Expert Advice For Moving to New Hampshire

For such a small state, New Hampshire certainly packs a punch – from majestic mountains to the incredible shoreline (not to mention, the most breathtaking fall foliage in the United States). But there’s so much more to this northeastern state than just its stunning nature. As one of the original 13 colonies, it has a rich heritage. The state also offers an attractive array of selling points to prospective residents.

In the following guide, you’ll learn why many people regard The Granite State as the best state to live in America. Great Guys has included the following four sections:

1. Things to Consider Before Moving to NH
2. Top Places to Live in the Northeast State
3. A Handy Interstate Moving Guide
4. List of our NH Moving Services

We hope this info makes your decision much easier. When you’re ready, Great Guys Moving is here to help you find top-rated licensed and insured New Hampshire movers with unbeatable rates. We make moving easy & affordable!

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Living in New Hampshire: What to Know Before Moving to New Hampshire

Considering a move to the Granite State? If so, you’ll want to check out everything the fifth smallest state (9,350 square miles) and tenth least populous state (1.36 million) has to offer!

Pros and Cons of Living in New Hampshire

Pros: 

• Best state in America: Many states may claim to hold the top spot, but New Hampshire is regularly voted as the top state to live in the United States. It’s just a fact!
• Varied terrain: From its spectacular coastline to the majestic White Mountains, you’ll experience an abundance of lakes, forests, beaches, ski resorts, snowmobiling trails, and more.
• Topnotch education: Ranked among the Top 5 states with the best schools in the country, New Hampshire is also home to Dartmouth College and other prestigious institutions.
• Stellar economy: Coming in thirteenth place in the United States (according to US News’ Economy Rankings), New Hampshire is a small state with big economic opportunity.
• Low crime: Looking for one of the safest states in the country? The Granite State consistently ranks in the Top 3 for public safety and lowest property crime.
• No sales tax: You read that right – there’s no sales tax! Some New Hampshirites set up residency in the state and commute to Boston for this singular reason.
• Amazing beaches: You may be surprised to hear that New Hampshire even has beaches, but its gorgeous coastline offers several amazing Atlantic Ocean locales.

Cons:

• Long, intense winters: Snow is great, but it can get out of hand in this northeastern state. Make sure to pick up sturdy snow shovels, warm jackets, and insulated boots.
• High property tax: Okay, so there’s no sales tax. Awesome! On the downside, the average effective real-estate tax is nearly 2.2%. This rate is the third-highest rate in the nation.
• Low diversity: According to WalletHub’s Most and Least Diverse States in America, the state is the fourth-least diverse state overall (and comes in #47 for cultural diversity).
• Lack of public transportation: If you can’t afford to own a vehicle, you may want to reconsider a move here. That or make sure you work close to or at home.
• Bothersome bugs: From annoying black flies to dangerous ticks and spiders (including the brown recluse and broad-faced sac spider), pests are plentiful around here.
• Slow internet: This seems to be a major complaint throughout the state. Depending on your location, cellular service tends to drop out too.
• Weird laws: As with most states, there’s no shortage of odd laws. For instance, hunters aren’t allowed to have pet ferrets. Also, taking seaweed from a beach is illegal.

Is New Hampshire a Good Place to Live?

New Hampshire is one of the best states to live in thanks to its excellent quality of life, strong economy, and relative safety. In fact, the Granite State is regularly voted as the best state in the country. With low-cost healthcare and transportation, no sales tax, and spectacular scenery, it’s no wonder this little gem of a state gets high marks.

Tax Rates

• Property Tax: 2.19%. The real-estate tax rate is the third-highest in the US.
• Sales Tax: 0%. Currently, Hampshire does not collect sales tax.
• Income Tax: 5%. New Hampshire only taxes interest and dividends income.

Housing Market

To Rent or Buy? Overall, it is a cheaper option to rent rather than buy in New Hampshire. The median monthly mortgage payment is $1,484 (not including monthly taxes, homeowners insurance, and so on). The average rent is $1,095 (for a two-bedroom place). Of course, figures will be affected by location.

• Median Home Value: $279,200
• Median Rental Expense: $1,039 (1BR), $1,326 (2BR)

Cheapest Places to Live in New Hampshire:

1. Somersworth
2. Suncook
3. South Hooksett
4. Rochester
5. Berlin
6. Claremont
7. Franklin
8. Keene
9. Pinardville
10. Laconia

Cost of Living

According to the Cost of Living in New Hampshire by BestPlaces, New Hampshire has a cost of living index of 114.4. This index is above the nationwide index of 100.

Utilizing the Family Budget Calculator, we can compare the average monthly expenses of a family of four (two adults + two kids) in three New Hampshire counties.

Hillsborough County (Nashua and Manchester):

1. Housing = $1,239
2. Food = $817
3. Childcare = $1,276
4. Transportation = $1,226
5. Healthcare = $851
6. Other necessities = $829
7. Taxes = $775
8. Grand total = $7,013 per month or $84,160 per year

Grafton County (Hanover and Lebanon):

1. Housing = $1,032
2. Food = $885
3. Childcare = $1,162
4. Transportation = $1,240
5. Healthcare = $829
6. Other necessities = $774
7. Taxes = $699
8. Grand total = $6,620 per month or $79,441 per year

Coos County (Berlin and Lancaster):

1. Housing = $776
2. Food = $840
3. Childcare = $1,025
4. Transportation = $1,250
5. Healthcare = $829
6. Other necessities = $652
7. Taxes = $565
8. Grand total = $5,936 per month or $71,237 per year

Weather & Natural Disasters

Offering a classic New England climate, New Hampshire has distinct four seasons with a wide variety of temperatures. Summers are pleasantly warm but short, and winters are long, snowy, and often frigid. The southeastern part of the state experiences milder winters and higher humidity (due to the Atlantic Ocean), while the northern and central portions see colder winters and relatively less humidity.

Climate Statistics:

1. Average rainfall – 46 inches (US average is 38 inches)
2. Average snowfall – 68 inches (US average is 28 inches)
3. Sunshine – 198 sunny days (US average is 205 days)
4. Summer high – 80 degrees (July)
5. Winter low – 9 degrees (January)

According to WorldAtlas’ The 10 States Safest from Natural Disasters, New Hampshire is the 9th safest state in America. However, that does not exclude it from several risks.

Natural Disaster – Threats & Risks:

1. Flooding
2. Severe Winter Weather
3. Ice Storms
4. Hurricanes
5. Tornadoes
6. Microbursts / Severe Winds
7. Thunderstorms / Lightning
8. Earthquakes
9. Wildfires

Economy & Job Market

According to Economy Rankings by US News & World Report, New Hampshire is currently ranked #13 in the United States. This score is based on several subcategories: business environment (#16), employment (#6), and growth (#18). The GDP is nearly $82 billion, and the median income is $38,237.

Top Industries:

1. Smart Manufacturing
2. High Technology
3. Tourism
4. Healthcare

Top Employers:

1. C&S Wholesale Grocers
2. Ocean Properties
3. Keene State College
4. Standex International
5. University of New Hampshire
6. Dartmouth College
7. MTS Inc.
8. Albany International
9. C&S Careers
10. Anvil International

Looking for work in New Hampshire? Here are some handy resources:

1. NH.gov page: Services for Job Seekers
2. Job search: Indeed, LinkedIn, CollegeRecruiter, CareerBuilder
3. Resume help: Monster, TopResume, ResumeRobin

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Traffic and Transportation

Because of the rural nature of the state – a lot of residents are spread out in small towns and villages – it’s vital for many people to own and operate a personal vehicle. Other than major cities like Manchester and Nashua, there is room for improvement when it comes to statewide public transportation. Walking and biking are generally unsafe due to the lack of lights and cold, snowy winters.

Major Forms of Transportation:

1. Air (including Manchester-Boston Regional Airport)
2. Bus (including Concord Coach Lines and Greyhound)
3. Train (Amtrak Downeaster and Amtrak Vermonter)
4. Personal vehicle
5. Car rental (Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, etc.)
6. Ridesharing (Uber, Lyft, Curb, etc.)
7. Taxi and limousine services

New Hampshire has approximately 17,000 miles of public roads, which are maintained by the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT).

Primary Interstate Highways:

1. Interstate 89
2. Interstate 89 BL
3. Interstate 93
4. Interstate 95
5. Interstate 193
6. Interstate 293
7. Interstate 393

According to Best and Worst States to Drive In by WalletHub, the state of New Hampshire is ranked #46 in the country. This ranking depends on several subcategories: cost of ownership & maintenance (#31), traffic & infrastructure (#42), safety (#27), and access to vehicles & maintenance (#38). Overall, it’s not surprising to hear that the state is one of the worst places in America for driving.

Things to Do

New Hampshire may be a small state, but it’s full of a multitude of fun activities and destinations. Here are the top picks for visitors and residents of the great northeastern state.

Tourist Attractions:

The Granite State is home to deep American history and natural attractions.

• Head to Hampton Beach: Though it only has 18 miles of coastline (shortest of any US state), it offers great beaches that include the state’s largest and most popular, Hampton Beach.
• Take kids to Theme Parks: Home to some of the best amusement parks in the Northeast, New Hampshire offers famous parks like Santa’s Village and Story Land.
• Drive on Kancamagus Highway: Love scenic drives? You’ll be hardpressed to find a better driving excursion than along The Kanc, especially during colorful autumn.
• Come to the Castle in the Clouds: Overlooking a magnificent body of water, Lake Winnipesaukee, the Lucknow mansion is a great half-day trip. It also has amazing scenic hiking.
• Ride the Rails: Via the Mount Washington Cog Railway, sightseers get a feast for the eyes! Enjoy New Hampshire’s breathtaking scenery on an old-fashioned train ride.

Food & Drink:

The state vegetable may be the potato, but New Hampshire’s cuisine is far from boring!

• Top 24-Hour Diner: Red Arrow Diner (Manchester)
• Top Bar: Portsmouth Brewery (Portsmouth)
• Top Beach Bar: Bernie’s Beach Bar (Hampton Beach)
• Top Beer: Hopulization by Stoneface Brewing Company (Newington)
• Top Brunch: Wentworth by the Sea (New Castle)
• Top Burger: Lexie’s (various locations)
• Top Chinese Restaurant: Golden Tao (Manchester)
• Top Chocolate Shop: Dancing Lion Chocolate (Manchester)
• Top Coffee Shop: Union Coffee Company (Milford)
• Top Doughnuts: Muriel’s Donuts (Lebanon)
• Top Food Truck: B’s Tacos (Londonderry)

Parks:

Want to explore New Hampshire’s splendid, varied nature? Consider these popular parks:

• Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center: Found in the middle of White Mountains, it offers outdoor recreation: hiking, biking, ski activities, and more. Located in Gorham.
• White Mountain National Forest: Located off the Kancamagus Highway, this forest is another great destination in the White Mountains that provides year-round outdoor activities.
• West Rattlesnake Mountain: Located in Holderness, this wilderness offers a hike to the summit of West Rattlesnake Mountain, with great views of Squam Lake and its numerous islands.
• Glen Ellis Falls: Visitors to this Jackson destination snag views of a beautiful waterfall after a brief 0.3-mile hike (accessible to all skill levels) in the White Mountains.
• Franconia Notch State Park: Named one of the 12 best state parks in the US, the park, located in Franconia, offers amazing scenery and a multitude of hiking trails.

Museums:

New Hampshire offers many outstanding museums. Here are the top 10 picks:

• Wright Museum of WWII: Commemorating “the greatest generation.”
• Mount Washington Observatory: Learn about the science of meteorology.
• Currier Museum of Art: This museum features European and American paintings, sculptures, etc.
• Strawberry Banke Museum: This is a 10-acre outdoor museum dedicated to American history.
• USS Albacore Museum: Family-friendly exploration of the research submarine.
• Children’s Museum of New Hampshire: Filled with awesome creative exhibits, the Children’s Museum delights Dover’s youngest residents.
• Woodman Institute Museum: Natural science, decorative arts, and contemporary art.
• Jackson Art Studio & Gallery: Offers painting classes for all ages + a gallery of local works.
• New Hampshire Telephone Museum: Explore the history of telecommunications.
• Millyard Museum: Dedicated to the history and mills of Manchester, NH, the Millyard Museum scores rave reviews from its visitors.

Cool & Unusual:

Looking for something off the beaten path in New Hampshire? Check out:

• Madame Sherri’s Castle: Explore the ruins of the eccentric costume designer’s extravagant home, where she threw her renowned parties for NYC’s theatre elite.
• Mystery Hill: Dubbed “America’s Stonehenge,” there is a cloud of mystery surrounding the site. Is it a 4,000-year-old structure or the work of 19th-century farmers?
• The Basin: Adored by the likes of Henry David Thoreau, this 30-foot-wide and 15-foot-deep bowl is considered a geological masterwork due to its wondrous formation.
• Sculptured Rocks: The narrow canyon contains interesting and captivating rock forms that have been carved and smoothened by thousands of years of river flow.
• Ice Castles: Found in the White Mountains in Lincoln, they are created by an icicle-forming drip process that creates a series of caves, tunnels, sculptures, and fountains.

Schools and Universities

New Hampshire has some of the best K–12 and college education in the country. According to USA Today’s Geographic Disparity: States with the Best (and Worst) Schools, the New England state is ranked #4 (with the 8th highest public-school spending and the 9th highest high-school graduation rate). Not to be outdone, New Hampshire is also home to several prestigious colleges, including Dartmouth College.

Top NH Colleges:

1. Dartmouth College (Hanover)
2. University of New Hampshire (Durham)
3. The University of New Hampshire at Manchester (Manchester)
4. St. Anselm College (Manchester)
5. Keene State College (Keene)
6. Plymouth State University (Plymouth)
7. Southern New Hampshire University (Manchester)
8. Colby-Sawyer College (New London)
9. Rivier College (Nashua)
10. Granite State College (Concord)

Top NH Public School Districts:

1. SAU 70 (Hanover)
2. Oyster River Cooperative School District (Durham)
3. Portsmouth School District (Portsmouth)
4. Bedford School District (Bedford)
5. Hollis/Brookline Cooperative School District (Issaquah)
6. Windham School District (Windham)
7. Exeter Region Cooperative School District (Exeter)
8. Hopkinton School District (Contoocook)
9. Bow School District (Bow)
10. Sunapee School District (Sunapee)

How to Become a New Hampshire Resident

There are several reasons to become a resident, including tax purposes and in-state tuition status.

To become an official resident of New Hampshire, the state requires you to 1) Move to the state and establish domicile (rent or buy a home) 2) Obtain a New Hampshire driver’s license or photo Identification 3) Title and register your out-of-state vehicle (if applicable).

To become a resident student, you must physically reside in New Hampshire for no less than 12 months before the term for which you’re applying.

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Moving to New Hampshire DMV

Acquiring a new driver’s license:

After moving to the state, new residents have 60 days to apply for an NH driver’s license.

To transfer a license from another state:

1. Move to New Hampshire
2. Visit an NH DMV office
3. Provide current license with proof of ID and NH residency
4. Passion a vision test
5. Pay the applicable license fee
6. Receive 60-day temporary license
7. Wait for a permanent license to be delivered by mail

Vehicle registration:

Once you’ve moved to New Hampshire, you must register your out-of-state vehicle within 60 days. To do so, visit your local town or city clerk’s office. Present the vehicle title and proof of residency. If you have a leased vehicle, you must submit the following: 1) Out-of-state registration 2) Lease agreement (if applicable) 3) Lienholder’s name and address 4) Proof of NH residency.

To qualify to vote, you must be:

1. A United States citizen
2. A New Hampshire resident
3. 18 years or older on election day

New Hampshire does not provide online voter registration. You may register by mail (check registration requirements) or in person at a town or city clerk’s office or with your community’s Supervisors of the Checklist. Residents may also register at a polling place on election day. The state does not allow early voting or no-excuse absentee voting. At the polls, voters must present a valid photo ID.

*NOTE: A New Hampshire felon has their voting rights restored upon completion of sentence.

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Best Places to Live in New Hampshire

Hanover

Population: 11,500
Median Home Value: $576,300
Region: Northern New Hampshire

We begin our journey through New Hampshire in the town of Hanover. Situated close to the eastern border of Vermont, the town is considered the #1 place to live in New Hampshire. 67% of residents own their homes, and public schools are highly rated.

What makes Hanover the top town? Aside from being in arguably the best state, it is an extremely family-friendly place to live and grow up. It also holds top honors for overall quality of life, commute time, and employment rating. Dartmouth College offers fun and engaging events for all ages. As for drawbacks, there isn’t much diversity. There’s not much nightlife here, too.

Top public schools serving Hanover include Hanover High School, Frances C. Richmond School, Bernice A. Ray School, Marion W. Cross School, and Lyme Elementary School. For private academics, consider The Montessori Children’s School. As previously mentioned, the town is also home to the #12 national university in the nation, Dartmouth College.

Simply put, if you have the wherewithal, it’s pretty much a no-brainer to move to this highly educated, family-friendly town in eastern New Hampshire.

Lebanon

Population: 13,500
Median Home Value: $242,500
Region: Northern New Hampshire

Next, we travel to another small western NH town, Lebanon (not to be confused with East Lebanon, a different town). As the only city in Grafton County, it has a cozy population of under 14,000. It’s nestled in New Hampshire Valley, which is considered some of the most gorgeous scenery in the US. An equal percentage of residents own and rent (50% for each group), and the public schools are highly rated.

Named the top town in America in 2015 by Livability, Lebanon offers a treasure trove of cultural attractions, recreational opportunities, and stellar amenities. Downtown has several farmers’ markets, regular concerts, quaint pubs, and nice restaurants. The city is also home to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, one of the top employers in the area. Lebanon Opera House can be found here, too.

On the downside, this is not a very walkable community. There is also a lack of diversity, and the cost of living is higher than Boston (but lower than other towns in the northern portion of the state).

Top public schools serving Lebanon include Marion W. Cross School, White River School, Plainfield Elementary School, Dothan Brook School, and Lebanon Middle School. If you’re interested in private schooling, check out Montessori Discovery School of the Twin States. As for higher education, the city is home to Lebanon College, New England School of Hair Design, and Upper Valley Educators Institute.

Are you looking for a thriving, healthy community and quiet rural living in western New Hampshire? Lebanon is that and much more.

Bedford

Population: 22,000
Median Home Value: $441,500
Region: Southern New Hampshire

Considered the #1 suburb to live in New Hampshire, the town of Bedford is a top suburb of Manchester, the most populous city in the state. An overwhelming 87% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are exceptional.

As an upscale community about 60 miles north of Boston, Bedford has a small-town feel. Filled with parks, walking trails, and green spaces (along with a recreation area and community pool), this is a perfect place to get away from the city and raise a family. And if you’re looking to commute or explore an urban area, the city of Manchester is less than 15 minutes away. As for drawbacks, some residents have been known to be pretentious, but overall folks are pretty friendly and down-to-earth here.

Top public schools serving the Bedford area include Riddle Brook School, Bedford High School, McKelvie Intermediate School, Ross A. Lurgio Middle School, and Memorial School. Top Private schools are The Lamb’s Workshop, Bedford Village Morning School, Bedford Montessori School, New Morning School, and Harmony Center. The town is also home to Michael’s School of Hair Design & Esthetics.

Located close to major cities, Bedford is a beautiful and bucolic choice for anyone wanting the quintessential southern New Hampshire life in the suburbs.

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Concord

Population: 43,000
Median Home Value: $237,300
Region: Southern New Hampshire

Ranked as one of the top capital cities in the United States, Concord scores high in affordability, health standards, economy, and overall quality of life. 54% of residents own their homes, and the public schools are above average.

Known as a great city for singles and retirees, Concord sits along the beautiful Merrimack River. There is a vibrant downtown (filled with restaurants, parkettes, and cute shops), and the city is home to five acclaimed educational institutions. Boston is also less than an hour’s drive away. And because there is no sales tax or income tax, living expenses are some of the lowest in all of New England.

• Top public schools: Hopkinton High School, Hopkinton Middle School, Maple Street Elementary School, Concord High School, and Abbott-Downing School.
• Top private schools: St. Paul’s School, Concord Christian Academy, Bishop Brady High School, and Trinity Christian School.
• Top colleges: NHTI – Concord’s Community College, Granite State College, and University of New Hampshire – School of Law.
• Top neighborhoods: Hopkinton Rd / Fisk Rd, East Concord, City Center, South St / Rockingham St, Penacook, U of New Hampshire School of Law / N. Main St, Hall St / Manchester St, West Concord, Loudon Rd / Portsmouth St, and Riverhill.

Whether you’re starting out or enjoying your golden years, you’ll find that the city of Concord’s low cost of living and high standard of life is hard to beat.

Exeter

Population: 14,700
Median Home Value: $347,300
Region: Southern New Hampshire

Along with being one of the top 30 places to retire in the United States, Exeter is currently ranked third among the best places to live in New Hampshire in 2019 by HomeSnacks. 70% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are highly rated.

Scoring high in categories such as unemployment, median income, and home value, Exeter is a thriving community found in Rockingham County. Presenting equal parts stunning natural beauty and colonial heritage, the town is a short distance away from Manchester, Portsmouth, and the coast. It is also home to Philips Exeter Academy, one of the finest private schools in the country.

Top public schools serving Exeter are Lincoln Street Elementary School, Exeter High School, Cooperative Middle School, Great Bay eLearning Charter Middle School, and Great Bay eLearning High School. Are you looking for private academics? Top private schools include Philips Exeter Academy, Appleseeds Day School, and Montessori for the Arts & Sciences.

Exeter is a charming town in a prime central location filled with American history. Whether you’re retiring or raising children, you should give this town founded in 1638 serious consideration.

Keene

Population: 23,000
Median Home Value: $190,000
Region: Southern New Hampshire

Another great place to raise a family, Keene is certainly a keen place (the name just begs the pun). It earns this distinction by offering tranquility, cultural richness, and a plethora of things to do. 54% of residents own their homes, and the public schools are above average.

As the only city in Cheshire County, Keene is a year-round community that offers prime skiing in the winter and world-class hiking in the summer. It is also home to several institutes of higher learning, including Keene State College, lending it a college-town vibe. And if you like pumpkins, you’ll love Keene during the fall. It’s pumpkin paradise here in October with its annual Pumpkin Fest!

• Top public schools: Mount Caesar School, Symonds Elementary School, Keene High School, Chesterfield High School, and Westmoreland School.
• Top private schools: St. Joseph Regional School, Trinity Christian School, Montessori Schoolhouse of Cheshire County, and Cedarcrest School.
• Top colleges: Keene State College, Antioch University – New England, and Keene Beauty Academy.

If you’re in search of a quaint community in southern New Hampshire, ideal for students and families, you can’t go wrong with the highly affordable and culturally rich city of Keene.

Nashua

Population: 88,000
Median Home Value: $292,300
Region: Southern New Hampshire

As arguably the best city to live in New Hampshire, Nashua is specifically one of the best places for singles and families. 54% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools rate above average.

Making Money Magazine’s list of best places to live in every state in 2018 (which is the second time the magazine has honored it), Nashua is a city offering a long list of attractive selling points. From no sales tax to its historical significance, the city is an awesome place to live! And it’s only an hour away from Boston to boot. On the less positive side, it has been dealing with an opioid crisis.

• Top public schools: Academy for Science & Design High School, Academy for Science & Design Middle School, MicroSociety Academy Charter School, Nashua High School, and Bicentennial Elementary School.
• Top private schools: Bishop Guertin High School, St. Christopher School, World Academy, Nashua Catholic Regional Junior High School, and 2nd Nature Academy.
• Top colleges: Nashua Community College, Rivier University, and St. Joseph School of Nursing – New Hampshire.
• Top neighborhoods: E. Dunstable Rd / Lamb Rd, Candlewood Park / Spring Cove Rd, Coburn Ave / Coburn Woods, Main Dunstable Rd / Northeastern Blvd, Rivier College / Robinson Rd, Concord St / Dodge St, Broad St / Amherst St, Broad Acres / Lincoln Park, Harris Rd, and City Center.

Are you looking for a great city to call home? Nashua checks all the boxes and then some as New Hampshire’s crown jewel (just don’t tell that to Portsmouth, Concord or Manchester).

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Portsmouth

Population: 22,000
Median Home Value: $450,500
Region: Southern New Hampshire

We end our journey in the city of Portsmouth. As a historic seaport, the city of 22,000 is a popular summer destination. It is also the go-to town that offers plenty of character and beautiful, bucolic living by the water. 51% of residents own their homes, and public schools are highly ranked.

Characterized as a “well-rounded” city, Portsmouth ranks among the top cities for entrepreneurs. It has a thriving economy, propelled mainly by insurance, healthcare, and finance. This locale offers a nice mix of modern amenities (including great schools, shopping, cuisine, etc.) and small-town vibe, so it’s easy to fall in love with the area. It also is a great choice for Boston commuters.

Are you looking for the best schools in Portsmouth? For public education, check out New Franklin School, Portsmouth High School, Little Harbour School, Portsmouth Middle School, and Mary C. Dondero Elementary School. As for higher education, the city is home to Great Bay Community College, Empire Beauty School – Portsmouth, and Portsmouth Beauty School of Hari Design.

Those looking for a less crowded alternative to Beantown will be pleasantly surprised by Portsmouth – the New Hampshire small city with a big heart.

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How to Move to New Hampshire

Below, you’ll find a handy interstate moving checklist. Follow for a much smoother relocation.

Several Months Before Moving Day

• First up to bat, plan ahead: Looking for a drama-free moving experience? Don’t procrastinate! Moving involves a lot of time and preparation. Give yourself at least two to three months to properly plan and perform your New Hampshire move.
• Research movers: Take the time to compare the services (packing, storage, etc.) and rates of several moving companies (at least three to five). Make sure every candidate is fully licensed, insured, and experienced in your particular type of relocation.
• Hire NH moving company: Now that you’ve comparison shopped, it’s time to select the best option. Be sure to book well in advance for the best prices and availability. Need assistance? Great Guys makes it super simple! Click below for free quotes.
• Inform landlord, etc.: Rent? If you wait until the last minute, it can cost you. Notify your landlord ASAP to avoid extra charges and deposit issues. Own? It pays to hire a real estate agent to sell or rent your place. Don’t forget to tell family, friends, and neighbors about your upcoming move.
• Take inventory & purge: Decluttering and downsizing can free up space and save money. To begin, take stock of everything in your household. Then, one space at a time, sort through your belongings. Place in piles (or bags) and label which items you want to keep or discard.
• Sell, donate, recycle: Once you’ve sorted through everything, it’s time to find a new home for your stuff. Sell online (Amazon, eBay, Craigslist, etc.), donate, or recycle disused items.
• Prep kids: Moving is stressful for everyone, but it can be especially taxing on children. Take the time to explain the change through story or playtime. Also, try to maintain normal routines.
• Tour your new community: If you’re able to do so, you should plan a trip to your new town or city. Explore everything it has to offer: housing, work, schools, shopping, activities, etc.

One Month Out

• Start packing process: Grab plenty of moving boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other packing materials to pack all of your belongings. Pay special attention to fragile or valuable items. Don’t have the time or ability to pack yourself? Consider a cheap packing service.
• Change mailing address: To do so, either visit your local post office or go online to the USPS site. Don’t forget to update your info for subscription boxes and online services.
• Transfer important records: These include school transcripts and medical records. Also, make sure you have more than enough meds and prescriptions on hand during your move.
• Handle utilities & services: Have current utilities (electric, water, gas, etc.) disconnected the day after you move out. Schedule for new services (internet, satellite, etc.) to be active by the time you’re ready to move into your new home.

Two Weeks to Go

• Service vehicle: Driving to your new home? Make sure your car is up for the journey. Have it inspected and serviced (oil change, tire rotation, air conditioning check, and so on).
• Book cleaning services: For the best showing or to make your landlord happy, hire a professional cleaning crew to perform deep cleaning. Have them arrive after your movers load up.
• Schedule special delivery: Are there pets or plants that can’t directly travel with you? No problem. Several services provide safe and secure transport.
• Have a moving sale: Want to declutter and downsize? Throw a yard or garage sale. This transition is a great opportunity to unload unwanted items and make extra pocket change.
• Inquire about insurance: Whether you carry renters insurance or homeowners insurance, you should be prepared. Contact insurer and moving company to discuss coverage and options.
• Safeguard kids & pets: On moving day, you’re going to be distracted. Have children? Schedule daycare or a play date. Have pets? Consider pet sitting or boarding to protect furry friends.
• Commemorate your move: During the hustle and bustle of the moving process, take time to celebrate with your loved ones. Throw a party, plan a group outing, or spend quality one-on-one time with family and friends. Spread and schedule activities over a few days or weeks.

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Moving Week

• Finalize packing: Now is the perfect opportunity to create a first night box. Fill a box with everything you’ll need for the first 24 to 48 hours at your new home: prescriptions, toiletries, clothes, bedding, toys, and so on. Make sure the box is easily accessible.
• Contact moving company: To make sure everyone’s on the same page, confirm arrival time, contact info (i.e., truck driver’s number), and other important details.
• Confirm travel arrangements: Driving? Double-check vehicle, accommodations, and driving route. Flying? Double-check flight itinerary and luggage restrictions.
• Rest up: Finally, get some rest before your big move. If doable, stay in. Recharge your batteries (figuratively and literally), eat well, and get plenty of sleep.

Moving Day is Here

• Meet up with the moving team: If possible, be there at your old place when the movers arrive. Being there in person to answer questions or clarify instructions goes a long way.
• Provide snacks: You’re not obligated to do so, but this nice gesture can help your moving day start on the right foot. You can offer bottled water and a light snack.
• Perform walkthrough: Now that the moving crew is done, tour your old home one last time. Look out for any damages, messes or items that may have gone unnoticed.
• Enjoy your move: Last but not least, don’t forget to have fun. This change marks a new chapter, and the journey is just as important as the destination. Make it an adventure!

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Quality Moving Services from New Hampshire Movers

Great Guys Moving connects you with fully vetted NH movers at competitive rates.

Long Distance Moves

The fact is, interstate moving can cost thousands of dollars. That’s why it’s so important to hire the right moving company. This is where Great Guys steps in. We make it easy and affordable to book reputable long distance movers. Sit back and relax while everything is covered!

Intrastate & Local Moves

Whether you are heading to Nashua or Pittsburg, you deserve a moving team that knows the area. Armed with regional knowledge and expertise, our partners provide stellar local moving services. Get a hold of us today to find the perfect fit for your New Hampshire relocation.

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International Moves

Moving to another country? This move abroad is an exciting time, but you’re probably feeling anxious. With everything that’s involved – complex foreign customs, visas, paperwork, etc. – that’s understandable. Book our topnotch international relocation service and enjoy peace of mind.

Small Load Moves

Feel like it’s too expensive to hire movers? No way! From small apartments to studios and dorms, our squad of small load movers is ready to lend a helping hand. Experience a cheap and speedy relocation. Your wallet and back will thank you.

Furniture Shipments

Safeguard yourself and your furniture from irreparable damage. Whatever your needs – from a few antiques to a household filled with sofas, beds, and appliances – our network of fully licensed and insured furniture moving companies can handle it all.

Piano Transport

Protect your prized instrument. From antique organs to concert pianos, we connect you with top-rated piano movers in New Hampshire. Our partners are highly trained and take every precaution to deliver your cherished instrument to its new destination safely.

Art Shipping & Transport

Need to relocate your private collection or art gallery? From antiques and collectibles to fine art, we have the right fit for your exact requirements. We work with only the best, specialized art shippers in the business, offering everything from custom packaging to display installation.

Storage

Remodeling your home? Traveling the globe? In between places? You most likely need temporary storage. Many of our NH moving companies also provide short-term and long-term storage options. Whatever your needs, we’ve got the solution. Call us today!

Last Minute & Short Notice Moves

Whether you’ve landed a new job or getting evicted, an unforeseen move can be super stressful. When you’re in a bind, we’re here to assist. We can help you hire last minute movers in your area ASAP. You have enough on your plate. Let our team take care of your move.

Residential Moves

Your household move calls for a celebration! But before we get ahead of ourselves, we need to address the elephant in the room: your moving logistics. Facing a mountain of household items and moving boxes? Our highly qualified residential moving services make easy work of it all.

Packing Services

Staring at a sea of stuff? Packing can be overwhelming, especially with life and work getting in the way. Our professional movers and packers can take the stress off your shoulders. From specialty packing to full-service packing options, you can spend your extra time on more enjoyable tasks.

Commercial and Office Moves

Relocating an office or expanding your business? Congratulations! A successful commercial move requires special care, which you should not leave to standard movers. Our highly trained commercial movers can provide you with a smooth transition with little to no downtime or disruptions.

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Need a hand with your NH relocation? Request your free quotes today. We make it easy!

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