New Hampshire is known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thriving economy. The state is home to many safe and affordable cities that offer a high quality of life. In this article, we will explore the top 8 safest cities in New Hampshire, highlighting their unique qualities, cost of living, and crime rates. 

Bedford

Safest Cities in New Hampshire

Bedford is a charming town located in Hillsborough County, with a population of 47,970 people. It is known for its excellent schools, low crime rate, and natural beauty. Bedford is a great place to raise a family, with a strong community spirit and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities.

Here are some key statistics about Bedford:

  • The crime rate in Bedford is 77% lower than the national average.
  • Bedford is located close to Manchester, which has several universities and colleges, including Southern New Hampshire University and Saint Anselm College.
  • The median home price in Bedford is around $444,000, which is higher than the state average.
  • However, rental prices are relatively affordable, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment at around $1,200.

Hanover

Safest Cities in New Hampshire

Hanover is a vibrant college town located in Grafton County, with a population of 8,813 people. It is home to Dartmouth College, a prestigious Ivy League institution, and several other colleges and universities. Hanover is known for its intellectual and cultural vitality, as well as its natural beauty.

Here are some key statistics about Hanover:

  • The crime rate in Hanover is 83% lower than the national average.
  • Hanover is home to several colleges and universities, including Dartmouth College, which offers excellent academic programs and research opportunities.
  • The median home price in Hanover is around $617,000, which is higher than the state average.
  • However, rental prices are relatively affordable, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment at around $1,400.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a historic seaport city located in Rockingham County, with a population of 22,900 people. It is known for its picturesque downtown area, vibrant arts and culture scene, and beautiful coastline. Portsmouth is a great place for people who enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as outdoor recreation.

Here are some key statistics about Portsmouth:

  • Crime rate: 61% lower than the national average.
  • Colleges and universities near Portsmouth: University of New Hampshire and Great Bay Community College.
  • Median home price: around $563,000, which is higher than the state average.
  • Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment: around $1,400.

Dover

Safest Cities in New Hampshire

Dover is a charming city located in Strafford County, with a population of 33,980 people. It is known for its historic downtown area, vibrant arts and culture scene, and strong community spirit. Dover is a great place for people who enjoy a mix of urban and rural living, with plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities nearby.

Here are some key statistics about Dover:

  • Crime rate: 51% lower than the national average.
  • Colleges and universities near Dover: University of New Hampshire and Great Bay Community College.
  • Median home price: around $332,000, which is lower than the state average.
  • Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment: around $1,200.

Merrimack

Merrimack is a suburban town located in Hillsborough County, with a population of 156,000 people. It is known for its excellent schools, low crime rate, and affordable cost of living. 

Here are some key statistics about Merrimack:

  • Crime rate: 49% lower than the national average.
  • Colleges and universities near Merrimack: Southern New Hampshire University and Saint Anselm College.
  • Median home price: around $386,000, which is slightly higher than the state average.
  • Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment: around $1,200.

Windham

Safest Cities in New Hampshire

Windham is a suburban town located in Rockingham County, with a population of 15,900 people. 

Here are some key statistics about Windham:

  • Crime rate: 58% lower than the national average.
  • Colleges and universities near Windham: Southern New Hampshire University and University of Massachusetts Lowell.
  • Median home price: around $569,000, which is higher than the state average.
  • Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment: around $1,300.

Amherst

Amherst is a rural town located in Hillsborough County, with a population of 770 people. It is known for its natural beauty, historic architecture, and strong community spirit. Amherst is a great place for people who enjoy outdoor recreation, with plenty of hiking and biking trails, parks, and ponds.

Here are some key statistics about Amherst:

  • Crime rate: 78% lower than the national average.
  • Colleges and universities near Amherst: University of New Hampshire and Southern New Hampshire University.
  • Median home price: around $475,000, which is higher than the state average.
  • Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment: around $1,200.

Durham

Safest Cities in New Hampshire

Durham is a college town located in Strafford County, with a population of 11,600 people. It is home to the University of New Hampshire, a flagship public institution, and several other colleges and universities. Durham is known for its intellectual and cultural vitality, as well as its natural beauty.

Here are some key statistics about Durham:

  • Crime rate: 61% lower than the national average.
  • Colleges and universities in Durham: University of New Hampshire, Granite State College, and Great Bay Community College.
  • Median home price: around $429,000, which is higher than the state average.
  • Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment: around $1,300.