We recently moved here from the Midwest. We started in Nashua. Unfortunately Nashua people seem more busy and not as friendly as the rest of NH. We looked most seriously at Concord and Portsmouth. We ended in Concord for a few reasons: Concord is pretty central to most places you want to go. 45 -60 minutes to the lakes, the mountains, the ocean, to Boston. There is a bus that takes you straight to the airport in Concord.

The downtown area is very active. There is a farmers market, special events, decent food and coffee. And boutique shops like an artist space, some specialty stores, bakeries, coffeeshops and the cutest candy shop. There is actually a ton of things to do in the little downtown area. Every person we have met so far is down to earth and kind. I know the Chamber of commerce is looking to add some more events in the evening to draw in more people. And it's more affordable than the seacoast.

I wish you luck in your move! But try visiting Concord!