Whether you're a city person or prefer to live in the tiniest village possible, New Hampshire has us covered. But many of us fall somewhere in the middle - we want the conveniences of living in a larger community without the traffic and crowds. These 11 towns in New Hampshire range from around 4,000 to 14,000, with plenty in between, and provide the town amenities you need with the charm of living in a place where people know your name.
1. Hollis
With 7,684 people, Hollis is still small enough that you'll run into your friends while you're out doing errands. This historic town was once primarily farmland, and though it now has a lot of Boston commuters, it maintains that country feel. The annual "Old Home Days" festival celebrates all the best New England has to offer with fireworks, parades, and more, and the Strawberry Festival and Apple Festival add on additional small-town charm.
2. Peterborough
Peterborough's 6,284 residents enjoy performing groups, museums, and arts centers, as well as a strong entrepreneurial community. It's also powered 100% by sustainable energy.
3. Weare
Weare's 8,785 residents enjoy the convenience of proximity to Concord and Manchester in a small-town setting. Residents also enjoy getting out in nature at Clough State Park.
4. Hopkinton
Hopkinton's population of 5,589 covers three communities - Hopkinton, Contoocook, and West Hopkinton. The town has truly excellent public schools, and is home to a historic railroad depot and bridge. It also hosts the largest agricultural fair in New Hampshire each fall.
5. Littleton
With 5,928 residents, the gorgeous Littleton is just big enough to stay interesting but small enough to know all your neighbors. Right on the Ammonoosuc River, this revived mill town still has plenty of old-fashioned charm.
6. Exeter
Exeter's 14,306 residents enjoy gorgeous river views, easy access to Boston and Portland thanks to an Amtrak stop and convenient highways, and all the benefits of having an elite prep school in their town.
7. North Hampton
With a population of 4,300 and a gorgeous state beach, North Hampton has a lot going for it. It's not as touristy as its southern neighbor Hampton, but it has all of the seaside charm.
8. Lebanon
The home of Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical center and one town over from Dartmouth College, Lebanon has plenty of well-educated residents among its population of 13,151, and great employment opportunities. It also has a bustling and charming downtown, with great restaurants and a wonderful weekly farmer's market in the summer. The Lebanon Opera House and AVA galleries are draws for artsy residents.
9. Plymouth
Thanks to Plymouth State, Plymouth has plenty of employment and cultural opportunities for its 6,990 residents. With river and mountain views, it's got plenty to offer in terms of natural beauty as well.
10. Hampstead
With a population of about 8,500, Hampstead is a cozy community on the Massachusetts border. It holds several picturesque ponds and part of the Rockingham Recreational Trail.
11. Sandown
With a population just a few people under 6,000, Sandown is a friendly community in southeast New Hampshire. It's convenient to cities, shopping, and more, but still retains a small-town feel.
What's your favorite New Hampshire town? Tell us in the comments!
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