Moving to New Hampshire
New Hampshire has become one of the most sought-after relocation destinations in New England, combining no income tax, no sales tax, low crime rates, and proximity to Boston (60–90 minutes from Manchester or Nashua). This page covers every New Hampshire-destination route we track.
Generate My Moving ChecklistNew Hampshire at a Glance
Taxes
Climate
Humid continental with cold, snowy winters and mild summers.
Cost of Living
Why People Move to New Hampshire
New Hampshire's tax profile is exceptional among Eastern states. The Interest and Dividends Tax was eliminated as of January 1, 2025, making NH a true no-income-tax state. No sales tax either. The cost-of-living index of 114.6 is high, but driven largely by housing rather than taxes. For residents of Massachusetts, Connecticut, or New York, income tax savings alone can run $5,000–$20,000 annually.
The tradeoffs: New Hampshire has very high property taxes (effective rate 1.89%) because the state funds public education largely through local property taxes rather than income or sales tax. The winters are real — NH averages 44°F annually with significant snowfall. Public transit is minimal outside of a few southern NH cities.
Popular Routes Moving to New Hampshire
New Hampshire DMV & Registration
New Hampshire requires you to get a New Hampshire driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. Vehicle registration in NH is handled by the town clerk — each town sets its own registration fees. You'll need your out-of-state title or lienholder documentation, proof of NH insurance, and proof of residency. NH requires annual safety inspections.
Official New Hampshire DMV →Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I save on income taxes by moving to New Hampshire?
New Hampshire eliminated its Interest and Dividends Tax as of January 1, 2025, making it a true no-income-tax state. Moving from Massachusetts (5% income tax) saves $5,000 on a $100,000 salary. Moving from New York (up to 10.9%), Connecticut (up to 6.99%), or New Jersey (up to 10.75%) produces proportionally larger savings. There's also no sales tax in NH.
How much does it cost to move to New Hampshire?
Moves from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, or Connecticut typically cost $1,500–$4,000. Moves from New York state run $2,000–$5,000. Longer moves from the Midwest or South run $3,500–$8,000.
How high are New Hampshire property taxes?
NH has one of the highest effective property tax rates in the country at 1.89%, because the state relies heavily on property taxes to fund local schools and services. On a $400,000 home, you'd pay approximately $7,560/year — roughly $630/month. This is the key offset to factor when calculating income tax savings.
Is New Hampshire really commutable to Boston?
Southern New Hampshire is commutable to Boston with important caveats. Nashua (40 miles) to Boston: 50–90 minutes by car. Manchester (53 miles): 60–100 minutes. Concord (75 miles): 90–120 minutes in rush hour. The Downeaster Amtrak train runs from Exeter and Dover to Boston's North Station — a practical option for car-free commuters.
What are the best towns in New Hampshire for Boston commuters?
Nashua and Manchester are the most commuter-friendly cities with urban amenities. Derry, Salem, Windham, and Hudson are popular suburbs with lower prices. The Seacoast area (Portsmouth, Exeter, Dover) is attractive but commands a premium. For commutability along the Amtrak Downeaster corridor, Exeter and Dover offer good options.