As one of the nation's smallest and least populated states, New Hampshire comprises many residential areas with small-town atmospheres and close-knit communities. The Granite State is also home to one of the most unique climates in the U.S., extraordinary luxury real estate, and a diverse makeup of residents.
So, you’ve decided to buy a home in New Hampshire: where should you live? That’s where Angela Sullivan comes in. Angela has outlined the best neighborhoods and towns in New Hampshire. Read on to learn more about different locations that could be perfect for you.
Hanover
Hanover is one of the most charming rural towns in New Hampshire, and part of its allure is the welcoming college town atmosphere that permeates the local culture. Home to Dartmouth College, a premier Ivy League institution and New Hampshire’s most outstanding academic center, Hanover offers heartwarming rural comfort and high-end deluxe homes. The town has about 12,000 residents, a lively social calendar, and exciting entertainment, including regular speakers at Dartmouth. Come to Hanover for the sense of community, quiet nightlife, and rural living that makes it one of the best neighborhoods in New Hampshire.
Portsmouth
Located on the eastern side of the state overlooking the Piscataqua River and on the Atlantic ocean you will find luxury condos and single family homes alike. Boasting an eclectic mix of artists, scholars, business minds, historians, boutique owners and more, there are more than 21,956 resident that call this city home. Known for its historical significance Portsmouth is the oldest NH settlement, second city, first capital and only seaport. Perfect for commuters you can catch Interstate 95 or Route 101 in a jiff. If you enjoy the seacoast, history and a vibrant nightlife Portsmouth is the place to call home.
South Hooksett
The scenic views available for residents of South Hooksett are pristine and eye-catching year-round. One of the smallest communities on our list, this neighborhood clocks in at only 6,000 or so homeowners. The towns surrounding South Hooksett have several career opportunities available, and the highways connecting these small towns are in immaculate condition, so there’s no problem commuting to and from work. The cost of living is reasonably affordable compared to other neighborhoods on this list, even factoring in several quite large estates and luxury homes for sale here.
Bedford
Bedford is one of the larger neighborhoods in New Hampshire, with around 22,000 residents. Its location near the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport makes Bedford an ideal place to live if your job or family requires that you travel frequently. But there’s so much more to living in Bedford real estate than access to the airport.
Boston is only an hour away, so you’re never far from the great entertainment and culture on view in that terrific city. Closer to home, you’ll enjoy an active social scene with several festivals and parades planned throughout the year. Families comprise a healthy proportion of the households in Bedford real estate, and the neighborhood is an excellent place to raise children in the comfort of a medium-sized New Hampshire town.
Amherst
Like Bedford, Amherst is located in charming and rustic Hillsborough County. Thanks to its incredible New England architecture and the eye-popping wooded landscape that explodes with color every fall, it is one of the state's most visited and photographed towns. The city is an excellent place for families, and there are several beautiful large estates for sale in the city limits that top the charts regarding property value in the state. Overall, the cost of living is affordable here, and the school district is consistently ranked among the best in New Hampshire.
Concord
The capital of New Hampshire is Concord, one of New England's most historic towns. Concord is steeped in history dating back to the American Revolution, so you don’t have to look far before finding a small museum, exhibit, or visiting speaker. But the city of Concord is much more modern than its 18th-century past. Main Street offers residents a blend of international restaurants, shopping centers, cafes, and boutiques that would excite even the most metropolitan tastes. The ocean coast and Boston are less than an hour away, as is the stunningly mountainous landscape that makes New Hampshire unique.
The Lakes Region
Last but not least the communities surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee are some of my personal favorites, so much that we decided to buy our second home there as so many in New Hampshire do. Alton Bay is located at the southernmost tip of the lake and has a laid back vibe if you are looking for boat watching, Waterview dining at Shibleys or massive ice cream cones at Stillwells. Wolfeboro has some of the most adorable shops and restaurants of any spot on Winni with loads of options all within walking distance to the docks. Meredith feels a bit more upscale in nature and offers many fine dining experiences all while taking in some of the most photographed docks and water views on the lake. Enjoy a cone at the town docks and stroll along the pier. You can’t go wrong with a trip to New Hampshire's Lakes Region.
Reach out to your local real estate expert today
Whether you’re looking for a serene rural lifestyle or want to live just within earshot of the metro area of Boston and other prominent New England cities, New Hampshire has something for us all. If you have any questions or comments to share or want to learn more about buying luxury Deerfield real estate or Alton homes for sale, get in touch today! Contact Angela Sullivan for more information.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock