Litchfield, NH 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Located in southern New Hampshire, Litchfield boasts stunning natural beauty with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, fishing, and boating. With a population of just over 8,000 people, the town is small enough to feel cozy and friendly, but big enough to offer a variety of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and other events. Litchfield has a rich history, with many well-preserved historic buildings and landmarks to explore. Additionally, the town is located just a short drive from larger cities like Manchester and Nashua, offering easy access to additional amenities and entertainment options. 

Affordability and Cost of Living 

The cost of living in Litchfield is about 20 percent higher than the national average. Much of the increased cost is due to expensive housing and utilities. The median home price in Litchfield is $510,400 which is more than both the state and national averages. Groceries are a bit higher than average, transportation and healthcare are less but utilities are about 20 percent higher than the national average. 

New Hampshire has no sales, estate, inheritance, or income tax although there is a 5 percent tax on dividends that are over $2,400 per person. New Hampshire's property taxes are among the highest in the nation, with an average property tax rate of 2.2 percent. Property taxes in Litchfield are high with the property tax for Hillsborough County averaging 1.79 percent of the home value. There is no estate or inheritance tax in New Hampshire.

Climate and Geography 

Litchfield is known for having one of the highest snowfall averages in New Hampshire. Litchfield averages 66 inches per year, it's no wonder the area is popular with winter sports enthusiasts. Average winter temperatures range between 15 and 35 degrees while summer temperatures are between about 60 and 80 degrees.

Litchfield is part of the Merrimack River Valley in southern New Hampshire. The terrain around the town consists of rolling hills, farmland, and dense forests, which make it an attractive destination for nature lovers. The nearby mountains and lakes have plenty of places to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and boating. The Merrimack River runs through the heart of the valley offering scenic views and recreational opportunities. 

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment 

Litchfield offers a variety of activities to suit every taste. Golfing and outdoor activities are popular and the area is filled with gardens and historical sites.

Litchfield, NH offers a variety of recreational activities and entertainment options that will appeal to retirees who are looking for a fun and active lifestyle. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, cultural events, or shopping, Litchfield has something for everyone.

Golf and Racquet Sports

• Hidden Creek Country Club
• Green Meadow Golf Club
• Nashua Swim & Tennis Club
• Souhegan Woods Golf Club

Hiking, Biking and Boating

• Merrimack River Trail
• Benson Park
• Litchfield Rail Trail

Museums and Historical Sites

• Millyard Museum
• Robert Frost Farm
• NH Aviation Museum
• Wright Museum of WWII

Performing Arts

• Palace Theatre
• Merrimack Repertory Theatre
• Stockbridge Theatre

Shopping

• Pheasant Lane Mall
• Mall of New Hampshire
• Downtown Nashua

Parks and Gardens

• Mine Falls Park
• Anheuser-Busch Brewery and Clydesdales
• Andres Institute of Art Sculpture Garden

Festivals and Fairs

• Hillsborough County Agricultural Fair
• Hudson Old Home Days
• Apple Festival at Alyson's Orchard

Health and Wellness 

Litchfield offers various options for self-care and keeping fit. Several fitness centers in the area offer state-of-the-art equipment and fitness classes to help individuals maintain an active lifestyle. The Litchfield Community Center also provides a range of programs and activities, including yoga and meditation classes, to promote mental and emotional wellness. Litchfield Town Forest and Darrah Pond are great places for walking, biking, and other activities.  

Litchfield is close to several major medical centers including the nearby Southern New Hampshire Medical Center in Nashua and the Elliot Hospital located in Manchester. Both hospitals provide a variety of medical services and care.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

With its quaint New England charm and close proximity to major cities, Litchfield is a popular destination for 55+ adults looking to enjoy life in a retirement community. To get a feel for the town and its surrounding areas, here is a two-day itinerary for those looking to retire to a 55+ community in Litchfield.

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Parker's Maple Barn, known for its fluffy pancakes and homemade maple syrup.
• After breakfast, head to the Litchfield Historical Society Museum to learn about the town's rich history and see artifacts from the past.

Afternoon:

• Drive to nearby Manchester and visit the Currier Museum of Art to see a collection of American and European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Be sure to take a leisurely walk in the beautiful gardens of the Zimmerman House, designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
• Enjoy lunch at the Cotton Restaurant, which offers a menu of fresh, local ingredients and a fun atmosphere.

Evening:

• Head back to Litchfield and enjoy dinner at LaBelle Winery, a local vineyard that also serves delicious food and has a beautiful outdoor seating area.

Day Two

Morning:

• Start your day with a cup of coffee and breakfast at Pressed Cafe, a cozy cafe in Nashua.
• Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss potential retirement communities in the area.

Afternoon:

• After your meeting, head to the nearby town of Merrimack and visit the Anheuser-Busch Brewery for a tour and tasting of their famous beers.
• Have lunch at The Homestead Restaurant, a local favorite known for its hearty portions and friendly service.

Evening:

• Drive back to Litchfield and enjoy dinner at The Lobster Boat Restaurant, which offers fresh seafood and beautiful views of the Merrimack River.

Getting to Litchfield, NH

Litchfield is approximately 50 miles north of Boston, MA, and 20 miles south of Manchester, NH. Here are some directions on how visitors can get to Litchfield:

By Car: Litchfield is easily accessible by car via several major highways, including Interstate 93, Interstate 95, and the Everett Turnpike (Route 3). From the south, take I-93N or I-95N, and from the north, take I-93S or the Everett Turnpike/Rt. 3S.

By Air: Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) is the closest major airport to Litchfield, NH, located approximately 14 miles north of the town. The airport is served by several major airlines, including Southwest, Delta, United, and American Airlines. Primary hubs for these airlines include Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Minneapolis, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C.

By Train/Bus: There is no direct train or bus service to Litchfield, NH, but visitors can take the bus or train to Manchester, and then rent a car or take a taxi to Litchfield. The Boston Express bus departs from Boston's South Station and Logan Airport and arrives at the Manchester Transportation Center. The Amtrak Downeaster train departs from Boston's North Station and arrives at the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport Station.