Stratham, NH 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Stratham is a hidden gem for retirement living. Located in the beautiful Seacoast region, this quaint New England town boasts a friendly and welcoming community, natural beauty, and a strong sense of history. Residents can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking on the Squamscott River. The town also has several public parks, including Stratham Hill Park, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Stratham is conveniently located just a short drive from the beach and Portsmouth, one of the region's cultural and economic centers.

If you're considering retiring in Stratham there are several local websites that can provide you with more information about the town. Visit the Stratham Town website to learn more about local services and events. For information about outdoor recreation opportunities, check out the Stratham Parks and Recreation page. The Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce website can also provide you with information about the wider Seacoast region, including events, attractions, and local businesses.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Living in Stratham is a bit more expensive than it is in other parts of the country. The cost of living average is around 30 percent higher in Stratham than the national average. Healthcare and transportation costs are lower than the average U.S. costs, but housing, groceries, and utilities all rank much higher. Housing is especially expensive in Stratham. Whether renting or buying, residents find themselves spending more in Stratham than they would in the U.S. or even elsewhere in New Hampshire.

State income taxes are being phased out across New Hampshire. The tax rate in 2023 is 4 percent, and in 2024, it will be 3 percent. Income taxes are set to be 2 percent in 2025, and 1 percent in 2026. By 2027, the state income tax will be phased out completely. Presently, social security is not taxed, nor are withdrawals from retirement accounts. There is neither an inheritance tax nor an estate tax for residents of Stratham, New Hampshire.

New Hampshire has higher than average property taxes. Stratham residents can expect to pay $18.71 per $1,000 of their home’s appraised value. The assessed value of the home multiplied by the tax rate equals the annual real estate tax. Exemptions and credits are available to seniors, members of the military, and people with disabilities. Income requirements must be met to earn deductions and the homeowner must have lived in New Hampshire for at least three years.

There is no state sales tax in New Hampshire. This makes the Granite State a desirable place to shop, and can help counteract the higher cost of living in this region.

Climate and Geography

Stratham has a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Average high temperatures in the summer months range from the mid-70s to the low 80s. Winters can be cold, with average low temperatures in the mid-teens. Snow is common, with an average annual snowfall of around 53 inches. The town receives an average of 50 inches of rain per year and 20 sunny days per year. The warm summer weather and abundance of sunny days make Stratham a great place to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The town's location also offers easy access to nearby beaches and other attractions.

Stratham is situated in the beautiful Seacoast region of New Hampshire, which is known for its natural beauty and historic charm. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and forests, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. The Squamscott River runs along the western border of Stratham, providing residents with opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities. The town is also just a short drive from several state parks and conservation areas, including the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Pawtuckaway State Park. Stratham's location in the Seacoast region also offers residents easy access to Portsmouth, a historic city with a thriving cultural scene and nearby beaches in New Hampshire and Maine.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Stratham and the surrounding Seacoast region offer a wide variety of recreational activities and cultural events to suit any interest. Golf enthusiasts can choose from several beautiful courses, while tennis and pickleball players have access to a number of well-maintained courts. The area is also home to numerous parks, gardens, and hiking trails, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration and exercise. Cultural events, including fairs, farmers markets, and music festivals, are held throughout the year, while museums and historical sites offer glimpses into the region's rich history. Shopping options range from locally owned boutiques to national retailers, ensuring that active adults can conveniently find what they need in the area. Overall, Stratham and the Seacoast region offer endless possibilities for fun and entertainment.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Golf Club of New England
• Rockingham Country Club
• Portsmouth Country Club
• Great Bay Athletic Club

Hiking, Biking, and Boating:

• Stratham Hill Park
• Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge
• Rye Harbor State Park
• Odiorne Point State Park
• Rockingham Recreational Trail
• Squamscott River

Museums and Historical Sites:

• Seacoast Science Center
• USS Albacore Museum
• American Independence Museum
• Stratham Historical Society
• Gilman Garrison House

Performing Arts:

• Goel Center for Theatre & Dance
• Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra
• Portsmouth Music and Arts Center
• Seacoast Repertory Theatre

Shopping:

• Kings Highway Plaza
• Exeter Commons
• Lafayette Crossing
• White Birch Plaza

Parks and Gardens:

• Adams Pointe Wildlife Management Area
• Sagamore Creek Highlands
• Woodridge Park
• Fuller Gardens

Festivals and Fairs:

• Exeter Farmers Market
• New Hampshire Film Festival
• Hampton Beach Seafood Festival
• New Hampshire Brewfest

Health and Wellness

The Seacoast region of New Hampshire is home to several high-quality hospitals and medical centers, ensuring that residents have access to top-notch healthcare options. Portsmouth Regional Hospital, located about 10 miles east of Stratham, is a full-service hospital that offers advanced medical care, including cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics. The hospital's emergency department is open 24/7 and staffed by experienced medical professionals. Exeter Hospital, located just 4 miles south of Stratham, is another excellent healthcare option in the area. This hospital features state-of-the-art facilities and provides a wide range of medical services, including cancer care, women's health, and mental health.

In addition to traditional medical care, there are several options for maintaining good physical and mental health in the area. The YMCA of the Seacoast, located in Portsmouth, offers aerobics studios, swimming pools, and other amenities to help individuals stay active and healthy. The local community center in Stratham provides programs and events focused on health and wellness, such as yoga classes and support groups. There are also several options for mental health care, including therapists and counseling services in the area. Overall, the Seacoast region provides a strong network of healthcare resources, ensuring that retirees have access to top-notch medical care and the tools they need to stay healthy and happy in their golden years.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Day 1

Morning:

• Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Steve’s Diner in Exeter, which serves breakfast sandwiches, french toast, biscuits and gravy, omelets, and more.
• Head to the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge to enjoy a walk through the woods.

Afternoon:

• Head over to Tailgate Tavern for lunch, a local favorite for pub fare, including flatbread pizzas and burgers.
• Visit the Seacoast Science Center, located within Odiorne Point State Park, to learn more about the local marine life and environment.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Fire and Spice Bistro in Newfields, a cozy local eatery serving a wide variety of American casual dishes.

Day 2

Morning:

• Have breakfast at Ani’s Bagel Cafe in Exeter, which serves a selection of bagels and bagel sandwiches.
• Visit the historic Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse and take a tour of the lighthouse tower and grounds.

Afternoon:

• Head over to Hampton for a leisurely lunch at Betty’s Kitchen, where locals enjoy wraps, sandwiches, soups, and grilled items.
• Meet with a local 55places real estate expert to learn more about the available options for 55+ communities in the area.

Evening:

• End the day with dinner at The Puddle Dock Restaurant in Portsmouth, a local favorite known for its charcuterie board, seafood dishes, and house-crafted desserts.

Getting to Stratham, NH

Stratham, NH is located in Rockingham County in southeastern New Hampshire. Visitors can reach Stratham by car via several major highways including Interstate 95 and Route 101. For those arriving by air, the closest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located approximately 35 miles west of Stratham. This airport is serviced by several major airlines including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines, with connections to primary hubs such as Charlotte, Atlanta, and Chicago. Boston Logan International Airport is another option, located approximately 60 miles south of Stratham, and offers even more flight options and connections. There are also rental car and rideshare options available at both airports.