List of Cities in New Hampshire Alphabetically

by btobers · Published August 10, 2024 · Updated November 11, 2024

New Hampshire has around 234 incorporated cities and towns. The state capital is Concord, while the largest city is Manchester, known for its economic and cultural significance. Other large cities in New Hampshire include Nashua, Concord, Derry, Dover, Rochester, Salem, Merrimack, Hudson, and Londonderry. New Hampshire is a largely rural state, with much of its population living in small towns or smaller urban centers. Its proximity to Boston influences the southern cities, making them part of the greater Boston metropolitan area.

1. Manchester

City Facts

Population: 115,000 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 603
Zip Codes: 03101–03109
County: Hillsborough County

Geography and History

Manchester is the largest city in New Hampshire, located in the south-central part of the state along the Merrimack River. It was originally settled in 1751 and incorporated in 1846, named after Manchester, England, due to its booming textile industry. The city was a significant industrial hub during the 19th and early 20th centuries, known for its textile mills and manufacturing. Over the years, Manchester has transitioned from an industrial center to a diversified economy with strengths in technology, healthcare, and education. Its historical significance is marked by the transformation from a mill town to a vibrant urban area with a focus on revitalization and modernization.

Colleges and Universities

University of New Hampshire at Manchester: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, engineering, and liberal arts.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU): Provides a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online courses and degrees in business, education, and creative arts.
Manchester Community College: Offers associate degrees and vocational training in areas like healthcare, technology, and business.
Saint Anselm College: Located just outside Manchester, it provides a liberal arts education with strong programs in humanities, business, and social sciences.
Granite State College: Offers flexible undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on adult education and professional development.

Major Landmarks

Manchester boasts several significant landmarks. The Palace Theatre is a historic venue offering a wide range of performing arts, including plays, musicals, and concerts. The Currier Museum of Art houses an extensive collection of American art, including works by artists such as Maxfield Parrish and Andrew Wyeth. The Millyard Museum offers insights into the city’s industrial history and its development as a major textile center. Manchester’s City Hall is an architectural landmark featuring a striking Romanesque design. The Zimmerman House, designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is a notable example of his residential work and is open for tours. The SEE Science Center provides interactive exhibits focused on science and technology, appealing to families and children. The Manchester Historic Association offers programs and exhibits related to the city’s history. Elliot Hospital is a major healthcare facility serving the region.

2. Nashua

City Facts

Population: 90,000 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 603
Zip Codes: 03060–03064
County: Hillsborough County

Geography and History

Nashua is located in southern New Hampshire, near the Massachusetts border, and lies along the Nashua River. The city was settled in 1655 and incorporated in 1746. It experienced significant growth during the 19th century as a major center for textile manufacturing, often referred to as “The Manchester of New Hampshire” due to its similar industrial background. Nashua’s economy has diversified in recent decades, with strong sectors in technology, finance, and retail. The city is known for its revitalized downtown area, historical charm, and suburban residential communities. Nashua’s history reflects its transformation from a textile manufacturing hub to a modern, vibrant city.

Colleges and Universities

Nashua Community College: Offers associate degrees and vocational training in fields such as healthcare, business, and technology.
Daniel Webster College: Provides programs in aviation, engineering, and business (note: the college closed in 2017, but its history is still notable for the city).
Southern New Hampshire University (nearby): Offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online courses and degrees in business, education, and creative arts.
University of New Hampshire at Manchester (nearby): Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, engineering, and liberal arts.
Granite State College (nearby): Provides flexible undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on adult education and professional development.

Major Landmarks

Nashua features several noteworthy landmarks. The Nashua Historical Society offers exhibits and programs related to the city’s history and heritage. Greeley Park is a large public park with recreational facilities, walking paths, and gardens. The Nashua Public Library is a modern facility providing a wide range of resources and community programs. The Daniel Webster College Historic District is notable for its historic buildings and contributions to local education. The Rivier University Art Gallery showcases contemporary art and student exhibitions. The Nashua Rail Trail offers opportunities for walking and biking along a scenic route. The Picker Building is a historic site reflecting the city’s industrial past. The Anheuser-Busch Brewery offers tours and tastings, providing a glimpse into one of the area’s major employers.

3. Concord

City Facts

Population: 45,000 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 603
Zip Codes: 03301–03303
County: Merrimack County

Geography and History

Concord is the capital city of New Hampshire, located in the central part of the state along the Merrimack River. It was first settled in 1725 and incorporated in 1765. As the state capital, Concord is the political and administrative center of New Hampshire, housing the State House, the oldest continuously used state capitol building in the United States. The city’s economy has traditionally been driven by government and related services, but it has also seen growth in education, healthcare, and retail. Concord’s history is marked by its role as a political hub and its development from a small colonial settlement to a key city in New Hampshire.

Colleges and Universities

New England College: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs with strengths in business, education, and the arts.
Concord’s NHTI, Concord’s Community College: Provides associate degrees and vocational training in areas like healthcare, technology, and business.
Saint Anselm College (nearby): Located in nearby Manchester, it offers a liberal arts education with programs in humanities, business, and social sciences.
University of New Hampshire (nearby): Offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs with strengths in engineering, business, and the sciences.
Granite State College (nearby): Provides flexible undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on adult education and professional development.

Major Landmarks

Concord is home to several key landmarks. The New Hampshire State House is the oldest state capitol in continuous use in the U.S. and offers tours of its historic chambers. The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center features interactive exhibits on space and science, honoring astronaut Christa McAuliffe and astronaut Alan Shepard. The Concord Museum provides exhibits on the city’s history and culture. The Pierce Manse is the historic home of President Franklin Pierce, offering tours and historical exhibits. White Park is a popular recreational area with walking paths, a pond, and playgrounds. The Capitol Center for the Arts hosts a variety of performances, including music, theater, and dance. The Walker-Woodman House offers insights into early New Hampshire architecture. The Concord Library provides a range of resources and community programs.

4. Derry

City Facts

Population: 35,000 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 603
Zip Codes: 03038, 03041
County: Rockingham County

Geography and History

Derry is located in southeastern New Hampshire, near the Massachusetts border. The town was first settled in 1719 and incorporated in 1827. Derry is known for its historic charm and rural character, with a landscape that includes rolling hills and farmland. The town gained national attention as the childhood home of writer Robert Frost. Historically, Derry was an agricultural community and has since grown into a suburban town with a mix of residential and commercial development. Its history is reflected in its well-preserved historic sites and its role as a residential community within the greater Manchester area.

Colleges and Universities

Southern New Hampshire University (nearby): Offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online courses and degrees in business, education, and creative arts.
University of New Hampshire at Manchester (nearby): Provides programs in business, engineering, and liberal arts.
Granite State College (nearby): Focuses on flexible undergraduate and graduate programs for adult learners.
Nashua Community College (nearby): Offers associate degrees and vocational training in fields such as healthcare, business, and technology.
Daniel Webster College (historical): Previously offered programs in aviation, engineering, and business.

Major Landmarks

Derry features several notable landmarks. The Robert Frost Farm is the former home of the celebrated poet and offers tours and programs about his life and work. The Derry Village Historic District showcases historic buildings and architecture from the town’s early history. The Derry Public Library provides a range of resources and community programs. The Taylor Mill Historic Site includes the remains of an old mill and offers insights into the town’s industrial past. Pinkerton Academy is a historic preparatory school with notable alumni. The Derry Heritage Commission Museum offers exhibits related to local history. The Hood Park provides recreational facilities and green space. The Derry Railroad Depot reflects the town’s transportation history.

5. Portsmouth

City Facts

Population: 21,000 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 603
Zip Codes: 03801–03804
County: Rockingham County

Geography and History

Portsmouth is located on the southeastern coast of New Hampshire, along the Piscataqua River, which forms the border with Maine. Founded in 1623, it is one of the oldest cities in New Hampshire and was an important port during the colonial period. Portsmouth’s waterfront and historic district are known for their well-preserved colonial architecture and maritime history. The city has a rich history as a shipping and trading center and has evolved into a vibrant cultural and economic hub with a focus on tourism, education, and the arts. Portsmouth’s history is marked by its strategic maritime location and its role in early American history.

Colleges and Universities

University of New Hampshire (nearby): Located in Durham, it offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including strengths in engineering, business, and the sciences.
Great Bay Community College: Provides associate degrees and vocational training in fields such as healthcare, business, and technology.
Dartmouth College (nearby): Located in Hanover, it is a prestigious Ivy League institution with strong programs in liberal arts, business, and engineering.
Southern New Hampshire University (nearby): Offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online courses and degrees in business, education, and creative arts.
Granite State College (nearby): Focuses on flexible programs for adult learners.

Major Landmarks

Portsmouth is known for several significant landmarks. Strawbery Banke Museum is a living history museum that offers a glimpse into the city’s past through restored historic buildings and interactive exhibits. Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse provides views of the city’s maritime history and offers tours. The USS Albacore Museum features a retired submarine and exhibits on naval history. The Music Hall is a historic theater offering a variety of performances, including music, theater, and film. The John Paul Jones House is the former residence of the famous naval commander and now a museum. Prescott Park offers gardens, a waterfront amphitheater, and cultural events. The Portsmouth Athenaeum is a historic library and museum showcasing local history and culture. The Moffatt-Ladd House provides insights into colonial-era life and architecture.

List of Cities in New Hampshire Alphabetically

1. Manchester

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

2. Nashua

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

3. Concord

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

4. Derry

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

5. Portsmouth

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

List of All Cities and Towns in New Hampshire in Alphabetical Order

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