When you’re considering a move to New Hampshire, safety is one of the most important factors in choosing where to call home. Whether you’re a young couple planning your future together, a first-time buyer making a significant investment, or looking for stable communities with strong property appreciation, understanding which New Hampshire cities offer the best security and quality of life is essential.
At Liriano Realty, we’re committed to empowering our clients with comprehensive market insights. That’s why we’ve analyzed the latest safety rankings, crime statistics, and real estate data to bring you this guide to New Hampshire’s safest cities for 2026.
Why New Hampshire? The Safety Advantage
Before we dive into specific cities, let’s talk about why New Hampshire is an exceptional choice for safety-conscious buyers and investors. The Granite State holds the distinction of being the second safest state in America, ranking 49th for both violent and property crime rates nationwide.
Here’s what that means in real numbers:
- Violent crime rate: Only 107 incidents per 100,000 people—71% below the national average
- Property crime rate: 889 incidents per 100,000 people—54% below the national average
- Homicide rate: Just 1 per 100,000 people, the lowest in the nation (national average is 5)
Add to this New Hampshire’s lack of state income tax and no general sales tax, and you have a state that offers both safety and financial benefits for residents and investors alike.
What Makes a New Hampshire City Safe?
According to the latest rankings from SafeWise, Niche, HomeSnacks, and AreaVibes, the safest cities in New Hampshire share several key characteristics:
- Exceptionally low violent and property crime rates well below state and national averages
- Strong community policing with active resident participation in neighborhood watch programs
- High median household incomes which correlate with lower crime rates
- Engaged communities where neighbors look out for one another
- Quality schools and family-oriented amenities that create stable, long-term residents
- Small to medium population sizes where people know their neighbors
The Top 12 Safest Cities in New Hampshire for 2026
12. Milford
Starting our countdown at #12, Milford showcases a total crime rate of 418 per 100,000 residents—83% lower than the state average. The local government collaborates closely with residents through regular community meetings to address safety concerns proactively.
Key Stats:
- Population: 8,644
- Strong community-police partnership
- Regular safety feedback sessions
Why it works: Proactive approach to safety creates lasting security and community trust.
11. Hampton
This coastal community offers safety along with beach access, reporting 693 crimes per 100,000 people—83% lower than the New Hampshire average. With zero robberies and zero homicides, Hampton provides seaside living with peace of mind.
Key Stats:
- Zero robberies reported
- Zero homicides
- Beautiful coastal location
Perfect for: Investors seeking coastal rental properties and families wanting safe beach access.
10. Hanover
Home to Dartmouth College, Hanover ranks as the seventh safest city with a total crime rate of 713 per 100,000 people. The town offers a peaceful retreat with a 1 in 140 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
Key Stats:
- Population: 8,744
- Active neighborhood patrols and community safety workshops
- Strong sense of community vigilance
Investment opportunity: College town dynamics create consistent rental demand while maintaining exceptional safety standards.
9. Kingston
This small, secure town in Rockingham County boasts charming rural character with a violent crime rate of just 15 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 221 per 100,000—significantly below state averages.
Key Stats:
- Population: 6,328
- Convenient location between Seacoast and Manchester
- Strong community spirit
Why families love it: Small-town security with convenient access to larger employment centers and attractions.
8. Rye
New Hampshire’s first settlement, Rye is a coastal gem that combines beach town charm with exceptional safety. The town reported zero violent crimes per capita, ranking it among the safest for violent crime in the state.
Key Stats:
- Population: 8,846
- Violent crimes: 0 per 100k people
- Just 20 property crimes total, including only 3 burglaries
Perfect for: Those seeking coastal living without compromising on safety—a rare combination.
7. Merrimack
Strategically located between Nashua and Manchester, Merrimack offers a safe, family-oriented environment with just six violent crimes reported in recent data. For a town of over 25,000 people, that’s approximately one violent crime every other month—remarkably low.
Key Stats:
- Population: 25,000+
- Median home price: $311,000 (more affordable than neighboring communities)
- Home to Budweiser Brewery
Investment appeal: Lower entry point than many safe NH communities, with strong appreciation potential due to strategic location.
6. Hollis
Hollis boasts the lowest level of violent crime in New Hampshire, with just 11 incidents per 100,000 residents. The town also reported zero violent crimes in recent reporting periods, making it one of the safest communities in the entire state.
Key Stats:
- Population: 8,300+
- Median household income: $156,000+
- Zero burglaries reported
Why it stands out: High median income correlates directly with the exceptionally low crime rates, creating a stable, secure environment for families.
5. Atkinson
Just 40 miles north of Boston and sitting on the Massachusetts border, Atkinson has not reported a violent crime in nearly three years. With a population of nearly 8,000, this accomplishment is remarkable and speaks to the town’s strong community values.
Key Stats:
- Property crime rate: 9 times lower than national average
- School rankings: High B rating
- Strategic location for Boston commuters
Perfect for: Young couples and professionals who want the security of a small New Hampshire town while working in the Boston area.
4. Litchfield
Ranking as the safest city according to HomeSnacks’ analysis, Litchfield combines rural tranquility with modern safety standards. This growing community offers families the security they’re looking for without sacrificing access to larger cities.
Investment highlight: As one of the fastest-growing safe communities, Litchfield offers strong appreciation potential for investors.
3. Newmarket
With a tight-knit community and safe environment, Newmarket comes in strong at #3 with a crime rate of just 372 crimes per 100,000 people. Remarkably, the town reported zero burglaries and zero homicides, demonstrating its commitment to safety.
Key Stats:
- Population: Approximately 9,000
- Zero burglaries reported
- Active neighborhood watch programs
Why it works: The combination of zero burglaries and strong community bonds creates an environment where residents feel truly secure.
2. Durham
Home to the University of New Hampshire, Durham secures the #2 spot with an impressive safety record of only 258 crimes per 100,000 people—86% lower than the New Hampshire average. Don’t let the college town status fool you; Durham maintains exceptional safety standards through strong community engagement.
Key Stats:
- Population: 12,016
- Total crime rate: 86% below state average
- Strong community policing presence
Perfect for: Young professionals and investors seeking rental opportunities near a major university with exceptional safety.
1. Nottingham
Taking the #1 spot, Nottingham stands out as New Hampshire’s safest community. This small town reported zero violent crimes, making it an ideal choice for families and young couples seeking absolute peace of mind.
Why investors love it: The combination of zero violent crime and rural charm creates lasting property value stability.
Investment Appeal: Communities with sustained zero-crime records command premium prices and attract quality long-term residents.
The Winner’s Edge: Nottingham’s achievement of maintaining zero violent crimes while fostering a welcoming, tight-knit community makes it the crown jewel of New Hampshire’s safe cities.
Honorable Mentions: More Safe Communities to Consider
Deerfield
Reported zero violent crimes and maintains strong community safety programs.
Chester
Another zero-violent-crime community with excellent schools and rural charm.
Auburn
Zero burglaries reported and consistently high safety scores. Perfect for families seeking tranquility near larger cities.
New Boston
Zero burglaries and strong community engagement create a secure environment.
Windham
With a median income of $148,000 and low poverty rates, Windham maintains a violent crime rate of just 0.1 per 1,000 residents.
Londonderry
Overall crime rate nearly half the state average, with 86% lower violent crime than the national average.
Salem
Growing development activity combined with improved safety measures make Salem an emerging safe community to watch.
The New Hampshire Real Estate Market in 2026
Understanding safety is just one piece of the puzzle. Let’s talk about what you can expect from the New Hampshire real estate market in 2026.
Current Market Snapshot
- Median home price: $496,000-$520,000 (depending on property type and location)
- Year-over-year growth: 2.4-3.9% (slower than the past decade’s 8.5% average)
- Days on market: 34-49 days on average
- Market inventory: 2.7 months supply (still a seller’s market)
- Homes selling at: 100.9% of list price on average
What This Means for Buyers
The Good News:
- Growth is slowing to more sustainable levels
- More inventory is coming to market than in recent years
- Interest rates are gradually improving (6.35-6.82% range)
- More homes available means less intense bidding wars
The Challenge:
- Affordability remains tight—the affordability index is at 58, meaning median household income is only 58% of what’s needed to purchase the median-priced home
- Premium locations still command high prices
- Competition remains strong in safe communities
What This Means for Investors
Strong Investment Indicators:
- New Hampshire’s safety record protects property values
- Low crime rates = lower insurance costs and better tenant quality
- Properties selling at or above list price indicate strong demand
- 2.7 months of inventory means continued seller advantages
- Rental demand remains strong, especially in college towns and commuter communities
- Forecast: 2-4% appreciation expected through 2026
Smart Investment Strategy:
Consider these factors when choosing where to invest in New Hampshire:
- Towns with declining crime trends (like Sharon and Winchester in Massachusetts show, consistent decreases predict long-term stability)
- Communities near Boston for strong rental demand from commuters
- College towns like Durham and Hanover for consistent tenant pools
- Coastal communities like Rye and Hampton for premium rental rates
- Growing communities like Salem and Londonderry where development is increasing
Regional Price Variations to Consider
New Hampshire’s housing market shows significant regional variations:
- Rockingham County: Median price around $670,000 — highest in state, strong proximity to Boston
- Grafton County: 12.4% price increase (2024-2025) — fastest growing region
- Carroll County: 8.7% increase — strong second-home and retirement market
- Belknap County: 6.8% increase — Lakes Region appeal
- Merrimack County: Strong central location, moderate pricing
- Coos & Sullivan Counties: Most affordable, some price declines
What Makes New Hampshire Communities Different?
Beyond the numbers, New Hampshire cities offer lifestyle advantages that contribute to safety and quality of life:
No State Income Tax, No Sales Tax
More money stays in residents’ pockets, contributing to higher quality of life and community investment. This also makes New Hampshire attractive for retirees and professionals, maintaining strong demand.
Small-Town Character
Most cities have fewer than 10,000 residents, creating tight-knit communities where neighbors know each other. This natural social cohesion is a powerful crime deterrent.
Strong School Systems
Quality education creates stable, family-oriented communities where residents stay long-term, contributing to neighborhood safety.
Natural Beauty
From the White Mountains to pristine lakes and a beautiful (albeit short) coastline, outdoor recreation opportunities abound, creating healthy, engaged communities.
Proximity to Boston
Many safe New Hampshire communities are within an hour of Boston, offering big-city career opportunities with small-town security—the best of both worlds.
Making Your Decision: Factors Beyond Crime Statistics
When choosing your New Hampshire home or investment property, consider:
For Young Couples
- Atkinson, Kingston, or Merrimack: Affordable entry points with excellent safety
- Durham or Hanover: College town energy with exceptional security
- Hampton or Rye: Coastal living for an active lifestyle
For First-Time Buyers
- Milford or Litchfield: Strong community engagement, reasonable pricing
- Londonderry or Salem: Growing communities with improving infrastructure
- Newmarket: Tight-knit community with zero burglaries
For Investors
- Durham or Hanover: University towns = consistent rental demand
- Atkinson or Salem: Boston commuter appeal
- Merrimack: Strategic location between two major cities
- Coastal communities: Premium rental rates, vacation rental potential
For Families
- Hollis or Windham: Top safety scores, excellent schools, high median incomes
- Nottingham or Chester: Zero violent crime, rural character
- Kingston or Rye: Safe, family-friendly with outdoor recreation
Beyond Safety: What to Look For
As you research communities, consider these additional factors:
- Visit at different times: Drive through neighborhoods during weekday mornings, afternoons, and weekends to get a true feel
- Talk to residents: Most Granite Staters are friendly and willing to share their experiences
- Check school ratings: Even if you don’t have children, good schools indicate stable property values
- Review commute times: Actually drive the route during rush hour
- Explore local amenities: Parks, libraries, downtown areas, and community centers
- Research town government: Attend a town meeting or read minutes online to understand community priorities
- Consider future development: Check with town planning departments about upcoming projects
The 2026 Outlook: What Experts Predict
Looking ahead to 2026, here’s what market analysts forecast for New Hampshire:
- Price Growth: Modest 2-4% appreciation expected—more sustainable than recent years
- Inventory: Gradual increases expected, moving toward a more balanced market
- Interest Rates: Projected to ease to 5.9-6.4% by end of 2026
- Affordability: Expected to improve slightly as wage growth outpaces home price increases
- Safety Trends: Violent crime decreased 14.6% year-over-year, property crime down 12.1%—trends expected to continue
- No Crash Expected: Strong fundamentals, low inventory, and strict lending standards make a market crash highly unlikely
Common Questions About New Hampshire Safety
- Is New Hampshire really that safe? Yes. New Hampshire consistently ranks as the second safest state in America, with crime rates dramatically lower than national averages across virtually all categories.
- Why is New Hampshire so safe? Several factors contribute: small town sizes where people know neighbors, high median incomes, strong community engagement, quality schools, low poverty rates, and active community policing.
- Are there areas to avoid? While New Hampshire is generally very safe, larger cities like Manchester and certain areas of Nashua have higher crime rates than the state average—though still below national averages. Even in these cities, many neighborhoods remain very safe.
- How does safety affect property values? Directly and significantly. Safe communities command premium prices, appreciate more consistently, attract quality long-term tenants, have lower insurance costs, and maintain stable property values even during market corrections.
- Is it safe to walk alone at night? In most New Hampshire communities featured in this guide, residents report feeling very safe walking alone even late at night. Towns like Hollis, Nottingham, and Durham have particularly high ratings for nighttime safety.
Your Next Steps
At Liriano Realty, we understand that choosing where to live or invest goes beyond statistics—it’s about finding a place where you feel at home and secure. Our team brings deep market knowledge and personal experience to help you navigate the New Hampshire real estate landscape.
We’re committed to:
- Educating you about market trends and neighborhood dynamics
- Empowering you to make confident, informed decisions
- Guiding you through every step of the buying or investing process
- Connecting you with trusted professionals—inspectors, mortgage advisors, attorneys
- Advocating for you to get the best possible terms
Whether you’re a young couple searching for your first home in a safe New Hampshire community, a buyer seeking a secure environment to raise your family, or an investor looking for stable returns in one of America’s safest states, we’re here to help.
The Granite State Advantage
New Hampshire offers a unique combination that’s hard to find elsewhere:
- Second-lowest crime rates in America
- No state income tax or sales tax
- Stunning natural beauty year-round
- Strong sense of community
- Proximity to Boston and major employment centers
- Excellent schools and quality of life
- Stable, appreciating property values
In 2026, as the market continues to stabilize and safety remains a top priority for buyers, New Hampshire’s safest communities will continue to attract families, young professionals, and savvy investors who understand the value of security.
Ready to explore New Hampshire’s safest communities? Contact Liriano Realty today for a free consultation. Let’s find the perfect place where you can live safely, invest wisely, and build your future in the Granite State.
Whether you’re drawn to the coastal charm of Rye and Hampton, the college town vibrancy of Durham and Hanover, the Boston-commuter convenience of Atkinson and Salem, or the rural tranquility of Nottingham and Hollis, New Hampshire has a safe community that’s perfect for you.
Your journey to finding a safe, secure home in New Hampshire starts here. Let’s make it happen together.
Data sourced from SafeWise 2025 Safety Rankings, Niche 2025, HomeSnacks 2025, AreaVibes, FBI Crime Statistics, New Hampshire Association of Realtors, Houzeo, and Zillow. Market conditions, crime statistics, and pricing data are subject to change and represent the most current information available as of January 2026.