The 10 Fastest Growing Towns in New Hampshire Everyone Is Talking About

10. Franklin

Since the 2020 census, Franklin has grown 0.25 percent. Its current population is 8,872, gaining 66 residents in three years. Located in the center of the state, Franklin is the least populated city in New Hampshire. However, it has one of the lowest living costs in the state, which is also lower than the national average. With a low crime rate and small-town feel, many find this area an affordable retirement destination.

9. Concord

As the third most populated city in New Hampshire and the state’s capital, it is no surprise that Concord has grown 0.68 percent. There were 43,709 residents in 2020 compared to 44,606 today. Unlike Franklin, Concord offers accessible public transit and other amenities. Plus, Concord has the biggest employer in New Hampshire: the state government. With strong public schools and affordable, accessible healthcare, Concord is a popular city.

8. Keene

From 22,942 residents in 2020 to 23,437 in 2023, Keene saw a 0.71 increase in population. Out of the 13 cities in New Hampshire, Keene ranks 6^th for population size. Home to Keene State College, the college has a reputation for a fantastic teacher education program. Also, the city’s school system is in the top 20 in the state, contributing to the fact that it is one of the fastest-growing towns in New Hampshire.

7. Laconia

With a 0.85 percent increase in population, Laconia gained 435 people in three years. It is only the 8^th most populated city in New Hampshire, but it is quite affordable for being a lake town. Bordering Lake Winnisquam and Lake Winnipesaukee, Laconia hosts Motorcycle Week, which draws motorcyclists from all over. The lake drive, mountain routes, and oceanfront tour make Laconia an attractive location for Motorcycle Week. Laconia also has many private and public school options.

6. Claremont

Growing from 12,926 residents in 2020 to 13,268, Claremont’s population increased by 0.87 percent. And, for those frustrated by the housing market, the housing in Claremont is pretty reasonable, and competition is low. It also has more of a small-town feel, making it one of the fastest-growing towns in New Hampshire.

5. Rochester

Ranked as the fifth most populated city in New Hampshire, Rochester grew 1.06 percent between 2020 and 2023. The median income in the city is $67,956, and the median property tax is only $1,570. The poverty rate is also much lower than the national average, making Rochester a very affordable city in which to live.

4. Somersworth

Growing from 11,930 people to 12,343 in 2023, Somersworth grew 1.14 percent in three years. Only 20 minutes from the University of New Hampshire, which is the biggest university in the state, Somersworth is a convenient town to live in and commute to school. In the Boston metro area, Realtor.com rated Somersworth as one of the top ten best markets for first-time home buyers.

3. Dover

As the 4^th most populated city in New Hampshire, Dover grew 1.21 percent from 2020 to 2023. Gaining 1,206 residents, Dover is the third fastest-growing city in the state. Dover is another popular commuter town for individuals attending the University of New Hampshire. And, with the Amtrak Downeaster train stop in Dover’s downtown, residents can easily visit Portland or Boston for the day.

2. Portsmouth

The population in Portsmouth increased by 1.43 percent, making it the second fastest-growing city in New Hampshire. Gaining 955 residents in three years, Portsmouth is the seventh most-populated city. Home to The Music Hall and Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club, Portsmouth is a big draw for musicians and music lovers alike.

1. Lebanon

While only the ninth most populated city in New Hampshire, Lebanon experienced a 4.64 percent increase in population, an influx of 2,092 people! The average household income is $103,213, with a poverty rate of only 7.78 percent, which is 4.6 percent lower than the national average.

Lebanon is home to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and Dartmouth College’s Geisel School of Medicine. Counting both of these buildings, Lebanon has the largest medical facility, even compared to Boston. Since 2020, Lebanon has been the fastest-growing city in New Hampshire.