Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Gilford, NH
Thinking of moving to Gilford, NH? With a population of just under 8,000, Gilford offers a small-town feel with a strong sense of community and scenic lakeside living. Home prices average $438,000, and rents are around $1,350, with a cost of living just above the national average. Residents benefit from very low crime rates, short 25-minute commutes, and highly rated public schools with small class sizes. Enjoy four distinct seasons, access to Lake Winnipesaukee, and a relaxed New England lifestyle ideal for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Gilford, NH
Demographics - Gilford, NH
Gilford, NH is home to about 7,744 residents, predominantly White, with a median age of 53.9, reflecting a mature and close-knit community. The population density is low, creating a tranquil environment, and only a small percentage of residents are non-English speakers. The gender balance is nearly even, making it an inviting place for individuals and families alike.
Population:
7,744
Density:
192 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.9
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
97.3%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
2.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Gilford, NH?
The cost of living in Gilford stands slightly above the national average, driven by a median home value of $438,000 and typical monthly rents of $1,350. Residents benefit from no state income tax and moderate utility costs, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability in a scenic New England setting. Expenses for groceries, healthcare, and transportation are also just modestly higher than average.
Median House Value:
$438,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,030
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$710
State Taxes:
Low:
0% (no state income tax)
|
High:
5% (interest/dividends only)
Cost Of Living Index:
110.5
Grocery:
106.2
Housing:
120.4
Utilities:
107.3
Transportation:
108.9
Health Care:
105.8
Miscellaneous:
104.5
Crime
Is Gilford, NH a safe place to live?
Gilford boasts very low crime rates, with only 56 violent crimes and 590 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it one of the safer communities in New Hampshire. The chances of experiencing violent or property crime are notably low, contributing to a strong sense of security for families and retirees. This safe environment is a key draw for those prioritizing peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
56
Property Crimes Per 100k:
590
Crime Index:
646
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,785
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 169
Weather
What is the weather like in Gilford, NH year-round?
Residents in Gilford enjoy four true seasons, with warm summers averaging highs of 81°F and cold winters dipping to lows around 12°F. The area receives about 42.5 inches of rainfall annually and has a fair share of sunny days, making it ideal for those who love seasonal variety and outdoor recreation. The climate supports year-round activities, from boating in summer to skiing in winter.
Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Households in Gilford experience comfortable incomes, with the median at $88,114 and a low poverty rate of 6.5%. Most residents have completed high school, and nearly 40% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, reflecting an educated and stable community. The low unemployment rate and short, 25-minute average commute add to the area’s appeal for professionals and families.
Median Income:
$44,600
Household Income:
$88,114
Family Income:
$104,300
Per Capita Income:
$49,100
Income Male:
$52,600
Income Female:
$41,900
Poverty Rate:
6.5%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
25.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.9%
Bachelors or More:
39.2%
Education
How are the schools in Gilford, NH?
Gilford offers highly rated public schools with low student-teacher ratios, such as Gilford High School and Gilford Middle School, providing personalized attention and strong academic programs. Families also have access to private school options and nearby higher education institutions like Lakes Region Community College. The educational environment supports success from kindergarten through college.
Public Schools
Name:
Gilford High School
Street:
88 Alvah Wilson Rd
Phone:
603-524-7135
Students:
496
Student Teacher Ratio:
11:1
Name:
Gilford Middle School
Street:
72 Alvah Wilson Rd
Phone:
603-527-7047
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
10:1
Name:
Gilford Elementary School
Street:
76 Belknap Mountain Rd
Phone:
603-524-1661
Students:
413
Student Teacher Ratio:
11:1
Private Schools
Name:
Lakes Region Christian School
Street:
85 Parade Rd, Laconia, NH
Phone:
603-524-5364
Students:
90
Colleges
Name:
Lakes Region Community College
City:
Laconia
State:
NH
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
900
Name:
Plymouth State University
City:
Plymouth
State:
NH
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
4,000
Healthcare
Gilford residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, including Lakes Region General Hospital nearby, and a strong health insurance coverage rate of 95.7%. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people, the community is well-served for medical needs. The overall healthcare environment is robust, supporting the well-being of all age groups.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lakes Region General Hospital
Address:
80 Highland St, Laconia, NH 03246
Phone:
(603) 524-3211
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.7%
Health Care Index:
77.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Gilford, NH?
The housing market in Gilford is characterized by a high owner-occupancy rate of 84.1% and a median home price of $438,000, with rents for a two-bedroom averaging $1,350. Home values have appreciated by 7.1% over the past year, indicating a stable and growing market. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates further highlight the area’s desirability for homeowners.
Median Home Price:
$438,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
84.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Gilford residents are served by the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, located in nearby Concord. Services such as licensing and vehicle registration are easily accessible both in-person and online. The DMV provides up-to-date information and support for all motor vehicle needs.
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.