Is Concord NH A Good Place To Live? Here's The Truth
Yes, Concord, NH is an excellent place to live, earning a livability score of 88 out of 100 and ranking in the top 5% of U.S. cities for quality of life as of 2026 data. With low crime rates, strong schools, affordable housing relative to national averages, and a vibrant community, it appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike. This capital city blends small-town charm with urban amenities, making it a top choice in New Hampshire.
Cost of Living
Concord's overall cost of living index stands at 117, about 17% higher than the national average of 100 but comparable to New Hampshire's 116. For a single adult, annual expenses total around $38,290, covering housing, food, transport, and healthcare-nearly matching the state average of $38,487. Despite this, the median household income of $86,104 covers costs comfortably, with after-tax salaries supporting 2.2 months of living expenses.
| Category | Concord Annual Cost | National Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $15,000 (est.) | $13,500 | Median home $445,979 |
| Food | $3,563 (single) | $3,500 | Family of 4: $10,291 |
| Transport | $11,118 | $9,760 | Includes gas, maintenance |
| Healthcare | $3,258 | $4,266 | Below national |
| Childcare (2 kids) | $14,485 | $15,000+ | $700 under state avg. |
Housing remains accessible, with median home values at $445,979, up 4.2% year-over-year as of March 2026, and average rents at $1,814 monthly. Utilities run higher at an index of 131, but no state sales or income tax keeps more money in pockets.
Housing Market
The Concord housing market is competitive, with homes selling in about 9-32 days and median sale prices at $419,500 in early 2026. Neighborhoods like North End boast values up to $550,323, while options like Wellington offer $413,258-ideal for varied budgets. Home price-to-income ratio of 3.4 is below the state average, signaling affordability.
- Inventory: 47 homes for sale (March 2026), with 26 new listings.
- Rentals: Average $1,814, up 2.9% YoY, below national $1,910.
- Forecast: Steady growth due to low supply and demand from Boston commuters.
- Best neighborhoods: Contoocook ($473,477 median), Straw-Smyth ($476,343).
Job Market
Concord offers a robust economy with over 12,000 jobs listed locally, including entry-level roles numbering 223-235 on platforms like LinkedIn and SimplyHired. Unemployment remains low, bolstered by sectors like healthcare, government, and manufacturing near the state capitol. Median income of $83,701-$86,104 exceeds national figures, with short commutes averaging 21.7 minutes versus 26.4 nationally.
"Concord has a booming job market which makes it appealing to people of all lifestyles." - Local relocation guide, 2024.
Safety and Crime
Concord maintains safer-than-average streets, with an overall crime rate 35.8% below the national average-1.81 incidents daily for its 44,000 residents. Violent crime odds are 1 in 545 (138 per 100k), far under U.S. norms, while property crime is 1 in 81. This places it ahead of 88% of New Hampshire communities for safety.
- Assess daily risk: Lower violent rates than 62.8% national benchmark.
- Property protection: 30.7% below average theft/burglary.
- Historical trend: Steady decline, with 632 total crimes estimated recently.
Schools and Education
The Concord School District serves 3,835 students across 7 schools, earning solid rankings like #6 most diverse in NH and #8 for athletes. Proficiency stands at 43% in reading and 38% in math for elementary, with standouts like Christa McAuliffe School (4 stars, #67 statewide). Reviews average 3.7/5, praising resources but noting facility issues in some spots.
Weather and Climate
Concord features a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons: summer highs of 82°F in July, winter lows of 11°F in January, 44 inches annual rain, and 62-69 inches snow. Expect 197 sunny days yearly and precipitation 127-129 days, ideal for outdoor lovers who embrace New England winters. Air quality is good (AQI 32), though climate risk scores relatively high at 84.39.
Things to Do
Residents enjoy a walkable downtown (score 59), historic sites like the 1819 New Hampshire State House, museums (Concord Historical Society), and arts venues (Capitol Center for the Arts). Outdoor pursuits include trails via Five Rivers Conservation Trust, Scenic RailRiders, and nearby NH Motor Speedway for races. Events like Sunflower Bloom Festival (Aug 9-17) and farmers markets add vibrancy.
- Museums: McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, Pierce Manse.
- Arts: Red River Theatres, Kimball Jenkins School of Art.
- Nature: Apple Hill Farm, NH Audubon.
- Events: NH Highland Games, Arts Alley.
Pros and Cons
Key pros include safety, jobs, community events, and no sales tax, as resident John D. notes: "The community is so welcoming... plenty of things to do." Cons involve harsh winters, limited nightlife for young adults, and tight housing inventory. Sarah T. praises: "Clean, safe... excellent schools," while Emily P. cites traffic and boredom.
Founded in 1727, Concord became New Hampshire's capital in 1808, evolving from mills to a modern hub while preserving granite architecture and community ties. As of May 2026, ongoing investments in arts and conservation solidify its appeal.
Key concerns and solutions for Is Concord Nh A Good Place To Live Heres The Truth
Is Concord NH safe?
Yes, Concord is safe with crime rates 35.8% below national averages, violent incidents at 138 per 100k, and property crime lower by 30.7%.
Are schools in Concord NH good?
Concord schools rank highly for diversity (#6 in NH) and athletics (#8), with 43% reading proficiency and top performers like Christa McAuliffe (4 stars).
What is the cost of living in Concord NH?
The index is 117 (17% above U.S. average), but incomes cover it well; single adult costs $38,290 yearly, housing median $445k.
Is the job market good in Concord NH?
Strong, with 12,000+ openings, low unemployment, median income $86k, and 21.7-min commutes.
What are the best neighborhoods in Concord NH?
North End ($550k median), Contoocook ($473k), Straw/Smyth ($476k) for families and professionals.