At the beginning of July, I wrote an article entitled “30 Reasons Why New Hampshire Stands Out.” I guess I have to update it and say, “31 reasons.” The Granite State, as stated in my article, has received many accolades for being one of the best places to live.
An October report from Consumer Affairs came out comparing all 50 states to determine the ranking of the best states to raise a family. Guess what — New Hampshire took the top spot as the #1 best state to raise a family.
All of the states were analyzed across five weighted categories: Affordability, safety, education, healthcare, and quality of life. A point system was assigned to each category. Interestingly, the best states to raise a family were mainly in the Northeast. New Hampshire climbed from #4 last year, taking the top spot away from Vermont this year.
The Top 10 Best States to Raise a Family in 2025
New Hampshire
Maine
Wisconsin
Vermont
New York
Connecticut
Wyoming
Virginia
Massachusetts
Pennsylvania
The 10 states ranked at the bottom were: Nevada, Alaska, New Mexico, Louisiana, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Texas, Colorado, and Oklahoma.
How The Granite State Ranked by Category
By category, New Hampshire ranked:
#34 in affordability
#1 in safety
#22 in education
#7 in healthcare
#3 in quality of life
Consumer Affairs noted that New Hampshire has low food costs, a large number of public libraries, state parks, and safe neighborhoods. Accessible healthcare, strong public schools, an abundance of outdoor spaces and recreation, and the best air quality in the country.
You can see that our state’s ranking under “affordability” did not come out great because states in the Northeast many times come with a higher cost of living. In fact, New Hampshire’s affordability index is at an all-time low, around 55, which is a result of rising home prices which have outpaced median income growth and higher interest rates. It is an issue all of us are concerned about. However, with New Hampshire’s #1 ranking, the state made up for it in the other four categories.
New Hampshire’s Other Accolades
It’s interesting to note that New Hampshire was also ranked the #1 best state to retire in 2025 by Bank Rate and ranked #2 best state for 2025 by U.S. News and World Report.
I’m not surprised that New Hampshire garnered the top spot as the “best state to raise a family in.” As a native of New Hampshire, I cannot think of a state I’d be happier in. It’s been a wonderful feeling raising a family in the Granite State and now watching my grandchildren enjoy the culture and natural beauty of the Lakes Region of New Hampshire.
The region has so many activities and recreational opportunities to enjoy. When you look at some of the large cities across the country and see what they are going through, we certainly are fortunate to be residents of New Hampshire.
What Makes Living Here So Special
Where do you find lakes, beaches, mountains, forests, rivers, and the ocean all in close proximity?
Four breathtaking seasons of activities to enjoy.
1,300 lakes and ponds cover approximately 280 square miles of New Hampshire.
Add to this 10,000 miles of rivers and streams flowing throughout the state.
New Hampshire is the 2nd most forested state in the country, with 82% of the entire state covered in forests.
There are over 4,000 miles of hiking trails and 48 mountains over 4,000 feet in elevation.
It is truly a hiker‘s paradise. The White Mountain National Forest alone is approximately 800,000 acres in size.
If you are overwhelmed by big city life and want to spend some time surrounded by nature to escape, New Hampshire offers the perfect setting.
Quality of Life
The state has the lowest poverty and food insecurity level in the nation.
For families, New Hampshire is ranked the #1 safest state in America — so important in today’s day and age.
They say “health is wealth,” and New Hampshire has great access to some of the best healthcare in the country. According to MoneyGeek.com, New Hampshire is ranked 3rd in the nation for 2025.
Families look for top-rated schools, and the New Hampshire public school system was ranked 5th best in the U.S. for 2025 by WalletHub and has the 2nd highest median ACT score of 25.1.
We enjoy environmental safety from earthquakes, tornadoes, forest fires, and major hurricanes. New Hampshire’s air quality is ranked #4 in the country.
Things to Do and Experience
Think of the attractions we offer families — many of them natural, others well-loved destinations such as:
Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, Canobie Lake Park, Storyland, Santa‘s Village, The Hobo Railroad, Cog Railroad, The Flume, Funspot, the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Conway Scenic Railroad, the New Hampshire coast, Squam Lake Science Center, Prescott Farm, Mount Washington Cruises, and a multitude of state parks and attractions.
There are always country fairs, craft fairs, chowder fests, antique car and boat shows, Christmas fairs, pond hockey tournaments, and fishing tournaments.
Outdoor sports like mountain biking, hiking, boating, water skiing and wake surfing, camping, horseback riding, snowboarding, skiing, hunting, and all of the great sports programs offered in schools throughout the state keep families active year-round.
The New Hampshire Way of Life
In New Hampshire, we have wonderful people and a slower pace of life. Our residents are genuinely nice and polite. The rural feel of our state is a huge draw.
What I love most is that you can explore many different terrains in a short time frame — from Boston to New Hampshire’s Seacoast, to the Lakes Region, and then the White Mountains.
Urban to wilderness in short order, everything is so accessible.
What is hard to believe about New Hampshire is that it is the 5th smallest state in the nation, and yet the 10th least populous. That’s a good thing — and that’s why we enjoy the best quality of life.
This article was written by Frank Roche. Frank is president of Roche Realty Group located in Meredith, NH, and can be reached at (603) 279-7046. Please feel free to visit www.rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.
Thinking About Moving to New Hampshire?
If you’re considering moving to New Hampshire or wondering what it’s like living in New Hampshire, you’re not alone. Families, retirees, and professionals alike are drawn to the Granite State for its safety, excellent schools, beautiful natural surroundings, and quality of life. From the Lakes Region to the White Mountains, New Hampshire offers a unique mix of scenic landscapes, recreational opportunities, and community-focused living. To help you learn more, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about life, family living, and relocation in New Hampshire.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in New Hampshire
Is New Hampshire a good place to live?
Yes. New Hampshire is ranked the #1 state to raise a family in 2025 thanks to its outstanding safety, excellent public schools, strong healthcare system, and high quality of life. The state offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and community living — with lakes, mountains, forests, and the ocean all within easy reach. Many people choose to live in New Hampshire for its friendly communities, clean environment, and balance between peaceful living and accessibility.
Why move to New Hampshire?
People move to New Hampshire for many reasons — safety, natural surroundings, low poverty levels, strong schools, great healthcare, and a slower pace of life. Whether you’re seeking the tranquility of small-town living, access to year-round outdoor recreation, or proximity to cities like Boston without the congestion, New Hampshire offers the best of all worlds. Families, retirees, and professionals alike find the Granite State to be a place of opportunity, balance, and beauty.
What is the cost of living in New Hampshire?
While New Hampshire’s cost of living can be higher than some states due to rising home prices and interest rates, it offers substantial value in return. Residents benefit from no state income or sales tax, low crime rates, top-rated healthcare and schools, and an overall exceptional quality of life. The cost of living reflects the state’s desirability and the benefits that come with living in one of the safest and most beautiful places in the country.
What is life like in New Hampshire?
Life in New Hampshire is peaceful, scenic, and community-focused. Residents enjoy four distinct seasons — with endless opportunities for hiking, boating, skiing, and exploring. You’ll find charming small towns, clean air, and a slower, more intentional way of life. The people are known for being friendly and genuine, and the balance between rural charm and accessibility to major cities makes New Hampshire a truly special place to call home.
What are the best areas to live in New Hampshire?
The best places to live in New Hampshire depend on your lifestyle. The Lakes Region offers natural beauty and family-friendly living; the Seacoast area provides ocean views and access to charming coastal towns; and the White Mountains region is ideal for outdoor lovers. Southern New Hampshire appeals to commuters and professionals with its proximity to Boston and thriving communities. No matter the region, residents enjoy the same benefits — safety, scenery, and a strong sense of community.
Is New Hampshire a good place to raise a family?
Absolutely. In 2025, New Hampshire was ranked the #1 state in America to raise a family by Consumer Affairs. Families are drawn to its top-tier schools, low crime rates, healthy environment, and abundant outdoor activities. From quality healthcare to a strong community focus, New Hampshire consistently delivers on the factors families care most about.
What is the weather like in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire experiences all four seasons — colorful autumn foliage, snowy winters perfect for skiing, bright and mild springs, and warm, vibrant summers. Residents love the variety of seasonal activities, from hiking and boating to snowshoeing and skiing. Each season offers a different perspective on the state’s natural beauty.
Is New Hampshire a tax-friendly state?
Yes — New Hampshire is one of the most tax-friendly states in the U.S. There is no state income tax and no sales tax, which makes it financially appealing for both families and retirees. While property taxes can be higher than average, the absence of other major taxes often offsets those costs.
Is New Hampshire safe?
Yes. New Hampshire is the #1 safest state in America. Low crime rates, strong community ties, and overall quality of life contribute to its reputation as one of the safest places to live and raise a family. Residents enjoy peace of mind, whether they live in rural towns or suburban communities.
What is New Hampshire known for?
New Hampshire is known for its natural beauty, strong sense of independence, and outdoor recreation. It’s home to the White Mountains, Lake Winnipesaukee, scenic state parks, and historic small towns. The Granite State is also recognized for its “Live Free or Die” spirit, reflecting the independent and welcoming nature of its residents.
