Manchester NH

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

liv score
573
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 50
Demographics 51
Economy 63
Education 45
Health 59
Housing 54
Infrastructure 67

#91. Manchester, NH

Manchester is a true treasure. This former textile hub is the business center of New Hampshire with all kinds of things to do, but it’s also a stone’s throw from New England outdoor wonderlands that will take your breath away.

Manchester’s high marks in economics and amenities can be traced to its status as a hotspot for local conventions, sporting events and concerts — all while offering residents a cost of living that’s extremely affordable, especially for this part of the country. Also, the food scene here is awesome and growing every day.

Local Obsession: Boards and Brews, New Hampshire’s first board game café, equipped with hundreds of games and a menu full of great cocktails. 

Climate Described in 6 Words Or Less: Perfect skiing weather

Top Industries and Employers: Downtown Manchester is a hub of business activity, and that’s reflected among its top employers. Health care (Elliot Hospital and Catholic Medical Center), education (Southern New Hampshire University), communication, business and banking companies lead the charge in this city.

Local Dream Job: Tour guide at the Frank Lloyd Wright Zimmerman House

Quintessential Meal: A treat from Dancing Lion Chocolate, where each limited edition chocolate masterpiece is decorated to look like a historic work of art. Van Gogh chocolate, anyone?

Favorite Weekend Activity: Enjoying a concert or hockey game.

After-Work Meetup Spot: Strange Brew Tavern has killer specials as well as comedy and karaoke nights! 

Best Brewery: Great North Aleworks

Beloved Bookstore: Bookery is Manchester’s indie bookstore that hosts a variety of events for book-lovers and has a cafe to snack while you browse. 

Free Way to Have Fun: Soaking up the outdoors at Rock Rimmon Park, Amoskeag Falls or Derryfield Park.

Hidden Gem: LaBelle Winery, a woman-owned vineyard, tasting room and bistro outside the city.

– Claire Hannum

Read More:

5 Presidential Campaign Stops That Are Also Awesome Places to Live

8 Reasons to Move to Manchester

Best Places to Live in New Hampshire

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