Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Durham, NH
Considering a move to Durham, NH? With a vibrant population of around 16,800 and home to the University of New Hampshire, Durham offers a youthful atmosphere, highly educated community, and low crime rates (just 37 violent crimes per 100K). Median home prices hover around $465,000, with average rents at $1,680, and a cost of living index slightly above the national average. Residents enjoy short 19-minute commutes, excellent public schools, and four-season New England charm—making Durham an appealing, safe, and lively place to call home.
Demographics - Durham, NH
Demographics - Durham, NH
Durham is a youthful, diverse community of about 16,800 residents, with a notably low median age of 21.6 due to the presence of the University of New Hampshire. The population is predominantly White, but includes Asian, Black, and other minority groups, and about 7% speak a language other than English at home. This vibrant mix contributes to the town’s energetic and welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
16,800
Density:
900 per sq mi
Median Age:
21.6
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.2%
Black:
2.5%
Asian:
6.5%
Others:
5.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Durham, NH?
Durham’s cost of living is moderately higher than the U.S. average, with a cost of living index of 116.5 and median home values around $465,000. Average rents are $1,680, and residents benefit from New Hampshire’s 0% state income tax, making it attractive for professionals and families alike. Daily expenses such as groceries, utilities, and healthcare are manageable but slightly above the national average.
Median House Value:
$465,000
Gross Rent:
$1,680
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$128
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$780
State Taxes:
Low:
0% (no state income tax)
|
High:
5% (on dividends/interest)
Cost Of Living Index:
116.5
Grocery:
108.7
Housing:
130.2
Utilities:
114.6
Transportation:
112.8
Health Care:
104.1
Miscellaneous:
102.3
Crime
Is Durham, NH a safe place to live?
Durham is a notably safe town, with just 37 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a low chance of being affected by crime. Property crime rates are modest, offering peace of mind for residents and families. The community’s low crime index highlights its reputation as a secure place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
37
Property Crimes Per 100k:
661
Crime Index:
698
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 2,703
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 151
Weather
What is the weather like in Durham, NH year-round?
Durham experiences classic New England seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 13°F and warm, pleasant summers peaking around 81°F. The area receives about 47 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate four distinct seasons. Residents can expect a mix of snowy winters and comfortable, sunny summers.
Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The community features a mix of students and families, with a median household income of $82,800 and a strong educational background—over 66% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The area boasts a low unemployment rate of 2.6%, short average commutes of 19 minutes, and a modest poverty rate influenced by the student population. Residents enjoy an active, educated, and engaged neighborhood vibe.
Median Income:
$36,500
Household Income:
$82,800
Family Income:
$128,400
Per Capita Income:
$31,200
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
16.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.1%
Rent:
$1,680
Unemployment Rate:
2.6%
Public Transport Usage:
2.5%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.8%
Bachelors or More:
66.5%
Education
How are the schools in Durham, NH?
Durham is known for its top-rated public schools, such as Oyster River High School, and is home to the flagship University of New Hampshire with approximately 14,000 students. The area offers a mix of public and private school options, small class sizes, and a strong emphasis on academic achievement. This educational environment fosters a highly educated, dynamic community.
Public Schools
Name:
Oyster River High School
Street:
55 Coe Dr
Phone:
603-868-2375
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.4
Name:
Mast Way Elementary School
Street:
23 Mast Rd, Lee, NH
Phone:
603-659-3001
Students:
390
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.7
Private Schools
Name:
Seacoast Waldorf School
Street:
403 Harold L Dow Hwy, Eliot, ME
Phone:
207-686-3140
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
University of New Hampshire
City:
Durham
State:
NH
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
14,000
Healthcare
Durham offers excellent healthcare access, with Wentworth-Douglass Hospital nearby and 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents. Over 94% of residents have health insurance, ensuring broad coverage and quality care. The area’s healthcare index reflects strong local services for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Wentworth-Douglass Hospital
Address:
789 Central Ave, Dover, NH 03820
Phone:
(603) 742-5252
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.2%
Health Care Index:
76.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Durham, NH?
Durham’s housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $465,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom at $1,680. Nearly half of residents own their homes, and the area has a low foreclosure rate, with home values appreciating by 7.1% over the past year. This stable, in-demand market makes Durham attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$465,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,680
Owner Occupied Rate:
47.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Durham residents are served by the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Concord with comprehensive online resources. The DMV provides licensing, registration, and other essential services to keep residents mobile. Assistance is easily accessible by phone or through the state’s official website.
State:
New Hampshire
Department:
New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
23 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03305
Phone:
1-603-227-4000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.