Laconia, NH — A City on the Rise

Laconia NH

The 17,000 resident “City on the Lakes” is nestled on the shores of three of New Hampshire’s largest lakes: Winnipesaukee, Winnisquam, and Opechee. With the picturesque Winnipesaukee River running alongside its downtown area, Laconia is a beautiful place to live and work. It is the largest city in the Lakes Region, with advantages that smaller towns often lack. Laconia contains three main villages, Downton Laconia, Lakeport, and Weirs Beach. By landmass, the city has a total area of 26.1 square miles, of which 19.8 square miles are land, and 6.3 square miles are water, comprising 23.93% of the city. Laconia is blessed with miles and miles of shorefront along Paugus Bay and Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s largest lake, plus Lake Opechee’s entire shoreline and a long stretch of shoreline along Lake Winnisquam, New Hampshire’s 3rd largest lake.

The history of Laconia goes way back in time. A large Abenaki Indian Settlement called Aquadocton Village was located in the Weirs Beach area. In 1652, the Endicott Surveying Party visited this area, and this event is commemorated by Endicott Rock, a local landmark in Weirs Beach. Settlement occurred in 1761; however, for many years, it remained a part of Meredith and Gilford called Meredith Bridge. In 1765 lumber and grist mills and taverns were established. Laconia’s beautiful courthouse was built in 1822, followed by the historic Belknap Mill in 1823. The mill is the oldest unaltered brick textile mill in the country. During those early years, the Laconia Car Company was the city’s largest employer that built rail trolley, and subway cars. In 1839 the railroad brought freight and a large number of tourists to Weirs Beach. The Boston, Concord, and Montreal Railroad ran through Laconia’s historic Railroad Station, through Lakeport, and along Paugus Bay to Weirs Beach and Meredith. The railroad was later purchased by the state of New Hampshire in 1975, and the tracks are still used for freight purposes and a tourist train service by the Plymouth and Lincoln Railroad. Laconia was later established as a city in 1893.

The Laconia Municipal Airport is located just east of the city limit in Gilford. The airport includes 448 acres and is a regional general aviation facility. The airport sees frequent private jet travel.

Laconia is proud of its recreational trail called the W.O.W Trail, which runs 4.25 miles from Lakeport to Downtown and then to the Belmont town line and Winnisquams Scenic Trail.

Laconia, like so many once-vibrant New Hamshire Downtown’s, has propelled forward and has taken charge of its future. Like the green plant that grows in the crevice of a rock, Laconia has gained exciting new life. A new master plan set its course in 2017, followed by “Celebrate Laconia,” to celebrate the city’s 125th anniversary. A strategic investment in the community was then implemented by City leaders to build new opportunities in the city. Laconia can be proud today to look at the beautifully restored colonial theatre of Laconia that features live events and concerts in a venue like going back in time. Built in 1914, the $14.4 million renovations have received “wow” reviews to a wide range of performances in the 750 seat theatre, host to music, theatre, comedy, and civic events. The Colonial catalyst has transferred to other downtown shops, cafes, and the Cake Theatre in downtown, a performing arts theatre created by Recycled Percussion amplified to the thrill of a Las Vegas-style experience.

The New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival is another example of Laconia’s versatility in hosting unique cultural events… a huge event every fall in downtown; however, each June, for nine days, the city hosts Laconia Motorcycle Week, aka Bike Week, one of the country’s largest rallies celebrating 99 years of riding. The city also hosts the Laconia World Championship Sled Dog Derby, a well-attended fun event, and the Ironman 70.3 timberman triathlon that draws a large crowd of competitors and spectators.

Laconia’s growth has expanded to lakeport’s renaissance led by Scott Everett, a local product who wanted to “give back to the community he grew up in.” Scott’s vision for Lakeport was right on with the amazing renovation of the Lakeport Opera House, first opened in 1882. This venue is staging amazing performances for Lakes Region Residents. Scott’s newest project, a 29,500 square foot mixed-use commercial/residential complex, is a stunning addition to Lakeport.

The Laconia Country Club, established in 1922, is a private member-owned course. The championship layout 6,813-yard par 72 course is beautiful and in superb condition.

New Hampshire’s cruise ship, the MS Mount Washington, which holds 1250 passengers, is a proud tradition since 1872 is hard at work planning for 2022, its 150th year of cruising on Lake Winnipesaukee.

In Laconia, a city of approximately 17,000 residents, about 25% of its housing stock involves second homes or seasonal properties. There are approximately 8,554 housing units.

Laconia’s public school system is run by the Laconia School District. There is one high school, one middle school, and three elementary schools. Private schools include Holy Trinity school and Laconia Christian. Lakes Region Community College offers 28 degree and 37 certificate programs as well as numerous non-credit options.

Concord Hospital – Laconia is a community and regional acute care facility with a licensed bed capacity of 137 beds offering a wide range of medical services.

Laconia’s property tax rate is $18.86 per $1,000, which is 4.3% lower than the previous year.

Laconia offers a diverse system of 20 parks, playgrounds, and beaches, including Weirs Beach, Bartlett Beach, Opechee Cove, Opechee Point, and Bond Beach.

The city has a number of neighborhoods that offer deeded private beach rights on area lakes. There’s a wide selection of housing types, from planned communities like South Down Shores & Long Bay and Meredith Bay to numerous condominium communities, residential homes, and waterfront homes. For winter activities, Gunstock Mountain Resort is just up the road, and there’s plenty of snowmobile trails, cross country trails, ice skating, and skiing opportunities. The summer months explore with unlimited opportunities with the many marinas, yacht clubs, arcades, boardwalk at the weirs, and the world’s largest arcade at Funspot. A multitude of fine restaurants, pubs, cafes, and coffee shops can be found in Laconia, along with a multitude of cultural events.

Here’s a look at how the real estate market in Laconia has been performing over the past two years:

  • In 2021 there were 239 single-family home sales. The median sales price was $308,000. The average sales price was $420,350. The lowest sales price was $51,724. The highest sales price was $4,900,000. Median days on the market was 7. Total sales volume was $100,463,694.
  • In 2021 there were 187 condo sales. The median sales price was $251,000. The average sales price was $303,674. The lowest sales price was $67,000. The highest sales price was $1,100,000. Median days on the market was 6. Total sales volume was $56,787,188.
  • In 2020 there were 275 single-family home sales. The median sales price was $279,900. The average sales price was $375,745. The lowest sales price was $68,000. The highest sales price was $1,875,000. Median days on the market was 18. Total sales volume was $103,329,955.
  • In 2020 there were 187 condo sales. The median sales price was $236,000. The average sales price was $273,410. The lowest sales price was $74,000. The highest sales price was $867,900. Median days on the market was 12. Total sales volume was $51,127,759.
  • At the present time, there are 21 single-family homes under contract where the median listing price was $369,000.
  • At the present time, there are 26 condos under contract where the median listing price was $579,000.
  • At the present time, there are only 12 single-family homes for sale. The median list price is $375,000. The average list price is $483,550. The lowest listing price is $119,000. The highest listing price is $1,425,000. Median days on the market is 76.
  • At the present time, there are only 5 condos for sale. The median list price is $499,900. The average list price is $502,780. The lowest listing price is $239,000. The highest listing price is $730,000. Median days on the market is 5.

Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc. with offices in Meredith and Laconia, NH

This article was written by Frank Roche. Frank is president of Roche Realty Group with offices in Meredith and Laconia, NH, and can be reached at (603) 279-7046. Town data was compiled by a NEREN search on 2/14/2022 at 11:00 am EST 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.

Reviews of New Hampshire's Lakes Region

Reviews of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region

We’ve had a great summer in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, and we’re approaching the brilliant …

Read More →
Waterfont Sales Activity Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Waterfront Sales Activity in the Lakes Region

As we head into September, I have compiled data and insight into what is happening …

Read More →
Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day Weekend in The Lakes Region

Labor Day Weekend has arrived, and the weather forecast for the Lakes Region looks fantastic, …

Read More →
Interest Rates

The Mortgage Interest Rate Dilemma

This past week, we saw an increase in mortgage rates following a rise in bond …

Read More →
Best State To Live In — New Hampshire at #3

New Hampshire 3rd Best State To Live In!

WalletHub just released its rankings of the best state to live in for 2023. It’s …

Read More →
City/Town Comparison can make the research process easier

City/Town Comparison For Your Move

Some studies place moving to a new location as one of the top ten most …

Read More →
New Hampshire Real Estate Lacks Inventory

New Hampshire Real Estate Inventory Crisis

A Multifaceted Analysis of Rising Interest Rates and Beyond New Hampshire is currently facing a …

Read More →
Peaks of New England

Exploring the Peaks of New England

In my younger years in school, I always loved geography. Living in New Hampshire, there …

Read More →
Climate Exodus: Insurance Companies Seeking Refuge from High-Risk Sates

Climate Exodus: Insurers’ Fleeing High-Risk States

Flooding, Forest Fires, Heat Waves, Tornados, oh my! The recent stretch of weather has certainly …

Read More →
Real Estate News Headlines - Lakes Region NH

Real Estate Tidbits to Consider

Here are a few real estate tidbits I’ve pulled to keep you up to speed …

Read More →
Roche Realty Group Sells out Lakeside at Paugus Bay

Roche Realty Group — 6 Months in Review

Closed sales for the first 6 months of 2023 have been impressive at Roche Realty …

Read More →
Newfound Lake

Lakes Region Waterfront Sales Activity 6 Month Comparison

Below you will find data and insight into what is happening in sales activity on …

Read More →
Buying Land

Buying Land in New Hampshire — Comprehensive Guide

New Hampshire, also known as the Granite State, offers a diverse landscape that includes picturesque …

Read More →
Weirs Beach: A Tale of History, Community, and Natural Beauty

Weirs Beach: A Tale of History, Community, and Natural Beauty

As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the oldest bike week in the country, let’s …

Read More →
First Five Months of Lakes Region Real Estate

Five Months of Lakes Region Real Estate Activity

The month of May’s real estate statistics just came out for New Hampshire, and it …

Read More →
A bird's eye view of Long Bay on Lake Winnipesaukee

South Down Shores and Long Bay on Lake Winnipesaukee — Its History

When construction started in 1981, Laconia’s South Down Farm offered a picturesque setting for condominium …

Read More →
Memorial Day — rows of gravestones with flags in military cemetery

Memorial Day Weekend Arrives in the Lakes Region!

The long-anticipated Memorial Day weekend has arrived after a long winter, and the Lakes Region …

Read More →
Unlike the dandelions new listings aren't popping up in the Lakes Region

Will Listings Start Bloom Like Dandelions?

Will Real Estate Listings Bloom Like Dandelions? During my rides around the Lakes Region, I’ve …

Read More →
boat launch

Public Boat Launches in the Lakes Region

New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is a paradise for boating enthusiasts and we are now entering …

Read More →
Real Estate Scams

Real Estate Scams to Be Aware of

One of my Realtors® received a call today from a gentleman purporting to be the …

Read More →
Brant Point Lighthouse, Nantucket overlooking the ocean

From the Lakes Region to Nantucket

I spent a few days on Nantucket Island this past week for a quick getaway. …

Read More →
Lakes Region Real Estate Is Still Hot

Lakes Region Real Estate Market is Sizzling

The real estate market in the Lakes Region and the state of New Hampshire is …

Read More →
Lake Winnipesaukee Kayak

Buying a Lake House — Where to Start?

Owning a waterfront home in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is a treasured experience. For many …

Read More →
Home improvements

Home Improvements Before You Sell

One question I commonly get asked is, “What type of projects or improvements should I …

Read More →
Single-Family units are down

How’s the Lakes Region Market Looking?

We’ve already passed the first quarter of 2023 for real estate sales in New Hampshire’s …

Read More →
Moving into new home young happy couple celebrating toast Champagne

Buying a Home? Follow These Tips & Tricks

Spring has officially arrived and launches the beginning of our spring selling season for real …

Read More →
Marketing

How Marketing Real Estate Has Evolved

Back in the year 2000, the world was at the beginning stages of a major …

Read More →
Mount Washington, New Hampshire

New Hampshire — 30 Reasons to Move Here!

With lakes, beaches, mountains, forests, rivers, and the ocean for people who enjoy the outdoors, …

Read More →
New Hampshire Ski Resort

Ski Resorts in New Hampshire Are Ready for Spring Skiing!

It’s been a good week, and mother nature hit our region with a blanket of …

Read More →
Market Trends

Real Estate Market Trends to Follow

I’ve been pulling up some current research on the real estate market on a national, …

Read More →
Carol Mattice

Roche Realty Group Welcomes Carol Mattice

Meredith — Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc, with offices in Meredith and …

Read More →
Kevin Shaw - Roche Realty Group

Kevin Shaw of Roche Realty Group is Top Producer for 2022

Laconia— Frank Roche, president of Roche Realty Group with offices in Meredith and Laconia, recently announced …

Read More →
Lisa Lewis

Lisa Lewis Joins Roche Realty Group

Meredith — Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc, with offices in Meredith and …

Read More →
Wanda Keenan

Wanda Keenan Joins Roche Realty Group

Meredith— Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc. with offices in Meredith and Laconia, …

Read More →
Land for sale

Buy Land in New Hampshire — They’re Not Making it Anymore

The science is in and the more trees a state has, the happier and less …

Read More →
The Price of Real Estate

Did The Price of Real Estate Increase in Your Town?

Everyone’s always interested to see how their real estate values have performed over the past …

Read More →
Laid off employee in recession

Are We Headed into a Recession?

It’s pretty big news lately; Microsoft, Amazon, and other tech companies have laid off more …

Read More →
Price Reduced

2022 vs. 2021 — Is The Lakes Region’s Frenzied Market Over?

It’s that time of year to provide all of you with an update on real …

Read More →
Roche Realty Meredith

Roche Realty Group Reports a Record of $181 Million in Sales

               Meredith- Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc, …

Read More →
Hillside Inn Winter

12 Things To Get You Through The Winter Months

On December 21st, the winter solstice marked the start of when days will begin to …

Read More →
Housing Inventory Lacking - Lake Winnisquam, NH

Lake Winnisquam, NH’s 4th Largest Lake is in Strong Demand

There are literally 273 lakes, ponds and rivers to enjoy in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. …

Read More →
Interest Rates

Will We Ever See 1980s Interest Rates?

I was with a Realtor® friend of mine this past week, and we discussed what …

Read More →
Hikers overlooking the lake in New Hampshire, voted "Best State to Live in America" in 2020.

Squam Lake — a Lakes Region Treasure

This past summer, I was invited for lunch and a nice boat ride around Squam …

Read More →
Shop Local New Hampshire

Small Business Saturday in New Hampshire!

We have many things to be thankful for here in New Hampshire, plenty of natural …

Read More →
Couple downsizing to smaller home

Does Downsizing Your Home in Lakes Region Make Sense?

There are many things to consider when planning to sell your home to downsize into …

Read More →
Newfound Lake, New Hampshire

Newfound Lake is the 8th clearest lake in US

Newfound Lake is the 8th clearest lake in the United States New Hampshire has a …

Read More →
Echo Lake New Hampshire

New Hampshire Rankings are Impressive!

New Hampshire has always been fortunate to land in many of the country’s top 10 …

Read More →
Roche Realty Group Sells out Lakeside at Paugus Bay

Impressive New Construction in the Lakes Region

For new construction sales in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, 2022 has shown very impressive results. …

Read More →
Inflation and housing prices

How Inflation Impacts Lakes Region Housing Prices

I was out with a friend this week on Squam Lake, and we were talking …

Read More →
Picture of author in the Grand Canyon

Is Lake Region Real Estate Drying Up Like The Southwest?

I just returned from a trip to Nevada, Arizona, and Utah this past week. Put …

Read More →

Leave a Comment