10 Towns in New Hampshire that Are Ideal for Seniors

New Hampshire's tax-friendly policies, low crime rates (ranked as one of the safest states using FBI data), and excellent healthcare access (ranked number one by The Commonwealth Fund for adult healthcare access) make it a top retirement consideration. Its natural beauty, earning it the nickname "Switzerland of America," appeals to nature lovers. When considering retirement in New Hampshire, the following ten towns are ideal for seniors.

Exeter

Home to about 9,900 residents, Exeter in Rockingham County is renowned as New Hampshire's Revolutionary War Capital. The American Independence Museum, showcasing a rare Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration of Independence, is located here. Situated on the Exeter River near the Squamscott River falls, about 15 miles from Portsmouth, and with 5.42 medical centers per 1,000 residents, Exeter is in the top 30 U.S. retirement locations. With a tax burden of only 11.30% (compared to the national average of 30.5%), Exeter is an attractive retirement destination. Known for its close-knit community and stunning scenery, Exeter is one of New Hampshire's best retirement towns.

Peterborough

Peterborough, ranked by Niche as not only one of the best places to live in New Hampshire but also the top retirement spot in the state, offers a quaint small-town feel, lush forests, and proximity to Manchester (38 miles) and Boston (72 miles). Miller State Park, New Hampshire's oldest, includes Pack Monadnock, the Wapack Range's highest peak. With about 40% of its population over 55 and a median age of 60.1, Peterborough is appealing to retirees. The town also boasts a vibrant arts scene and a highly educated population, with 26% holding a master’s degree or higher.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth, nestled at the Maine state line along the 12-mile-long Piscataqua River, has a population of about 22,000. This New Hampshire town offers big-city amenities, including top-rated medical facilities like Portsmouth Regional Hospital, and is close to Manchester (44 miles) and Boston (less than an hour's drive). Visiting Strawbery Banke Museum feels like stepping into the 1800s, and art thrives in Market Square. With seniors comprising 34% of Portsmouth’s population, the social scene is vibrant and relatable for retirees.

Rochester

Rochester, a New Hampshire gem, is ideal for empty-nesters. Known as the "Lilac City," Rochester's floral beauty is captivating. This vibrant town is home to 33,500 residents and is just 75 minutes from Boston, a city renowned for its top-rated hospitals. Rochester offers a sparse suburban feel, with about 33% of its population being seniors aged 55 and above. The town boasts excellent outdoor activities, including several disc golf courses and parks like Hanson Pines, known for its scenic trails.

Gilford

For seniors who love classic lake living, Gilford is a top choice. Rated by Evolve as one of the best towns in the nation for owning a lake house, Gilford offers stunning waterfront properties. Home to about 7,600 residents, it's the site of the first “snow train.” The town presents a harmonious mix of rural and urban elements, with 90% of residents being proud homeowners, indicating its appeal for retirees. Approximately 39% of Gilford’s population are seniors, ensuring a strong social network. The town offers a range of activities, from swimming in Lake Winnipesaukee in summer to skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling in winter.

Littleton

Littleton, known for its 100-year-old Opera House, is a treasure trove of antiques, collectibles, and intriguing items. The town boasts the world's largest candy counter at Chutters, with a 112-foot display offering a vast variety of candies. Littleton is a haven for seniors, with 41% of the population being older adults, fostering a community of peers. The town’s appeal includes its location between the White Mountains and the Connecticut River, plus the Ammonoosuc River running through it. Littleton's Riverwalk Covered Bridge and its picturesque surroundings are highlights for residents and visitors alike.

Lebanon

Nestled on the Mascoma River near its confluence with the Connecticut River, Lebanon is just 5 miles south of Hanover. It's an ideal location for seniors seeking medical care, as it hosts the largest medical facility between Boston, Massachusetts, and Burlington, Vermont. The Dartmouth–Hitchcock Medical Center not only serves as the primary referral facility for residents across northern New England, but it is also the state's only academic medical center. Approximately 36% of Lebanon’s population are seniors, and 27% of residents hold a master’s degree or higher. With Manchester, a major city north of Boston, just an hour's drive away, Lebanon offers quick access to Boston's cultural attractions.

Londonderry

Hosting the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, Londonderry is a compelling choice for retirees seeking convenient travel options. This town of about 11,900 residents is also just 14 miles from Manchester, New Hampshire's largest city, providing easy access to its amenities in under 20 minutes. For those interested in baking, the town’s numerous apple orchards, including the renowned Mack's Apples, are a bonus. Londonderry, known for its friendly, close-knit community, is conveniently situated near both the coast and the mountains, offering a plethora of adventure opportunities.

Seabrook

Seabrook, named after the Seabrook River and settled in 1638, offers retirees seaside breezes, beautiful coastal views, and proximity to Boston, less than a 50-minute drive away. The town is on the border with Massachusetts and close to charming towns like Amesbury (7 miles), Newburyport (about 6 miles), and Portsmouth (about 16 miles). With 71% of residents being proud homeowners and 44% seniors, Seabrook presents an ideal retirement setting with a community of similar-aged peers.

Concord

Concord, the capital of New Hampshire, stands out from the stereotypical bustling capital cities. Although Montpelier, Vermont, is the least populated state capital with about 8,000 residents, Concord’s population of 44,000 is also relatively low. Redfin reports Concord’s median home price at $385,000, making it one of New Hampshire’s most affordable towns. An hour's drive from Boston, Concord is appealing for retirees. It's even closer to Manchester, the state’s largest city. With 32% of its population being seniors aged 55 and above, Concord offers a demographic with which many retirees can relate. Besides being clean and picturesque, Concord, as a college town, offers opportunities for continual intellectual engagement.

The Takeaway

Several factors make New Hampshire an attractive retirement destination. The state does not levy sales tax and exempts Social Security income and retirement account withdrawals from taxation. Frequently ranked among the safest states in the nation, New Hampshire, known as the "Switzerland of America," is also celebrated for its natural beauty and exceptional medical care. When considering settling in New Hampshire, towns like Exeter, Peterborough, and Rochester are among the state’s best choices for retirees.