The 7 Best Places to Live in New Hampshire for Retirees

The Great American Retirement Draw

The primary magnet pulling retirees to the Granite State is its exceptional tax structure.

• No State Income Tax: This means your Social Security benefits, pension income, and income from retirement accounts (like 401ks or IRAs) are completely exempt from state taxation.
• No State Sales Tax: Shopping and making everyday purchases will always be more affordable here than in neighboring states, keeping more money in your pocket for hobbies and travel.

Our goal with this guide is to move beyond the tax numbers and focus on the lifestyle and essential facilities that truly make a community one of the best places to live in New Hampshire for retirees.

1. The Tax Reality Check

While New Hampshire is a low-tax state, it is important to be fully informed about the single largest financial consideration: property tax.

New Hampshire typically has one of the highest property tax rates in the nation. It is essential for future residents to research the local property tax rate of any specific town or city they are considering.

However, remember this high local tax supports excellent municipal services, schools (even if you don't use them, they affect property value), and emergency services, contributing directly to the high quality of life.

See Also: When Should You Retire and Take Social Security?

2. Healthcare and Wellness Access

For older adults, reliable access to healthcare is not a luxury; it is a necessity.

New Hampshire is home to several highly rated medical centers, particularly concentrated in the central and southern regions.

When choosing where to live, ensure you are within a comfortable driving distance of a major hospital system. Proximity to specialists, physical therapy, and routine medical offices should be a top priority in your location search.

See Also: Hazards in a Nursing Home

3. Safety and Low Crime Rates

New Hampshire consistently ranks as one of the safest states in the country. This stability and low crime rate provide immense peace of mind.

Choosing a quiet, well-maintained neighborhood allows seniors to enjoy evening walks and community life without undue worry. This focus on security is why New Hampshire is often listed among the best places to live in New Hampshire for retirees.

1. The Seacoast Region (Portsmouth, Exeter)

This is a premier area for active seniors who enjoy history, culture, and coastal charm.

• Lifestyle: Upscale dining, charming historic districts, active arts scene, and easy access to the small but beautiful New Hampshire coastline.
• Pro: High walkability in towns like Portsmouth and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
• Con: High cost of living and very high property taxes.

2. The Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee Region (Hanover, Lebanon)

This region is ideal for those who prioritize world-class healthcare above all else.

• Lifestyle: A quiet, intellectual environment thanks to Dartmouth College. It offers beautiful mountain and lake scenery.
• Pro: Home to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, a leading academic teaching hospital.
• Con: More remote location, and prices can be high due to the presence of the university.

3. The Southern Tier (Nashua, Manchester)

These are New Hampshire's two largest cities, offering maximum convenience and amenities.

• Lifestyle: All the practical advantages of city living: extensive shopping, numerous restaurants, and various forms of entertainment.
• Pro: Excellent highway access (I-93 and Route 3) and home to Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT). Generally more affordable than the Seacoast area.
• Con: Higher traffic and a faster pace of life compared to smaller towns.

4. The Lakes Region (Meredith, Laconia)

Perfect for the retiree who loves nature, boating, and spending time on the water.

• Lifestyle: Centered around Lake Winnipesaukee, this area offers fishing, boating, and gentle hiking trails in the summer, and ice fishing in the winter.
• Pro: Beautiful scenery, strong community focus, and excellent vacation-like atmosphere year-round.
• Con: Can be very crowded with tourists in the summer, and some areas are geographically isolated in the winter.

5. The Monadnock Region (Keene, Peterborough)

This region is characterized by picturesque small towns and a thriving arts scene.

• Lifestyle: A gentle, artistic, and community-focused environment at the base of Mount Monadnock. Ideal for those who enjoy literature, local theater, and outdoor exploration without intense physical strain.
• Pro: Strong sense of community, many independent shops, and generally lower housing costs than the Seacoast.
• Con: Medical facilities are solid but not as comprehensive as in the Dartmouth or Manchester areas.

6. The Capital Region (Concord)

For those who want centrality, government services, and a balanced pace.

• Lifestyle: Concord is the state capital and offers a balance of government services, a downtown area, and a good selection of housing options.
• Pro: Central location provides easier access to all other parts of the state. Good local hospital.
• Con: Lacks the coastal or mountainous drama of other regions.

7. Border Towns (Plaistow, Salem, Rindge)

These communities are excellent budget-friendly options, especially those near the Massachusetts border.

• Lifestyle: These towns offer the NH tax benefits while still providing extremely quick access to the retail, specialized medical facilities, and airports of Massachusetts, often just across the state line.
• Pro: Convenience and often slightly lower tax rates than the Seacoast or major city hubs.
• Con: Less of a unique "New Hampshire" feel; these communities tend to be focused on retail and commuting.

Benefits of 55+ Living

• Social Activities: These communities foster a strong social fabric with organized events, clubs, and group activities, combating the loneliness that can sometimes accompany retirement.
• Maintenance-Free Lifestyle: Exterior maintenance, landscaping, and snow removal are typically handled by the association, freeing up time for travel and hobbies. This is a massive draw for those looking at the best places to live in New Hampshire for retirees who want to stop yard work.

Types of Communities Available in NH

New Hampshire offers various styles, from manufactured homes in age-restricted parks (the most budget-friendly) to luxurious townhouse communities with extensive clubhouses and golf courses.

When visiting, always ask about the monthly Homeowners Association (HOA) fees and what services are included.

The Reality of Winter: Snowfall and Heating Costs

Winters are cold and snowy. While the scenery is stunning, seniors need to consider:

• Heating: Homes must be well-insulated, and heating costs (often oil or propane) are a significant part of the annual budget.
• Mobility: Driveways and sidewalks can become slick. If you choose a town, ensure reliable municipal plowing. The 55+ communities mentioned earlier solve this problem by handling all snow removal.

Enjoying the Other Three Seasons

The shoulder seasons are spectacular and offer a high quality of life:

• Fall: Famous for the vibrant foliage, perfect for scenic drives and moderate hikes.
• Summer: Ideal for lake activities, farmers' markets, and enjoying the lack of humidity compared to southern states.
• Spring: A time for maple sugaring and watching the landscapes burst back to life. These activities truly contribute to why New Hampshire is considered one of the best places to live in New Hampshire for retirees.