Life in the Lakes Region (Concord, Laconia: homes, elementary schools, quality of life)

[scottbros.]

Just wondering about quality of life in the lakes region as compared to other parts of NH for a family with 3 young kids (4 and under). Schools are important, economy, acivities(outdoor primarily), good community. Any recommendations on towns or areas is appreciated, thanks in advance.

[Verseau]

I live in the Lakes Region and love it. The economy is not as strong as in the southern part of the state, but if you live relatively close to I-93 then it's a fairly easy commute to Concord or one of the larger southern cities (if a bit long). Laconia is the largest town in the area and seems to have the most job opportunities overall.

As far as outdoor activities, there's really no better place to be. There are 273 lakes and ponds in the region, not to mention an abundance of rivers. Hiking trails are plentiful and you're just south of the White Mountains for even more beautiful and challenging terrain. Ski slopes and snowmobile trails abound.

The most important factor in narrowing down your search will be the schools. Moultonborough and Wolfeboro are generally considered to have very strong school systems. Meredith, Ashland, Holderness, Sandwich, and Belmont are all said to have good elementary schools. Of these towns, I think Meredith is the best choice for activity and a good community feel. The downside is that it does get busy with tourists in the summer.

Ashland and Belmont also have a strong community feel and are quintessential small New Hampshire towns. Holderness is lovely but the town center is quite small; most of the residents are dispersed around the Squam Lakes (many in seasonal homes). The same is true of Moultonborough and Wolfeboro, which are prime summer resort areas. Wolfeboro does have a nice town center, though.

[bethmarywhite]

Originally Posted by Verseau

I live in the Lakes Region and love it. The economy is not as strong as in the southern part of the state, but if you live relatively close to I-93 then it's a fairly easy commute to Concord or one of the larger southern cities (if a bit long). Laconia is the largest town in the area and seems to have the most job opportunities overall.

As far as outdoor activities, there's really no better place to be. There are 273 lakes and ponds in the region, not to mention an abundance of rivers. Hiking trails are plentiful and you're just south of the White Mountains for even more beautiful and challenging terrain. Ski slopes and snowmobile trails abound.

The most important factor in narrowing down your search will be the schools. Moultonborough and Wolfeboro are generally considered to have very strong school systems. Meredith, Ashland, Holderness, Sandwich, and Belmont are all said to have good elementary schools. Of these towns, I think Meredith is the best choice for activity and a good community feel. The downside is that it does get busy with tourists in the summer.

Ashland and Belmont also have a strong community feel and are quintessential small New Hampshire towns. Holderness is lovely but the town center is quite small; most of the residents are dispersed around the Squam Lakes (many in seasonal homes). The same is true of Moultonborough and Wolfeboro, which are prime summer resort areas. Wolfeboro does have a nice town center, though.

Good info.

I used to cut through Meredith on my up to Jackson. It looked like it could be a bit pricey to live there. Was I wrong?

[Katlakat]

I live in Belmont, and I have to tell you, just reading in the paper each day there is always something fantastic and unique going on for kids at the local community churches and libraries.

We went apple picking a few weeks ago and they had face painting, hay rides, and pumpkin carving.

Lots to do, and if you can't find something for everyone, just look in the newspapers.