10 Fastest Growing Towns and Cities in New Hampshire

Many communities in New Hampshire are growing. Spurred by investment opportunities, commercial development, and the resulting surge of employment and residential housing demands, many cities and towns are growing faster than others throughout the Granite State.

Here’s a synopsis:

These are the 10 fastest growing towns and cities in New Hampshire for 2018, according to the most recent census estimates compared to 2010 Census statistics:

1. Bedford (Hillsborough County) – estimated population 22,733, up from 21,203 (+ 1,530)
2. Durham (Strafford County) – estimated population 16,116 up from 14,638 (+1,478)
3. Londonderry (Rockingham County) – estimated population 25,361 up from 24,129 (+1,232)
4. Nashua (Hillsborough County) – estimated population 87,590 up from 86,494 (+1,096)
5. Hooksett (Merrimack County) – estimated population 14,464 up from 13,451 (+1,013)
6. Dover (Strafford County) – estimated population 30,683 up from 29,987 (+698)
7. Laconia (Belknap County) – estimated population 16,444 up from 15,951 (+ 493)
8. Lebanon (Grafton County) – estimated population 13,599 up from 13,151 (+449)
9. Pelham (Hillsborough County) – estimated population 13,222 up from 12,897 (+325)
10. Manchester (Hillsborough County) – estimated population 109,866 up from 109,565 (+301)

Other cities of note that have seen new commercial development and residential growth within their downtown communities are Portsmouth (Rockingham County),  with an estimated population of 21,524 up from 21,233 or (+291) and Rochester (Strafford County), with an estimated population of 30,027 up from 29,752 (+275).

As growth continues slowly but steadily in the state, a continuous trend of commercial expansion continues most notably in the southern regions of New Hampshire. Many of these towns have received national recognitions as great towns for development and relocating business.

MONEY Magazine recently listed Nashua as delivering low-cost living, with affordable home prices and no state income or sales tax. The city has become an attractive alternative for families and business owners who want access to the job market along with the amenities of living within close proximity to Boston, an approximate 45 minute commute, but at a fraction of the price.

Along with development, employment, and business opportunities, there are economic advantages that many towns and cities are leveraging to attract new growth throughout New Hampshire. From hotels and luxury condos, coffee shops and retail stores, Portsmouth’s commitment to creating mixed-use developments downtown has created steady commercial expansion and population growth.

Portsmouth has developed a reputation as one of the best places to raise family in New Hampshire, creating opportunities for businesses to acquire high-quality employees. According to the U.S. Census, 40% of Portsmouth's residents have earned advanced degrees, many who are specially trained for careers in technology and medical fields.

New Hampshire’s commercial real estate market continues to see growth and increased demand. Speak to one of the professionals in our Commercial Services Division to access expert knowledge and advice about emerging communities that offer the best investment, development, and revitalization opportunities.