New Hampshire offers a mix of safety, natural beauty, and senior-friendly amenities that make it an appealing retirement destination. With low crime rates and accessible healthcare, towns like Portsmouth and Hanover provide peace of mind and community charm. While winters can be snowy, the state’s clean air, no state income tax, and small-town feel are major perks for retirees looking for a quiet yet connected lifestyle.
What Are the Safest Places to Retire in New Hampshire?
Portsmouth
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.8 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 12.4 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with cold winters and coastal storms
- Heart Health: Advanced cardiology treatments, recognized for expertise in heart attack and heart failure care.
- Orthopedics: Specialized surgeons for joint replacements, spine surgery, and sports medicine, plus rehabilitation services.
- Cancer Care: The Seacoast Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer treatment and support services.
- Senior-Specific: Geriatric consultations, medication management, and fall prevention programs.
- Summer: Highs in the mid-80s°F
- Winter: Cold, with lows averaging in the 20s°F and occasional heavy snowfall
- Spring and Fall: Comfortable, but spring storms can bring coastal flooding
Hanover
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.0 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 5.9 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with snowy winters
- Geriatrics: Dedicated geriatrics department with primary care, memory clinics, and geriatric rehabilitation.
- Cardiology: Regional leader in cardiovascular care, offering advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive procedures.
- Cancer Care: Norris Cotton Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center.
- Neurology: Specializing in stroke care, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other neurological conditions.
- Summer: Highs in the low 80s°F with low humidity
- Winter: Average lows in the teens with frequent snowfall, so plan for icy roads
- Spring and Fall: Mild and enjoyable, though spring thaw can cause muddy conditions
Concord
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.4 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 13.5 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with cold winters and occasional storms
- Heart Health: Comprehensive cardiac program with expertise in treating heart attacks and heart rhythm disorders.
- Cancer Care: The Payson Center for Cancer Care provides comprehensive cancer treatment and support.
- Orthopedics & Rehab: Dedicated orthopedic unit and rehabilitation center.
- Senior-Specific: Geriatric emergency department, inpatient unit, palliative care, and a Senior Health Center.
- Summer: Highs in the mid-80s°F, great for exploring local parks.
- Winter: Cold, with lows in the 20s°F and significant snowfall.
- Spring and Fall: Comfortable, but spring rains can cause brief flooding in low-lying areas.
Nashua
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.6 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 10.7 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Low
- Cardiology: Comprehensive cardiology program with diagnostic testing and interventional procedures.
- Cancer Care: The Solinsky Center for Cancer Care provides comprehensive cancer treatment.
- Orthopedics & Rehab: Full range of orthopedic services and rehabilitation programs.
- Senior-Specific: Senior Wellness Center with health screenings, fitness classes, and geriatric care management.
- Summer: Highs in the upper 80s°F with comfortable humidity
- Winter: Average lows in the 20s°F with moderate snowfall
- Spring and Fall: Pleasant and mild
Keene
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.8 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 22 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate
- Primary Care: Strong primary care program with a focus on preventative care.
- Cardiology: Diagnostic testing, cardiac rehabilitation, and treatment for heart conditions.
- Orthopedics & Rehab: Orthopedic services, including joint replacements and fracture care, and rehabilitation programs.
- Senior-Specific: Chronic disease management, diabetes education, nutrition counseling, and a geriatric fracture program.
- Summer: Highs in the low 80s°F with occasional thunderstorms.
- Winter: Cold, with lows in the teens and regular snowfall.
- Spring and Fall: Cool and refreshing, though spring can bring muddy trails.
What Are the Best Healthcare Facilities in New Hampshire for Seniors?
- Portsmouth: Portsmouth Regional Hospital offers cardiac care, cancer treatments, orthopedic services, and robust outpatient rehabilitation programs.
- Hanover: Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center provides top-tier care, specializing in geriatrics, oncology, and cardiology.
- Concord: Concord Hospital excels in heart health, cancer care, and senior-focused rehab services.
- Nashua: Southern New Hampshire Medical Center delivers high-quality cardiology, cancer treatment, and wellness programs for seniors.
- Keene: Cheshire Medical Center focuses on community wellness, providing seniors with primary care, cardiology, and physical therapy.
Is New Hampshire Senior-Friendly and Accessible?
In short, yes! New Hampshire often ranks highly as a retirement destination, and for good reason. It offers a compelling mix of safety, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community, all of which are particularly appealing to older adults. However, like any place, it has its own unique set of pros and cons, especially when it comes to accessibility. Let's take a closer look to help you decide if it's the right fit for you.Pros
- Low Crime Rates: New Hampshire consistently ranks as one of the safest states in the nation.
- Healthcare Access: World-class hospitals like Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Hanover and Concord Hospital provide advanced care and specialized geriatric services.
- No State Income Tax: There's no state income tax or sales tax, which means more money stays in your pocket.
- Outdoor Activities: There's no shortage of opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and simply soaking in the natural beauty.
- Small-Town Charm: Many communities cater to seniors with local events and activities.
Cons
- Cold Winters: New England winters can be beautiful, but they also bring snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.
- Limited Public Transit: Rural areas may lack transportation options for non-drivers. If you don't drive, you might need to rely on ride-sharing services, senior transportation programs, or the kindness of neighbors.
- Cost of Living: Higher than the national average, especially in popular towns like Portsmouth and Hanover.