5 affordable places to live in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is a great place to settle down if you enjoy mountains, beaches, and great skiing. Here are some lower-cost areas of the state to focus on.
1. Manchester
Known for its walkable downtown, great parks, farmers markets, and exciting food scene, Manchester is a draw for young professionals looking for the city experience with a touch less noise and hassle than bigger places. The median home value in Manchester is $217,100, according to Niche, well below the median home value across all of New Hampshire -- $299,333, according to Zillow. In addition, the average property tax rate in Hillsborough County is 1.79% of a home's assessed value (Tax-rates.org). That's in line with the average property tax rate in all of New Hampshire -- 1.86%.
2. Berlin
Located in New Hampshire's Great North Woods Region, Berlin offers easy access to the White Mountains, which means skiing in the winter and hiking when the weather warms. The median home value in Berlin is $88,300, well below the median home value statewide. Property taxes, though a touch high, are reasonable for the area, too. The average property tax rate in Coos County is 2.04% of a home's assessed value.
3. Conway
Near the southeastern corner of the White Mountain National Forest, Conway draws tourists looking for easy access to hiking and ski slopes. The median home value in Conway is $184,400, while the average property tax rate in Carroll County is a mere 1.07% of a home's assessed value.
4. Laconia
In the heart of New Hampshire's lakes region, Laconia is a popular place for young professionals and retirees alike to settle down. The median home value in Laconia is $187,000, while the average property tax rate in Belknap County is 1.53% of a home's assessed value.
5. Rochester
Just minutes from the Maine border, Rochester is home to a number of museums and attractions that are suitable for families and young professionals alike. The median home value in Rochester is $167,400, while the average property tax rate in Strafford County is 1.89% of a home's assessed value.
There are plenty of good reasons to buy a home in New Hampshire. Remember that the lower your mortgage rate, the more affordable your home will be, so take the time to shop around to increase your chances of snagging a great rate. Check out our mortgage calculator to help you estimate your monthly payment, including principal, interest, insurance, taxes, and PMI.
