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25 Pros and Cons of Living in New Hampshire in 2024
Are you considering living in New Hampshire?
The Granite State has much to offer, from its beautiful natural scenery to its rich history and culture. But before you make the move, let’s delve into the pros and cons of living in New Hampshire, as there is a lot to consider.
We’ll explore all the good and bad of living in this state, such as its low crime rate and high quality of life, the harsh winters, and the lack of public transportation.
As someone who has lived in 18 countries, I know what to look for before moving to a new place, so here’s what you need to know to help you decide whether New Hampshire living is for you or not.
✈️Are you planning to move to New Hampshire? Discover the best flight deals here!
25 Top Pros and Cons of Moving to New Hampshire
1. Pro: No Sales Tax or Income Tax
Did you know that you don’t have to worry about any sales tax when shopping in New Hampshire?
That’s right! You can go on a shopping spree and not worry about an extra charge at the register.
There’s no income tax either, which means that New Hampshire taxes are fantastic compared to other states because you get to keep more of your hard-earned money.
If you’re working with a limited budget or just enjoy having some extra money on hand (which is always a bonus), this is one main perk that makes New Hampshire a good place to live.
2. Con: Lack of Affordable Housing
One of the drawbacks of living in New Hampshire is the lack of affordable housing.
The median home value in 2022 was 440,000 USD, which is higher than the national average of 428,700 USD.
Since housing costs are so high, you might find it hard to buy a home in New Hampshire if you don’t have a high-paying job.
🏠 To find the perfect accommodation for you in New Hampshire, I recommend using this website!
3. Pro: Stunning Scenery
This state is where you can find some of the most scenic locations in the country.
Lake Winnipesaukee is a must-see with its stunning views all year round.
You can take a boat ride during the summer to admire the surrounding mountain ranges or visit the nearby towns of Meredith and Wolfeboro, which happens to be the oldest summer resort in America.
The White Mountain National Forest, coastal resort towns, quaint and historic towns, scenic drives, and period architecture are just a few of the things that make New Hampshire’s natural scenery so special.
Take advantage of the Kancamagus Scenic Byway, a 55 km (34-mile) stretch of road that takes you through some of the best scenery in the area.
4. Con: High Property Taxes
New Hampshire, as a state, has the fourth highest property tax rate, with a median annual property tax of 6,097 USD.
This is significantly higher than the national average of 3,630 USD, which can make it tough to manage your finances if you don’t have a high-paying job or work in a seasonal industry.
Luckily, New Hampshire offers tax exemption programs for low and moderate-income homeowners to help tackle this issue.
If this applies to you, check and see if you qualify for this tax exemption before moving to this state.
5. Pro: Low Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate in New Hampshire is 2.40%, much lower than the national average of 3.40%, so you have a higher chance of finding work!
The job market here is strong, and there are plenty of opportunities if you have the right skills and qualifications.
The top employment sectors are finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing, manufacturing, professional and business services, education, healthcare, and social assistance services.
The top employers in NH include Timberland, C & S Wholesale Grocers, and Southern New Hampshire University.
💻Want to start a career in New Hampshire? I recommend FlexJobs, they have various job listings for you to find the best remote working opportunities!
6. Con: Lack of Public Transport
If you’re considering moving to New Hampshire, it’s important to know that the public transportation system is lacking.
The lack of public transportation will be a challenge if you don’t have a car or other means of transportation, which limits your job opportunities and other activities.
So if you rely on public transportation, this is something to keep in mind.
New Hampshire has some local buses and regional transit systems, but they are limited and may not reach all areas of the state.
7. Pro: Surrounded by History
If you’re someone who loves uncovering the stories of the past, you won’t be disappointed with New England’s rich history.
There are so many historic sites to visit, including Plymouth, Massachusetts, where the pilgrims first landed in 1620. There’s also Concord and Lexington, where significant battles occurred during the Revolutionary War.
You can walk the Freedom Trail in Boston and learn about the colonial period and the Revolutionary War era.
There are institutes dedicated to uncovering North America’s ancient cultures, such as the Tomaquag Museum in Rhode Island, which features exhibits from Native American tribes across the Northeast that are worth a visit.
Even if you’re not that much into the area’s history, you’ve got to admit that it’s a fascinating place to explore.
8. Con: Disappointing Nightlife
As a woman looking for a fun night out, you might be disappointed to know that New Hampshire isn’t always the liveliest place after dark.
This is because the state focuses on supporting young families and its elderly population, thanks to its no-income tax policy that makes retiring in New Hampshire easy.
As a result, singles looking for a good time might find themselves at a loss.
That said, there are some cities in New Hampshire where you can find nice bars and clubs to spend the night at, like Manchester and Portsmouth.
9. Pro: Fall Foliage
When it comes to fall, few states can compete with the beauty and colors of New Hampshire. This state has some of the most stunning fall foliage in the country.
The best part about it is that there are numerous places to go and enjoy the fall colors, including White Mountain National Forest.
Another place to visit in the fall is Mount Washington, which has the highest peak in the northeastern United States and has some stunning views.
If you enjoy hiking, this is the place for you as there are so many trails to explore, and what better time to explore them than in the fall?
10. Con: New Hampshire Problems: Drugs
Drug addiction, especially to opioids, is a serious problem in New Hampshire.
The number of people dying from drug overdoses is increasing in NH, and 2022 saw the highest number since 2017.
Manchester and Nashua are the cities most affected by drug addiction, followed by Berlin, Rochester, Dover, and Concord.
If you’re considering moving to New Hampshire, it’s important to be aware of the issue and the areas of concern.
11. Pro: Picturesque Towns
New Hampshire is the perfect place to settle down if it’s old-fashioned charm and history you’re after.
Hanover is one of the most popular and picturesque towns, home to Dartmouth College, the private Ivy League research university. Portsmouth, NH, is another popular city and known as one of the best places to live in New Hampshire.
Many other towns in NH are known for their stunning architecture, cobblestone streets, and boutique shops that are perfect for strolling around.
🌞Witness the breathtaking landscapes and picturesque towns of New Hampshire’s coast by going on this tour!
12. Con: Boring Cuisine
You’ll be disappointed with New Hampshire’s uninspiring cuisine if you’re a foodie looking for culinary adventures.
The state doesn’t have a distinctive cuisine, and it’s not particularly “wowing” for any amazing restaurants or chefs.
The most popular dishes are fried clams, seafood chowder, and apple cider donuts. Overall the food is basic.
Considering the proximity to Boston and New York City, it’s quite surprising that the food scene in New Hampshire doesn’t match up.
But you can easily cross over into the neighboring state of Maine, where you can indulge in delicious seafood, including their famous lobster rolls.
13. Pro: Low Crime Rate
Living in New Hampshire offers a lot of perks, including minimal crime rates. This is great news, especially if you are a woman moving to NH.
Regarding crime rates, New Hampshire is well below the US average for both property crime and violent crime. NH has the second-lowest violent crime rate in the United States and the third-lowest property crime rate.
New Hampshire’s crime rate has improved from previous years and now has a violent crime rate of just 1.4 incidents per 1,000 people and a property crime rate of 10.6.
Some of the safest and best New Hampshire towns to live in include Atkinson, Strafford, Litchfield, and Newton.
14. Con: Extreme Weather
It’s no secret that New Hampshire has some of the worst weather in the nation.
If you’re looking for a place with mild temperatures and lots of sunshine, this isn’t the place for you. During the winter months, you can expect to see snowfall, ice storms, and freezing temperatures.
The state is known for its unpredictable extreme weather events, including winter storms, floods, tropical cyclones, coastal storms, and lots of snow. Despite the weather, people still decide to call New Hampshire home.
15. Pro: Four Distinct Seasons
On the bright side, living in New Hampshire means you can experience all four seasons.
During spring and summer, you can enjoy beautiful hiking trails, cycling, kayaking, camping trips, and swimming in Lake Winnipesaukee. And during the winter, you can participate in winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.
Fall brings colorful fall foliage unique to the region and other nearby states, such as Vermont, where you can go leaf-peeping, hiking, and attending fall festivals.
Each season is distinct, unlike other areas of the US. Although the seasonal variation in NH has advantages and disadvantages, the scenic beauty and diverse climate throughout the year are ideal if you want those four distinct seasons.
16. Con: Traffic Congestion
Sitting in daily traffic jams is no one’s idea of fun, but it can often happen in New Hampshire during the summer and fall months, making it a major downside if you have to commute to work or drive out of town on the weekend.
The congested traffic is especially noticeable during peak season when tourists and locals are out exploring New Hampshire’s scenery.
Unfortunately, this can make it difficult to get around, especially if you’re living in one of the larger cities.
If you plan on driving in New Hampshire, plan your route and factor in extra time for traffic.
17. Pro: Close to Boston
One of the best advantages of living in New Hampshire is that it’s just a 90-minute drive away from Boston.
New Hampshire’s proximity to Boston allows you to take advantage of everything the city has to offer without actually having to live there.
Whether you’re looking for concerts, sports games, cultural events, or just some time in the city, you can easily take a trip to Boston for the day or weekend.
It also gives you easy access to some amazing cuisines which NH doesn’t have.
18. Con: High Energy Costs in Winter
New Hampshire has harsh winters with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, which means high local energy costs.
The state has the country’s third highest residential electricity rates, averaging 31.03 cents per kWh, just after Connecticut (1st) and Hawaii (2nd).
Although heating oil prices in the state have gone down a bit, the combination of high electricity and heating oil prices during the winter months can add up and strain your finances.
19: Pro: Quality Education
New Hampshire has an impressive education system and ranks 5th in the country for best public schools, fourth for quality, and twelfth for safety.
The state has many top-rated schools and universities, including Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire.
There is a strong focus on academic excellence and providing students with endless opportunities to thrive.
New Hampshire is a good place to live if you want a reputable K-12 school or a prestigious university.
20: Con: Low Minimum Wage
The minimum wage in New Hampshire is poor at only $7.25 per hour, less than half of Massachusetts and Connecticut’s minimum wage.
New Hampshire is one of only five states with no minimum wage law, so the federal minimum wage applies.
The low hourly rate affects workers in the service industry the most, so if you plan on this line of work, you should consider other states with higher minimum wages and better job prospects.
Considering the high cost of housing and property tax, it will be hard to make ends meet in New Hampshire at just $7.25 per hour.
21: Pro: Outdoor Activities
Living in New Hampshire means you never have to be bored.
So many outdoor activities are available, and you’ll always have a reason to get outside and explore this beautiful state.
In the winter, you can hit the slopes at one of the 28 ski resorts in the state or go snowmobiling or snowshoeing on the trails.
Spring brings opportunities for hiking, walking, or even trying your hand at maple sugaring (I thought only we Canadians did this).
The long summer days allow you to enjoy swimming, kayaking, or camping. In the fall, you can see the breathtaking colors of autumn while taking a scenic drive or going apple picking.
🚲 In the mood for outdoor activities? This Nature and Wildlife Bicycle Tour in New Hampshire lets you enjoy the city’s calm and peaceful nature.
22. Con: Black Fly Season
Black Fly Season in New Hampshire is a nuisance.
Black flies are small, biting insects prevalent in New Hampshire during the spring and early summer months.
They are known for their painful bites and can leave itchy welts on your skin. These flies are attracted to humans and animals, making outdoor activities a nightmare at times.
If you’re one of those people who seem to attract every biting insect, then wearing long sleeves, pants, and a healthy dose of insect repellent is the best way to protect yourself.
23: Pro: Healthcare Quality
New Hampshire should be on your radar if you want somewhere to live with high-quality healthcare.
The state ranks in the top 10 states for healthcare quality in the USA, which isn’t surprising considering the state has great hospitals and medical facilities.
Moving to New Hampshire means you’ll have access to some of the best healthcare in the country, with shorter wait times and more personalized care.
It’s no coincidence that the people of New Hampshire tend to be healthier than those in other states, as there are so many opportunities for outdoor activities. It’s easy to lead an active lifestyle here.
So, whether you’re seeking medical care or simply looking to stay healthy, New Hampshire is the place to be.
24. Con: No Major Airport
New Hampshire may be a small state, but it’s certainly not lacking in natural beauty and attractions.
One thing that it does lack is a major airport.
The state’s largest airport, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, is located in southern New Hampshire and has flights to several major cities. But if you move to the northern part of the state, traveling to a major airport can be a bit of a hassle.
Many residents opt to drive to airports in Boston or Portland, Maine, which can be a 1-2 hour drive away depending on location.
Despite this inconvenience, New Hampshire is still a good choice if you want a quieter, more relaxed pace of life.
25. Clean Beaches
New Hampshire may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of ocean beaches, but the state has some great options.
Hampton Beach is one of the area’s most popular and lively beaches, with a boardwalk full of restaurants and activities.
Rye Beach is quieter, with stunning ocean views and a rocky coastline.
The beaches in New Hampshire are known for being clean and well-maintained, with strict regulations on littering and pet policies.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly day in the sun or a peaceful escape, the ocean beaches in New Hampshire are a great choice.
FAQ: Pros and Cons of Living in New Hampshire
Is it safe to live in New Hampshire?
Yes, it is safe to live in New Hampshire! It is rated as one of the safest states, having the second-lowest violent crime rate in the United States and the third-lowest property crime rate. Both rates are well below the US average, so if safety is a top priority, New Hampshire may be the perfect place to call home.
Why is New Hampshire a good place to live?
New Hampshire is a great place to live due to its high quality of life, low crime rates, and excellent education system. It’s a friendly state with a small-town feel and close-knit communities.
Is it expensive to live in New Hampshire?
Living in New Hampshire can be expensive, with a cost of living index above the national average. Housing costs are high, with median home prices above the national average. However, the state does not have a sales tax or income tax on wages, which can help offset some higher costs.
What makes New Hampshire different from Massachusetts?
New Hampshire is different from Massachusetts in several ways. New Hampshire is known for its natural beauty, with the White Mountains and Lakes Region drawing outdoor enthusiasts year-round. In contrast, Massachusetts is more urbanized and known for its historical sites, such as Boston’s Freedom Trail. New Hampshire also has no sales tax, while Massachusetts has a 6.25% sale tax.
Wrap-Up: New Hampshire Pros and Cons
So, is New Hampshire a good state to live in?
After a clear assessment of New Hampshire’s pros and cons, it is clear that it has its fair share of both.
New Hampshire may not be for everyone, but it has its advantages, such as it’s stunning scenery and a low-income tax. The Granite State also has a good job market and plenty of outdoor activities for all seasons!
However, it is also worth considering that New Hampshire does not have the best minimum wage and can experience some extreme weather throughout the year.
Moving to a new state is not always an easy decision. If you’re considering a move to New Hampshire, be sure to weigh all the pros and cons before you make the move!
✈️Are you planning to move to New Hampshire? Discover the best flight deals here!
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Living Abroad Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy expat travel insurance?
100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Safety Wing!
🌎 What is the best country to live in as an expat?
It depends – the best country to live in as an expat will depend on your unique needs. I developed this free quiz to help you figure out where is right for you!
📍 How do I pick a country to live abroad?
It depends – picking a country to live in is hard. That’s why I developed this $7 course to share all of the steps I’ve taken when deciding to move to 20+ different countries, and how I handle homesickness when I get there.
Ultimately, making the choice of where to move is going to be hard. But the hardest thing is deciding to move abroad at all!
💼 How do I get a job as an expat?
You can find work abroad via local job boards or temp agencies. My favourite way to work is remotely, so I always look for jobs on FlexJobs.com when I live abroad. They hire for 100% remote roles only.
If you’re looking to teach English abroad, Premier TEFL has the best online course to get you great work!
💰 How do I open a bank account abroad?
Wise.com offers free global accounts, and the cheapest money transfers. Since it can be a headache to open bank accounts in different countries (it took me 2 months in the UK!), Wise.com is a great solution.
I actually use it as my primary bank now worldwide due to the multi-currency debit card. (Read more)
👯♀️ How do you make friends abroad?
Meetup.com – Meet likeminded people who share a similar hobby with Meetup! It’s free to join, but some activities may cost money, like if you go to a cafe and get a coffee.
🙀 I don’t speak the language. Can I still live abroad?
Learn languages in no time with iTalki! Moving abroad is an opportunity to learn the language. You don’t need to know it before you leave home.
💻 Do I need a VPN?
Yes! – VPNs allow you to access more of the internet. From US Netflix in the UK to social media sites banned in Asia. It’s a really helpful and cheap thing to ensure your online activities aren’t restricted.
🧳 What’s the best luggage for living abroad?
This is my favourite luggage set for long term travel. You can read more about my review of types of suitcases for travel here.
🏡 How do I tell my friends and family I want to live abroad?
Take this $7 course and learn the exact script I used to tell my family I was moving abroad … and then when I did it again. I even include tips for prepping your family, and for how to handle family who aren’t supportive.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy cheap flights?
To find cheap flights, I recommend Skyscanner. (Read more)
🏨 What’s the best site to find cheap hotels?
To find cheap hotels, I recommend Booking.com. (Read more)
Or stay for free with Trusted Housesitters!
🚗 What’s the best site to rent cars abroad?
To find cheap rental cars, I recommend Discover Cars.
🚗 What’s the best site to find tours?
To find epic tours, I recommend Viator.
