Best Cities in New Hampshire for Veterans 2025

Bottom Line Up Front

Portsmouth ranks #1 for New Hampshire veterans—it's safe, has excellent quality of life, strong veteran community, proximity to healthcare (40 min to Manchester VA), and sits on the seacoast with median homes at $585,000. Manchester takes #2, offering the best job opportunities, direct access to VA Medical Center, and more affordable housing at $480,000 median.

For affordability, Berlin and Claremont offer median home prices under $200,000, though they're remote with limited jobs. Concord balances cost ($390,000 median), state government jobs with veteran preference, and 30-minute access to Manchester VA.

New Hampshire's challenge is expensive housing—statewide median is $463,000, well above national average ($404,400). However, no income tax saves $2,000-$5,000 annually for military retirees, and 100% disabled veterans get full property tax exemptions worth $7,000-$10,000+ annually, substantially offsetting costs.

Overall, NH cities excel for quality of life, safety, veteran employment (0.2% unemployment—best in nation), but you'll pay premium housing costs. Best for veterans prioritizing excellent schools, low crime, outdoor recreation, and tax savings.

Ranking Methodology

Cities Ranked By:

Cost of living (housing, utilities, groceries): 30%
Veteran population & community: 20%
Proximity to VA healthcare: 15%
Job opportunities: 20%
Quality of life (crime, schools, amenities): 15%

Top 10 Cities Ranked

#1: Portsmouth

Why It's #1:

Portsmouth combines coastal New England charm, safety, excellent schools, strong veteran community, and economic opportunity. It's consistently ranked one of America's best small cities and offers the highest quality of life in New Hampshire. The seacoast location provides recreation, culture, and access to Boston (60 min) while maintaining small-city feel.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $585,000
Rent (2BR): $2,200/month
26% above NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 130/100 (30% above national average)
Groceries: 115/100
Utilities: $185/month
Transportation: $90/month

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 1,800+ (8% of residents)
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard: 10 minutes (Kittery, ME)
VFW/AL posts: 2
Strong military history and veteran support

VA Healthcare Access:

Manchester VA Medical Center: 40 minutes
Somersworth VA Clinic: 25 minutes
Portsmouth Regional Hospital (Community Care): Excellent

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.2%
Major employers: Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (federal civilian jobs), Liberty Mutual (Dover), BAE Systems (nearby), healthcare, tourism, tech startups
Average salary: $68,000
Veteran hiring: Excellent—shipyard actively recruits veterans

Quality of Life:

Weather: Four seasons, coastal moderation (milder winters than inland), 60°F summers, 30°F winters
Crime rate: Very low (20% below NH average)
Schools: Portsmouth School District rated 9/10—excellent
Recreation: Seacoast beaches, Piscataqua River, historic downtown, art galleries, restaurants, 60 min to Boston

Pros:

Highest quality of life in NH
Seacoast location (beaches, boating, fishing)
Excellent schools for families
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard jobs (veterans preferred)
Low crime, walkable downtown
Cultural amenities (theaters, galleries, dining)
No state income tax
100% disabled vets: full property tax exemption ($10,000+/year savings)

Cons:

Most expensive city in NH (median $585K)
High cost of living overall
Tourist crowds in summer
Limited parking downtown
40 min to Manchester VA (specialty care)

Best For: Veteran families prioritizing schools and safety, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard employees, veterans who value coastal living and culture, high-earning veterans

#2: Manchester

Why It's #2:

Manchester is NH's largest city and economic hub, offering the best job opportunities, direct access to VA Medical Center, and more affordable housing than coastal areas. It's urban for New Hampshire (population 115,000) with diverse employment, universities, entertainment, and strong veteran services.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $480,000
Rent (2BR): $2,137/month
4% above NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 120/100 (20% above national average)
Groceries: 110/100
Utilities: $195/month
Transportation: $95/month

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 6,500+ (6% of residents)
VFW/AL posts: 8
Manchester Vet Center: In Hooksett (adjacent)

VA Healthcare Access:

Manchester VA Medical Center: In city (718 Smyth Rd)
Best VA access in New Hampshire
Full medical center with emergency, surgery, specialty care

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.4%
Major employers: Southern NH Health System, Elliot Hospital, Fidelity Investments (Merrimack), BAE Systems (nearby), St. Anselm College, SNHU, state government, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport
Average salary: $64,000
Veteran hiring: Strong—many employers recruit veterans

Quality of Life:

Weather: Cold winters (20°F), warm summers (80°F), four seasons
Crime rate: Higher than suburbs (but improving)—varies by neighborhood
Safest areas: West Manchester, North End, Pinardville
Higher crime: East Side (avoid)
Schools: Variable (5-8/10 depending on neighborhood)—West Side schools better
Recreation: Currier Museum of Art, Palace Theatre, Verizon Wireless Arena (concerts/hockey), Merrimack River trails

Pros:

Best job market in NH
VA Medical Center in city (no driving for care)
Most affordable major city
Urban amenities (dining, culture, entertainment)
Manchester-Boston airport (easy travel)
Universities (UNH-Manchester, SNHU)
No income tax
100% disabled: full property tax exemption ($10,560/year savings)

Cons:

Higher crime than suburbs (choose neighborhood carefully)
Schools vary widely by area
Urban density (not rural NH charm)
Traffic congestion during commute hours
Winter parking bans

Best For: Veterans seeking jobs and career growth, veterans needing frequent VA care, urban-preference veterans, students using GI Bill

#3: Nashua

Why It's #3:

Nashua borders Massachusetts and offers suburban living with Boston job access (40 min), strong schools, diverse economy (tech, defense, retail), and lower crime than Manchester. It's NH's 2nd largest city with excellent quality of life.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $470,000
Rent (2BR): $2,275/month
2% above NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 118/100 (18% above national average)
Utilities: $190/month

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 4,200+ (5%)
VFW/AL posts: 4
Close to Massachusetts veterans resources

VA Healthcare Access:

Manchester VA Medical Center: 20 minutes
Nashua Community College VA services

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.3%
Major employers: BAE Systems, Fidelity Investments, Skillsoft, St. Joseph Hospital, Nashua School District, retail (Pheasant Lane Mall)
Average salary: $67,000
Many residents commute to Boston

Quality of Life:

Crime: Low (safer than Manchester)
Schools: Nashua School District rated 7-8/10 (good to excellent)
Recreation: Mine Falls Park, Greeley Park, Nashua River Trail, 40 min to Boston

Pros:

Strong economy (tech + defense)
Safe, good schools
Boston access without MA taxes
20 min to Manchester VA
No income tax
Lower crime than Manchester

Cons:

Expensive housing
High property taxes (offset by 100% disabled exemption)
Less urban amenities than Manchester
Traffic on Everett Turnpike

Best For: Families, Boston commuters, BAE Systems employees, tech workers

#4: Concord

Why It's #4:

Concord is NH's capital, offering state government jobs with veteran hiring preference, central location, more affordable housing than southern NH, and small-city charm. Ideal for veterans seeking government careers.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $390,000
Rent (2BR): $1,800/month
16% below NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 110/100 (10% above national average)
Utilities: $180/month

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 2,800+ (6%)
NH State Veterans Cemetery: Adjacent (Boscawen)
VFW/AL posts: 3

VA Healthcare Access:

Manchester VA: 30 minutes
NHTI VA services (local)

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.5%
Major employers: State of New Hampshire (veteran preference), Concord Hospital, NH Department of Transportation, education
Average salary: $58,000
2025 veteran hiring preference for state jobs (Gov. Ayotte executive order)

Quality of Life:

Crime: Low
Schools: Concord School District rated 7/10
Recreation: Capitol building, NH Historical Society, Merrimack River, White Mountains access

Pros:

State government jobs with veteran preference
More affordable than southern NH
Central location (access to mountains and seacoast)
State veterans cemetery adjacent
Low crime
No income tax

Cons:

Smaller job market (government-heavy)
Limited nightlife/entertainment
Colder winters than seacoast
30 min to VA

Best For: Veterans seeking state government careers, families wanting affordability, retirees

#5: Durham

Why It's #5:

Durham is a college town (University of New Hampshire), ideal for student veterans using GI Bill. It offers excellent education resources, young/progressive culture, and proximity to seacoast. Small town (population 15,000) with big university resources.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $550,000
Rent (2BR): $2,100/month
19% above NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 125/100
Dominated by student economy

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 600+ (mostly student veterans)
UNH Military & Veteran Services: Excellent support

VA Healthcare Access:

Manchester VA: 50 minutes
Somersworth VA Clinic: 20 minutes
Portsmouth hospitals: 15 minutes

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.0%
Major employers: UNH, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (20 min), healthcare
Average salary: $55,000 (many students/part-time)

Quality of Life:

Crime: Very low
Schools: Oyster River School District rated 9/10
Recreation: College town amenities, 10 min to beaches, hiking

Pros:

Excellent for GI Bill students
UNH veteran support services
College town culture
Very safe
Close to seacoast
No income tax

Cons:

Expensive housing
Small town (limited jobs outside UNH)
Student-dominated (pro/con depending on preference)
50 min to Manchester VA

Best For: Student veterans, families wanting excellent schools, academic environment lovers

#6: Dover

Why It's #6:

Dover is a small city near Portsmouth offering urban amenities with lower costs, strong job market (Liberty Mutual headquarters), and family-friendly environment. Good balance of affordability and quality.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $445,000
Rent (2BR): $1,950/month
4% below NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 115/100

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 2,000+ (7%)
Close to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

VA Healthcare Access:

Somersworth VA Clinic: 10 minutes
Manchester VA: 45 minutes

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.3%
Major employers: Liberty Mutual (headquarters), Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Average salary: $62,000

Quality of Life:

Crime: Low
Schools: Dover School District rated 7/10
Recreation: Cocheco River, downtown restaurants, 15 min to beaches

Pros:

More affordable than Portsmouth
Liberty Mutual jobs (veteran-friendly)
Close to seacoast
Good schools
Low crime

Cons:

Less charm than Portsmouth
45 min to Manchester VA
Smaller downtown

Best For: Families, Liberty Mutual employees, veterans wanting seacoast access at lower cost

#7: Rochester

Why It's #7:

Rochester is an affordable city (median $365,000) with manufacturing jobs, proximity to seacoast, and small-city feel. Good option for budget-conscious veterans.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $365,000
Rent (2BR): $1,700/month
21% below NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 108/100

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 1,800+ (6%)

VA Healthcare Access:

Somersworth VA Clinic: 15 minutes
Manchester VA: 50 minutes

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.6%
Major employers: Albany International, Frisbie Memorial Hospital, manufacturing
Average salary: $54,000

Quality of Life:

Crime: Moderate (higher than suburbs, lower than Manchester)
Schools: Rochester School District rated 6/10
Recreation: Lake access, 25 min to beaches

Pros:

Affordable for seacoast area
Manufacturing jobs
15 min to VA clinic
No income tax

Cons:

Higher crime than smaller towns
Lower-rated schools
Industrial areas
50 min to VA medical center

Best For: Budget-focused veterans, manufacturing workers, veterans wanting seacoast proximity

#8: Keene

Why It's #8:

Keene is a charming college town (Keene State College) in southwestern NH near Vermont border. Affordable, safe, outdoor recreation paradise, but remote from VA care.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $350,000
Rent (2BR): $1,650/month
24% below NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 105/100

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 1,200+ (5%)
College student veterans

VA Healthcare Access:

White River Junction VA (VT): 60 miles
Peterborough VA Clinic: 30 miles
Manchester VA: 90 minutes

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.4%
Major employers: Keene State College, C&S Wholesale Grocers (headquarters), Cheshire Medical Center
Average salary: $52,000

Quality of Life:

Crime: Very low
Schools: Keene School District rated 7/10
Recreation: Mt. Monadnock, hiking, skiing, college town culture

Pros:

Affordable
Very safe
College town amenities
Outdoor recreation
Mt. Monadnock access
No income tax

Cons:

Remote from VA (90 min to Manchester)
Limited jobs outside college/C&S
Small town isolation
Harsh winters

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, retirees, veterans wanting small-town NH, C&S employees

#9: Berlin

Why It's #9:

Berlin is the most affordable city in NH (median $150,000) in the North Country near White Mountains. Perfect for budget-focused veterans wanting outdoor recreation, but very remote with limited jobs.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $150,000
Rent (2BR): $1,100/month
68% below NH average!

Cost of Living:

Overall: 95/100 (5% below national average)

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 800+ (8%)
North Country veterans tight-knit

VA Healthcare Access:

Littleton VA Clinic: 60 miles
Manchester VA: 120 miles (2+ hours)
Community Care: Androscoggin Valley Hospital (local)

Employment:

Unemployment: 3.5%
Major employers: Limited—paper mill closed, healthcare, retail, tourism
Average salary: $42,000
Many residents retired or commute

Quality of Life:

Crime: Very low
Schools: Berlin School District rated 5/10
Recreation: White Mountains, ATV trails, snowmobiling, hiking, hunting, fishing paradise

Pros:

Most affordable housing in NH
Very safe
Outdoor recreation paradise
Tight-knit community
No income tax
100% disabled: full property tax exemption (save $3,000+/year)

Cons:

2+ hours to VA medical center
Very limited jobs
Harsh winters (coldest in NH)
Remote/isolated
Poor schools

Best For: Retirees on fixed income, outdoor enthusiasts, veterans wanting ultra-low cost, remote/rural lovers

#10: Claremont

Why It's #10:

Claremont is an affordable city (median $185,000) in western NH near Vermont. Offers budget living with some job opportunities (healthcare, education), but remote from major VA facilities.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $185,000
Rent (2BR): $1,200/month
60% below NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 98/100 (2% below national average)

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 900+ (7%)

VA Healthcare Access:

White River Junction VA (VT): 45 miles
Manchester VA: 90 minutes

Employment:

Unemployment: 3.0%
Major employers: Valley Regional Hospital, River Valley Community College, manufacturing
Average salary: $48,000

Quality of Life:

Crime: Moderate
Schools: Claremont School District rated 5-6/10
Recreation: Connecticut River, Sugar River Trail, Lake Sunapee nearby

Pros:

Very affordable
River Valley Community College (GI Bill)
No income tax
100% disabled: full property tax exemption

Cons:

90 min to Manchester VA
Limited jobs
Higher crime than rural NH
Lower-rated schools

Best For: Budget-focused veterans, River Valley CC students, veterans wanting western NH

Cost of Living Comparison Table

City	Median Home	Rent (2BR)	COL Index	Veteran %	VA Access
Portsmouth	$585,000	$2,200	130	8%	40 min
Manchester	$480,000	$2,137	120	6%	In city
Nashua	$470,000	$2,275	118	5%	20 min
Concord	$390,000	$1,800	110	6%	30 min
Durham	$550,000	$2,100	125	4% (students)	50 min
Dover	$445,000	$1,950	115	7%	45 min
Rochester	$365,000	$1,700	108	6%	50 min
Keene	$350,000	$1,650	105	5%	90 min
Berlin	$150,000	$1,100	95	8%	120 min
Claremont	$185,000	$1,200	98	7%	90 min

By Budget

Most Affordable Cities

Berlin: $150K median | 68% below NH average | North Country paradise
Claremont: $185K | 60% below average | Western NH
Keene: $350K | 24% below average | Southwest NH

Mid-Range

Rochester: $365K
Concord: $390K
Dover: $445K

Premium Cities

Nashua: $470K
Manchester: $480K
Durham: $550K
Portsmouth: $585K

By Priority

Best for Job Opportunities

Manchester: Largest job market (healthcare, finance, tech, airport)
Nashua: Tech, defense (BAE), retail
Portsmouth: Naval Shipyard, tourism, startups

Best for Veteran Community

Manchester: 6,500+ veterans, Vet Center, VA Medical Center
Portsmouth: 1,800+ veterans, Naval Shipyard
Nashua: 4,200+ veterans

Best for VA Healthcare Access

Manchester: VA Medical Center in city
Nashua: 20 min to Manchester VA
Concord: 30 min to Manchester VA

Best for Families

Portsmouth: Excellent schools (9/10), very safe, seacoast
Durham: Top schools (9/10), college town
Nashua: Good schools (7-8/10), safe suburbs

Best for Retirees

Berlin: Ultra-affordable, outdoor recreation, tight community
Keene: Affordable, safe, outdoor access
Concord: Central location, veterans cemetery adjacent

Regional Analysis

Seacoast (Portsmouth, Dover, Rochester, Durham)

Characteristics: Coastal, mild winters, beaches, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, higher costs

Best for: Naval Shipyard employees, families wanting beaches, quality of life seekers

Southern NH (Manchester, Nashua, Concord)

Characteristics: Urban, most jobs, best VA access, Boston proximity, higher costs

Best for: Working veterans, career growth, VA access, families

Monadnock Region (Keene, Claremont)

Characteristics: Rural, mountains, affordable, remote from VA

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, budget-focused, retirees

North Country (Berlin)

Characteristics: Very remote, cheapest, harsh winters, outdoor paradise, limited jobs

Best for: Retirees on fixed income, extreme outdoors lovers, isolation seekers

Financial Analysis

Home Ownership Costs (20-Year)

Manchester ($480,000 home, 100% disabled veteran):

Purchase price: $480,000
Down payment (10%): $48,000
Monthly mortgage (30-year, 7%): $2,860
Property tax (monthly, 2.20% rate): $880
If 100% disabled (full exemption): Save $880/month = $10,560/year
Insurance: $150/month
Total monthly: $3,890 (or $3,010 with exemption)
20-year cost: $933,600 (or $722,400 with exemption)
20-year savings from exemption: $211,200

Berlin ($150,000 home, 100% disabled):

Purchase price: $150,000
Down payment: $15,000
Monthly mortgage: $895
Property tax (monthly, ~2.0% rate): $250
If 100% disabled (full exemption): Save $250/month = $3,000/year
Insurance: $100/month
Total monthly: $1,245 (or $995 with exemption)
20-year cost: $298,800 (or $238,800 with exemption)
20-year savings from exemption: $60,000

Climate & Weather

Mildest Weather

Portsmouth/Seacoast: Coastal moderation, milder winters
Southern NH: Warmer than mountains

Harshest Weather

Berlin: Coldest in NH, heavy snow, long winters
North Country: Similar to Berlin

What to expect:

Winter: 15-30°F, snow, ice (more in mountains)
Spring: Mud season, unpredictable
Summer: 75-85°F, humid
Fall: Beautiful foliage, 50-70°F (best season)

Crime & Safety

Safest Cities:

Durham: College town, very low crime
Portsmouth: Well-policed, safe neighborhoods
Berlin: Small town safety

Higher Crime (but still safe by national standards):

Manchester: Urban crime, varies by neighborhood (West Side safe, East Side avoid)
Rochester/Claremont: Higher than rural NH, but not dangerous

What to Avoid

East Manchester: Highest crime in NH. Avoid neighborhoods east of Elm Street.

Extreme isolation without planning: Berlin, Pittsburg, Colebrook are 2+ hours from VA. If you need regular VA care, don't move there.

Moving to New Hampshire

One-Time Costs

Moving truck (500 miles): $2,000-$3,500
Deposit + first month: $4,274 (Manchester 2BR)
Utility hookups: $250
Vehicle registration: Free if 100% P&T disabled; $40-$60 otherwise
Total: $6,524-$8,084

Best Time to Move

Weather: May-September (avoid moving in winter)
Housing market: Winter (less competition, but harsh weather)
Avoid: January-March (snow, ice, cold)

Establishing Residency

NH driver's license within 60 days (free if 100% P&T disabled)
Vehicle registration within 60 days
Apply for property tax exemption immediately if 100% P&T
Register to vote

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the best city in New Hampshire for veterans on a budget?

A: Berlin ($150K median) or Claremont ($185K). Both offer NH's most affordable housing, but Berlin is very remote (2 hours to VA), and Claremont is 90 minutes to VA.

Q: Which city has the strongest veteran community?

A: Manchester—6,500+ veterans, VA Medical Center in city, Vet Center adjacent, most VFW/AL posts.

Q: Is Manchester safe for veterans and families?

A: West Manchester, North End, and Pinardville are very safe. Avoid East Side (higher crime). Overall safer than most US cities of similar size.

Q: Can I work at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard as a veteran?

A: Yes. The shipyard is a major federal employer that actively recruits veterans for civilian positions. Veterans receive federal hiring preference.

Q: Which city is best for veterans attending college?

A: Durham (UNH students) or Manchester (UNH-Manchester, SNHU). Both have strong GI Bill support and veteran services.

Q: How far am I from VA healthcare in northern New Hampshire?

A: Berlin is 2+ hours to Manchester VA (use Littleton clinic for primary care). Keene is 90 minutes. Most southern NH cities are 20-50 minutes.

Q: Does living in New Hampshire really offset the high housing costs?

A: For 100% disabled veterans, yes—full property tax exemption saves $7,000-$10,000+/year. Over 20 years, that's $140,000-$200,000. Plus no income tax saves $2,000-$5,000 annually for retirees.

Q: Which city has the best schools?

A: Portsmouth and Durham both have 9/10 rated school districts. Nashua is 7-8/10 (very good).

Q: Can I afford Portsmouth on a military retirement?

A: Median home is $585,000. If you're 100% P&T disabled (full property tax exemption), you save $10,920/year in property tax, making it more affordable. Otherwise, budget carefully.

Q: What's the cost of living difference between Manchester and Berlin?

A: Manchester is 120/100 (20% above national avg), Berlin is 95/100 (5% below national avg). Berlin housing is $150K vs. Manchester $480K—massive savings, but Berlin has limited jobs and is very remote.

Q: Are there jobs in New Hampshire for veterans?

A: Yes. NH has the lowest veteran unemployment nationally at 0.2%. Major employers (BAE, Fidelity, Dartmouth-Hitchcock, state government) actively recruit veterans. Plus 2025 executive order gives veterans hiring preference for state jobs.

Last updated: 2025. Housing prices and cost of living reflect 2024-2025 market conditions.

Best Cities in New Hampshire for Veterans 2025

Bottom Line Up Front

Ranking Methodology

Cities Ranked By:

Cost of living (housing, utilities, groceries): 30%
Veteran population & community: 20%
Proximity to VA healthcare: 15%
Job opportunities: 20%
Quality of life (crime, schools, amenities): 15%

Top 10 Cities Ranked

#1: Portsmouth

Why It's #1:

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $585,000
Rent (2BR): $2,200/month
26% above NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 130/100 (30% above national average)
Groceries: 115/100
Utilities: $185/month
Transportation: $90/month

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 1,800+ (8% of residents)
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard: 10 minutes (Kittery, ME)
VFW/AL posts: 2
Strong military history and veteran support

VA Healthcare Access:

Manchester VA Medical Center: 40 minutes
Somersworth VA Clinic: 25 minutes
Portsmouth Regional Hospital (Community Care): Excellent

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.2%
Major employers: Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (federal civilian jobs), Liberty Mutual (Dover), BAE Systems (nearby), healthcare, tourism, tech startups
Average salary: $68,000
Veteran hiring: Excellent—shipyard actively recruits veterans

Quality of Life:

Weather: Four seasons, coastal moderation (milder winters than inland), 60°F summers, 30°F winters
Crime rate: Very low (20% below NH average)
Schools: Portsmouth School District rated 9/10—excellent
Recreation: Seacoast beaches, Piscataqua River, historic downtown, art galleries, restaurants, 60 min to Boston

Pros:

Highest quality of life in NH
Seacoast location (beaches, boating, fishing)
Excellent schools for families
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard jobs (veterans preferred)
Low crime, walkable downtown
Cultural amenities (theaters, galleries, dining)
No state income tax
100% disabled vets: full property tax exemption ($10,000+/year savings)

Cons:

Most expensive city in NH (median $585K)
High cost of living overall
Tourist crowds in summer
Limited parking downtown
40 min to Manchester VA (specialty care)

Best For: Veteran families prioritizing schools and safety, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard employees, veterans who value coastal living and culture, high-earning veterans

#2: Manchester

Why It's #2:

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $480,000
Rent (2BR): $2,137/month
4% above NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 120/100 (20% above national average)
Groceries: 110/100
Utilities: $195/month
Transportation: $95/month

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 6,500+ (6% of residents)
VFW/AL posts: 8
Manchester Vet Center: In Hooksett (adjacent)

VA Healthcare Access:

Manchester VA Medical Center: In city (718 Smyth Rd)
Best VA access in New Hampshire
Full medical center with emergency, surgery, specialty care

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.4%
Major employers: Southern NH Health System, Elliot Hospital, Fidelity Investments (Merrimack), BAE Systems (nearby), St. Anselm College, SNHU, state government, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport
Average salary: $64,000
Veteran hiring: Strong—many employers recruit veterans

Quality of Life:

Weather: Cold winters (20°F), warm summers (80°F), four seasons
Crime rate: Higher than suburbs (but improving)—varies by neighborhood
Safest areas: West Manchester, North End, Pinardville
Higher crime: East Side (avoid)
Schools: Variable (5-8/10 depending on neighborhood)—West Side schools better
Recreation: Currier Museum of Art, Palace Theatre, Verizon Wireless Arena (concerts/hockey), Merrimack River trails

Pros:

Best job market in NH
VA Medical Center in city (no driving for care)
Most affordable major city
Urban amenities (dining, culture, entertainment)
Manchester-Boston airport (easy travel)
Universities (UNH-Manchester, SNHU)
No income tax
100% disabled: full property tax exemption ($10,560/year savings)

Cons:

Higher crime than suburbs (choose neighborhood carefully)
Schools vary widely by area
Urban density (not rural NH charm)
Traffic congestion during commute hours
Winter parking bans

Best For: Veterans seeking jobs and career growth, veterans needing frequent VA care, urban-preference veterans, students using GI Bill

#3: Nashua

Why It's #3:

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $470,000
Rent (2BR): $2,275/month
2% above NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 118/100 (18% above national average)
Utilities: $190/month

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 4,200+ (5%)
VFW/AL posts: 4
Close to Massachusetts veterans resources

VA Healthcare Access:

Manchester VA Medical Center: 20 minutes
Nashua Community College VA services

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.3%
Major employers: BAE Systems, Fidelity Investments, Skillsoft, St. Joseph Hospital, Nashua School District, retail (Pheasant Lane Mall)
Average salary: $67,000
Many residents commute to Boston

Quality of Life:

Crime: Low (safer than Manchester)
Schools: Nashua School District rated 7-8/10 (good to excellent)
Recreation: Mine Falls Park, Greeley Park, Nashua River Trail, 40 min to Boston

Pros:

Strong economy (tech + defense)
Safe, good schools
Boston access without MA taxes
20 min to Manchester VA
No income tax
Lower crime than Manchester

Cons:

Expensive housing
High property taxes (offset by 100% disabled exemption)
Less urban amenities than Manchester
Traffic on Everett Turnpike

Best For: Families, Boston commuters, BAE Systems employees, tech workers

#4: Concord

Why It's #4:

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $390,000
Rent (2BR): $1,800/month
16% below NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 110/100 (10% above national average)
Utilities: $180/month

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 2,800+ (6%)
NH State Veterans Cemetery: Adjacent (Boscawen)
VFW/AL posts: 3

VA Healthcare Access:

Manchester VA: 30 minutes
NHTI VA services (local)

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.5%
Major employers: State of New Hampshire (veteran preference), Concord Hospital, NH Department of Transportation, education
Average salary: $58,000
2025 veteran hiring preference for state jobs (Gov. Ayotte executive order)

Quality of Life:

Crime: Low
Schools: Concord School District rated 7/10
Recreation: Capitol building, NH Historical Society, Merrimack River, White Mountains access

Pros:

State government jobs with veteran preference
More affordable than southern NH
Central location (access to mountains and seacoast)
State veterans cemetery adjacent
Low crime
No income tax

Cons:

Smaller job market (government-heavy)
Limited nightlife/entertainment
Colder winters than seacoast
30 min to VA

Best For: Veterans seeking state government careers, families wanting affordability, retirees

#5: Durham

Why It's #5:

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $550,000
Rent (2BR): $2,100/month
19% above NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 125/100
Dominated by student economy

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 600+ (mostly student veterans)
UNH Military & Veteran Services: Excellent support

VA Healthcare Access:

Manchester VA: 50 minutes
Somersworth VA Clinic: 20 minutes
Portsmouth hospitals: 15 minutes

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.0%
Major employers: UNH, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (20 min), healthcare
Average salary: $55,000 (many students/part-time)

Quality of Life:

Crime: Very low
Schools: Oyster River School District rated 9/10
Recreation: College town amenities, 10 min to beaches, hiking

Pros:

Excellent for GI Bill students
UNH veteran support services
College town culture
Very safe
Close to seacoast
No income tax

Cons:

Expensive housing
Small town (limited jobs outside UNH)
Student-dominated (pro/con depending on preference)
50 min to Manchester VA

Best For: Student veterans, families wanting excellent schools, academic environment lovers

#6: Dover

Why It's #6:

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $445,000
Rent (2BR): $1,950/month
4% below NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 115/100

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 2,000+ (7%)
Close to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

VA Healthcare Access:

Somersworth VA Clinic: 10 minutes
Manchester VA: 45 minutes

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.3%
Major employers: Liberty Mutual (headquarters), Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Average salary: $62,000

Quality of Life:

Crime: Low
Schools: Dover School District rated 7/10
Recreation: Cocheco River, downtown restaurants, 15 min to beaches

Pros:

More affordable than Portsmouth
Liberty Mutual jobs (veteran-friendly)
Close to seacoast
Good schools
Low crime

Cons:

Less charm than Portsmouth
45 min to Manchester VA
Smaller downtown

Best For: Families, Liberty Mutual employees, veterans wanting seacoast access at lower cost

#7: Rochester

Why It's #7:

Rochester is an affordable city (median $365,000) with manufacturing jobs, proximity to seacoast, and small-city feel. Good option for budget-conscious veterans.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $365,000
Rent (2BR): $1,700/month
21% below NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 108/100

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 1,800+ (6%)

VA Healthcare Access:

Somersworth VA Clinic: 15 minutes
Manchester VA: 50 minutes

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.6%
Major employers: Albany International, Frisbie Memorial Hospital, manufacturing
Average salary: $54,000

Quality of Life:

Crime: Moderate (higher than suburbs, lower than Manchester)
Schools: Rochester School District rated 6/10
Recreation: Lake access, 25 min to beaches

Pros:

Affordable for seacoast area
Manufacturing jobs
15 min to VA clinic
No income tax

Cons:

Higher crime than smaller towns
Lower-rated schools
Industrial areas
50 min to VA medical center

Best For: Budget-focused veterans, manufacturing workers, veterans wanting seacoast proximity

#8: Keene

Why It's #8:

Keene is a charming college town (Keene State College) in southwestern NH near Vermont border. Affordable, safe, outdoor recreation paradise, but remote from VA care.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $350,000
Rent (2BR): $1,650/month
24% below NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 105/100

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 1,200+ (5%)
College student veterans

VA Healthcare Access:

White River Junction VA (VT): 60 miles
Peterborough VA Clinic: 30 miles
Manchester VA: 90 minutes

Employment:

Unemployment: 2.4%
Major employers: Keene State College, C&S Wholesale Grocers (headquarters), Cheshire Medical Center
Average salary: $52,000

Quality of Life:

Crime: Very low
Schools: Keene School District rated 7/10
Recreation: Mt. Monadnock, hiking, skiing, college town culture

Pros:

Affordable
Very safe
College town amenities
Outdoor recreation
Mt. Monadnock access
No income tax

Cons:

Remote from VA (90 min to Manchester)
Limited jobs outside college/C&S
Small town isolation
Harsh winters

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, retirees, veterans wanting small-town NH, C&S employees

#9: Berlin

Why It's #9:

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $150,000
Rent (2BR): $1,100/month
68% below NH average!

Cost of Living:

Overall: 95/100 (5% below national average)

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 800+ (8%)
North Country veterans tight-knit

VA Healthcare Access:

Littleton VA Clinic: 60 miles
Manchester VA: 120 miles (2+ hours)
Community Care: Androscoggin Valley Hospital (local)

Employment:

Unemployment: 3.5%
Major employers: Limited—paper mill closed, healthcare, retail, tourism
Average salary: $42,000
Many residents retired or commute

Quality of Life:

Crime: Very low
Schools: Berlin School District rated 5/10
Recreation: White Mountains, ATV trails, snowmobiling, hiking, hunting, fishing paradise

Pros:

Most affordable housing in NH
Very safe
Outdoor recreation paradise
Tight-knit community
No income tax
100% disabled: full property tax exemption (save $3,000+/year)

Cons:

2+ hours to VA medical center
Very limited jobs
Harsh winters (coldest in NH)
Remote/isolated
Poor schools

Best For: Retirees on fixed income, outdoor enthusiasts, veterans wanting ultra-low cost, remote/rural lovers

#10: Claremont

Why It's #10:

Claremont is an affordable city (median $185,000) in western NH near Vermont. Offers budget living with some job opportunities (healthcare, education), but remote from major VA facilities.

Housing Costs:

Median home price: $185,000
Rent (2BR): $1,200/month
60% below NH average

Cost of Living:

Overall: 98/100 (2% below national average)

Veteran Community:

Veteran population: 900+ (7%)

VA Healthcare Access:

White River Junction VA (VT): 45 miles
Manchester VA: 90 minutes

Employment:

Unemployment: 3.0%
Major employers: Valley Regional Hospital, River Valley Community College, manufacturing
Average salary: $48,000

Quality of Life:

Crime: Moderate
Schools: Claremont School District rated 5-6/10
Recreation: Connecticut River, Sugar River Trail, Lake Sunapee nearby

Pros:

Very affordable
River Valley Community College (GI Bill)
No income tax
100% disabled: full property tax exemption

Cons:

90 min to Manchester VA
Limited jobs
Higher crime than rural NH
Lower-rated schools

Best For: Budget-focused veterans, River Valley CC students, veterans wanting western NH

Cost of Living Comparison Table

City	Median Home	Rent (2BR)	COL Index	Veteran %	VA Access
Portsmouth	$585,000	$2,200	130	8%	40 min
Manchester	$480,000	$2,137	120	6%	In city
Nashua	$470,000	$2,275	118	5%	20 min
Concord	$390,000	$1,800	110	6%	30 min
Durham	$550,000	$2,100	125	4% (students)	50 min
Dover	$445,000	$1,950	115	7%	45 min
Rochester	$365,000	$1,700	108	6%	50 min
Keene	$350,000	$1,650	105	5%	90 min
Berlin	$150,000	$1,100	95	8%	120 min
Claremont	$185,000	$1,200	98	7%	90 min

By Budget

Most Affordable Cities

Berlin: $150K median | 68% below NH average | North Country paradise
Claremont: $185K | 60% below average | Western NH
Keene: $350K | 24% below average | Southwest NH

Mid-Range

Rochester: $365K
Concord: $390K
Dover: $445K

Premium Cities

Nashua: $470K
Manchester: $480K
Durham: $550K
Portsmouth: $585K

By Priority

Best for Job Opportunities

Manchester: Largest job market (healthcare, finance, tech, airport)
Nashua: Tech, defense (BAE), retail
Portsmouth: Naval Shipyard, tourism, startups

Best for Veteran Community

Manchester: 6,500+ veterans, Vet Center, VA Medical Center
Portsmouth: 1,800+ veterans, Naval Shipyard
Nashua: 4,200+ veterans

Best for VA Healthcare Access

Manchester: VA Medical Center in city
Nashua: 20 min to Manchester VA
Concord: 30 min to Manchester VA

Best for Families

Portsmouth: Excellent schools (9/10), very safe, seacoast
Durham: Top schools (9/10), college town
Nashua: Good schools (7-8/10), safe suburbs

Best for Retirees

Berlin: Ultra-affordable, outdoor recreation, tight community
Keene: Affordable, safe, outdoor access
Concord: Central location, veterans cemetery adjacent

Regional Analysis

Seacoast (Portsmouth, Dover, Rochester, Durham)

Characteristics: Coastal, mild winters, beaches, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, higher costs

Best for: Naval Shipyard employees, families wanting beaches, quality of life seekers

Southern NH (Manchester, Nashua, Concord)

Characteristics: Urban, most jobs, best VA access, Boston proximity, higher costs

Best for: Working veterans, career growth, VA access, families

Monadnock Region (Keene, Claremont)

Characteristics: Rural, mountains, affordable, remote from VA

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, budget-focused, retirees

North Country (Berlin)

Characteristics: Very remote, cheapest, harsh winters, outdoor paradise, limited jobs

Best for: Retirees on fixed income, extreme outdoors lovers, isolation seekers

Financial Analysis

Home Ownership Costs (20-Year)

Manchester ($480,000 home, 100% disabled veteran):

Purchase price: $480,000
Down payment (10%): $48,000
Monthly mortgage (30-year, 7%): $2,860
Property tax (monthly, 2.20% rate): $880
If 100% disabled (full exemption): Save $880/month = $10,560/year
Insurance: $150/month
Total monthly: $3,890 (or $3,010 with exemption)
20-year cost: $933,600 (or $722,400 with exemption)
20-year savings from exemption: $211,200

Berlin ($150,000 home, 100% disabled):

Purchase price: $150,000
Down payment: $15,000
Monthly mortgage: $895
Property tax (monthly, ~2.0% rate): $250
If 100% disabled (full exemption): Save $250/month = $3,000/year
Insurance: $100/month
Total monthly: $1,245 (or $995 with exemption)
20-year cost: $298,800 (or $238,800 with exemption)
20-year savings from exemption: $60,000

Climate & Weather

Mildest Weather

Portsmouth/Seacoast: Coastal moderation, milder winters
Southern NH: Warmer than mountains

Harshest Weather

Berlin: Coldest in NH, heavy snow, long winters
North Country: Similar to Berlin

What to expect:

Winter: 15-30°F, snow, ice (more in mountains)
Spring: Mud season, unpredictable
Summer: 75-85°F, humid
Fall: Beautiful foliage, 50-70°F (best season)

Crime & Safety

Safest Cities:

Durham: College town, very low crime
Portsmouth: Well-policed, safe neighborhoods
Berlin: Small town safety

Higher Crime (but still safe by national standards):

Manchester: Urban crime, varies by neighborhood (West Side safe, East Side avoid)
Rochester/Claremont: Higher than rural NH, but not dangerous

What to Avoid

East Manchester: Highest crime in NH. Avoid neighborhoods east of Elm Street.

Extreme isolation without planning: Berlin, Pittsburg, Colebrook are 2+ hours from VA. If you need regular VA care, don't move there.

Moving to New Hampshire

One-Time Costs

Moving truck (500 miles): $2,000-$3,500
Deposit + first month: $4,274 (Manchester 2BR)
Utility hookups: $250
Vehicle registration: Free if 100% P&T disabled; $40-$60 otherwise
Total: $6,524-$8,084

Best Time to Move

Weather: May-September (avoid moving in winter)
Housing market: Winter (less competition, but harsh weather)
Avoid: January-March (snow, ice, cold)

Establishing Residency

NH driver's license within 60 days (free if 100% P&T disabled)
Vehicle registration within 60 days
Apply for property tax exemption immediately if 100% P&T
Register to vote

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the best city in New Hampshire for veterans on a budget?

A: Berlin ($150K median) or Claremont ($185K). Both offer NH's most affordable housing, but Berlin is very remote (2 hours to VA), and Claremont is 90 minutes to VA.

Q: Which city has the strongest veteran community?

A: Manchester—6,500+ veterans, VA Medical Center in city, Vet Center adjacent, most VFW/AL posts.

Q: Is Manchester safe for veterans and families?

A: West Manchester, North End, and Pinardville are very safe. Avoid East Side (higher crime). Overall safer than most US cities of similar size.

Q: Can I work at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard as a veteran?

A: Yes. The shipyard is a major federal employer that actively recruits veterans for civilian positions. Veterans receive federal hiring preference.

Q: Which city is best for veterans attending college?

A: Durham (UNH students) or Manchester (UNH-Manchester, SNHU). Both have strong GI Bill support and veteran services.

Q: How far am I from VA healthcare in northern New Hampshire?

A: Berlin is 2+ hours to Manchester VA (use Littleton clinic for primary care). Keene is 90 minutes. Most southern NH cities are 20-50 minutes.

Q: Does living in New Hampshire really offset the high housing costs?

A: For 100% disabled veterans, yes—full property tax exemption saves $7,000-$10,000+/year. Over 20 years, that's $140,000-$200,000. Plus no income tax saves $2,000-$5,000 annually for retirees.

Q: Which city has the best schools?

A: Portsmouth and Durham both have 9/10 rated school districts. Nashua is 7-8/10 (very good).

Q: Can I afford Portsmouth on a military retirement?

A: Median home is $585,000. If you're 100% P&T disabled (full property tax exemption), you save $10,920/year in property tax, making it more affordable. Otherwise, budget carefully.

Q: What's the cost of living difference between Manchester and Berlin?

Q: Are there jobs in New Hampshire for veterans?

Last updated: 2025. Housing prices and cost of living reflect 2024-2025 market conditions.