with a top-notch education. Paired with its central location, easy access to the coastline and the absence of state income tax and relatively low crime rate, it’s no surprise people are eager to put down roots in Portsmouth.
The cost of living in Portsmouth is reasonably high. Median house prices typically run between $450,000 and $600,000, although the numbers can continue to climb depending on the neighborhood. Rental costs are also on the high side, and supply is limited. Newcomers should also be prepared to find above-average utilities, dining and entertainment expenses. While living in Portsmouth is admittedly expensive compared to many national averages, most residents would argue that the historical heritage, cultural scene, and coastal charm make the investment well worth it. Plus, Portsmouth is an affordable alternative for those looking to get away from the steep prices in Boston.
Read more about living in Portsmouth, NH.
Considering moving to New Hampshire?
Finding a great place to live in New Hampshire doesn’t have to be complicated. We have several resources for moving to New Hampshire as well as other best places to live in the Northeast. No matter where you want to live, we can help you decide where to move and discover the best places to live in the U.S.