New Hampshire is a beautiful and diverse state with many great places to live. Whether you’re looking for a small town, a bustling city, or something in between, New Hampshire has something to offer everyone. Here are a few of the best cities to live in New Hampshire:
Nashua: Nashua is the second-largest city in New Hampshire and is located in the southern part of the state. It’s a great place to live for families, with excellent schools, parks, and recreation opportunities. Nashua is also home to a number of businesses and industries, making it a great place to find a job.
Manchester: Manchester is the largest city in New Hampshire and is located in the southern part of the state. It’s a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history. Manchester is home to a number of colleges and universities, as well as a thriving arts and culture scene. It’s also a great place to find a job, with a number of businesses and industries located in the city.
Concord: Concord is the capital of New Hampshire and is located in the central part of the state. It’s a small city with a charming downtown area. Concord is home to a number of historical sites, as well as a number of parks and recreation opportunities. It’s also a great place to find a job, with a number of businesses and industries located in the city.
These are just a few of the best cities to live in New Hampshire. With its beautiful scenery, strong economy, and excellent quality of life, New Hampshire is a great place to call home.
1. Cost of living
The cost of living is a major factor to consider when choosing a place to live. It can have a significant impact on your quality of life, as well as your financial well-being. In New Hampshire, the cost of living varies from city to city. Some of the most expensive cities to live in include Portsmouth, Nashua, and Manchester. These cities offer a higher quality of life, but they also come with a higher price tag. If you’re looking for a more affordable place to live, you might consider living in a smaller city or town. Some of the most affordable cities to live in New Hampshire include Keene, Laconia, and Concord.
- Housing: Housing is one of the biggest expenses for most people. In New Hampshire, the median home price is around $350,000. However, prices can vary significantly from city to city. For example, the median home price in Portsmouth is over $500,000, while the median home price in Keene is around $250,000.
- Transportation: Transportation costs can also vary significantly from city to city. If you’re planning on living in a city, you’ll likely need to own a car. However, if you’re living in a smaller town, you may be able to get by without a car.
- Food: Food costs can also vary from city to city. In general, food costs are higher in larger cities. However, there are ways to save money on food, such as cooking at home and buying in bulk.
- Utilities: Utility costs can also vary from city to city. In general, utility costs are higher in larger cities. However, there are ways to save money on utilities, such as using energy-efficient appliances and turning off lights when you leave a room.
The cost of living is an important factor to consider when choosing a place to live. By considering the factors listed above, you can get a better idea of how much it will cost to live in a particular city. This information can help you make an informed decision about where to live.
2. Crime rate
The crime rate is an important factor to consider when choosing a place to live. It can have a significant impact on your quality of life, as well as your safety and well-being. In New Hampshire, the crime rate varies from city to city. Some of the safest cities in New Hampshire include Amherst, Bedford, and Hanover. These cities have low crime rates and are generally considered to be safe places to live. Some of the most dangerous cities in New Hampshire include Manchester, Nashua, and Portsmouth. These cities have higher crime rates and are generally considered to be less safe places to live.
- Violent crime: Violent crime includes offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault. The violent crime rate in New Hampshire is relatively low, but it does vary from city to city. For example, the violent crime rate in Manchester is about twice as high as the violent crime rate in Amherst.
- Property crime: Property crime includes offenses such as burglary, theft, and arson. The property crime rate in New Hampshire is also relatively low, but it does vary from city to city. For example, the property crime rate in Nashua is about twice as high as the property crime rate in Bedford.
- Drug crime: Drug crime includes offenses such as possession, use, and distribution of illegal drugs. The drug crime rate in New Hampshire is relatively low, but it does vary from city to city. For example, the drug crime rate in Manchester is about twice as high as the drug crime rate in Hanover.
- Overall crime rate: The overall crime rate is a measure of all crime, including violent crime, property crime, and drug crime. The overall crime rate in New Hampshire is relatively low, but it does vary from city to city. For example, the overall crime rate in Manchester is about twice as high as the overall crime rate in Amherst.
The crime rate is an important factor to consider when choosing a place to live. By considering the factors listed above, you can get a better idea of the crime rate in a particular city. This information can help you make an informed decision about where to live.
3. School system
The quality of a school system is an important factor to consider when choosing a place to live, especially if you have children. In New Hampshire, the school system is generally considered to be excellent, with high graduation rates and test scores. However, there is some variation in the quality of schools from city to city.
- Graduation rates: The graduation rate is a measure of the percentage of students who graduate from high school. In New Hampshire, the graduation rate is about 90%, which is higher than the national average. However, there is some variation in the graduation rate from city to city. For example, the graduation rate in Bedford is about 95%, while the graduation rate in Manchester is about 85%.
- Test scores: Test scores are another measure of the quality of a school system. In New Hampshire, students consistently score above the national average on standardized tests. However, there is some variation in test scores from city to city. For example, students in Amherst consistently score higher than the national average, while students in Manchester consistently score below the national average.
- Teacher quality: The quality of teachers is also an important factor to consider when evaluating a school system. In New Hampshire, teachers are generally well-qualified and experienced. However, there is some variation in the quality of teachers from city to city. For example, teachers in Bedford are generally more experienced than teachers in Manchester.
- School funding: The amount of funding that a school receives can also have an impact on its quality. In New Hampshire, schools are funded by a combination of local property taxes and state aid. However, there is some variation in the amount of funding that schools receive from city to city. For example, schools in Bedford receive more funding than schools in Manchester.
The quality of a school system is an important factor to consider when choosing a place to live. By considering the factors listed above, you can get a better idea of the quality of schools in a particular city. This information can help you make an informed decision about where to live.
4. Job market
The job market is an important factor to consider when choosing a place to live. It can have a significant impact on your quality of life, as well as your financial well-being. In New Hampshire, the job market is generally strong, with low unemployment rates and a high number of job openings. However, there is some variation in the job market from city to city.
- Number of jobs: The number of jobs available in a city is an important factor to consider when evaluating the job market. In New Hampshire, the number of jobs varies from city to city. For example, Manchester has the largest number of jobs in the state, while smaller cities like Claremont and Berlin have fewer jobs available.
- Job growth: The job growth rate is another important factor to consider when evaluating the job market. In New Hampshire, the job growth rate is expected to be strong in the coming years. However, the job growth rate varies from city to city. For example, Manchester is expected to have a strong job growth rate in the coming years, while smaller cities like Claremont and Berlin are expected to have a slower job growth rate.
- Wages: The wages paid in a city are also an important factor to consider when evaluating the job market. In New Hampshire, the wages paid vary from city to city. For example, Manchester has the highest wages in the state, while smaller cities like Claremont and Berlin have lower wages.
- Cost of living: The cost of living is also an important factor to consider when evaluating the job market. In New Hampshire, the cost of living varies from city to city. For example, Manchester has a higher cost of living than smaller cities like Claremont and Berlin. This means that the wages paid in Manchester need to be higher in order to maintain a similar quality of life.
The job market is an important factor to consider when choosing a place to live. By considering the factors listed above, you can get a better idea of the job market in a particular city. This information can help you make an informed decision about where to live.
5. Quality of life
Quality of life is a broad concept that encompasses a wide range of factors, including health, safety, education, employment, and the environment. It is an important component of what makes a city a great place to live. In New Hampshire, there are many cities that offer a high quality of life, with excellent schools, low crime rates, and a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities.
One of the most important factors that contributes to quality of life is health. New Hampshire has some of the best healthcare in the country, with excellent hospitals and a highly skilled workforce. The state also has a low obesity rate and a high life expectancy. This makes New Hampshire a great place to live for people of all ages.
Another important factor that contributes to quality of life is safety. New Hampshire is one of the safest states in the country, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. This makes it a great place to raise a family or simply enjoy a peaceful life.
Education is also an important factor that contributes to quality of life. New Hampshire has some of the best schools in the country, with high graduation rates and test scores. The state also has a number of excellent colleges and universities, making it a great place to further your education.
Employment is another important factor that contributes to quality of life. New Hampshire has a strong economy with a variety of job opportunities. The state also has a low unemployment rate, making it a great place to find a job.
Finally, the environment is also an important factor that contributes to quality of life. New Hampshire is a beautiful state with a variety of natural attractions, including mountains, lakes, and forests. The state also has a strong commitment to protecting the environment, making it a great place to live for people who enjoy the outdoors.
Overall, New Hampshire is a great place to live. The state offers a high quality of life with excellent schools, low crime rates, and a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities. If you are looking for a place to live where you can enjoy a healthy, safe, and prosperous life, New Hampshire is a great option.
6. Location
Location is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a place to live. It can have a significant impact on your quality of life, as well as your financial well-being. In New Hampshire, the location of a city can have a major impact on its desirability.
One of the most important factors to consider is proximity to major cities. Cities that are located near major metropolitan areas tend to be more desirable than those that are more remote. This is because they offer residents easy access to jobs, shopping, dining, and entertainment. For example, Manchester is the largest city in New Hampshire and is located just a short drive from Boston. This makes it a popular choice for people who want to live in a major city but still have easy access to the amenities of a larger metropolitan area.
Another important factor to consider is the natural beauty of the surrounding area. New Hampshire is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, and many cities in the state offer stunning views of mountains, lakes, and forests. For example, Concord is the capital of New Hampshire and is located on the banks of the Merrimack River. The city offers residents beautiful views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
Finally, it is also important to consider the location of a city within the state. Some cities are located in more central locations, while others are located in more remote areas. Cities that are located in more central locations tend to be more desirable than those that are more remote. This is because they offer residents easier access to other parts of the state. For example, Nashua is located in the southern part of New Hampshire and is just a short drive from both Manchester and Boston. This makes it a popular choice for people who want to live in a city that is close to both major metropolitan areas.
Overall, location is an important factor to consider when choosing a place to live in New Hampshire. By considering the factors discussed above, you can get a better idea of the desirability of different cities in the state.
7. Amenities
Amenities play a significant role in determining the livability of a city. They can make a city more attractive to residents and businesses, and can contribute to a higher quality of life. When it comes to the best cities to live in New Hampshire, amenities are a key consideration.
- Cultural Amenities: Cultural amenities include things like museums, theaters, and art galleries. They can provide residents with opportunities to learn, grow, and be entertained. Cities with a strong cultural scene are often more desirable places to live.
- Recreational Amenities: Recreational amenities include things like parks, trails, and sports facilities. They can provide residents with opportunities to get exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and socialize. Cities with a variety of recreational amenities are often more desirable places to live.
- Shopping and Dining Amenities: Shopping and dining amenities include things like stores, restaurants, and coffee shops. They can provide residents with convenient access to the goods and services they need. Cities with a variety of shopping and dining amenities are often more desirable places to live.
- Transportation Amenities: Transportation amenities include things like public transportation, bike lanes, and sidewalks. They can make it easier for residents to get around without a car. Cities with good transportation amenities are often more desirable places to live.
The availability of amenities can vary significantly from city to city. When choosing a place to live, it is important to consider the amenities that are important to you. By considering the amenities that a city has to offer, you can get a better idea of whether it is a good place to live.
8. Community
When considering the best cities to live in New Hampshire, it is important to consider the quality of the community. A strong sense of community can make a city a more desirable place to live, as it can provide residents with a sense of belonging and support. There are a number of factors that contribute to a strong sense of community, including:
- Social cohesion: Social cohesion refers to the level of trust and cooperation among residents of a community. Cities with high levels of social cohesion tend to have lower crime rates and higher levels of civic engagement.
- Sense of place: Sense of place refers to the feeling of attachment that residents have to their community. Cities with a strong sense of place tend to have a unique identity and character that makes them special.
- Community involvement: Community involvement refers to the level of participation that residents have in their community. Cities with high levels of community involvement tend to have more active and engaged citizens.
There are a number of benefits to living in a city with a strong sense of community. These benefits include:
- Improved mental and physical health: Studies have shown that people who live in communities with strong social ties are more likely to be happy and healthy.
- Reduced crime rates: Cities with strong communities tend to have lower crime rates, as residents are more likely to look out for one another.
- Increased civic engagement: Cities with strong communities tend to have higher levels of civic engagement, as residents are more likely to be involved in local government and volunteer activities.
When choosing a place to live in New Hampshire, it is important to consider the quality of the community. A strong sense of community can make a city a more desirable place to live, as it can provide residents with a sense of belonging and support. By considering the factors that contribute to a strong sense of community, you can get a better idea of which cities in New Hampshire are the best places to live.
FAQs
Choosing the best city to live in New Hampshire can be a daunting task. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers about the best cities in the Granite State.
Question 1: What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a city to live in New Hampshire?
When choosing a city to live in New Hampshire, there are several key factors to consider, including the cost of living, crime rate, school system, job market, quality of life, location, and amenities. Each of these factors can have a significant impact on your overall well-being and quality of life.
Question 2: What are some of the best cities to live in New Hampshire for families?
Some of the best cities to live in New Hampshire for families include Nashua, Manchester, and Concord. These cities offer a variety of family-friendly amenities, such as excellent schools, parks, and recreation opportunities. They also have strong job markets and a diverse range of housing options.
Question 3: What are some of the best cities to live in New Hampshire for young professionals?
Some of the best cities to live in New Hampshire for young professionals include Manchester, Nashua, and Portsmouth. These cities offer a vibrant nightlife scene, a variety of cultural attractions, and a strong job market. They also have a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities in New England.
Question 4: What are some of the best cities to live in New Hampshire for retirees?
Some of the best cities to live in New Hampshire for retirees include Concord, Bedford, and Hanover. These cities offer a high quality of life, with excellent healthcare, recreational opportunities, and cultural amenities. They also have a relatively low cost of living and a variety of housing options.
Question 5: What are some of the most affordable cities to live in New Hampshire?
Some of the most affordable cities to live in New Hampshire include Keene, Laconia, and Berlin. These cities offer a lower cost of living than many other cities in the state, while still providing access to essential amenities and services.
Question 6: What are some of the most up-and-coming cities to live in New Hampshire?
Some of the most up-and-coming cities to live in New Hampshire include Dover, Rochester, and Somersworth. These cities are experiencing a period of growth and revitalization, with new businesses, restaurants, and attractions opening up all the time. They also offer a relatively low cost of living and a variety of housing options.
We hope this FAQ has been helpful in your search for the best city to live in New Hampshire. Remember to carefully consider your individual needs and preferences when making your decision.
Choosing the right city to live in is an important decision. By taking the time to research your options and consider all of the factors involved, you can find the perfect place to call home in the Granite State.
Tips for Choosing the Best City to Live In New Hampshire
New Hampshire is a great state to live in, with a variety of cities and towns to choose from. But how do you know which city is right for you? Here are a few tips to help you make the best decision:
Consider your lifestyle and needs.
What are your priorities? Do you want to live in a big city or a small town? Are you looking for a place with a strong job market or a low cost of living? Once you know what you’re looking for, you can start to narrow down your options.
Do your research.
Once you have a few cities in mind, take some time to research them. Read online reviews, talk to people who live there, and visit the cities in person if possible. This will help you get a better sense of what each city is really like and whether it’s a good fit for you.
Visit during different times of year.
If possible, visit the cities you’re considering during different seasons. This will help you get a sense of the climate and how it affects the city’s livability. For example, some cities may be beautiful in the summer but cold and snowy in the winter.
Consider your budget.
The cost of living can vary significantly from city to city in New Hampshire. Make sure to factor in the cost of housing, transportation, food, and other expenses when making your decision. You don’t want to choose a city that you can’t afford to live in.
Think about your future goals.
If you’re planning to start a family, you’ll want to consider the quality of the schools in the city you choose. If you’re looking to advance your career, you’ll want to choose a city with a strong job market in your field. Think about your long-term goals and make sure the city you choose aligns with them.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you’re having trouble choosing a city to live in, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a real estate agent or relocation specialist. They can provide you with valuable information and advice to help you make the best decision for your needs.
Choosing the right city to live in is an important decision. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a city that you’ll love.
Once you’ve chosen a city, be sure to take some time to explore and get to know your new home. Attend local events, meet your neighbors, and get involved in the community. The more you participate, the more you’ll feel like you belong.
Best Cities to Live in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers a diverse range of cities and towns, each with its own unique character and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant urban center, a charming small town, or something in between, New Hampshire has something to offer everyone. The best city for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences, but this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of some of the best places to live in the Granite State.
When choosing a city to live in, it’s important to consider factors such as the cost of living, crime rate, school system, job market, quality of life, location, and amenities. By carefully considering all of these factors, you can find the perfect place to call home in New Hampshire.
