New Hampshire, despite its small size, boasts a wealth of natural beauty, featuring an impressive collection of 90 state parks scattered throughout its landscape. At the pinnacle of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern United States, renowned for its unpredictable weather patterns, visitors can savor breathtaking vistas of lush forests and deep ravines.
What further distinguishes New Hampshire is its reputation as a secure place to reside and work. Independent reports reveal that it holds the lowest property crime rate in the nation at just 22.8 percent, in stark contrast to the national average of 35.4 percent.
With the absence of both general sales tax and state personal income tax, it’s no wonder that 1.35 million people have chosen to make the Granite State their home. In this article, we’ll delve into the data to uncover the top 10 safest cities in New Hampshire.
1. Sandown
- Population: 6,501
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 30
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 323
- Most Common Crime: Property
- 96% Below National Crime Rate
Sandown takes the crown as the safest city in New Hampshire, boasting a crime rate a staggering 12 times lower than the national average. For instance, only two violent crimes occurred in the town in 2018. Sandown is not just a haven of safety; it’s also home to Zorvino Vineyards, one of the state’s 20-plus vineyards, making it a paradise for wine enthusiasts.
2. Atkinson
- Population: 6,970
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 43
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 272
- Most Common Crime: Property
- 93% Below National Crime Rate
Atkinson is another standout, reporting just 19 property crimes in 2018, a figure nine times lower than the national average. This Boston suburb offers residents a suburban-rural mix and boasts a strong school system.
3. Hollis
- Population: 7,851
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 0
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 509
- Most Common Crime: Property
- 81% Below National Crime Rate
Hollis stands out with an impeccable safety record, reporting zero violent crimes in 2018. Homes in Hollis come with steep price tags, averaging $467,900. Coupled with its exceptional school system, Hollis is among the top places to reside in New Hampshire, offering proximity to both Massachusetts and Boston.
4. New Boston
- Population: 5,706
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 52
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 262
- Most Common Crime: Property
- 77% Below National Crime Rate
Located just 30 minutes from Manchester, New Boston shines as a safe community, with only three violent crimes recorded in 2018. Outdoor enthusiasts will find paradise here, with numerous trails and scenic parks to explore.
5. Windham
- Population: 14,811
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 33
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 351
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
- 66% Below National Crime Rate
Windham offers a delightful blend of coffee shops and easy access to outdoor entertainment, such as the renowned Canobie Lake Park, known for its thrilling rides.
6. Weare
- Population: 8,990
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 33
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 367
- Most Common Crime: Property
- 31% Below National Crime Rate
Weare has seen a remarkable rise to the sixth position due to its low crime rate, indicating a stable community where residents rarely need to contact law enforcement. The town’s residents mostly own their homes, and the schools maintain a low student-teacher ratio of 12 to 1.
7. Hopkinton
- Population: 5,680
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 0
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 545
- Most Common Crime: Property
- 67% Below National Crime Rate
Nestled near the state capital, Concord, Hopkinton boasts a notable absence of violent crime. The town’s strong school system and higher-than-average education expenditure per student make it an ideal place to raise a family.
8. Hampstead
- Population: 8,696
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 22
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 540
- Most Common Crime: Property
- 67% Below National Crime Rate
Hampstead offers wine enthusiasts a haven in Sweet Baby Vineyard and access to outdoor activities like the Rockingham Recreational Trail.
9. Durham
- Population: 16,813
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 65
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 315
- Most Common Crime: Property
- 85% Below National Crime Rate
Home to the University of New Hampshire, Durham exudes a youthful vibrancy. Its schools and education system are highly regarded, though the cost of living is 17 percent higher than the national average.
10. Merrimack
- Population: 25,683
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 23
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 576
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
- 20% Below National Crime Rate
Merrimack secures the tenth spot with only six reported violent crimes in 2018. Situated between Manchester and Nashua, this commuter suburb to Boston offers homes with a median price of $311,000.
Conclusion
In summary, New Hampshire’s top 10 safest cities provide residents with peace of mind, blending security with access to various amenities and outdoor attractions, making them desirable places to call home