Pelham 55+ Retirement Communities

Pelham is a picturesque town that is perfect for retirees who are looking for a peaceful and welcoming community. Located in the southern part of New Hampshire, Pelham boasts beautiful surroundings that include dense forests, rolling hills, and sparkling ponds. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Pelham has a strong sense of community, which is fostered through numerous events and gatherings throughout the year. Retirees in Pelham who enjoy outdoor activities will enjoy the area’s hiking, fishing, boating, and golfing opportunities. The town also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with several galleries and museums showcasing the work of local artists. With a low crime rate, top-notch healthcare facilities, and easy access to major metropolitan areas, Pelham is a top choice for active adults looking to enjoy their golden years in a safe and vibrant community.

For more information about Pelham, check out the town's official website, which provides a wealth of information about the town's history, government, and services, as well as upcoming events and news. The Pelham Public Library's website is another great resource for retirees, with a wide selection of books, media, and programs available. Finally, the Greater Salem Chamber of Commerce's website is also a helpful tool, offering a directory of local businesses and information about the town's economy and community initiatives.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Active adults who want to live in Pelham can weigh several pros and cons when it comes to affordability, taxes, and overall cost of living. New Hampshire offers retirement-friendly tax policies which include no sales tax, estate or inheritance tax, or state income tax. Retirement incomes such as social security and pensions are also excluded from income taxes. Although there is currently a 5 percent tax on dividends and interests over a certain amount, this tax will be eliminated in 2027. These tax breaks benefit retirees who want to live in Southern New Hampshire.

Although residents of Pelham enjoy some tax leniency, the property taxes levied by the county can be considered a downside to the affordability of the city. The property tax rate in Pelham is approximately 1.79 percent of a home’s assessed value, which is the 36th highest county rate in the country. Residents who want to save on housing costs may need to spend more time finding the residence that best suits their budget, needs, and preferences. Homeowners may save slightly on healthcare, but the high housing and utility costs make the cost of living approximately 25 percent higher than national averages.

Climate and Geography

Pelham has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid with average high temperatures in the 80s. Winters are cold and occasionally snowy with average low temperatures in the mid-teens. The town receives an average of 56 inches of snowfall annually and 46 inches of rainfall. Pelham has about 200 sunny days per year, ensuring that residents will be able to enjoy the outdoors year-round.

Located in the southern part of New Hampshire, Pelham has a diverse geography that includes dense forests, rolling hills, and picturesque ponds. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. The Merrimack River runs along the western border of town, providing a scenic backdrop for residents and visitors alike. The town is situated near the White Mountains, which offer a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities including skiing, snowmobiling, and camping. The diverse geography of Pelham makes it an ideal location for those looking to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Pelham offers a range of recreational activities, cultural events, and entertainment options for locals to enjoy. From golf and racquet sports to hiking, and boating, active adult homebuyers are sure to find plenty of things to do.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Pine Valley Golf Links
• Four Oaks Country Club
• Campbell’s Scottish Highlands Golf Course
• Nashua Country Club

Hiking, Biking, and Boating:

• Mine Falls Park
• Peabody Town Forest
• Little Island Pond Conservation Area
• Robinson Pond

Museums and Historical Sites:

• Abbot-Spalding House Museum
• Derry Museum of History
• Whistler House Museum of Art
• Mill Girls and Immigrants Exhibit

Performing Arts:

• Keefe Center for the Arts
• Derry Opera House
• Tupelo Music Hall
• New Hampshire Philharmonic Orchestra

Shopping:

• The Mall at Rockingham Park
• Nashua Mall Plaza
• Pheasant Lane Mall

Parks and Gardens:

• George M. Muldoon Park
• Guertin Conservation Area
• Silver Lake State Park
• Reflection Garden & Labyrinth

Festivals and Fairs:

• Pelham Old Home Day
• Salem Farmers Market
• Apple Harvest Day
• Hillsborough County Agricultural Fair

Health and Wellness

Pelham is conveniently located near several hospitals and medical centers that offer a range of healthcare services. Lawrence General Hospital, located in Lawrence, MA, is a full-service hospital that provides a range of medical and surgical services, including cancer care, cardiac care, and women's health. This hospital is just 15 miles east of Pelham, making it easily accessible for residents who require specialized medical care. Additionally, the Parkland Medical Center in Derry, NH is a general medical and surgical hospital that offers emergency care, diagnostic imaging, and a range of other services.

In addition to medical care options, Pelham also offers residents several options for self-care and keeping fit and mentally well. The town is home to several yoga studios, gyms, and fitness centers that offer a variety of classes and programs. The Hobbs Community Center offers a variety of programs and activities including exercise classes, health screenings, and support groups. For residents who prefer to spend time outdoors, Pelham's parks, lakes, and nature preserves offer opportunities for walking, hiking, and enjoying nature.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Day 1

Morning:

• Start the day with breakfast at The Yolk Grill, a local favorite known for its omelets, benedicts, and breakfast sandwiches.
• Take a stroll through Mine Falls Park in nearby Nashua to enjoy some of the area’s natural beauty.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at Ya Mas Greek Taverna & Bar, which serves a wide variety of Greek dishes.
• Visit the Millyard Museum in Manchester, NH to learn about the history of the region's industrial past.

Evening:

• Have dinner at The Windham Restaurant, which serves New England seafood favorites like Nantucket Pie, Italian dishes like Chicken Parmigiana, and a selection of steaks.
• Catch a show at the Palace Theatre in Manchester, which features a variety of live performances throughout the year.

Day 2

Morning:

• Head over to Mary Ann’s Diner in nearby Windham, where locals enjoy breakfast dishes such as country fried steak, biscuits and gravy, omelets, pancakes, and waffles.
• Take a walk through Little Island Pond Conservation Area, which has a short loop trail. Pets and bicycles are permitted.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Common Man in Merrimack, known for its burgers, sandwiches, and hearty New England fare including Pesto Haddock and New England Pot Roast.
• Meet with a local 55places real estate expert to discuss available options for 55+ communities in the area.

Evening:

• Have dinner at The Coach Stop in Londonderry, which features a menu of steaks and seafood dishes, sandwiches and burgers, and flatbread pizzas.

Getting to Pelham, NH

Pelham is located in Southern New Hampshire, approximately 30 miles north of Boston, Massachusetts. If you are traveling by car, the major highways that provide access to Pelham are I-93, I-495, and NH Route 3.

For those traveling by air, the closest major airport to Pelham is Boston Logan International Airport, which is approximately 35 miles south of Pelham. Boston Logan is a major hub for several airlines including Delta, United, American, and JetBlue, providing connections to destinations across the country and internationally. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport is another option, located about 17 miles north of Pelham. Both airports offer rental cars and taxi services for travelers, as well as rideshare options.