USA New Hampshire | North America

New Hampshire is located in the New England region of the Northeastern United States, bordering Quebec (Canada) to the north, Maine and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Massachusetts to the south, and Vermont to the west. It is the fifth smallest state by area and is defined by the rugged White Mountains and a short 18-mile coastline. The capital city is Concord.

History & Culture

New Hampshire was one of the original 13 colonies and was the first to establish its own constitution and declare independence from Great Britain. Its motto, "Live Free or Die," reflects a deeply rooted culture of political independence and fiscal conservatism. Primary religious affiliations are Protestant (35%) and Catholic (33%). Social etiquette emphasizes New England pragmatism, privacy, and a standardized 18–25% tipping expectation. The state has no general sales tax and no personal income tax on wages.

Language & Communication

The official and universal language is English. Spanish is the second most common language (spoken by approx. 5% of the population), followed by French (2%), reflecting historical migration from Quebec. The regional dialect is part of the Eastern New England group, though the distinct "Boston-style" accent is less prevalent in the northern and western regions.

Population & Economy

The population is approximately 1.42 million. GDP per capita is approximately $77,000 USD. The economy is driven by high-tech manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. In 2026, New Hampshire’s labor force remains strong, with top industries including hospitals, insurance, and professional/scientific services. For 2026, the state is a Republican trifecta, though the U.S. Senate race following the retirement of Jeanne Shaheen is a major political focus.

Visa & Entry Policy

Effective January 1, 2026, under Presidential Proclamation 10998, visa issuance is suspended or restricted for nationals of 39 countries to enhance security vetting. A full travel ban is in effect for nationals of 19 countries (including Afghanistan, Syria, and Yemen). Citizens of most EU nations and the UK require an ESTA for stays up to 90 days. There is no Visa on Arrival system. Customs enforcement at Manchester-Boston Regional (MHT) is strict regarding agricultural products.

Currency & Payment Systems

The currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Card payments and mobile "tap-to-pay" are universal. Cash is used primarily for small tips and at rural seasonal stands. ATM availability is high, with dense networks in retail chains like Hannaford and Market Basket.

National Transport Grid

Intercity travel is dominated by the I-93, I-95, and I-89 corridors. Amtrak provides rail service via the "Downeaster" (Seacoast) and the "Vermonter" (Western border). Domestic aviation is anchored by Manchester-Boston Regional (MHT). In 2026, the state is focusing on the "Capitol Corridor" rail expansion studies and bridge rehabilitations in the Lakes Region.

Digital Infrastructure

Major mobile network providers are Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. 5G coverage is comprehensive in the Merrimack Valley and Seacoast. New Hampshire is on track to reach 100% broadband access in 2026 via $196.5 million in BEAD funding. Signal dead zones remain frequent in the White Mountain National Forest and the Great North Woods.

Climate & Seasonality

The climate is humid continental, featuring four distinct seasons. For the 2025–2026 winter, a weak La Niña has led to a "mostly mild" season according to the Old Farmer's Almanac, with lighter-than-average snowfall and warmer, drier conditions expected across the state. Summer (July–August) is mild and humid.

Health & Safety

No mandatory vaccines are required for entry. Specific environmental risks include extreme winter cold, tick-borne illnesses (Lyme disease), and rapid weather changes in the White Mountains. The emergency number for Police, Ambulance, and Fire is 911.

Top 3 Major Regions & Cities

Merrimack Valley (Industry/Gov): Hub cities are Manchester, Nashua, and Concord.

Seacoast Region (Tech/Tourism): Hub city is Portsmouth.

White Mountains (Hospitality/Recreation): Hub town is North Conway.

Local Cost Index

1L Water: $2.25 USD

1 Domestic Beer: $6.50 USD

1 Sim Card (Data Plan): $50.00 USD

Facts & Legends

New Hampshire holds the first-in-the-nation primary during presidential election years. A prominent local legend is "Ocean Born Mary," whose spirit is said to haunt the Pine Hill Cemetery in Hollis. The "New Hampshire Wood Devil" is a cryptid legend in the North Country described as a thin, grey, bipedal creature that hides behind trees. Additionally, Mount Washington is famous for recording some of the highest surface wind speeds in the world ($231$ mph).