Here is a list of the ten best small towns in New Hampshire for retirement, considering public safety, quality of life, access to healthcare, and amenities:

1. Hanover

  • Overview: Home to Dartmouth College, Hanover is a vibrant small town known for its educational atmosphere, culture, and scenic beauty.
  • Amenities: Restaurants, shops, and cultural events influenced by the college community.
  • Healthcare: Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, a top-tier hospital with specialized services.
  • Parks & Recreation: Access to the Appalachian Trail, Mink Brook Nature Preserve, and Storrs Pond Recreation Area.

2. Wolfeboro

  • Overview: Known as "The Oldest Summer Resort in America," Wolfeboro is a lakeside town with charm and tranquility, located on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.
  • Amenities: Lakeside dining, boutique shops, and art galleries.
  • Healthcare: Huggins Hospital, providing a wide range of services.
  • Parks & Recreation: Cate Park, Cotton Valley Rail Trail, and access to water-based activities.

3. Peterborough

  • Overview: A quintessential New England town with a rich history in the arts and a strong sense of community.
  • Amenities: A vibrant downtown with cafes, theaters, and unique shops.
  • Healthcare: Monadnock Community Hospital, offering comprehensive medical care.
  • Parks & Recreation: MacDowell Dam, Miller State Park, and Monadnock Conservancy trails.

4. Exeter

  • Overview: Exeter combines historical charm with modern amenities, located along the Squamscott River.
  • Amenities: A historic downtown with restaurants, bookstores, and antique shops.
  • Healthcare: Exeter Hospital, known for its wide range of medical services.
  • Parks & Recreation: Swasey Parkway, Phillips Exeter Academy's public trails, and the nearby Hampton Beach State Park.

5. New London

  • Overview: A picturesque town located near Lake Sunapee, known for its friendly atmosphere and outdoor recreation.
  • Amenities: Independent bookstores, local cafes, and community events.
  • Healthcare: New London Hospital, part of the Dartmouth-Hitchcock network.
  • Parks & Recreation: Pleasant Lake, Mount Sunapee State Park, and Colby-Sawyer College walking trails.

6. Bedford

  • Overview: A suburban town with a mix of modern conveniences and rural charm, Bedford is one of the safest towns in New Hampshire.
  • Amenities: Upscale shopping centers, fine dining, and proximity to Manchester.
  • Healthcare: Elliot Hospital and Catholic Medical Center, located nearby in Manchester.
  • Parks & Recreation: Bedford Village Common, Benedictine Park, and close access to Lake Massabesic.

7. Portsmouth

  • Overview: Though technically a city, Portsmouth maintains a small-town feel with a lively downtown and historic waterfront.
  • Amenities: An array of restaurants, shops, and cultural venues.
  • Healthcare: Portsmouth Regional Hospital, offering a full range of medical services.
  • Parks & Recreation: Prescott Park, Odiorne Point State Park, and the waterfront area.

8. Dover

  • Overview: Dover is a historic town with a balance of urban amenities and a relaxed pace of life.
  • Amenities: Museums, cafes, and local shops along with a strong community feel.
  • Healthcare: Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, offering comprehensive healthcare services.
  • Parks & Recreation: Henry Law Park, Bellamy River Wildlife Management Area, and the Dover Community Trail.

9. Meredith

  • Overview: Nestled along Lake Winnipesaukee, Meredith is a peaceful lakeside town with scenic views and outdoor recreation.
  • Amenities: Lakeside restaurants, galleries, and unique shops.
  • Healthcare: Lakes Region General Hospital, providing access to quality care.
  • Parks & Recreation: Meredith Bay, Waukewan Beach, and Hermit Woods Winery.

10. Keene

  • Overview: Known for its annual Pumpkin Festival, Keene offers a welcoming community with rich cultural offerings.
  • Amenities: Keene State College, local theaters, and a variety of restaurants.
  • Healthcare: Cheshire Medical Center, part of the Dartmouth-Hitchcock system.
  • Parks & Recreation: Robin Hood Park, Ashuelot River Park, and Monadnock State Park.

These towns offer a combination of safety, quality of life, and amenities, making them ideal for retirement living in New Hampshire.