Manchester vs. Londonderry, NH: City Living or Suburban Dream?

If you’re exploring Southern New Hampshire, you’ll quickly face the classic choice between Manchester and Londonderry. 

It’s a decision that boils down to what you value more: the non-stop energy of city life or the quiet comfort of a top-tier suburb? 

Though they’re right next to each other, they offer completely different lifestyles, and this guide will break down the real differences to help you decide which one is your perfect fit.

Key Differences for Homebuyers

The core difference is simple: Manchester is a bustling city, and Londonderry is a classic New England suburb. 

With a population of around 115,000, Manchester has a dense, walkable downtown and an energetic vibe. 

In contrast, Londonderry is home to about 26,000 residents and is known for its quiet, family-focused community and apple orchards. 

This translates directly to housing, where you’ll find a median home price of about $455,000 in Manchester, while Londonderry’s highly-rated schools and suburban lifestyle command a premium, with median prices starting around $575,000.

Housing & Property Taxes

For most buyers, the decision hinges on two things: what a house costs and what you’ll pay in taxes.

In Manchester, a median price of roughly $455,000 gets you into a diverse market, from historic multi-family homes to single-family houses in neighborhoods like the North End. It’s the more affordable entry point. 

Londonderry is a different story, with a median price tag of $575,000 that easily climbs past $600,000. For that, you’re buying into a sought-after community with larger lots and more modern homes.

Now, let’s talk property taxes, which are critical in a state with no income or sales tax. The numbers might surprise you. Manchester’s 2023 tax rate is about $18.86 per $1,000 of assessed value, while Londonderry’s is lower at $17.44. 

But don’t let that fool you, because Londonderry’s home values are so much higher, your actual tax bill can easily be more than for a similar home in Manchester. 

You have to run the numbers on a specific property, not just compare the rates.

Lifestyle & Amenities: Entertainment and Shopping

This is where you feel the biggest difference day-to-day. If you want convenience and culture, Manchester delivers. 

Its downtown is packed with over 80 restaurants and bars, and it’s home to major venues like the SNHU Arena and the Palace Theatre for concerts and shows. In Manchester, you can get all your shopping done without ever leaving the city.

Londonderry’s lifestyle is built around community and open space. Life here revolves around school events, youth sports, and local traditions like apple picking. While you have your essential stores, most residents head to Manchester or nearby Nashua for major shopping trips or a bigger night out. 

It’s the trade-off for a quieter, more residential environment.

Schools & Safety in Both Cities

The Londonderry School District is consistently ranked among the best in New Hampshire, and its reputation is a primary reason families pay a premium to live there. 

Manchester’s school district is the state’s largest, offering a huge variety of programs like the Manchester School of Technology, but as a large urban district, its overall ratings are lower than its affluent suburban neighbors.

This city-versus-suburb dynamic also shows up in safety statistics. 

As a larger city, Manchester has higher rates of property and violent crime, though many of its residential neighborhoods are quite safe. Londonderry, on the other hand, has a very low crime rate and is considered an exceptionally safe community, which is another powerful draw for families.

Job Market & Commuting

Your daily commute is another key piece of the puzzle. 

Manchester is the region’s economic engine, so if you work there, living in the city can mean a commute that’s just a few minutes long. In contrast, Londonderry is largely a commuter town. Its location right on Interstate 93 gives residents fantastic access to jobs in Manchester, Nashua, and even down into Massachusetts. 

Many people happily accept a longer drive in exchange for Londonderry’s coveted suburban lifestyle.

Manchester vs. Londonderry: Which Is Better?

Ultimately, it’s a choice between two great, but very different, versions of the New Hampshire dream.

Choose Manchester if:

• You want a lower home price and a potentially lower annual property tax bill.
• You thrive on the energy and convenience of having restaurants, culture, and shopping right at your doorstep.
• You work in Manchester and want to keep your commute as short as possible.

Choose Londonderry if:

• A top-ranked public school system is your number one priority.
• You’re looking for a very safe, quiet, and family-oriented community.
• You’re willing to pay a premium for a larger home with a bigger yard.
• You don’t mind commuting to get the classic suburban lifestyle.

Manchester vs. Londonderry FAQs