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.
New 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 110.1 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 1.50%) 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.
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 1.50%, because the state relies heavily on property taxes to fund local schools and services.
- On a $400,000 home, you'd pay approximately $6,000/year — roughly $500/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.