Greenland, NH 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Greenland, NH can be an appealing retirement destination for those who value natural beauty, small-town living, and access to amenities while still being able to enjoy a peaceful and affordable retirement. Greenland is a safe quiet community that has a low crime rate compared to the U.S. average. Living in New Hampshire also helps with retirement budgeting since the state has no income or sales tax.

The cost of living in Greenland is generally higher than the national average but is more affordable than many nearby cities like Boston, MA. Like much of the east coast housing costs are the primary driver for the higher cost of living. Healthcare costs and transportation is generally below the U.S. average in Greenland but utilities and groceries are higher.

New Hampshire is known for having some of the lowest overall tax rates in the United States. The state does not have a state income tax or a sales tax, which can make it an attractive destination for retirees and those seeking a lower cost of living. However it is important to note that property taxes are some of the highest in the country and money spent in restaurants and hotels is taxed.

Climate and Geography

Summers in Greenland are warm and humid, with average temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s. Winters are cold with average temperatures in the mid-20s to low 30s, and the area averages around 60 inches of snow per year. The weather in Greenland can be variable, with rapid changes in temperature and occasional extreme weather events like thunderstorms and blizzards.

Greenland is located in southeast New Hampshire, approximately ten miles south of Portsmouth and 50 miles north of Boston. Greenland is surrounded by rural farming areas, forests, wetlands, and is just six miles from the Atlantic Ocean.

Recreation and Entertainment

Greenland is a charming town located in Rockingham County, New Hampshire. It has a population of around 3,800 people and offers visitors plenty to see and do. Whether you're interested in outdoor activities or cultural events, Greenland has something for everyone.

Golf enthusiasts will be pleased to know that there are several golf courses within easy reach of the town center. The Breakfast Hill Golf Club boasts stunning views over Great Bay as well as challenging holes designed by Brian Silva. Pease Golf Course is another local favorite with its tree-lined fairways and rolling hills.

For those who prefer tennis or pickleball, head on down to the Portsmouth Indoor Tennis Center where you can play year-round regardless of weather conditions. Alternatively, visit the Seacoast Pickleball Club at Stratham Memorial School where they offer indoor courts during winter months.

If walking or hiking interests you more than sports then check out some local trails like Peverly Pond Trailhead near Rye Beach State Park which features scenic streams and meadows dotted with wildflowers throughout springtime. The Peverly Pond trail also connects into other popular routes including Sagamore Creek Loop Trail to the north.  Little Harbor Loop Hike is an easier hike but still scenic enough offering glimpses across harbor inlet towards downtown Portsmouth and beyond.

Parks abound in Greenland. You can go birdwatching at Boyd Conservation Area, view wetlands at Bramber Valley Preserve, or enjoy a picnic at Greenway Farm Recreational Area. Fuller Gardens is also a favorite for its beautiful roses and Prescott Park hosts summer concerts under their bandstand gazebo amidst seasonal flower displays.

History buffs should not miss exploring historic sites such as the American Independence Museum in nearby Exeter or Fort McClary State Historic site in Kittery. The museum features exhibits and artifacts from the American Revolution and earlier colonial times. Fort McClary was built in the late 17th century and features exhibits related to its history.

Cultural events abound throughout the year. The Strawberry Festival held every June offers visitors a chance to sample local produce while enjoying live music performances from various artists. In July, there's Market Square Day which sees downtown streets transformed into an outdoor market with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh seafood dishes.

Music lovers will appreciate that Prescott Park Arts Festival in Portsmouth hosts free concerts during the summer. There are many annual festivals in the towns around Greenland:

• Portsmouth hosts the Market Square Day Festival in June, the Maritime Folk Festival in September, and a Christmas Holiday parade.
• Hampton Beach festivals include a Seafood Festival in September and a Sand Sculpting competition in June.
• Exeter is home to the Exeter Arts & Music Fest in May and the UFO Festival in August.
• Durham hosts the New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival in September, which celebrates Scottish culture with music, dancing, and athletic competitions.

Health and Wellness

Greenland offers a variety of amenities for active adults to enjoy and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Greenland is home to several parks with facilities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. For those who like more relaxed activities there are several yoga & pilates studios in the area as well as massage and spa services. Farmers markets are abundant throughout the area making it easy to eat healthy and local. Medical care in the Greenland area is excellent with several top hospitals near Greenland, Portsmouth Regional Hospital, Exeter Hospital,  and Wentworth-Douglass Hospital are the closest to Greenland.

Suggested Itinerary for Visiting Greenland Area 55+ Communities

If you’re thinking of retiring in Greenland, spending a weekend there is a great way to get a feel for the area. To make the most of your visit, here’s a sample itinerary to guide your exploration:

Day One

Morning: 

• Start your day with breakfast at Roundabout Diner & Lounge which serves classic American fare including homemade donuts!

Afternoon: 

• Visit Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge for hiking trails that offer stunning water views.
• Stop by Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse on your way to dinner.

Evening: 

• Head into Portsmouth's historic district where you'll find Ristorante Massimo offering authentic Italian dishes made using locally sourced ingredients.

Day Two

Morning/Afternoon:

• Meet up with your local retirement community partner agent mid-morning or early afternoon to see local 55+ communities. Get a feel for the community by asking staff or other residents about their experiences.
• Enjoy amazing sandwiches at Popovers On the Square for lunch.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner in Kittery just 7 miles from Greenland. We recommend  The Black Birch which offers a farm-to-table menu featuring locally sourced ingredients along with craft beer and cocktails.

Getting to Greenland 

Greenland lies along the Atlantic coast between Portsmouth and Hampton Beaches with easy access from both directions on U.S. Highway One or I-95 from Boston. The closest airport to Greenland is the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), which is located about 35 miles southwest of Greenland.