8 Friendly Towns To Retire In New Hampshire
With its classic New England charm, beautiful landscapes, and abundance of outdoor recreation, New Hampshire offers no shortage of welcoming communities for a comfortable and fulfilling retirement. The state experiences all four seasons, allowing retirees to enjoy nature year-round — with both coastal breezes and peaceful mountain trails.
Whether retirees are drawn to the seacoast or the scenic White Mountains, the state’s small towns combine warm hospitality with the amenities, services, and resources that support a relaxed and active lifestyle. Here are eight friendly towns that make New Hampshire a wonderful place to retire.
Exeter
Exeter, a charming New England town with a population of roughly 16,000 residents, blends historic character with modern comfort. Known for its elegant brick buildings, tree-lined streets, and the legacy of Phillips Exeter Academy, the town offers a walkable lifestyle perfect for retirees. Exeter provides a stable and welcoming community environment, easy access to healthcare, and close proximity to New Hampshire’s scenic coastline, making it an ideal place to enjoy a relaxed yet engaging retirement.
Retirees can explore the American Independence Museum, a local treasure that showcases the town’s Revolutionary War history or enjoy an afternoon film at the Exeter Cinema. Those who prefer quiet cultural moments can attend author talks and community programs at the Exeter Public Library. A walk along Swasey Parkway offers serene river views, while the town center is dotted with markers and monuments that tell the story of centuries past.
At Founders Park, Emile Birch’s captivating 350th-anniversary sculpture honors both the town’s earliest settlers and its Native American heritage, offering a meaningful moment of reflection right in the heart of downtown. Popular community events such as the Exeter Fall Festival add vibrancy and connection, giving retirees plenty of ways to stay social and engaged year-round.
Rochester
Rochester blends classic New England character with practical, budget-friendly living; a major advantage for retirees. With a population of roughly 33,000 residents, the town offers a small-city feel without sacrificing convenience. Median home prices stay comfortably below those in nearby Portsmouth or Dover, with many condos and smaller homes often selling for under $400,000, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious retirees.
Its historic brick downtown, local shops, and welcoming cafés create a warm sense of community, while the town’s location, just a short drive from both the seacoast and the White Mountains, gives retirees easy access to nature, recreation, and healthcare options. Friendly, accessible, and beautifully rooted in tradition, Rochester checks all the boxes for a relaxed and affordable retirement
Retirees in Rochester will find no shortage of things to do. The Rochester Opera House anchors the cultural scene with year-round performances ranging from concerts to local theatre. Outdoor lovers can enjoy quick getaways for mountain hikes, lakeside picnics, or coastal walks thanks to Rochester’s central location. Downtown’s brick storefronts make for fun afternoons browsing boutiques or enjoying coffee with friends. And each fall, the beloved Rochester Fair brings the community together with rides, food, and seasonal festivities.
Claremont
Claremont is a riverside town in western New Hampshire, home to roughly 13,000 residents. With a median home list price of around $325,000, it’s one of the most affordable retirement-friendly communities in the state. Its historic New England architecture, natural setting along the Sugar and Connecticut rivers, and strong sense of community make it especially appealing for retirees seeking comfort, affordability, and access to essential services. The town also offers convenient healthcare through Valley Regional Hospital and several local medical practices, helping seniors feel supported as they settle into a relaxed, small-town lifestyle.
History lovers can enjoy performances and community theater at the Claremont Opera House, a cultural landmark that continues to host concerts and local events. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Moody Park, known for its easy walking trails, forested paths, and spots perfect for relaxation or birdwatching. Retirees can also stay socially connected at the Claremont Senior Center, which offers exercise classes, games, lunches, puzzles, and special programs throughout the year. Popular community events, including seasonal festivals, local concerts, and holiday gatherings, bring residents together and give newcomers an easy way to integrate into this warm, welcoming town.
Concord
Concord, the capital city of New Hampshire, is a vibrant small city situated along the Merrimack River, near its confluence with the Contoocook River. Home to roughly 44,000 residents, it is the state's third-largest city after Manchester and Nashua. The median home price is around $470,000, making it relatively accessible compared to other New England hubs. For retirees, Concord strikes a comfortable balance: excellent healthcare access, including Concord Hospital and strong home-care services, walkable streets, senior-friendly programs, and a natural setting.
The New Hampshire State House on Main Street showcases the state’s government chambers and its impressive Hall of Flags, featuring around 107 historic battle flags. Visitors can book weekday tours through the State House Visitor Center and browse New Hampshire memorabilia. Carter Hill Orchard, a Concord staple since the 1760s, offers classic and unique apple varieties, fresh cider, and baked goods, perfect for an afternoon of outdoor fun.
At the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, guests can explore interactive Earth and space science exhibits and enjoy planetarium shows, making it an essential stop for seniors. Retirement communities in the area, such as Presidential Oaks, often host their own social gatherings like movie matinees, holiday brunches, and group lunches, providing additional opportunities for socializing and community involvement.
Franklin
Franklin, a riverside town of roughly 8,700 residents, sits at the scenic confluence of the Winnipesaukee and Pemigewasset Rivers, an inviting backdrop for affordable retirement living. With a median home price of about $395,000, housing remains roughly 20% below the New Hampshire average, allowing retirees to stretch their savings while still enjoying the classic New England lifestyle.
Franklin offers retirees plenty to enjoy year-round. Outdoor lovers can walk or bike the Winnipesaukee River Trail, explore the Franklin Falls Dam overlook, or wander the serene paths around the Webster Place grounds. Additional trail systems like Franklin Falls Recreational Trails and Odell Park Loop provide options for all activity levels, while the Merrimack River Paddle Route invites gentle kayaking and canoeing.
In town, retirees can browse local shops and dine at favorites such as May Garden or Al’s Village Pizza. Franklin also hosts a variety of community events, from farmers markets and seasonal festivals to library programs and winter social activities that help keep neighbors connected. Regular gatherings at the Bessie Rowell Community Center and the Community Action Senior Center round out a vibrant, senior-friendly calendar.
Keene
Keene is a lively yet easygoing New Hampshire town with an inviting community feel and a population of roughly 23,000 residents. Its median home price of about $374,500 makes it an accessible option for retirees seeking affordability without sacrificing amenities. The town’s compact layout, walkable Main Street, and strong sense of community make daily life simple and enjoyable. With reliable healthcare at Cheshire Medical Center, year-round programs at the Keene Senior Center, and a blend of small-town charm and cultural vibrancy, Keene offers a comfortable and socially engaging environment ideal for retirement.
Retirees can enjoy a range of local attractions, starting with the historic Colonial Theatre, which hosts concerts, films, and performances throughout the year. Outdoor lovers can take gentle walks along the Cheshire Rail Trail or explore Stonewall Farm, known for its scenic paths, educational programs, and seasonal gatherings. Art enthusiasts will appreciate visits to the Thorne-Sagendorph Art Gallery and cultural events at the Redfern Arts Center on the Keene State College campus. The town also buzzes with community favorites such as the Keene Farmers’ Market, annual festivals, holiday parades, and craft fairs, offering retirees frequent opportunities to socialize and stay active.
Laconia
Between Lake Winnisquam and New Hampshire’s largest lake, Lake Winnipesaukee, Laconia is a welcoming lakeside community ideal for retirees. Home to roughly 17,000 residents, the town offers a small-city feel with easy access to nature. With a median home price around $592,000, Laconia provides a more wallet-friendly town compared to many New England destinations.
Whether you’re relaxing on Weirs Beach, strolling the lakeside trails at Ahern State Park, or taking in the scenery on a Mount Washington Cruise, Laconia truly shines when it comes to waterfront enjoyment. In the colder months, residents shift gears and embrace a slower pace, turning to cozy indoor favorites like the Laconia Antique Center to recharge and enjoy the season. The revitalized Colonial Theatre hosts concerts, shows, and film events year-round, adding a lively cultural touch. For wellness and social connection, the Laconia Senior Center offers fitness classes and activities, while the lakefront Funspot provides unique options like yoga and light recreation.
Berlin
Nestled in New Hampshire’s North Country near the White Mountains, Berlin is a small, welcoming town of roughly 10,000 residents. Once a booming pulp-and-paper hub, it still carries a proud, community-driven spirit while offering the calm pace many retirees look for. With a median home price of about $214,000, Berlin stands out as one of the more affordable retirement-friendly towns in the state. Access to dependable healthcare through Androscoggin Valley Hospital, plentiful senior services, and a close-knit atmosphere make it an appealing place for retirees seeking both comfort and connection.
Retirees in Berlin can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the outdoors to engaging in arts and local traditions. Nature lovers have easy access to the Androscoggin River, nearby ATV trails, Jericho Mountain State Park for camping, boating, and swimming, and Moose Brook State Park for scenic hikes and White Mountain views. Cultural outings are available at the St. Kieran Community Center for the Arts, while history enthusiasts can visit the Berlin & Coos County Historical Museum. Community life is lively with seasonal events such as RiverFire, the Berlin Farmers’ Market, and local gatherings at the Senior Center of Coos County, where retirees can join programs, classes, and social activities.
New Hampshire offers a well-balanced lifestyle that appeals to retirees who want natural beauty, year-round recreation, and financial peace of mind. From lakes to winding rivers and sparkling ponds, retirees can enjoy endless water activities and scenic views in every season. Add to that New Hampshire’s tax-friendly advantages, no state income tax and no sales tax, and it becomes clear why the state attracts so many newcomers seeking comfort and value.
