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Hillsborough County, New Hampshire — County Report Card

NH

#9 in New Hampshire

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
39.3
County Score
Income & Jobs 95.4Health 86.9Schools 57.2

County Report Card

About Hillsborough County, New Hampshire

Hillsborough Falls Short of Median

With a composite score of 39.3, Hillsborough County sits well below the national median of 50.0. This reflects significant trade-offs between high earnings and high living costs.

Seventh Among Analyzed NH Counties

Hillsborough ranks 7th out of 8 New Hampshire counties. Its composite score of 39.3 is nearly four points lower than the state average of 43.1.

Elite Income and Healthcare Access

The county produces an elite income score of 95.4 and a health score of 86.9. Median household incomes here reach a substantial $100,436 per year.

Expensive Housing and Risk Factors

The county faces a very low cost score of 4.5 and a risk score of 10.2. Median home values of $385,500 and an effective tax rate of 1.762% create high entry barriers.

Best for High-Earning Urbanites

Hillsborough County suits career-driven individuals who prioritize proximity to high-paying jobs and quality medical care. It is less ideal for those seeking low-risk environments or affordable housing.

Score breakdown

Tax5.8Cost4.5Safety39.7Health86.9Schools57.2Income95.4Risk10.2Water41.5Weather52.3
🏛5.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠4.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼95.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡39.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤86.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓57.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡10.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧41.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱53.8
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Merrimack County
New Hampshire
43.6
Rockingham County
New Hampshire
48.9
Cheshire County
New Hampshire
43.4
Middlesex County
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50.7
Essex County
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Sullivan County
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Worcester County
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Strafford County
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Deep Dives

Hillsborough County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Hillsborough County

via TaxByCounty

Hillsborough taxes reflect high property values

Hillsborough County's effective tax rate of 1.762% ranks in the 68th percentile nationally, above the nation's median of 0.81%. The median tax bill of $6,791 more than doubles the national median of $2,690, driven by the state's highest median home values.

Third-highest tax bills in the state

Hillsborough County's 1.762% rate ranks fifth among 10 New Hampshire counties, slightly below the state average of 1.852%. Its median tax of $6,791 is third-highest statewide, reflecting the concentration of valuable properties in this central county.

Southern tier's premium property county

Hillsborough's 1.762% rate falls between Merrimack County's 2.002% to the north and Rockingham County's 1.628% to the southeast. The county commands the region's highest median home value at $385,500, driving its substantial tax bills.

On a $386,000 home: nearly $6,800

The typical Hillsborough County home valued at $385,500 generates an estimated annual tax of $6,791. With a mortgage, that rises to $6,876; without one, it falls to $6,606.

Premium properties deserve premium scrutiny

High-value Hillsborough County homes benefit greatly from assessment appeals, as even small percentage reductions translate to substantial dollar savings. Homeowners should compare their assessments to recent sales of similar properties in their towns.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hillsborough County

via CostByCounty

Hillsborough housing costs strain even high earners

Hillsborough County's 18.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the nation's most expensive despite a median household income of $100,436—the highest in New Hampshire and 34% above the national median. The median rent of $1,532/month reflects regional demand that outpaces even relatively high local earnings.

New Hampshire's priciest county overall

Hillsborough County's median home value of $385,500 and median rent of $1,532/month are the highest in the state, ranking second-worst on rent-to-income ratio at 18.3%. Only Grafton County approaches Hillsborough's affordability challenges, making this the state's most expensive housing market.

Dramatically pricier than surrounding counties

Hillsborough's $1,532/month rent exceeds Merrimack County's $1,293 by 18% and even outpaces higher-income Rockingham's $1,619 in monthly rent consumption relative to earnings. Home values of $385,500 are matched only by Rockingham, making Hillsborough the region's premium market.

Highest absolute housing costs in New Hampshire

Renters spend $1,532/month and homeowners $1,946/month—the state's steepest costs—though median income of $100,436 provides substantial cushion. Housing still claims roughly 18% of household earnings, a notable burden even for this county's above-average earners.

Hillsborough requires serious earning power

Hillsborough County demands the highest earning potential of any New Hampshire county, with median rent consuming 18.3% of income even for above-average households. Relocators with lower incomes should strongly consider Belknap, Carroll, or Merrimack counties where housing costs are 15-20% lower.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hillsborough County

via IncomeByCounty

Hillsborough ranks in nation's top tier

Hillsborough County's median household income of $100,436 runs 34% above the national median of $74,755, placing it among America's highest-earning counties. This exceptional performance reflects the county's proximity to Boston and strong professional job market.

Second richest county in New Hampshire

Hillsborough ranks second statewide with a median household income of $100,436, trailing only Rockingham County's $113,927 by $13,000. The county's per capita income of $52,243 also ranks second, demonstrating broad-based affluence across all income levels.

Outearns most counties by wide margin

Hillsborough households earn roughly $16,400 more than Belknap ($87,983), $17,500 more than Carroll ($82,961), and $19,400 more than Cheshire ($81,001). Only Rockingham County's higher median income rivals Hillsborough's earning power.

Housing costs at 18%, high but sustainable

Despite a rent-to-income ratio of 18.3%, Hillsborough's median home value of $385,500 remains accessible for households earning $100,436. Strong household incomes allow families to absorb housing costs while maintaining robust savings capacity.

Maximize tax-advantaged investing strategies

Hillsborough's exceptional incomes enable households to maximize contributions to 401(k)s, IRAs, and taxable investment accounts. Diversified portfolio strategies, real estate investment, and education planning accelerate wealth accumulation for high-earning households.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hillsborough County

via CrimeByCounty

Hillsborough County Outperforms National Benchmarks

Hillsborough County maintains a 97.8 safety score, which is impressive for a more populated area. Its crime rate of 1370.4 per 100K is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Hillsborough Safety in State Perspective

The county sits just below the state safety average of 98.0. Its total crime rate of 1370.4 is also higher than the New Hampshire average of 1242.4.

Regional Comparisons for Hillsborough Residents

Hillsborough sees more activity than neighboring Rockingham, which has a very low rate of 838.0. However, it still offers a safer environment than most urban centers across the country.

Understanding Local Crime Dynamics

Violent crime is reported at 180.5 per 100K, which is higher than the state average but still well below the national mark. Property crime stands at 1189.9, making up the majority of local incidents.

Smart Security for Populated Areas

Higher density can lead to more opportunities for property crime. Local safety experts suggest installing home security systems and keeping valuables out of sight in vehicles.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hillsborough County

via HealthByCounty

Hillsborough exceeds national health

Hillsborough County residents live an average of 78.6 years, 0.2 years above the U.S. average of 78.8 years, reflecting solid national health performance. The county's 12.2% fair or poor health rate is slightly below the national average of 12%, indicating effective disease management across the population.

Slightly above state average

Hillsborough County's 78.6-year life expectancy is 0.3 years above New Hampshire's state average of 78.3 years, placing it firmly in the healthier half of the state. This moderate advantage reflects good healthcare access and health outcomes management.

Solid mid-range performance

Hillsborough's 78.6 years matches Cheshire County and ranks behind Grafton (80.1) and Rockingham (80.5) by roughly 1.5 to 2 years. The county substantially outperforms struggling Belknap (77.4) and Coos (73.9) counties, placing it in New Hampshire's healthier tier.

Strong coverage, robust providers

Hillsborough County has the state's second-lowest uninsured rate at 6.6%, just below the state average of 6.7%, meaning most residents maintain health coverage. The county offers 84 primary care providers per 100K and a strong mental health network of 408 providers per 100K.

Keep your coverage strong

Hillsborough County's excellent health outcomes reflect high insurance enrollment—keep that momentum by ensuring your coverage stays active. If your situation changes, visit healthcare.gov to explore updated plan options that match your family's needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hillsborough County

via SchoolsByCounty

The State's Largest Educational Hub

Hillsborough County is the heart of New Hampshire education, with 123 schools serving 53,890 students. The infrastructure is vast, including 65 elementary and 24 high schools managed by 32 districts. This county handles more than five times the enrollment of most neighboring counties.

Graduation Rates and Budgetary Challenges

The county's graduation rate stands at 84.7%, trailing the state average of 87.2%. School spending is the most conservative in the region at $10,827 per pupil, which is significantly lower than the state's $12,649 average. These factors contribute to a composite school score of 59.0.

Massive Districts and Abundant Charter Options

The Manchester and Nashua school districts are giants, together educating nearly 22,000 students. Choice is highly prevalent here, with 12 charter schools representing nearly 10% of all public options. Other notable districts include Bedford and the Contoocook Valley School District.

Urban Centers and Large High Schools

Education in Hillsborough County has a distinct city feel, with 51 schools located in urban settings and 36 in suburbs. This leads to much larger campus sizes, averaging 442 students per school. Nashua High South and Manchester Memorial are among the state's largest, each serving over 1,400 students.

Explore Vibrant Neighborhoods Near Major Schools

For families seeking diverse programs and a variety of school types, Hillsborough County offers unmatched options. From suburban Bedford to the urban centers of Nashua and Manchester, the real estate market is closely tied to district reputations. Discover a home that places you at the center of the state's educational activity.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hillsborough County

via RiskByCounty

Hillsborough County High-Risk Zone

Hillsborough County's composite risk score of 89.76 far exceeds the national average of 69.89, placing it in the "Relatively Moderate" category as the riskiest county in New Hampshire. Residents face significantly elevated natural disaster exposure compared to most U.S. counties.

Riskiest County in New Hampshire

Hillsborough County ranks most dangerous among New Hampshire's eight counties with a composite score of 89.76, a full 19.87 points above the state average of 69.89. Every major hazard category scores above state and national medians.

Dramatically Riskier Than Adjacent Counties

Hillsborough (89.76) substantially exceeds neighboring Merrimack County (78.21) and Rockingham County (85.85) across virtually all hazard categories. Its exceptional scores for tornado (82.60), flood (92.62), and earthquake (88.17) risks set it apart statewide.

Floods, Tornadoes, and Earthquakes Threaten

Hillsborough County faces extraordinary flood risk at 92.62, tornado risk at 82.60, and earthquake risk at 88.17—all among the nation's highest. These converging hazards make the county one of America's most disaster-exposed regions.

Comprehensive Insurance Is Non-Negotiable

Hillsborough County residents must obtain flood insurance (92.62 risk), earthquake coverage (88.17 risk), and tornado/wind protection (82.60 risk) as essential, not optional. Consult a local insurance agent to ensure policies address all major exposures without gaps.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hillsborough County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmest of the North

Hillsborough County averages 47.4°F annually, which is warmer than most of the state but still cooler than the US median. It experiences a more temperate version of the humid continental climate.

One of the State's Warmest

Hillsborough is significantly warmer than the state average of 45.4°F. Its southern location allows for more heat accumulation than the northern mountain counties.

More Heat Than Northern Neighbors

Hillsborough sees 10 days of extreme heat, which is nearly double the amount experienced in northern Grafton. It also records less snowfall than its neighbors, averaging 60.6 inches.

Hotter Summers and Milder Winters

The county averages 10 days over 90°F, the second-highest in the state. Winter is relatively mild for New Hampshire, with a December-to-February average of 25.7°F.

Prioritize Cooling and Efficiency

Residents should invest in air conditioning to handle the 71.1°F July average and frequent heat days. Winter requires standard preparation for 60.6 inches of snow and January lows of 23.1°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hillsborough County

via SoilByCounty

Southern New Hampshire Soil Heritage

Hillsborough County's specific pH and taxonomic data are currently unrecorded. Regional patterns indicate the soil is likely more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This acidity typically reflects the granite and metamorphic bedrock found throughout the southern hills.

Urban and Rural Composition Mix

Specific sand, silt, and clay percentages are not currently available for this county. The area features a mix of river-deposited sediments and rocky glacial till. This variety means that soil workability can change significantly from the city centers to the rural outskirts.

Hidden Growth Potential

No data is currently available for organic matter or available water capacity in Hillsborough. While we lack specific numbers, the state average of 32.6% organic matter serves as a likely benchmark. Local gardeners should focus on building soil health through consistent organic amendments.

Water Flow in an Active Landscape

The dominant drainage class is not officially listed in this dataset. Because the county includes diverse terrain from riverbanks to rolling hills, drainage varies locally. Homeowners should check for site-specific drainage issues before starting any major garden projects.

A Warm Start in Zone 6a

In Zone 6a, you enjoy a longer and warmer growing season compared to the northern counties. This climate is excellent for heat-loving crops like zucchini, beans, and certain varieties of corn. Start your garden today to take full advantage of the southern New Hampshire sun.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hillsborough County

via LawnByCounty

Hillsborough Leads the State in Ease of Care

With a lawn difficulty score of 53.8, Hillsborough County is one of the easiest places in New Hampshire to grow a lawn. This score comfortably exceeds both the state average of 47.9 and the national median of 50.0. The Zone 6a climate provides a longer and more forgiving environment for homeowners compared to the rest of the state.

A Longer Season with Intense Summer Heat

Hillsborough experiences 10 extreme heat days per year, the second highest in the state, which can stress cool-season grasses during July. However, the 46.6 inches of rain and 2,460 growing degree days provide plenty of fuel for growth. The growing season is generous, stretching from the May 2 frost until the October 8 frost.

Best Practices for Southern NH Soil

While specific FIPS-level soil data is not available, southern New Hampshire often features a mix of loam and glacial till. Given the high number of growing degree days, your soil will work hard; replenishing organic matter through mulching is highly recommended. Always start your season with a pH test to ensure your grass can access the nutrients it needs to survive the summer heat.

Monitoring Dry Spells in a Busy Climate

The county has seen 38 weeks of drought over the past year, though it currently avoids the 'severe' classification found in northern counties. Because of the 10 extreme heat days, your lawn will require more attentive watering during July and August than in other parts of the state. Use a rain gauge to ensure your turf receives at least one inch of water per week, including rainfall.

Selecting Turf for a Warmer New Hampshire

Tall fescue is a smart choice for Hillsborough County as it handles the 10+ heat days better than more sensitive grasses. The best window for seeding is early May or late August, allowing the grass to establish before the frost dates of May 2 or October 8. With the state's most favorable conditions, a little effort here goes a very long way.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hillsborough County's county score?
Hillsborough County, New Hampshire has a composite county score of 39.3 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Hillsborough County rank among counties in New Hampshire?
Hillsborough County ranks #9 among all counties in New Hampshire on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire?
The median annual property tax in Hillsborough County is $6,791, with an effective tax rate of 1.76%. This earns Hillsborough County a tax score of 5.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hillsborough County?
The median household income in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire is $100,436 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hillsborough County earns an income score of 95.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hillsborough County, New Hampshire a good place to live?
Hillsborough County scores 39.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in New Hampshire. The best way to evaluate Hillsborough County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Hillsborough County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.