From the rugged peaks of the White Mountains to the serene beauty of its lakes region, there’s a lot to uncover in New Hampshire. Its towns and cities, such as Portsmouth with its colonial charm and Manchester as a bustling economic center, offer distinct living experiences amidst picturesque surroundings. However, living in New Hampshire presents its own set of challenges. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll take you through the pros and cons of living in the “Granite State”, providing insight into what to expect.
Renting in New Hampshire snapshot
| Population | 1,402,054 |
| Avg. studio rent | $1,118 per month |
| Avg. one-bedroom rent | $1,271 per month |
| Avg. two-bedroom rent | $1,560 per month |
| Most affordable cities to rent in New Hampshire | Rochester, Concord, Somersworth |
| Most walkable cities in New Hampshire | Manchester, Portsmouth, Keene |
1. Pro: Abundant outdoor activities
New Hampshire’s abundant outdoor activities cater to adventurers of all levels, from hiking the iconic peaks of the White Mountains to skiing the slopes of Mount Sunapee. The state’s expansive network of trails like the OHRV Trail System, rivers, and lakes beckons outdoor enthusiasts year-round, offering opportunities for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and more.
2. Con: Harsh winters
New Hampshire’s winters can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures gripping the state for several months. For instance, cities like Concord and Manchester often experience significant snow accumulation, leading to challenging driving conditions and school closures. Additionally, the bitter cold and icy conditions can pose risks to residents’ safety and well-being, necessitating precautions such as winterizing homes and vehicles.
3. Pro: No sales tax
New Hampshire stands out as one of the few states in the U.S. that doesn’t impose a state sales tax on most retail purchases. This tax-free status allows residents and visitors to enjoy shopping without the added burden of additional taxes on goods and services. Whether stocking up on essentials or indulging in leisurely shopping sprees, the absence of state sales tax in New Hampshire provides a significant financial advantage.
4. Con: Limited public transportation
New Hampshire grapples with limited public transportation options, particularly in rural areas where access to reliable transit services can be scarce. While cities like Nashua offer some public transportation options, such as bus routes, coverage may be limited compared to more densely populated areas. This lack of comprehensive public transportation infrastructure can pose challenges for residents who rely on these services for commuting.
5. Pro: High quality of life
The state boasts a high quality of life with its safe communities, excellent schools, and access to quality healthcare. New Hampshire’s small-town charm combined with its natural beauty creates a peaceful and fulfilling living environment.
6. Con: Property taxes
New Hampshire’s high property taxes should be carefully considered by those making the leap to homeownership in the state. While the absence of a state income tax may seem appealing, the reality is that property taxes in New Hampshire are relatively high, with an average effective rate of 1.77%, compared to the national average of 0.99%. The state’s high rates place a significant financial burden on homeowners.
7. Pro: Rich history and culture
New Hampshire’s rich history and culture are deeply intertwined with the birth of the United States, from its pivotal role in the American Revolution to its tradition of rugged independence. The state’s historic sites, such as Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth and the Canterbury Shaker Village, offer immersive experiences that bring its storied past to life.
8. Con: Limited job market
New Hampshire faces challenges with a limited job market, particularly in certain industries and rural areas where employment opportunities may be scarce. While cities like Manchester and Nashua offer a range of job prospects in sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology, competition can be fierce.
9. Pro: Strong sense of community
The small-town atmosphere prevalent throughout New Hampshire fosters a strong sense of community, where neighbors often become like family. For example, towns like Peterborough, showcase this community spirit through events like the Fall Festival, featuring live music and local vendors.
10. Con: Seasonal allergies
Due to its diverse flora, New Hampshire can be a challenging place for people with seasonal allergies. Pollen from trees like birch, maple, and oak, as well as grasses and flowers, can lead to discomfort for allergy sufferers, especially during the spring and fall months.
11. Pro: Quality educational opportunities
New Hampshire offers quality educational opportunities through its prestigious colleges and universities, including Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire. Additionally, the state’s public school systems consistently rank highly in national assessments, providing students with access to excellent education.
12. Con: Insects and pests
In New Hampshire, residents contend with nuisances from insects and pests like mosquitoes, ticks, and carpenter ants, which can disrupt outdoor activities and pose health risks. The presence of these pests often requires residents to take extra precautions, such as using insect repellent and regularly checking for ticks after spending time outdoors.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.