I’ve always had a special fondness for Center Harbor, New Hampshire. It brings back happy memories of my sister and me rowing a boat while vacationing with my parents along Center Harbor Bay as a child.
Today, Center Harbor has maintained its country charm & character. It is like going back in time to an era of rapid growth throughout the region.
The town gets its name from two sources: from its location, centered between Meredith and Moultonborough, and from the Senter family, who owned many properties in the area.
Center Harbor was incorporated in 1797 and began as a small farming community. By the 1800s, it became a landing place for lake steamers and stagecoaches, which made it a popular summer resort.
The quaint village was blessed with natural resources, with extensive shoreline along Lake Winnipesaukee, Squam Lake, Lake Waukewan, and Lake Winona. It also has a rich cultural past—poet John Greenleaf Whittier often visited here, and it was the home of Dudley Leavitt, publisher of the first Farmers’ Almanac in 1797. The first intercollegiate sporting event in the U.S.—the 1852 rowing regatta between Harvard and Yale—was held right on Lake Winnipesaukee.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Recreation
The town has grown slowly and methodically, from just 263 residents in 1800 to its current size of around 1,060 residents today. With over 25 miles of shoreline, more than 2,600 acres of forest, and 1,000 acres of protected lands, Center Harbor offers a landscape that feels unspoiled and peaceful.
Surrounded by the White Mountains, Ossipee Mountains, and Belknap Mountains, the area offers endless opportunities to explore. Hiking trails at Red Hill and Fogg Hill Conservation Area provide sweeping views, while nearby favorites like Rattlesnake Mountain, Mt. Morgan, and Mt. Percival are just a short drive away.
For outdoor enthusiasts, places like the Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest on Squam Lake and the Proctor Wildlife Sanctuary with its 2-mile loop add even more options for nature lovers.
Community and Lifestyle
The median age in Center Harbor is 60.4, and the town maintains the quiet feel of a classic New England village. The local church, library, and gazebo overlooking the bay provide a nostalgic setting. Families appreciate access to the Inter-Lakes schools, while residents enjoy their own sandy beach, playground, and town docks on Lake Winnipesaukee.
The town features farmhouses, colonials, antique houses, and Adirondack-style waterfront properties, along with more modern craftsman designs—many with breathtaking views of the lakes and mountains.
Dining and Local Favorites
The town is small but filled with charm. Along Whittier Highway, residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants and shops:
Gusto Italian Café with its Tuscan-style atmosphere
Canoe Restaurant and Tavern, a rustic lakeside favorite
Lemongrass Restaurant & Sake Bar for Thai cuisine
Center Harbor Diner for classic American breakfasts
Other casual favorites like Rubbin’ Butts BBQ, The Mug, and the Taphouse, along with EM Heath Supermarket, round out the local offerings.
Attractions and Events
The MS Mount Washington flagship vessel spends its winter in Center Harbor Bay, and the Waukewan Golf Club remains a popular destination for golfers. Each summer, the annual 4th of July celebration fills the town with music, a concert at the gazebo, and fireworks over the bay.
Real Estate in Center Harbor, NH
So, how is the real estate market in Center Harbor performing?
For the 9 months ending September 30, 2025:
5 single-family homes sold, with a median sales price of $875,000 and an average sales price of $820,500.
1 condominium sold for $600,000 at Waukewan Golf Club, after just 12 days on the market.
For the 9 months ending September 30, 2024:
16 single-family homes sold, with a median sales price of $875,000 and an average of $1,185,390.
Prices ranged from $399,000 to $4,750,000, including a waterfront sale on Squam Lake.
Currently on the market:
4 single-family homes are listed.
Median listing price: $845,000.
Prices range from $595,000 to $7,995,000, including a luxury waterfront listing on Lake Winnipesaukee.
In summary, you can see why Center Harbor, NH is such a picturesque and desirable community. Its history, natural beauty, and small-town charm make it a special place to live, while the real estate market reflects both limited inventory and strong demand.
This fall is a great time to sell your property with Roche Realty Group, right in the heart of New Hampshire’s colorful season.
This article was written by Frank Roche. Frank is president of Roche Realty Group located in Meredith and can be reached at (603) 279-7046. Sales Data was pulled from PrimeMLS and is subject to change. Please feel free to visit www.rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.
Frequently Asked Questions About Center Harbor, NH
Q1: What is Center Harbor, NH known for?
A: Center Harbor is known for its historic charm, scenic location between Meredith and Moultonborough, access to Lake Winnipesaukee and Squam Lake, and rich history dating back to 1797. It’s a peaceful New England town with hiking, waterfront living, and small-town character.
Q2: How is the real estate market in Center Harbor, NH?
A: The Center Harbor real estate market offers a range of options including charming historic homes, waterfront estates, and modern properties. In 2025, inventory is low, making it a competitive market for buyers, and a great time for sellers to list with an experienced agent.
Q3: What types of homes are available in Center Harbor, NH?
A: Center Harbor has a variety of homes, from antique farmhouses and colonial-style homes to luxury waterfront estates and contemporary designs. Many homes offer breathtaking views of lakes and mountains.
Q4: Are there waterfront homes in Center Harbor, NH?
A: Yes — Center Harbor offers beautiful waterfront homes along Lake Winnipesaukee, Squam Lake, Lake Waukewan, and Lake Winona. Waterfront properties are among the most desirable and often include private beaches and dock access.
Q5: What makes living in Center Harbor special?
A: Living in Center Harbor means enjoying a quiet New England lifestyle with historic charm, lakeside beauty, and access to outdoor recreation. The town offers hiking, boating, fishing, scenic views, local dining, and a strong sense of community.
Q6: Is Center Harbor, NH a good place to invest in real estate?
A: Yes — limited inventory and high demand make Center Harbor real estate attractive for investment. Waterfront homes and unique historic properties hold strong value and appeal to both buyers and vacationers.
