ROCKINGHAM AND STRAFFORD COUNTIES

Rockingham County Offices
99-119 North Road
Brentwood, NH 603-679-5335
https://rockinghamcountynh.org

Strafford County Offices
259 Country Farm Road
Dover, NH 603-742-1458
https://www.co.strafford.nh.us

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

Rockingham County has been cited on many occasions as one of the finest areas in the nation to establish a business or home. Within the vast expanse of Rockingham and Strafford Counties are diverse cities, towns, and charming small villages that encompass a kaleidoscope of lifestyles and environments. A number of seashore communities include the historic City of Portsmouth, a magnet for tourism and a vital contributor to the economy of the state. Other major cities that provide expanded amenities to the smaller towns are Salem, Derry, Dover, and Rochester.

Many home choices are tucked away in small towns that typify New England’s picturesque image of town centers, steeped churches, historic homes, covered bridges, and a vital community spirit. New Castle is distinguished as the smallest community in New Hampshire. This tiny island just off the New Hampshire Seacoast covers only a square mile of land. With colonial charm that rivals Williamsburg in Virginia, the community graces beautiful beaches that are dotted with outstanding amenities like yacht clubs.

Services
Respect for knowledge and achievement is a New England tradition, evidenced by the strong support for education on every level. Regardless of where you choose to settle, opportunities for higher education will never be far from home. The University of New Hampshire campuses are available in Manchester and Durham, and Dover is home to McIntosh College. Stratham offers many continuing education programs and vocational/technical training as well as two-year degrees and college track programs at its community college.

Hospitals and health clinics combine with skilled professionals throughout the county to meet every healthcare need close to home, from routine to highly advanced. Family clinics, long-term care centers, home health care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services are all available. The Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, Parkland Medical Center in Derry, Exeter Hospital, Frisbie Memorial Hospital, and Hampstead Hospital provide medical and surgical specialties in addition to wellness education and health screenings to the residents of this region.

Lifestyle
This southern section of Maine and the seacoast area of Rockingham County is one of the fastest growing regions in the nation. Nationally acclaimed theatre and music, colorful festivals and celebrations, active arts organizations, fine galleries, wonderful museums, and quaint historic districts are just a few of the attractions that continually draw vacationers and visitors. This array of amenities also fills the leisure hours of local residents with quality activity and a wide selection of entertainment close to home. Those who appreciate nature and outdoor activity can look forward to biking, hiking, camping, whale watching, fishing, hunting, boating, water sports, sailing, and bird watching against a panoramic backdrop of natural beauty.

This area is also known for sunset cruises, top-billed entertainment, tax-free shopping, celebrated historic sites, antique hunting, summer hayrides, and winter sleigh rides. Other attractions include the biggest water slide park in New England, relaxing strolls along the boardwalk, and dining in casual or elegant restaurants. The sandy beaches of Hampton and Rye are recognized as some of New England’s finest. Just a short drive north, the White Mountain National Forest offers a paradise for ski enthusiasts, winter sports, or four-season recreation. Nearby Loudon is home to the New Hampshire International Speedway for Indy and NASCAR excitement, one of the state’s most exciting facilities. With their handsome selection of homes, charming communities, and unrivaled quality of life, Rockingham and Strafford counties will be welcoming new residential and economic developers for decades to come.

ROCKINGHAM COUNTY COMMUNITIES

Auburn
Municipal Offices
603-483-5052
https://www.auburnnh.us

Chamber of Commerce
603-432-8205
https://www.derry-chamber.org

Just seven miles from Manchester, Auburn blends local businesses with a number of quiet, tree-lined residential neighborhoods. In addition to lush parks and youth sports programs, opportunities are abundant for camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, water sports, boating, and cycling on scenic trails. Auburn is convenient to Interstate 93, the  University of New Hampshire, and the many cosmopolitan advantages of Manchester.

Danville, Chester
Danville Offices
603-382-8253
https://www.townofdanville.org
Chester Offices
603-887-3636
https://www.chesternh.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-432-8205
https://www.derry-chamber.org

Providing a tranquil residential setting in close proximity to quality urban amenities is Danville. Just 23 miles from Manchester, residents enjoy quick and easy access to the state’s finest resources for entertainment and culture. Although Danville attracts many commuters, the town is also home to commercial activity and a handful of small businesses. Community college campuses are available in Stratham, Nashua, and Manchester. The small community of Chester features many beautiful colonial homes set in a picturesque main street district. This quiet community is primarily a rural enclave of residential development; the campus for White Pines College occupies a large part of the town.

Candia
Municipal Offices
603-483-8101
https://www.candianh.org

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

The serene small community of Candia is located 9 miles from Interstate 93 and 12 miles from the highly developed city of Manchester. The town is home to a cluster of small companies and manufacturers. Recreational amenities include lush parks, golf courses, fine museums, youth groups, sports leagues, bike trails, fishing, hunting, and winter sports. Local attractions include Charmingfare Farm with barnyard animals, wildlife exhibits, and special programs. Abe Emerson Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary offers a popular destination for nature students, with 116 acres of widely varied terrain.

Deerfield
Municipal Offices
603 463-8811
https://www.townofdeerfieldnh.com

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

Just 20 miles from Manchester, the small but growing town of Deerfield experienced rapid growth during the 1970s and ‘80s that continued through the 1990s. Although forest had reclaimed much of the land that was originally cleared by early settlers, trees are once again beginning to fall to clear the land for residential and commercial growth.  Planners are determined to control the area’s development in a way that preserves the rich Deerfield heritage and the natural beauty of its surroundings including pristine sites for outdoor recreation. Newcomers will find a wide selection of attractive homes.

Derry
Municipal Offices
603-432-6100
https://www.derrynh.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-432-8205
https://www.derry-chamber.org

Derry is a picturesque community with apple orchards, ancient trees, and the oldest operating sawmill in New England. The list of famous sons includes poet Robert Frost, baseball player Pudge Fiske, and astronaut Alan B. Shepherd. This scenic area provides Lake Park for boating, swimming, picnic areas, and the thrill of water slides. Derry’s small-town atmosphere and easy access to Boston as well as ocean, lake, and alpine recreation are drawing new residents. The area’s family-owned businesses blend with high-tech companies. Housing ranges from charming older homes to handsome new construction in a variety of styles.

Exeter, Epping
Exeter Offices
603-778-0591
http://exeternh.gov
Epping Offices
603-679-5441
https://www.townofepping.com
Chamber of Commerce
603-772-2411
https://www.exeterarea.org

The attractive bedroom community of Exeter offers a close-knit atmosphere with easy access to bustling employment centers and urban amenities. A pleasing selection of housing ranges from quaint Federal-style homes to new construction. Well-developed recreation programs and the private Phillips Exeter Academy are important amenities.  The nearby community of Epping is experiencing considerable growth in all sectors with a prime location at the crossroads of Routes 125 and 101.

Hampstead
Municipal Offices
603-329-4100
https://www.hampsteadnh.us

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

Hampstead is only one of several small towns that nestle between Manchester and Salem. Characterized as a rural community with lovely older colonial homes, Hampstead is accessible to Interstate 93 for an efficient commute into the greater Boston area. The amenities of Nashua and Manchester are available just a 30-minute drive from home. Residents spend their leisure time camping, ice skating, playing tennis, or enjoying the beach and conservation area. Hampstead Hospital is the largest employer in the town, providing first-rate healthcare services to the community. Most residents of this quiet residential haven are commuters to leading employment centers.

Hampton, Hampton Falls
Hampton Offices
603-926-6766
https://www.hamptonnh.gov
Hampton Falls Offices
603-926-4618
https://www.hamptonfalls.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-926-8718
https://www.hamptonchamber.com

The residential coastal community of Hampton continues to experience rapid growth and a brisk pace of new construction. Housing options range from older homes along tree-lined streets to new subdivisions that feature popular New England architectural styles. The area’s fine townhomes and condominiums are more commonly found along the beaches. Retail shops and services are available for daily conveniences. The residential haven of Hampton Falls intermingles residential neighborhoods with commercial activity along Route 1, harmonizing shops with restaurants and services.

Kingston, East Kingston, Brentwood
Kingston Offices
603-642-3342
https://www.kingstonnh.org
East Kingston Offices
603-642-8406
http://www.eknh.org
Brentwood Offices
603-642-6400
https://www.brentwoodnh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-772-2411
https://www.exeterarea.org

Balancing both business and commercial activity with quiet, tree-shaded residential neighborhoods, Kingston is a comfortable place to call home. Kingston State Beach ensures prime recreational opportunities, from biking and hiking to boating, water sports, and fishing. East Kingston offers the serenity and beauty of a rural atmosphere. Nearby Exeter provides expanded services that include a regional hospital, retail shopping, recreational facilities, and the regional high school. The quiet residential haven of Brentwood blends businesses along Highway 125 with lovely older homes and newer construction.

Londonderry
Municipal Offices
603-432-1100
https://www.londonderrynh.org

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

Londonderry is ideally located between the major cities of Manchester, Salem, and Nashua. The town blends urban conveniences and suburban serenity, attracting rapid growth. Industry is concentrated in the northern section to preserve quiet residential neighborhoods and agricultural activity. Pleasing choices in housing range from well-kept older homes shaded by lush greenery to fine new construction. Nearby seashore, lake, stream, and mountain environments are perfect for outdoor adventures. Even closer to home are golf courses and quality local facilities for relaxation and recreation.

New Castle, Newington
New Castle Offices
603-431-6710
https://www.newcastlenh.org
Newington Offices
603-436-7640
https://www.newington.nh.us

Chamber of Commerce
603-610-5510
https://www.portsmouthchamber.org

A one-square-mile island town just off Portsmouth, New Castle offers a residential haven dominated by lovely older homes that blend with some newer construction. The coastal Route 1B links this “off the beaten path” haven to Portsmouth’s expanded amenities. Newington boasts thriving commerce and industry that harmonize with historic sites and stunning architecture. Lush parks grace the banks of Piscataqua River.

Newmarket, Newfields
Newmarket Offices
603-659-8501
https://www.newmarketnh.gov
Newfields Offices
603-772-5070
https://www.newfieldsnh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-772-2411
https://www.exeterarea.org

Ideally located within five miles of the bustling Exeter commerce and Durham’s university atmosphere, Newmarket provides the tranquil lifestyle of a small, residential community. Well-kept older homes mix with newer construction for a variety of housing opportunities, and charming vintage colonials surround the downtown district. Water sports are popular at the beach just minutes from town and at the Great Bay.  Newfields offers a pleasing rural lifestyle with the additional advantage of a strong local economy.

Newton
Municipal Offices
603-382-4405
https://www.newton-nh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
978-373-5663
https://www.haverhillchamber.com

Served by the chamber of commerce in Haverhill, Massachusetts, the community of Newton is three miles from Interstate 495. Like many of the area’s sparsely populated towns, Newton offers exceptional outdoor recreation. Lush open space and developed facilities encourage swimming, sports play, tennis, camping, fishing, hunting, boating, and winter sports. One of the area’s unique attractions is the Peanut Trail, a spur of the railroad that actually ran right through the town. Although the railroad track itself has been removed, the path is maintained by the Conservation Commission as a nature trail and multi-purpose sports trail. The track runs to the southern edge of the town along the border of Merrimac, Massachusetts.

North Hampton, Kensington
North Hampton Offices
603-964-8087
https://www.northhampton-nh.gov
Kensington Offices
603-772-5423
https://www.town.kensington.nh.us

Chamber of Commerce
603-772-2411
https://www.exeterarea.org

The quiet bedroom community of North Hampton continues to attract newcomers to its pleasing housing selection of well-kept vintage homes and newer construction. The community showcases charming historic homes, particularly near the beach areas.  Interstate 95 and Route 1 ensure quick and easy commutes to employment centers or Portsmouth amenities. The residential haven of Kensington offers the desirable serenity of a rural atmosphere, intermingling older houses that have been carefully maintained with modern single-family construction. Nearby,  Exeter and Seabrook add amenities close to home.

Northwood, Nottingham
Northwood Offices
603-942-5586
https://www.northwoodnh.org
Nottingham Offices                        
603-679-5022
https://www.nottingham-nh.gov

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

Northwood was actually carved from the “great north woods” of Nottingham in 1773.  Inns and antique shops grew up along the Route 4 “main street.” Both permanent and seasonal residents, along with small businesses, enjoy the backdrop of breathtakingly beautiful lake and mountain views. Nottingham is less developed commercially, although both of these communities feature lovely vintage homes and stately public buildings complemented by miles of country roads. Pawtuckaway State Park adds a wealth of recreational opportunities close to home for a family-friendly atmosphere.

Plaistow, Atkinson
Plaistow Offices
603-382-5200
https://www.plaistow.com
Atkinson Offices
603-362-5266
https://www.town-atkinsonnh.com

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

Located along Interstate 93, Plaistow offers easy access to regional employment centers but also supports local business and industry. The variety of housing styles range from colonial farmhouses to single-family homes and fine townhomes. Atkinson is a charming small town near Plaistow that is also convenient for commuters. The town is experiencing significant residential growth and contemporary construction. Several beaches and parks, golf courses, and sports programs add to the quality of life.

Portsmouth
Municipal Offices
603-431-2000
https://www.cityofportsmouth.com

Chamber of Commerce
603-610-5510
https://www.portsmouthchamber.org

Portsmouth serves as a cultural, commercial, industrial, and recreational center to a number of surrounding small towns. The housing ranges from restored historic homes to contemporary styling. As one of the oldest towns in the state, Portsmouth features quaint historic districts shaded by towering trees. Parks grace attractive residential neighborhoods. The rich maritime tradition of this harbor town includes a brisk cruise industry and celebrations that showcase tall ships and military naval vessels. Portsmouth is also acclaimed as the “Restaurant Capital of New England.” The commercial port, an excellent education system, abundant tourist attractions, and cultural venues add to the distinctions of this picturesque community.

Raymond, Fremont
Raymond Offices
603-895-4735
https://www.raymondnh.gov
Fremont Offices
603-895-2226
https://www.fremont.nh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-772-2411
https://www.exeterarea.org

The picturesque New England village of Raymond features a lovely traditional town common with white church steeples, and rustic brick buildings. Residents are drawn to the natural beauty and intimacy of a rural atmosphere. The town offers easy access to bay and Atlantic coastlines and the White Mountain forests as well as transportation routes that intersect regional interstates. Fremont offers a small-town setting and welcoming spirit.

Rye (Rye Beach)
Municipal Offices
603-964-5523
https://www.town.rye.nh.us

Chamber of Commerce
603-610-5510
https://www.portsmouthchamber.org

The population of Rye nearly doubles in  the summer when the community becomes  a popular vacation resort. Boasting a quaint town center with charming older homes along tree-lined streets, Rye also offers a significant amount of newer construction in its outlying subdivisions. This historic fishing village claims eight miles of New Hampshire coastline and three of the Isles of Shoals. Rye is the proud home of the Seacoast Science Center at Odiorne Point, also serving as a state park with quality recreational facilities.

Salem
Municipal Offices
603-890-2000
https://www.townofsalemnh.org

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

Already one of the more densely populated areas in New Hampshire, Salem’s expansion is expected to continue due to its proximity to Interstate 93, which allows easy access to Boston just 30 miles away. In spite of commuting ease, Salem provides many services for smaller communities. Zoning keeps commercial and industrial development in specific areas to preserve serene neighborhoods and country manors. Housing blends quaint older homes with modern residences that enjoy rural settings. Salem is an hour’s drive from the White Mountains, the Atlantic coast, and the Lakes Region. An award-winning school system and one of the region’s finest local libraries add to Salem’s desirability.

Sandown
Municipal Offices
603-887-3646
https://www.sandown.us

Chamber of Commerce
978-373-5663
https://www.haverhillchamber.com

Nestled in the far northwestern corner of the Greater Haverhill area of Massachusetts, the tranquil community of Sandown is probably best known for its recreational opportunities. Lakes, ponds, rivers, and mountains are primary attractions to many New Hampshire towns, and Sandown is no exception. Seely Park waterfront blends both sandy and grassy areas and maintains a lifeguard during the summer months. Another popular attraction is Sandown Railroad Museum, housed in a vintage building that once served as the railroad depot. Sold to the historical society in the town for just one dollar, the building now showcases railroad memorabilia, telegraph equipment, and fascinating artifacts from the town’s past including Civil War letters.

Seabrook, South Hampton
Seabrook Offices
603-474-3311
https://www.seabrooknh.org
South Hampton Offices
603-394-7696
https://www.southhamptonnh.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-610-5510
https://www.portsmouthchamber.org

The enchanting and beautiful “seacoast region” of New Hampshire stretches to the southern towns of South Hampton and Seabrook. From inviting orchards and farmland to antique shops and miles of multi-purpose trails, these small towns add to the charm of the Portsmouth region. The village of South Hampton is characterized as a tranquil residential haven that provides quick access to retail goods and services in Seabrook as well as amenities in nearby Amesbury. The housing selection in this region blends single-family older homes and modern construction to showcase the architectural charm for which New England is famous.

Stratham, Greenland
Stratham Offices
603-772-4741
https://www.strathamnh.gov
Greenland Offices                          
603-431-7111
https://www.greenland-nh.com

Chamber of Commerce
603-772-2411
https://www.exeterarea.org

Stratham is a charming community that showcases colonial architecture in homes and buildings, creating an idyllic New England image. Even the newer construction in Stratham usually follows the traditional colonial blueprint. An outstanding public school system is crowned by the presence of the New Hampshire Community College. This area is well served by major highway routes and easy access to Interstate 95. True to the postcard image of a New England village atmosphere, Greenland features many quaint older houses  graced by lush landscaping, many 18th-century homes, and colonial farmhouses. Reflecting all the country charm of a rural lifestyle, farmland adds to the scenic beauty and “open feeling” of this charming community.

Windham
Municipal Offices
603-432-7732
https://windhamnh.gov

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

Windham is best defined as an upscale residential haven bordering Canobie Lake that is convenient to Salem amenities. Many of the lovely homes that have been constructed along its shoreline were especially designed to offer spectacular waterfront views. Windham has many civic, social, and athletic groups including men’s and women’s sports leagues. The town-owned beach serves as a recreational focal point for local residents, providing boating and water sport opportunities. At the same time, the four-season recreational paradise of the White Mountains is nearby.

STRAFFORD COUNTY COMMUNITIES

Barrington
Municipal Offices
603-664-9007
https://www.barrington.nh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-664-2200
https://www.barringtonchamber.org

The small community of Barrington is known for offering the close-knit setting of a New England village just 30 miles from the amenities of Manchester and 70 miles from Boston. Commuters are able to access interstate connections using local highways. The town blends commercial and industrial sectors with tranquil neighborhoods that offer tree-shaded homes in a wide variety of architectural styles. Stratham is also home to a community college. Water sports along the shoreline are popular in this area.

Dover, Madbury
Dover Offices
603-516-6000
https://www.dover.nh.gov
Madbury Offices
603-742-5131
https://www.townofmadbury.com

Chamber of Commerce
603-742-2218
https://www.dovernh.org

Dover serves as an important coastal industrial and employment center as well as distribution center for northern New England. As the eastern gateway to Spaulding Turnpike, the community enjoys easy access to the scenic White Mountains recreation region. Natural waterfalls, rolling rivers, and old shade trees add to the picturesque quality that makes Dover so visually appealing. Elegant older homes and historic mansions blend with newer construction in a wide variety of architectural styles. Both residential and rural, Madbury claims a limited number of businesses that are focused on agricultural concerns. An attractive mix of housing integrates well-kept older residences with contemporary development. Both communities are just 10 miles from the Atlantic Ocean.

Durham, Lee
Durham Offices
603-868-5571
https://www.ci.durham.nh.us
Lee Offices
603-659-5414
https://www.leenh.org

Chamber of Commerce
603-332-5080
https://www.rochesternh.org

Durham reflects a collegiate atmosphere and the vitality of the University of New Hampshire. Although some business and commerce thrives, the University is the focal point of education, recreation, and culture. Charming historic homes  mix with newer construction for a wide variety of housing options. Fertile farmland and orchards add to the picturesque quality of the region. The growing residential community of Lee also offers a rural flavor and acres of picturesque farmland. Lovely older homes in established neighborhoods mix with new subdivisions for a complete array of housing options. Residents enjoy a 30-minute drive to the beach, although opportunities for camping and swimming are close to home.

Farmington, Milton
Farmington Offices
603-755-2208
https://www.farmington.nh.us
Milton Offices
603-652-4501
https://www.miltonnh-us.com

Chamber of Commerce
603-332-5080
https://www.rochesternh.org

Blending both residential and industrial sectors, the small town of Farmington is 45 miles from Manchester and 10 miles from Rochester. Frisbie Memorial Hospital in Rochester serves as the nearest healthcare center. Opportunities for higher education are close to home in the communities of Stratham and Laconia. The in-town facilities for recreation and those around the area are many, including lush parks, golf courses, and youth sports leagues. Popular activities are camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, biking, and winter sports. Milton provides yet another option for a friendly residential haven close to the expanded amenities in Rochester. Limited industrial activity provides an economic base, although most residents are commuters. A medley of charming older homes blend with newer construction.

New Durham
Municipal Offices
603-859-2091
https://www.newdurhamnh.us

Chamber of Commerce
603-332-5080
https://www.rochesternh.org

Settled in 1750, the bedroom community of New Durham is attractive to commuters who travel an average of 30 minutes to employment centers in surrounding areas. This cross-section of commuting residents represents approximately 80 percent of the town’s population. Most of the remaining residents of the community are either self-employed, work in local businesses, or are retired. The town is a popular destination in the warm summer months for seasonal residents, vacationers, and visitors. In fact, the modest population often doubles and even triples in the summertime. The well-developed amenities in Rochester are only 15 miles away, including a major healthcare facility.

Rochester
Municipal Offices
603-332-7500
https://www.rochesternh.net

Chamber of Commerce
603-332-5080
https://www.rochesternh.org

Providing expanded urban amenities for many of the smaller towns that surround it, Rochester is home to Frisbie Memorial Hospital as well as a selection of thriving manufacturers. Nearly 40 percent of the residents enjoy the convenient lifestyle of living in the same community in which they are employed. Nearby Stratham is home to the closest community college campus. The facilities for recreation and entertainment are abundant, from parks and organized programs to golf courses, tennis courts, sports fields and courts, an ice-skating rink, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Performance venues enrich the entire area with cultural events. Rochester Fair is one of many popular festivals.

Strafford
Municipal Offices
603-664-2192
https://www.strafford.nh.gov

Chamber of Commerce
603-332-5080
https://www.rochesternh.org

Encompassing the Village of Bow Lake and a lush town forest, the charming hometown of Strafford is largely residential with a selection of small businesses. Routes 126 and 202A serve as the primary local thoroughfares, and the Spaulding Turnpike is only five miles from town. The well-developed amenities of Rochester are close to home, including a variety of arts and entertainment options that include a unique Opera House with magnificent architectural detailing. Outdoor adventures include camping, swimming, hiking, fishing, hunting, boating, and winter sports. Downhill ski enthusiasts will want to visit nearby Gunstock.

Somersworth
Municipal Offices
603-692-9501
https://www.somersworth.com

Chamber of Commerce
603-692-7175
https://www.somersworthchamber.com

Situated midway between the leading cities of Manchester and Boston, Somersworth is 10 miles from Interstate 95. The Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover is just three miles from home for easily accessible healthcare. The town balances a strong mix of commercial and industrial activity with the tranquility of residential neighborhoods, and nearly one-quarter of the residents are employed within the community. Seasonal festivities, lush parks, golf courses, tennis courts, youth sports, and opportunities for outdoor adventure add to the quality of life in this family-oriented setting.