Exeter, NH 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Exeter, NH is a picturesque and historic New England town that offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The town's proximity to the coast provides residents with easy access to beautiful beaches, while the surrounding forests and parks offer endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Exeter is home to a thriving community of artists, musicians, and writers, as well as several renowned cultural institutions, including the Phillips Exeter Academy and the American Independence Museum. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an active lifestyle, Exeter has something to offer everyone.

For more information about visiting or moving to Exeter, NH, check out the following local resources:

• The Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce provides information about local businesses, events, and attractions in the Exeter area.
• The Exeter Town Government website offers a wealth of information about the town's history, government services, and community resources.
• The Exeter Area Garden Club is dedicated to promoting gardening and environmental awareness in the Exeter area, and offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.

Affordability and Cost of Living 

Exeter, NH is a small town located in Rockingham County, and the cost of living here is 16.2 percent higher than the national average. The cost of housing in Exeter is relatively high, with the median home price hovering around $508,000. This is significantly higher than the national median home price of 338,100. However, compared to other towns in New Hampshire, Exeter's median home price is slightly lower. Groceries and utilities are also relatively expensive in Exeter, with groceries being about 7.7 percent higher and utilities 18.4 percent higher than the national average. On the other hand residents pay less for healthcare and transportation. 

New Hampshire has no sales tax or income tax although there is a 5 percent tax on dividends that are over $2,400 per person. There is no estate or inheritance tax in New Hampshire. New Hampshire's property taxes are among the highest in the nation, with an average property tax rate of 2.2%. The property tax for Exeter is 1.74 percent of a property's fair market value. 

Climate and Geography 

Exeter's average high temperature in the summer (June to August) ranges from 75 to 80 degrees, with an average humidity percentage of around 70 percent. In the winter (December to February), the average low temperature ranges from 14 to 19 degrees. Exeter receives an average annual snowfall of 61 inches, making it a great destination for those who love skiing, sledding and snowshoeing. The annual rainfall amount is around 48 inches, with the wettest month being November.

Exeter is located along the Squamscott River, which provides ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and boating. For those who love hiking, skiing, and other outdoor sports the town is within 20 miles of the Picturesque White Mountains. Exeter is just ten miles from the Atlantic Ocean and Hampton Beach. The beach town is a popular summer destination for its long stretch of sandy beach, lively boardwalk, and various water sports activities. The proximity to both the mountains and the ocean makes Exeter an ideal location for those who love both outdoor adventures and the beach.  

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment 

Exeter is a charming town located in the heart of the Seacoast region of New Hampshire. From outdoor recreation to unique shopping and dining experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Golf and Racquet Sports

• Exeter Country Club
• Swasey Parkway
• Phillips Exeter Academy Tennis Center

Hiking, Biking, and Boating

• Exeter River Greenway
• Oaklands Town Forest
• Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Museums and Historical Sites

• American Independence Museum
• Phillips Exeter Academy Museum
• Gilman Garrison House

Performing Arts

• The Music Hall
• Seacoast Repertory Theatre
• Exeter Theater Company

Shopping

• Water Street Bookstore
• The Shops at Exeter
• The Exeter Farmer's Market

Parks and Gardens

• The Swasey Pavilion
• Phillips Exeter Academy's Lamont Poetry Walk
• Bedrock Gardens

Festivals and Fairs

• Exeter Arts & Music Fest
• Exeter UFO Festival
• Exeter Fall Festival

Health and Wellness 

Exeter is an excellent location for 55+ active adults looking to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. The town is home to several medical centers, including Exeter Hospital, which is a community-based hospital offering a wide range of medical services.

For those looking to stay physically active, there are several fitness centers and yoga studios in the area. Exeter has several options for outdoor activities, including hiking and biking trails, such as the Exeter River Greenway and Oaklands Town Forest. Additionally, the town's parks and gardens, such as the Swasey Pavilion and Bedrock Gardens and Phillips Exeter Academy's Lamont Poetry Walk offer beautiful scenery and opportunities for peaceful walks and meditation.

Local and nearby farmers markets provide residents with fresh produce, baked goods, and other healthy fare. 

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

If you're considering moving to the Exeter area, it's important to spend some time exploring the town and its surroundings. Here is a suggested 2-day itinerary to help you get to know the area and determine if it's the right place for you.

Day One

Morning

• Arrive in Exeter and check into your accommodation. Consider staying at The Exeter Inn, a historic boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown.
• Start your day with a delicious breakfast or coffee at Laney & Lu Café, a popular spot known for its healthy and organic offerings.
• Visit the American Independence Museum, located in the heart of downtown. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the American Revolution and learn about Exeter's role in shaping the nation.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at Lexie's Burgers, a casual and friendly restaurant that offers a variety of unique beef, chicken, and vegetarian burger options.
• Visit the Phillips Exeter Academy's Lamont Gallery, which showcases contemporary art exhibits from local and national artists.
• Take a relaxing stroll at Bedrock Gardens and enjoy the beautiful plants, sculptures, and art installations.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Epoch Restaurant & Bar, a fine dining establishment that offers an extensive wine list and seasonal menus featuring local ingredients.

Day Two

Morning:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Green Bean, a cozy café known for its delicious breakfast sandwiches and pastries.
• Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss retirement community options in the area.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Me & Ollie's Bakery & Café, a local favorite known for its fresh-baked goods and sandwiches.
• Visit the Exeter Historical Society Museum, which features exhibits and artifacts from the town's history, including its role in the American Revolution.
• Take a scenic drive to nearby Hampton Beach, located just a short distance from Exeter. Enjoy the sandy beaches, stroll along the boardwalk, and soak in the coastal beauty.

Evening:

• Conclude your visit with a memorable dinner at Otis Restaurant, a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes sustainable and locally sourced ingredients.

Getting to Exeter, NH

Exeter is conveniently located within driving distance from several major cities in the Northeast, including Boston, MA and Portland, ME.

By Car

If you are driving to Exeter, NH from the south, take I-95 North and exit at Exit 2 for NH-101 W towards Manchester/Bedford. Follow NH-101 W for approximately 10 miles, and then take Exit 9 towards Exeter/Hampton. From the north, take I-95 South and exit at Exit 3 for NH-33 towards Greenland/Portsmouth. Follow NH-33 for approximately 4 miles, and then turn right onto NH-108 S. Follow NH-108 S for approximately 4 miles, and then turn left onto NH-27 E.

By Air 

The nearest major airport to Exeter, NH is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), located approximately 20 miles west of Exeter. MHT is served by major airlines such as Southwest Airlines, Delta, United, and American Airlines, with nonstop flights to several major hubs including Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, and New York. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is another option, located approximately 50 miles south of Exeter, with nonstop flights to major cities across the US and around the world.

By Train

Amtrak's Downeaster train service connects Boston's North Station to several cities in Maine, including Portland and Brunswick, with a stop in Exeter, NH. The Exeter station is located in downtown Exeter, within walking distance to many attractions and restaurants.

By Bus

The C&J Bus Lines offers service between Portsmouth, NH, Newburyport, MA, and Boston's Logan Airport and South Station, with a stop in downtown Exeter. Greyhound also offers bus service to nearby Portsmouth, NH.

By Ferry

The Portsmouth Harbor Ferry connects Portsmouth, NH to several destinations in the Seacoast region, including Kittery, ME and New Castle, NH. From Portsmouth, it's just a short drive to Exeter.