These 10 New Hampshire Towns Have The Lowest Cost of Living

For the lowest cost of living in the Granite State, you have to head North of the Notch. But honestly, isn't that a plus? Berlin, with around 10,000 inhabitants, is just the right size and is gorgeously situated on the edge of the White Mountains and the Androscoggin River. It's also very close to the Canadian border, so there's an interesting influx of French Canadian culture. Fun fact – this is where the main character of Stephen King's novel "The Shining" supposedly grew up! But most residents of Berlin end up much happier than Jack. After all, whether you're into ATVs, hiking, or fishing, there are plenty of ways to have fun here.

With a population of around 13,000, this former mill town is the most affordable place to live in the desirable Upper Valley. It's home to the historic Claremont Opera House, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, and is conveniently located to all that the Dartmouth-Sunapee area has to offer.

Like several other towns on this list, Belmont is an old mill town. However, it stands out for the excellent job the town did with the renovation of the Belmont Mill, which won a number of awards for architectural excellence. It has about 7,500 residents.

The smallest of New Hampshire's 13 cities, Franklin has a population of about 8,500. Named for Benjamin Franklin, it was the birthplace of Daniel Webster. It's situated between several rivers and a lake, so there are plenty of water views!

Who says you need to be a millionaire to live on Lake Winnipesaukee? Alton is gorgeous and affordable, and it gives around 5,000 the lakeshore life they've always dreamed of.

With a population of around 30,000, Rochester is one of the larger spots on our list. This Strafford County town is home to a number of historic buildings and a lovely art museum.

Another famous lake town, Laconia is perhaps best known for its village of Weirs Beach. Of course, it's also famous for the annual Laconia Motorcycle Week, which draws bikers from far and wide. No matter what time of year you visit, you're sure to love this town of about 7,000 .

Technically, Suncook is a census-designated place split between Pembroke and Allenstown. Its population of about 5,500 enjoy a charming old downtown, with numerous old mill buildings that now house local businesses.

Keene is that rare college town that is somehow still affordable. With plenty of employment, arts, and culture, it's a great place to live for its 24,000 residents.

Best known for the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, home to many NASCAR races, Loudon is also home to about 5,400 residents. It's located right along the Soucook River, and it's located conveniently for traveling around New Hampshire and Massachusetts without incurring too much expense.