Hillsborough County · Merrimack Valley

Nashua

Where historic charm meets modern opportunity in the heart of the Merrimack Valley.

Population91,322
CountyHillsborough
RegionMerrimack Valley

About Nashua

Nashua stands as New Hampshire's second-largest city, a vibrant community that seamlessly blends its rich industrial heritage with modern suburban charm. Once powered by the mighty Nashua River and its textile mills, this former manufacturing hub has reinvented itself as a thriving center for technology, healthcare, and commerce while maintaining its historic character through beautifully preserved downtown districts and tree-lined neighborhoods. Today's Nashua offers residents and visitors the best of both worlds: the cultural amenities and economic opportunities of a mid-sized city, coupled with easy access to New Hampshire's natural beauty and tax-free shopping. The city's strategic location along the Massachusetts border provides convenient access to Boston's job market while offering the benefits of New Hampshire living, including no state income tax and a strong sense of community that makes newcomers feel instantly at home.

Why Nashua?

  • No state income tax with easy commuter access to Boston's job market
  • Thriving downtown with historic architecture, shops, and restaurants
  • Excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods
  • Rich industrial heritage preserved in museums and historic districts
  • Gateway to New Hampshire's outdoor recreation and tax-free shopping

Also covering

This page also covers smaller towns near Nashua:

Quick Facts

Population
91,322
County
Hillsborough
Region
Merrimack Valley
School District
SAU 42

Real Estate

Median Home Price
Contact a local realtor
Property Taxes
NH has no income or sales tax

Property taxes fund local services and schools

View Listings in Nashua

Things To Do

Explore Historic Downtown Nashua

year-round

Stroll through the beautifully preserved Main Street district with its 19th-century architecture, boutique shops, and local eateries. The area hosts regular festivals and events that bring the community together throughout the year.

Visit the Nashua Historical Society

year-round

Discover the city's fascinating industrial past through exhibits showcasing its textile mill heritage and local artifacts. The society operates multiple historic buildings that tell the story of Nashua's transformation from mill town to modern city.

Attend Summer Concerts at Holman Stadium

summer

Enjoy live music and community events at this historic baseball stadium that hosts the Nashua Silver Knights. The venue comes alive during summer months with concerts, festivals, and sporting events.

Shop at Pheasant Lane Mall

year-round

Experience tax-free shopping at this major retail destination featuring over 120 stores and restaurants. The mall attracts visitors from across New England seeking deals without sales tax.

Explore the Nashua River Rail Trail

spring

Walk or bike along this scenic trail that follows the historic railroad corridor through downtown and beyond. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers and perfect weather for outdoor recreation.

Attend Fall Festivals

fall

Participate in seasonal celebrations including pumpkin festivals and harvest events throughout the city. The crisp autumn air and colorful foliage provide the perfect backdrop for community gatherings.

Outdoor Recreation

Mine Falls Park

year-round

This 325-acre park offers miles of walking trails along the Nashua River with historic mill ruins and beautiful natural scenery. The park provides excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation in all seasons.

Nashua River Rail Trail

year-round

Follow this paved multi-use trail for 12.5 miles through Nashua and surrounding communities. The trail is perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, and cross-country skiing in winter.

Greeley Park

summer

Enjoy this classic city park featuring playgrounds, tennis courts, and open spaces for recreation. The park hosts summer concerts and community events while providing a green oasis in the urban environment.

Nashua Country Club

spring

Play golf at this well-maintained public course that offers challenging holes and beautiful views. Spring brings perfect weather for golf as the course emerges from winter dormancy.

Dining & Entertainment

MT's Local Kitchen & Wine Bar

This upscale downtown restaurant features locally-sourced American cuisine with an extensive wine selection. The intimate atmosphere and seasonal menu make it perfect for date nights and special occasions.

Stella Blu

A contemporary American bistro offering creative dishes and craft cocktails in a stylish downtown setting. The restaurant is known for its innovative menu and excellent service.

Pressed Cafe

A popular spot for fresh sandwiches, salads, and smoothies made with high-quality ingredients. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for quick lunches or healthy takeout.

Woodstock Inn Brewery

New Hampshire's oldest brewery serves handcrafted beers alongside hearty pub fare in a cozy atmosphere. The brewery offers tours and tastings while maintaining its reputation for quality ales and lagers.

Surf Restaurant

This longtime local favorite specializes in fresh seafood and American classics in a casual family-friendly environment. The restaurant has been serving the community for decades with consistent quality and generous portions.

Local Businesses

Anheuser-Busch Brewery

Other

Major beer production facility offering public tours and tastings. The brewery is one of Nashua's largest employers and a popular tourist attraction.

221 Daniel Webster Highway

Bagel Alley

Other

Local favorite serving fresh-baked bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee daily. Popular morning stop for commuters and locals alike.

4 East Pearl Street

Clocktower Place

Shopping

Mixed-use development in converted mill buildings featuring shops, restaurants, and offices. Historic architecture meets modern retail convenience.

7 Clocktower Place

Crowne Plaza Nashua

Other

Full-service hotel providing accommodations for business travelers and tourists. Features meeting facilities, restaurant, and convenient location near major highways.

2 Somerset Parkway

Holman Stadium

Arts & Entertainment

Historic baseball stadium home to the Nashua Silver Knights collegiate summer team. Hosts concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year.

67 Amherst St

Hunt Memorial Building

Other

Historic city hall building housing municipal offices and services. Features beautiful architecture and serves as the center of local government.

229 Main St

Main Street Antiques

Other

Multi-dealer antique shop featuring furniture, collectibles, and vintage items. Treasure hunters will find unique pieces and local history.

156 Main Street

Market Basket

Other

Regional grocery chain headquarters and major employer. The company's presence significantly impacts the local economy and provides numerous jobs.

17 Taschereau Boulevard

Mine Falls Park

Outdoor Recreation

Large urban park featuring walking trails, historic mill ruins, and river access. Popular destination for hiking, fishing, and nature photography.

Mine Falls Rd

Nashua Center for the Arts

Other

Community arts center featuring galleries, studios, and performance spaces. Offers classes, workshops, and cultural events for all ages.

14 Court St

Nashua Community College

Education

Two-year community college offering associate degrees and workforce training programs. Serves as an important educational and economic development resource for the region.

505 Amherst Street

Nashua Garden Center

Other

Full-service garden center providing plants, landscaping supplies, and expert gardening advice. Family-owned business serving the community for decades.

11 Simon Street

Nashua Nutrition

Shopping

Locally-owned health food store offering vitamins, supplements, and natural products. Knowledgeable staff provides personalized wellness guidance.

377 Amherst Street

Nashua Public Library

Other

Modern library facility offering extensive collections, digital resources, and community programming. Serves as an important cultural and educational hub for residents.

2 Court Street

Nashua Wallpaper & Paint Company

Other

Local paint and wallpaper store providing quality products and expert color consultation. Trusted by contractors and homeowners for over 50 years.

106 West Pearl Street

Pheasant Lane Mall

Shopping

Major regional shopping destination featuring department stores, specialty retailers, and dining options. The mall draws shoppers from across southern New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts.

310 Daniel Webster Highway

Red Arrow Diner

Other

Classic New Hampshire diner chain location serving comfort food 24/7. Known for hearty breakfasts and old-school diner atmosphere.

61 Lowell Road

Southern New Hampshire Medical Center

Health & Wellness

Major regional hospital providing comprehensive medical services. Serves as a key healthcare provider and major employer for the greater Nashua area.

8 Prospect Street

The Country Tavern

Food & Drink

Family-owned restaurant serving American comfort food and seafood since 1981. Known for generous portions and welcoming atmosphere.

452 Amherst Street

Theatrical Threads Costume Shop

Shopping

Unique costume and theatrical supply shop serving performers and party-goers. Extensive inventory of costumes, makeup, and accessories for all occasions.

12 Mulberry Street

Toadstool Bookshop

Shopping

Independent bookstore offering new and used books with knowledgeable staff and community events. A local literary hub for book lovers.

12 Depot Square

Tropical Smoothie Cafe

Food & Drink

Popular chain location serving healthy smoothies, wraps, and bowls. Represents the city's growing focus on health-conscious dining options.

428 Amherst Street

Living in Nashua

What you need to know about making Nashua your home.

Schools & Education

Nashua School District serves the city with a strong reputation for academic excellence and comprehensive programming across all grade levels.

Cost of Living

Nashua offers relatively affordable housing compared to nearby Massachusetts communities, with median home prices reflecting good value for the location and school quality. Property taxes are moderate for New Hampshire, and the absence of state income tax helps offset housing costs, making it an attractive option for families and professionals seeking suburban living with urban amenities.

Major Employers

BAE SystemsFidelity InvestmentsSouthern New Hampshire HealthRivier UniversityNashua CorporationPennichuck Water Works

Commute Times

55 min
Boston, MA
20 min
Manchester, NH
25 min
Lowell, MA
45 min
Concord, NH
75 min
Portsmouth, NH

School Directory

Amherst Street Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Birch Hill Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Charlotte Avenue Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Fairgrounds Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Ledge Street Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Main Dunstable Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Mount Pleasant Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

New Searles Elementary School

ElementaryGrades K-5

Fairgrounds Middle School

Middle SchoolGrades 6-8

Pennichuck Middle School

Middle SchoolGrades 6-8

Nashua High School North

High SchoolGrades 9-12

Nashua High School South

High SchoolGrades 9-12

Rivier University

College/UniversityGrades Undergraduate/Graduate

School District

Nashua School District(SAU 42)

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