HILLSBOROGH COUNTY

County Offices
329 Mast Road
Goffstown, NH 603-627-5600
http://hcnh.org

Chamber of Commerce
122 North Main Street
Concord, NH 603-224-5388
https://www.biaofnh.com

New Hampshire’s major metropolis, Manchester, joins Nashua to form the leading center of business and commerce for Hillsborough County. This region blends with the Merrimack Valley, home to the capital city of Concord. The city of Manchester is the financial hub of the state, the location of its largest airport, and the pinnacle of cultural attractions including a new state-of-the-art arena.

Just a few miles beyond the city is some of New Hampshire’s most scenic country. White-steepled commons in New England villages, 18th century homes, and ribbons of hiking trails contrast with high-tech companies in Peterborough. The towns of the Souhegan Valley blend with bustling urban centers for a medley of lifestyles.

Services
In addition to the powerhouse of the city of Manchester, growth has transformed bedroom communities like Hudson and Merrimack into centers of commerce and industry. Options for higher education in this area include Daniel Webster College, Rivier College, Hesser College, Saint Anselm College, and the Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester. The Thomas More College of Liberal Arts is nearby in Merrimack. State-of-the-art healthcare is available in major hospitals and a network of support centers.

Lifestyle
Newcomers to Hillsborough County can choose from a well-kept older home in the heart of Manchester, a five-acre country manor on the outskirts of a quaint village, or a modern home in a new subdivision. Comfortable old farm houses, high-rise condominiums, elegant Victorians, and traditional colonials form a kaleidoscope of architectural styles, environmental settings, and price ranges. Although Manchester crowns the regional cultural scene with fine venues and first-rate entertainment, many of the smaller communities have developed impressive community theaters as well as art centers that continually support and encourage creativity and self-expression.

Recreational opportunities are first-rate and diverse throughout the county. New Hampshire’s breathtaking beauty sets the stage for natural playgrounds in the form of regional and state parks, although each community features unique attractions. Flea markets, roadside produce stands, church and school events, active civic and social groups, and colorful celebrations that involve the entire community add to the enjoyment of daily life and the passing of the seasons. At the same time, modern malls present the latest fashions, and respected local schools excel in high-tech innovation. Without a doubt, Hillsborough County preserves the finest of yesterday while it embraces every modern convenience.

Amherst
Municipal Offices
603-673-6041
https://www.amherstnh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

This charming and serene town with its lovely village common and lush open space is located just a few minutes away from both Nashua and Manchester. In an effort to protect the town’s rural flavor, residents have limited the commercial development. Most homes enjoy spacious multi-acre lots and showcase architecture from Colonial and Tudor to Cape Cods. An active recreation department offers a wide selection of sports and recreation programs.

Antrim
Municipal Offices
603-558-6785
https://www.antrimnh.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-352-1303
https://www.keenechamber.com

In contrast to many small communities, Antrim attracts a number of shoppers and diners from nearby towns to a charming main street lined with stately Victorians. The small town is served by Routes 202, 9, and 31. Interstate 89 is 25 miles from town. Residents enjoy parks and opportunities for swimming, playing tennis, sports leagues, fishing, hunting, biking, and winter sports. Regional attractions include Willard Pond Sanctuary; and Gregg and Franklin Pierce lakes for fishing, boating, and swimming.

Bedford
Municipal Offices
603-472-5242
https://www.bedfordnh.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-666-6600
https://www.manchester-chamber.org

The beautiful New England village of Bedford enjoys a hilltop vantage point with vintage colonial homes, a white steepled church, and a traditional town hall. Just four miles from Manchester and 50 miles from Boston, Bedford provides a fine selection of single-family homes in handsome new residential communities. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with the first-rate conveniences provided by the commercial corridor along Routes 101 and 3, Bedford Mall, local strip centers, excellent schools, and quick and easy access to regional higher education.

Bennington
Municipal Offices
603-588-2189
https://www.townofbennington.com

Chamber of Commerce
603-352-1303
https://www.keenechamber.com

Bennington boasts a rich manufacturing history at the site where several dams on the Contoocook River once powered a wide variety of industries. In fact, Monadnock Paper Mills has been an economic driver for more than a century. The company is distinguished as the nation’s oldest single-family-owned paper-manufacturing firm.  Bennington still offers local employment in area plants, although most residents today are commuters. The active recreational organization ensures a calendar of special events and colorful seasonal celebrations. The town shares Crotched Mountain with neighboring Francestown, but Whittemore Lake is a unique local attraction.

Brookline
Municipal Offices
603-673-8855
https://www.brookline.nh.us

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

This tranquil community enjoys a prime location in an expansive area and has also enforced strict zoning laws to maintain its small-town atmosphere. Brookline appeals to those seeking the close-knit community spirit of friendly neighbors. Local stores are supplemented by retail districts in Milford or Nashua. Brookline is characterized as a residential community of primarily single-family homes in a variety of architectural styles. Beautiful Lake Potanipo is one of many recreational sites that provide first-rate opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Deering
Municipal Offices
603-464-3224
https://www.deering.nh.us

Chamber of Commerce                  
603-464-5858
https://ghcocnh.org

The Deering area went through a number of transformations in its early history. By the 1960s, vacated farms brought another wave of new residents. The town attracted retirees looking for a peaceful and beautiful environment as well as professionals who were employed in the region’s larger cities. The area’s open land and quaint farmhouses so ideal for renovation were very appealing. Many of these newcomers were lovers of nature who were interested raising families and preserving the environment. The result is a balanced, residential community that is a model of conservation. Common pastimes are swimming, fishing, hunting, boating, and winter sports.

Francestown
Municipal Offices
603-547-3469
https://www.francestownnh.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-352-1303
https://www.keenechamber.com

The small community of Francestown, essentially bypassed during the railroad boom era, boasts a colonial main street that preserves much of its original charm. Just beyond the village are quaint farmsteads and a picturesque countryside. Francestown is an active recreational center, home to the Hall of Fame Golf Club, the Crotched Mountain Golf Club and Ski Resort, and the Crotched Mountain Ski Area. Newcomers will discover all the charm of a residential New English village. Routes 47 and 136 are the major highways, with Interstate 293 and Manchester Airport just 25 miles away. Lush municipal parks combine with opportunities for swimming, golfing, tennis, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures.

Goffstown
Municipal Offices
603-497-8990
https://www.goffstown.com

Chamber of Commerce
603-666-6600
https://www.manchester-chamber.org

Located less than 10 miles from the center of metropolitan Manchester, the quiet community of Goffstown has evolved through the decades from a sleepy agricultural town nestled at the base of the Uncanoonuc Mountains. Today, residents of Goffstown are seeing considerable residential growth and expansion. Commercial and industrial development is most prevalent in the section situated along the Manchester border, while the west side of town retains a more rural flavor. Housing ranges from modest homes in the heart of the city to larger residences in country settings. The private institution of St. Anselm’s College enriches the town with cultural and special events. Amenities include a recreation center, lush local parks, sports courts and fields, swimming pools, and a variety of programs and activities designed for residents of all ages.

Greenfield
Municipal Offices
603-547-3442
https://www.greenfield-nh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

Greenfield is located at a comfortable yet easily accessible distance from commercial and business centers in Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and Keene. The historic Greenfield Meeting House is the cornerstone of local heritage, the state’s oldest building serving as a town meeting house and church. This quiet residential and farming area is home to a rehabilitation center for handicapped children and adults. The region boasts Greenfield State Park as a premier recreational site. The breathtaking natural beauty along with a healthy country environment have drawn many seasonal residents and visitors for centuries, and the town is noted for its deep generational roots.

Greenville
Municipal Offices
603-878-2084
https://www.greenvillenh.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

Greenville is characterized as a small town along the Souhegan River that claims a manufacturing history. The Columbian Manufacturing Company, established in 1826 to make cotton and wool cloth, closed decades ago but left a proud legacy of fine brick buildings that still dominate the village. Complementing these structures are well-kept Queen Anne-style homes shaded by magnificent trees. Residents enjoy lush areas for hiking, swimming, boating, nature study, and fishing. More than 200 prime riverfront acres have been recently acquired.

Hancock
Municipal Offices
603-525-4441
https://www.hancocknh.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-352-1303
https://www.keenechamber.com

In contrast to its roots as a manufacturing center for cotton and rifles, Hancock today is almost strictly residential. Many artists have settled in the town, and residents share an interest in culture, education, and history. Hancock showcases one of New England’s finest examples of a vintage main street and postcard-perfect images of late 18th and early 19th-century architecture.  The town includes the angler’s delight of Nubanusit Lake and the Harris Center for Conservation Education as well as sweeping tracts of protected land. A location off the beaten path has helped to preserve the area with much of its original charm and sense of place.

Hillsborough
Municipal Offices
603-464-3877
https://www.town.hillsborough.nh.us

Chamber of Commerce
603-464-5858
https://ghcocnh.org

Proud of its friendly hometown spirit, the Hillsborough area combines the beauty of nature with the legacy of a lovingly preserved past. Newcomers never fail to appreciate the charming ambiance created by details like unique stone arch bridges, quaint historic sites, and lush open space. The downtown district had its genesis as Hillsborough Bridge Village in the 1760s. The original town was actually three miles up the road at Hillsborough Center, a former farming village that is recognized today as the town’s historic district. Hillsborough still honors its famous native son, former U.S. president Franklin Pierce. Moving forward from its history of agriculture and milling activity, Hillsborough now provides a well-balanced community with friendly local merchants and unique shops.

Hollis
Municipal Offices
603-465-2209
https://www.hollis.nh.us

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

Located near the Massachusetts state line and west of the New Hampshire county seat of Nashua, the small town of Hollis provides an excellent location for employees commuting to jobs in various high-technology industries. The recreational amenities are outstanding. One of New Hampshire’s most beautiful state parks is located in the community, with a sandy beach, picnic sites, and open areas. The town supports a community theater and many civic and hobby organizations that add to the quality of life.

Hudson
Municipal Offices
603-886-6000
https://www.hudsonnh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-889-4731
https://www.hudsonchamber.com

Considered to be ideal for commuters because of its convenient location, Hudson is close to the Massachusetts state line and near Nashua. The town has experienced a significant influx of new residents as well as commercial growth. No longer seen as “just a bedroom community for Nashua,” this city on the east bank of the Merrimack River has also developed a thriving industrial sector. Residents of Hudson tend to be friendly and eager to work together toward the common good. Volunteers contribute to the quality of life in many aspects, especially in regard to youth programs. Supporting a quality education has always been a high priority in Hudson, where the public schools are known for impressive achievement scores and innovative special programs.

Litchfield
Municipal Offices
603-424-4046
http://litchfieldnh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-666-6600
https://www.manchester-chamber.org

Although Litchfield has experienced an increase in the number of residents and industries, produce stands and farms still line the byways of this attractive town. A close community where residents enjoy the serenity of their quiet village and its rural atmosphere, Litchfield provides an easy commute to Manchester and Nashua for shopping, cultural attractions, and other services. The local recreation department oversees public facilities and also develops a wide selection of programs for all ages and interests.

Lyndeborough
Municipal Offices
603-654-5955
https://www.town.lyndeborough.nh.us

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org
Characterized today as a charming rural bedroom community with no industry and little commerce, the town claims a famous historic footnote in a glass factory from the mid-1800s. On today’s market, these pastel-colored bottles are prized by collectors and considered by many to be the finest glass ever made in New England. Natural beauty surrounds the town, which is divided by a panoramic ridge of mountains. Stoney Brook, which is the largest tributary of the Souhegan River, flows through the town.

Manchester
Municipal Offices
603-624-6500
https://www.manchesternh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-666-6600
https://www.manchester-chamber.org

As the largest city in New Hampshire and the three northern New England states, Manchester boasts an impressive skyline of thriving businesses. The city, bisected by the Merrimack River, was once a manufacturing center. Manchester claims an outstanding transportation network that fuels its growth, drives economic expansion, and encourages international trade. The city also serves as the state’s cultural center, providing elegant venues and wonderful performing groups. Among the many points of interest are the Currier Museum of Art and the Franco-American Centre. The most recent crowning glory is the superb Verizon Wireless Arena.

Merrimack
Municipal Offices
603-424-2331
https://www.merrimacknh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

Recognized as a desirable bedroom community, Merrimack has developed its own commercial sector. Today, the town is home to an impressive list of national and even internationally based businesses that include some of the leading employers in southern New Hampshire. The community of Merrimack is conveniently located within an hour’s drive from the ocean and the lakes region. This family-oriented town boasts good schools and abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure and four-season recreation.

Milford
Municipal Offices
603-249-0600
https://www.milford.nh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

The small rural community of Milford hosts a number of popular events and festivities that include weekly band concerts, craft fairs, and an annual hot air balloon race. This area offers a pleasing selection of housing prices and styles. Controlled economic growth has helped to retain the serenity of tree-lined, peaceful neighborhoods. Made famous by the granite industry, Milford is still popular as a site for commerce and small business. While local industry thrives, the town is also well-known as a magnet for tourists who appreciate its charming antique shops and country craft stores.

Mont Vernon
Municipal Offices
603-673-6080
https://www.montvernonnh.us

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

One of the smallest towns in the greater Nashua area, Mont Vernon still preserves the delightful ambiance of its past. At the same time, all of the advantages and amenities of a developed urban environment remain within easy reach. Nearby Route 3 and Route 128 offer easy access to the high-technology corridor. Route 3 to Interstate 93 North leads to the White Mountains and the Lakes Region for a kaleidoscope of outdoor recreation. Single-family homes dominate the housing in this area, available in a wide range of architectural styles. The urban center of Nashua is nearby for expanded amenities.

Nashua
Municipal Offices
603-589-3260
https://www.nashuanh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-881-8333
https://www.nashuachamber.com

Recognized by Money magazine as the “Best Place to Live in the US” and praised by Entrepreneur magazine as one of the best places to start a business, Nashua is the second largest city in the state. The city is a hub for a diverse and dynamic metropolitan population of more than 150,000. Retaining all the charm of a traditional New England landscape, Nashua integrates a healthy and diverse economy with an attractive selection of housing and a vital cultural community. Easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, Boston, and the White Mountains offer unparalleled outdoor and urban amenities. The northern part of Nashua has preserved its enviable position as the most affluent residential neighborhood for more than a century. Throughout the city, treasures from the past harmonize with modern development.

New Boston
Municipal Offices
603-487-2500
https://www.newbostonnh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

The small town of New Boston enjoys a location that is convenient to several major routes for easy access to recreational sites from lakes to the ocean. With the classic look and atmosphere of a New England town, New Boston is a close-knit community where residents volunteer their time and talent. Nearby leading cities like Concord, Manchester, and Nashua offer some of the finest hospitals, colleges, and employers in the state.

New Ipswich
Municipal Offices
603-878-2772
https://www.townofnewipswich.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

The small village of New Ipswich provides an intimate community atmosphere that offers easy access to Nashua and Manchester. Local industry is limited, and residents tend to be commuters to employment centers in surrounding cities. Peterborough offers the closest major healthcare center, and several colleges are within a reasonable commuting distance. The community offers many sports programs, swimming, and tennis. Area lakes and mountains are available for four-season outdoor adventure.

Pelham
Municipal Offices
603-635-8233
https://www.pelhamweb.com

Chamber of Commerce
603-893-3177
https://www.gschamber.com

Tranquil, rural, and largely residential, Pelham is just north of the Massachusetts state line. Good proximity to Interstate 93 and retail traffic has driven commercial development that spans the state borders. Massachusetts shoppers frequently visit the main business district on their way to malls in Salem. In spite of this development, Pelham has preserved much of its 19th century New England charm. Excellent schools, first-rate recreational facilities, an active library, and a pleasing selection of home choices ensure a high quality of life. Organizations play a vital role in community life, providing a basis for creative, social, and humanitarian activity. The town is well known for its spirited celebrations.

Peterborough
Municipal Offices
603-924-8000
https://www.peterboroughnh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-352-1303
https://www.keenechamber.com

Proudly advertising itself as “A Bit of Paris in New England,” the Peterborough area showcases architectural treasures like the Town House built in 1918, designed to capture the essence of Boston’s Fanueil Hall. Internationally recognized for its active arts community, the town supports the Sharon Arts Center, performing arts groups, and many colorful festivals. A strong network of transportation facilities and advanced fiber optics allow Peterborough to compete in global markets. Residents enjoy good schools, attractive housing options, a robust economy, and local employment options.

Sharon, Temple
Sharon Offices
603-924-9250
https://www.sharonnh.org
Temple Offices
603-878-2536
https://www.templenh.info

Chamber of Commerce
603-352-1303
https://www.keenechamber.com

The tiny town of Sharon actually perches on the shoulder of Temple Mountain and enjoys a close relationship with Peterborough. In fact, downtown Peterborough is home to the Sharon Arts Center, a venue that offers a medley of arts and crafts classes and a gallery. The Sharon town forest and various conservation holdings account for 4855 acres, or approximately half of the town’s land area. The small town of Temple is proud to be the home of the oldest band in America circa 1799. Temple’s natural topography and outstanding recreational destinations like Pack Monadnock and Miller State Park add to the quality of life. Primarily residential, the town is known for its “Currier and Ives” setting.

Weare
Municipal Offices
603-529-7525
https://www.weare.nh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-540-0935
https://www.wearechamber.org

Less than 25 miles from Manchester, Weare enjoys the panoramic backdrop of Lake Horace and New England’s natural beauty. The town blends traditional charm and a progressive attitude for a pleasing hometown atmosphere. Although many residents are commuters, Weare is home to a vibrant business community that combines hospitality services and tourism with a manufacturing sector. New Hampshire’s largest metropolitan area is only minutes from home for expanded shopping, cultural events, leading colleges and universities, and regional employment centers. New residents can look forward to exploring a wealth of recreational options and outdoor activities in local facilities but also in the surrounding mountain and lake regions. Possibilities include lush parks and forests, beaches, ski resorts, golf courses, tennis courts, and sports fields. Popular activities include camping, fishing, hunting, boating, bike riding, canoeing, cycling, and winter sports from ice-skating to snowmobiling.

Wilton, Mason
Wilton Offices
603-654-9451
https://www.wiltonnh.gov
Mason Offices                                
603-878-2070
https://www.masonnh.us
Chamber of Commerce
603-673-4360
https://www.gmsvcc.org

The rural communities of Wilton and Mason create an idyllic setting dotted with orchards, farms, lakes, ponds, streams, and forests. Wilton boasts a strong arts community and the very popular children’s theater, Andy’s Summer Playhouse. The quiet village center is complemented by many quaint mill conversions that blend 18th century charm with modern amenities, a thriving group of manufacturers, and a bustling downtown district. Mason is proud of its tiny village green, beautiful old homes, and breathtaking natural beauty along the Massachusetts border. Russell-Abbot State Forest, Sheldrick Forest, the Heald Tract, Wilton Forest, Everett Forest, and Carnival Hill are some of the exceptional sites for outdoor recreation in this area.