31 Best Places to Live in New Hampshire in 2025

The best places to live in New Hampshire boast stunning landscapes, delicious dining options, and rich history — all with a reasonable cost of living. As one of the best places to live in New England, the Granite State is known for its pristine wilderness and strong economy in cities and towns scattered throughout the state.

Ready to make the move? We’ve put together a comprehensive list of all the most beautiful places to live in New Hampshire. Here’s where to get started on your next apartment search.

Best Places to Live in New Hampshire

1. Portsmouth

We chose Portsmouth as the best place to live in New Hampshire for its blend of natural beauty and community activities. Portsmouth is filled with educational outlets, art festivals, and outdoor recreational fun, all packed into a tight knit community. The area sits along the Piscataqua River and the Atlantic Ocean, attracting newcomers with its waterfront and proximity to nearby beaches in Rye and Hampton. Whether you love food, brews, or art galleries, you can find something to do in this small but mighty town.

Portsmouth is also an ideal place for renters for its vibrant downtown, diverse housing options, and convenient access to both urban and outdoor amenities. Renters can choose a historic building or modern apartment complex close to a lively arts scene, an array of restaurants, and easy access to parks and the waterfront. Renters also offers quick access to nearby beaches and outdoor activities, making it an attractive option for those who value both convenience and recreation.

• Population: 22,773
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,136
• Median Household Income: $100,169
• Walk Score (downtown): 47
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 46

2. Londonderry

For a more suburban lifestyle, put Londonderry on your list. Within commuting distance of Manchester and even Boston, this family-friendly community offers high-quality schools and plenty of outdoor beauty, with multiple parks and conservation areas to choose between. The town also boasts a civic engagement vibe where locals are heavily involved in making decisions and creating positive change in their community.

Londonderry attracts renters to its mix of suburban comfort and proximity to amenities. Take your pick of spacious apartments to townhomes that cater to different needs and preferences.The area is known for its peaceful neighborhoods, well-regarded schools, and ample green spaces make it appealing to families and individuals alike. You're also never far from major highways to nearby cities like Manchester and Boston.

• Population: 11,645
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,850
• Median Household Income: $113,557
• Walk Score: N/A
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: N/A

3. Exeter

As one of the best small towns to live in, Exeter boasts a quaint downtown, an educational hub, and historical roots dating back to the American Revolution. Like much of New Hampshire, you'll find natural beauty among its beaches and harbors along with a thriving community. Locals are also intellectually-minded and attend author readings at the Water Street Bookstore and events organized through the Seacoast Artist Association.

Renters choose Exeter for its historic downtown backdrop, tree-lined streets, and welcoming community. You're never far from the Seacoast region and easy access to nearby cities like Portsmouth and Boston. Exeter also boasts excellent schools, parks, and local attractions that attracts young professionals and families.

• Population: 16,172
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,200
• Median Household Income: $87,679
• Walk Score (downtown): 78
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 54

4. Amherst

Living in Amherst offers picture-perfect scenery, complete with New England charm. Locals stroll tree-lined streets filled with colonial architecture and historic buildings. This small town has several parks, trails, and conservation areas for wildlife viewing to delight nature lovers. You're also never far from hiking trails and only a short drive from bigger cities like Nashua.

Amherst offers a variety of rental homes, from charming apartments to larger houses with a relaxed vibe. The area is rural but still offers relatively quick access to the nearby cities like Nashua or Manchester. Renters will find excellent schools, local shops, and numerous outdoor activities for a community-oriented lifestyle for renters.

• Population: 11,879
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,7925
• Median Household Income: $151,375
• Walk Score (downtown): 30
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 21

5. Hanover

Hanover is home to the prestigious Dartmouth College and enjoys a reputation for educational excellence. The town sits along the Connecticut River, where biking and kayaking are common. It’s also close to the Appalachian Trail and the White Mountains, which attract outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure. Culture lovers have their pick of attending concerts, theaters, or an impressive art gallery on the Dartmouth campus.

Hanover blends an academic and outdoor vibe, with opportunities for off-campus housing, historic homes, and modern rentals. College students can get their own college apartment checklist here. Consider living near the lively downtown area with cafes, shops, and cultural attractions, all within walking distance. Hanover’s scenic location in the Upper Valley provides easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and kayaking, making it ideal for nature lovers.

• Population 9,078
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,700
• Median Household Income: $111,958
• Walk Score (downtown): 81
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 80

6. Wolfeboro

Situated on the largest lake in New Hampshire, Wolfeboro provides waterfront views and boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Its historic downtown is the perfect backdrop for enjoying a cold beer or shopping at the local boutiques. As one of the oldest summer resort towns in the U.S., Wolfeboro is home to 18th-century landmarks and historical museums, including the New Hampshire Boat Museum. Although the town comes alive in the summer months, the wintertime offers opportunities for ice fishing and skiing.

Wolfeboro's charming lakeside location and resort atmosphere makes it a win for renters. Known as "The Oldest Summer Resort in America," this town provides a range of rental options, from cozy cottages to modern apartments. Choose a spot downtown for access to local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, giving the town a vibrant, small-town feel. The town offers a peaceful retreat while still being within driving distance of larger cities like Concord and Portsmouth.

• Population: 6,617
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,995
• Median Household Income: $75,783
• Walk Score (downtown): 71
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 49

7. Keene

Keene is a great place to find a community focused on sustainability and environmental conservation. Its especially beloved for its annual festivals, including the annual New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival, which features thousands of jack-o’-lanterns. Downtown is a major draw, attracting locals and visitors alike with charming brick buildings in a pedestrian-friendly area lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

Keene's small-town feel is welcoming to renters looking for downtown apartments to single family homes for rent in more suburban, quieter neighborhoods. Keene State College adds to the town’s youthful energy, while nearby outdoor spaces like Mount Monadnock offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring nature. Its central location in southwestern New Hampshire also offers easy access to other parts of the state.

• Population: 22,917
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,725
• Median Household Income: $69,381
• Walk Score: 45
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 51

8. Dover

Dover offers historic charm with modern amenities and a history dating back to the 17th century. Its downtown area hosts a summer farmers market and the annual Festival of Trees. Foodies dig into the vibrant dining scene, including everything from gourmet to farm-to-table delights. In Dover, you’ll be able to enjoy scenic spaces, like Henry Law Park, along the Cocheco River, and you’re never far from the iconic New Hampshire beaches and lighthouses.

Dover is a good choice for renters who want a blend of city amenities and small-town sensibilities. Chose an apartment downtown to walk to restaurants, shops, and cultural activities or live closer to the Cocheco River to explore nearby outdoor activities, including hiking trails and parks.

• Population: 33,485
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,850
• Median Household Income: $90.844
• Walk Score: 33
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 34

9. Hampton

Hampton is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in New Hampshire for its stunning beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. Hampton Beach is among the most traveled-to places in the state, offering room for water sports, swimming, and boating. Whale-watching tours are popular, and there’s always an opportunity to take a boardwalk stroll to grab tasty seafood. You can enjoy the best of New England coastal living while living near larger cities like Boston.

Renters come to Hampton for a coastal lifestyle with easy access to modern conveniences. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant boardwalk, Hampton offers a wide range of rental options, from oceanfront apartments to more residential homes. The town comes alive during the summer months with annual events and activities surrounding the shops and restaurants. Renters enjoy beaches and parks with proximity to larger cities like Portsmouth and Boston.

• Population: 9,597
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,199
• Median Household Income: $92,907
• Walk Score (downtown): 60
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 50

10. New London

New London is often considered one of the most charming New Hampshire towns thanks to its rolling hills and picturesque lakes. Liberal arts students at the local college make the most of the hiking and biking along the popular Sunapee Ragged Kearsarge Greenway. For arts and culture, the historic New London Barn Playhouse features summer theater, musicals, and plays. Golfing enthusiasts enjoy the Lake Sunapee Country Club, which has an 18-hole championship golf course featuring scenic views of Mount Sunapee.

New London offers a peaceful vibe with natural beauty. Renters havfe a choice of cottages, modern napartments, and scenic views. Outdoor recreation is the favorite pastime in New London, with access to scenic lakes, rolling hills, hiking, skiing, and boating. Renters can also get into Concord and Hanover when they need convenience and return home to a quiet and rural lifestyle.

• Population: 1,266
• Starting Two-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,050
• Median Household Income: $83,796
• Walk Score (downtown): 55
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 42

11. Stratham

For a more suburban lifestyle, Stratham features a charming downtown and the historic homes that New England is known for. Locals enjoy access to the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching, hiking, and admiring scenic vistas. You'll also find a high quality of life with a reasonable cost of living in New Hampshire, where there's always an event, like the Stratham Fair or a concert in the park.

Stratham is known for its scenic landscapes, including parks, farms, and open spaces, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. It offers proximity to major routes and neighboring towns like Exeter and Portsmouth allows for convenient commuting while maintaining a peaceful, small-town atmosphere. The area is known for its excellent schools, local shops, and a strong sense of community.

• Population: 7,760
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,966
• Median Household Income: $126,830
• Walk Score (downtown): 8
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 21

12. Lebanon

Lebanon rests in the Upper Valley region of the state near the Connecticut River and the Vermont border. You're not far from Mascoma Lake for boating, fishing, and swimming. Lebanon is also home to the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, which is one of the leading academic medical institutions and among the largest employers in the area. Cultural opportunities are available at the Lebanon Opera House and the AVA Gallery and Art Center to see local artists’ work.

Lebanon offers small-town charm and urban conveniences with apartments and single-family homes. Locals spend time hiking, skiing, and kayaking and small town shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The nearby Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and nearby Dartmouth College brings a young vibe to the town. Residents are also near the Vermont border and major highways makes commuting easy, while maintaining the peaceful, community-oriented feel.

• Population: 15,342
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,700
• Median Household Income: $90,911
• Walk Score (downtown): 88
• Transit Score: n/a
• Bike Score: 44

13. Durham

Durham is a vibrant college town that’s home to prestigious University of New Hampshire research programs complete with lectures and exhibitions. Locals enjoy scenic walks at the nearby Great Bay Estuary and swimming, fishing, and boating at the Mendums Pond Recreation Center. As in other areas in New Hampshire, here you'll find local food markets and gardens that mirror the community’s sustainability initiatives.

Durham offers a university-town atmosphere with plenty of amenities for renters. It's home to the University of New Hampshire with student housing to family-friendly homes. Like many of New Hampshire's best small towns, renters enjoy a lively downtown area with restaurants, shops, and cultural events. Newcomers can expect a strong sense of community, highly rated schools, and convenient location near Portsmouth and the Seacoast.

• Population: 11,147
• Starting Rent for a 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,945
• Median Household Income: $93,542
• Walk Score (downtown): 83
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 59

14. Windham

Windham offers a safe and welcoming community that's convenient to major cities like Manchester and Nashua. It’s an attractive town for those looking to raise a family in a high-quality school district. The area is also surrounded by forests, parks, and lakes, with nearby boating and fishing opportunities at Canobie Lake. Newcomers will find a variety of seasonal events, including summer concerts and holiday festivals.

Windham is offers easy access to nearby cities while providing renters a choice of single-family homes to modern apartments. The area is known for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and picturesque landscapes, Windham provides a tranquil environment with plenty of green spaces and outdoor activities. Its convenient location near I-93 makes commuting to Manchester, Nashua, and even Boston straightforward to access urban amenities.

• Population: 16,086
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: 2,199
• Median Household Income: $171,563
• Walk Score (downtown): 36
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 34

15. Bedford

Bedford has an upscale vibe and all the amenities you want from a suburban area. Locals have access to high-quality education, healthcare facilities, and convenient access to Manchester and Nashua. Bedford also has its share of shopping and dining, including a mix of retailers at the Bedford Mall. Beyond the hiking and outdoor recreation New Hampshire is known for, Bedford also offers golfing and social opportunities at the Manchester Country Club.

Bedford attracts renters looking for quality schools, safe neighborhoods, and beautiful homes. The quiet setting is still home to amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities. There's also quick access to major highways to get to Manchester and other towns in New Hampshire.

• Population: 23,764
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,435
• Median Household Income: $151,850
• Walk Score: 29
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 7

16. Concord

Concord is revered for its role in the American Revolution. Its vibrant, walkable downtown hosts restaurants, pubs, and venues for cultural performances and live music. As one of the biggest cities in New Hampshire, it also hosts year-round festivities, including the Concord Arts Market, a farmers market, and the Rock ’N’ Race, a charity road race and music festival.

As the state capital, Concord is diverse with a historic Capitol Center for the Arts, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Newcomers are also near hiking trails, parks, and the scenic Merrimack River. Its central location makes it easy to commute to nearby cities like Manchester and Boston, while still enjoying Concord's relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere.

• Population: 44,629
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,695
• Median Household Income: $77,874
• Walk Score: 35
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 37

17. Manchester

Manchester offers culture, history, and opportunity in one place. As the largest city in New Hampshire by population, Manchester enjoys scores of economic opportunities across the healthcare, education, technology, finance, and manufacturing industries. For nightlife, residents head to Elm Street for live music venues, bars, and clubs, so save room for fun in your budget. Despite its bustling urban core, Manchester is within driving distance of the White Mountains, the Lakes Region, and numerous coastal towns.

Manchester is a dynamic, urban setting with a mix of convenience and affordability. You can find everything from modern downtown apartments to quieter suburban homes. It's known for its vibrant arts and culture scene with museums, theaters, and live music venues. Outdoor enthusiasts don't have to go far to appreciate nearby parks, rivers, and trails for recreation. Its central location and easy access to major highways make commuting to other parts of New England, including Boston, a breeze.

• Population: 115,474
• Median Household Income: $74,040
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,466
• Walk Score: 51
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 42

18. Rochester

Rochester is known for its affordable New Hampshire cost of living with reasonable rents. The downtown district is walkable with locally owned small businesses, shops, restaurants, and cafes. For outdoor fun, residents head to the Salmon Falls and Cocheco rivers for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Rochester is also one of the few cities in New Hampshire with convenient transportation options and bus service.

Rochester seeks an affordable and growing community with a rural vibe. Renters have a choice of downtown apartments to suburban homes. The city has spent time revitalizing its shops, restaurants, and local businesses. Newcomers can soak up the best of New Hampshire with trails, parks, and access to the Salmon Falls River. Conveniently located near major highways, Rochester allows for easy commuting to larger cities like Dover, Portsmouth, and into Maine.

• Population: 33,519
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,850
• Median Household Income: $74,8822
• Walk Score: 51
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 42

19. Madbury

As one of the best towns in New Hampshire, Madbury offers a tranquil lifestyle with open spaces and rural charm. Locals hike, bird-watch, and stroll through areas like the Bellamy River Wildlife Management Area. The tightknit community provides a rural escape that includes plenty of farm stands and agricultural opportunities. When you need to get to a larger city, Portsmouth and Dover are very close by for more shopping and dining options.

Madbury is an appealing option for renters looking for beautiful forests and nature to hike, bike, and nature watch. It's close to Dover and the University of New Hampshire and the Seacoast area. Families also choose Madbury for its serene, family-friendly environment.

• Population: 1,918
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,229
• Median Household Income: $165,583
• Walk Score: 1
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 27

20. Newfields

For a quintessential New England experience, Newfields is located in a rural area along the Squamscott River. It's the kind of scenic town where everyone seems to know each other. If you want more than parks, biking, and hiking, you can make the seven-minute drive to Exeter for more shopping and dining options.

Newfield, NH's rental market is comprised of larger properties to smaller homes for those looking for more space and tranquility. Renters have their choice of outdoor activities, including nearby forests, rivers, and outdoor recreation areas, provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other activities. It's also within a short drive of larger towns like Exeter and Dover for a reasonable commute to access more nightlife and amenities.

• Population: 1,769
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,100
• Median Household Income: $184,688
• Walk Score (downtown): 1
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 29

21. Peterborough

Peterborough landed a spot on the National Register of Historic Places for its 18th- and 19th-century buildings and architecture. Despite its small size, locals enjoy a vibrant arts community with theaters and cultural events. No matter the season, you can go fishing, boating, and hiking at nearby Thorndike Pond and Monadnock State Park. It gets cold up here, so expect a spike in your utility bills during the winter months!

Living in Peterborough is a good choice for renters looking for an environment welcoming to artists and those looking for small-town living. It's known for its vibrant arts scene with small businesses, historic homes, and cozy apartments. Outdoor recreation keeps locals busy with hiking nearby Mount Monadnock or kayaking along the Contoocook River.

• Population: 6,500
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,150
• Median Household Income: $98,000
• Walk Score (downtown): 56
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 42

22. Kensington

Kensington is a rural enclave providing a small-town atmosphere away from the bustle of the largest cities in New Hampshire. The town preserves colonial-era structures and buildings. For those days they crave beach combing, swimming, and waterfront dining, locals aren’t far from the coast. Kensington is all about peace and quiet, but you’re still less than a 30-minute drive from larger New Hampshire cities, including Exeter and Portsmouth, for more culture and dining opportunities. Plus, Boston is just an hour away.

Kensington is known for its quiet atmosphere and scenic landscapes with single family homes and apartments for rent. The area isn't a place if you're looking for nightlife, but offers hiking, biking, and exploring local farms and conservation areas. Despite its rural feel, the town is conveniently located near major highways for access to Exeter, Portsmouth, and Boston.

• Population: 2,095
• Average Two-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,996
• Median Household Income: $139,583
• Walk Score (downtown): 0
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 27

23. Greenland

Greenland is known for its serene lifestyle and proximity to outdoor recreation at the nearby Great Bay, a protected estuary, with opportunities for wildlife watching and boating. Celebrations and small festivals are common, but to take advantage of urban amenities, residents take a quick 10-minute drive to Portsmouth. Locals enjoy Greenland for its sense of safety and calm.

Renters who want a small-town look to Greenland for a laid-back lifestyle and access to the Seacoast region. Locals have their choice of parks, open spaces, and proximity to Great Bay, provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. You're also not far from Portsmouth, Exeter, and major highways that makes commuting easy without needing to live in the heart of the city.

• Population: 4,067
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,053
• Median Household Income: $143,625
• Walk Score (downtown): 42
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 37

24. Canterbury

Embrace picture-perfect living in Canterbury. This rural town is home to the Canterbury Shaker Village, a National Historic Landmark that's also the center of annual events and festivities. Canoeing, hiking, and boating are popular at nearby Clough State Park. For museums, shopping centers, and dining options, it's just a 15-minute drive to Concord.

In Canterbury, you can find plenty of farmhouses for rent, modern homes, and rent by owner opportunities. The area is known for its hiking and biking designed for nature lovers. You're just a short drive from Concord to provide easy access to shopping, dining, and other amenities. With its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Canterbury is a great option for renters looking to enjoy a slower pace of life while staying connected to nearby conveniences.

• Population: 2,389
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,694
• Median Household Income: $111,094
• Walk Score (downtown): 26
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 24

25. Brentwood

Brentwood beckons newcomers with its peaceful setting surrounded by hills, farmland, and woodlands. There's no shortage of historic buildings and landmarks, with colonial-era structures dotting the landscape. The town hosts several events and festivals, including craft fairs and parades, and renowned beaches in Hampton, Portsmouth, and Rye are a short distance away.

Renters choose Brentwood for its country homes to more modern residences that are ideal for families, professionals, and anyone looking for a peaceful setting. Although you won't find big amenities in Brentwood, it's near major highways for to access Exeter, Portsmouth, and Boston.

• Population: 4,490
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,053
• Median Household Income: $154,064
• Walk Score (downtown): 6
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 20

26. Hollis

Hollis boasts old-world charm with colonial landmarks and architecture. Local events include the Old Home Days celebration, parades, and history-inspired gatherings. Residents have their pick of locally grown produce and agricultural programs, scenic drives, and parks. The nearby Silver Lake State Park provides swimming, boating, and fishing.

Hollis takes renters aways from the bustle of the city with picturesque landscapes, historic charm, and well-maintained farms. Families choose the area for its well-regarded schools and outdoor recreation, including hiking trails and orchards. Despite its quiet vibe, locals are near Nashua and major highways to commute into Manchester and Boston.

• Population: 8,342
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,400
• Median Household Income: $155,339
• Walk Score (downtown): 3
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 22

27. Rye

The stunning coastal town of Rye is home to sandy shores and water sports. Hiking opportunities are plentiful along the rocky parts of the coastline, which offers salt marshes and panoramic ocean views. Its beachy feel also inspires local seafood restaurants and waterfront celebrations. You'll find live music, arts, craft fairs, and more in Rye year-round, but for more urban amenities, locals make the short drive to Portsmouth.

Rye is a draw for renters for its beautiful beaches, including Jenness State Beach and Rye Harbor. Rental options are available at oceanfront homes and apartments with hiking, boating, and fishing. Despite its tranquil seaside atmosphere, Rye is just a short drive from Portsmouth, providing access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.

• Population: 5,605
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,053
• Median Household Income: $137,969
• Walk Score (downtown): 9
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 45

28. Bow

The scenic town of Bow features biking, hiking, and walking paths among forested hills. The area is known for its quality schools and family-friendly, tight-knit vibe. Weekend soccer games are the norm, as well as kayaking, fishing, and boating in local waterways.

Bow, NH, is a suburban enclave with single-family homes and some apartments nestled within a family-friendly environment. The area is known for its well-maintained parks, strong sense of community, and rural feel. Locals enjoy access to major highways allows for easy commuting to Concord, Manchester, and Boston.

• Population: 8,389
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,694
• Median Household Income: $147,951
• Walk Score (downtown): 5
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 11

29. Gilford

Gilford perches on the shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, offering residents abundant opportunities for boating, swimming, kayaking, and taking scenic boat rides. The town sees its share of tourism with Gunstock Mountain Resort, known for its snowboarding, skiing, and tubing amenities. During summer months, guests can zip line, mountain bike, and hike. An outdoor pavilion hosts live performances and concerts lakeside.

Gilford's location on the shores attracts renters to its lakefront cottages and modern homes. Water activities are popular in the area, including boating, swimming, and fishing. Gilford is a good choice if you're looking for a vacation-like setting a short drive from Laconia and other nearby towns.

• Population: 7,875
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,234
• Median Household Income: $122,522
• Walk Score (downtown): 23
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 26

30. Mont Vernon

Surrounded by a rural landscape of forests, Mont Vernon is known for its small-town charm. Biking and hiking are popular around Purgatory Falls year-round. For summer fun, Nubanusit Lake is only a drive away. Mont Vernon attracts those looking for complete serenity, but larger towns like Wilton, Milford, and Nashua are all less than 30 minutes away by car.

Mont Vernon attracts renters to its tranquility with convenience to larger towns like Amherst and Milford. The rental market is mostly single family homes and renters have easy access to shopping, dining, and other amenities.

• Population: 2,602
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,414
• Median Household Income: $156,667
• Walk Score (downtown): N/A
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: N/A

31. Plymouth

Plymouth is a college town that’s home to Plymouth State University. Here you'll find all the things you love to do in New Hampshire, like hiking, biking, and skiing, but you’ll also discover a thriving culture and arts scene at places like the historic Flying Monkey, a vintage movie house and performing arts center. Annual events include the New Hampshire Music Festival.

Plymouth provides the small-town atmosphere some renters are looking for with the energy of a college town. The town offers a variety of rental options, from student-friendly apartments to more residential homes, catering to diverse lifestyles. The downtown is also a good choice for renters who want to live near restaurants, shops, and cultural events.

• Population: 6,622
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,400
• Median Household Income: $71,144
• Walk Score (downtown): 85
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 37

Find an Apartment in New Hampshire

Is New Hampshire a good place to live? We give it a resounding yes! The best places to live in New Hampshire are filled with artful culture, tranquil landscapes, and rural settings that offer something for everyone.

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