Living in Hooksett NH offers everything from a great location to good schools and plenty of family-friendly attractions. If you’re considering moving to Hooksett, our guide walks you through what to expect from this small town and its quaint charm.
The town of Hooksett was originally called “Chester Woods” and “Rowe’s Corner” before adopting the name “Hooksett” for nearly fifty years prior to its formal incorporation in 1822. Located along the Merrimack River, Hooksett began as a fishing village and soon benefited from its strong transportation links. Today, the town is known as a safe, welcoming residential community—offering a quieter lifestyle while still being close to the big-city conveniences of nearby Manchester.
What County Is Hooksett NH In?
Hooksett NH is located in Merrimack County in the south-central portion of New Hampshire. Hookset is 4.6 miles north of Manchester and 16.6 miles south of the state capitol, Concord. The Merrimack River runs through the town's center.
Living in Hooksett NH offers the charm of a classic New England town combined with the quiet feel of a rural community.
Hooksett NH Population
According to the Census Bureau, the population of Hooksett NH, is 14,871, which translates to 414.6 people per square mile. Its population density is far more attractive than Manchester's 3,499.2 people per square mile. The median age is 40.6, with 17% of residents aged between 20 and 29, and 41% being 50 years old or older. Although the median household income is slightly lower than that of its metro area, it remains above the US median, at $106,906; the US median is $80,610.
Additional demographics
- Persons below poverty line: 3.6%
- Median income: $34,355
- Sex ratio: 52 females to 48 males
- Mean travel time to work: 26.5 minutes
- Persons per household: 2.6
- Marriage rate: 68%
- Women 15-50 who gave birth during the past year: 4.1%
- Median home value: $370,300
- Owner-occupied homes: 78%
Hooksett is educated, with 94.3% having a high school diploma and 38.9% having a bachelor's degree or higher. Its foreign-born population is 4.1%, which isn’t surprising considering its racial and ethnic makeup:
- 94.6% White
- 1.0% African American
- 0.2% Native American
- 2.0% Asian
- 0.1% Pacific Islander
- 0.7% from some other race
- 1.5% from two or more races
- 2.1% of the population is Hispanic or Latino of any race
Hooksett, NH is a predominantly White Non-Hispanic community. Smaller but present populations include Asian residents, individuals of two or more races, and Hispanic residents.
Crime Rate - Is Hooksett a Safe Place to Live?
According to data provided by the FBI, Hooksett is a very safe place to live, boasting a lower-than-average crime rate!
- Hooksett crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,045
- New Hampshire crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,137
- US crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,324
- Hooksett violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 137
- New Hampshire violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 126
- US violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 376
- Hooksett property crime rate per 100,000 people: 908
- New Hampshire property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,011
- US property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,954
Although Hooksett’s violent crime rate is 9.1% higher than the state average, the Hooksett Police Department has various crime prevention initiatives in the hopes of decreasing violent crime in the city limits. For more in-depth knowledge of the city’s safety, you can explore Hooksett’s live crime map, showcasing in real time what crimes are being reported in the city and where.
Cost of Living in Hooksett NH
According to BestPlaces, the Cost of Living Index (COLI) in Hooksett, NH, is 100.2, making it only 0.2% more expensive than the average US city. When you compare this to the nearby Manchester’s COLI of 114.5, you will see that this is an affordable suburb with a high income per capita ($50,892).
Whether you’re moving to Hooksett from another New Hampshire city or from out of state, ensuring you can afford to live here is key before starting your journey. Let’s take a look at the *city’s typical living expenses together:
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: $27.50
- Gallon of milk: $3.90
- Loaf of white bread: $2.67
- Dozen eggs: $4.68
- Pound of white rice: $2.19
- Pound of chicken fillets: $4.95
Source: Numbeo
*The above statistics are for Manchester, meaning prices may be slightly lower when living in Hooksett NH.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four would need a household income of $106,294 to live comfortably in Hooksett MA.
Hooksett NH Real Estate Overview
While not extremely expensive, the Hooksett, New Hampshire housing market is very competitive. Homes for sale Hooksett NH, typically sell within 19 days, with 54.5% selling above the listing price. The Hooksett median sale price is $460,000, and the average price per square foot is $280. The first step to buying a home in your new city is to find a real estate agent to help you find the right deal in your dream neighborhood.
If you plan to rent when living in Hooksett NH, you would be the same as 32% of its residents. According to Zumper, the median rent per month here is $2,500.
Hooksett Neighborhoods - Where to Live in This Lovely Suburb
Hooksett, NH doesn’t have formally defined neighborhoods, but most residents commonly describe the small town by its key areas. North Hooksett, known for communities like Carriage Estates, offers a mix of suburban homes and access to local parks like Hooksett Dog Park and Pinnacle Park Summit.
South Hooksett is another well-recognized area with a more suburban feel and easy access to nearby Manchester, Southern New Hampshire University, and Apple Cinemas Hooksett IMAX. The South Hooksett real estate market has a median sale price of $450,000 and is very competitive.
The central village serves as the historic core, while surrounding parts of town blend suburban developments with rural landscapes.
Hooksett NH Weather & Climate
The weather in Hooksett is enjoyable most of the year, with the benefit of four distinct seasons. It boasts a temperate climate and a diverse range of weather patterns and temperatures. The warmest month is July, with an average high of around 82 degrees Fahrenheit. January is the coldest month, with an average daily high of only 32 degrees.
March is the cloudiest month, with overcast conditions roughly 55% of the time; by August, the sun is shining bright, with cloud coverage as low as 36% of the time.
The city experiences roughly 48.8 inches of rain a year and 35 inches of snow. The best time to visit Hooksett is between late June and September, when the temperatures are warm and the cloud coverage is minimal.
Things to Do in Hooksett NH
Hooksett, NH, offers a mix of family fun and outdoor recreation. Families can enjoy mini-golf, go-karts, and ice skating. Nature lovers can hike and birdwatch at one of the many public parks or community gardens. For a taste of local flavor, stop by Copper Beach Winery for a tasting or grab fresh produce and comfort food at Johnson’s Golden Harvest. Visitors also enjoy the New Hampshire State Liquor Store & Safety Rest Stop, known for tax-free shopping and travel amenities.
Chucker’s in Hooksett has everything from go-karting to mini golf, making it the ideal attraction for the whole family.
53 Hackett Hill Rd, Hooksett, NH 03106, (603) 210-1415
If the rain or snow has you stumped for what to do in Hooksett, consider the area’s infamous moving theatres. You can watch the latest film while enjoying the theatre's concessions.
38 Cinemagic Wy, Hooksett, NH 03106, (603) 868-6200
Work on your figure skating skills or play in a pick-up hockey game at the town’s local indoor ice-skating area.
311 W River Rd, Hooksett, NH 03106, (603) 485-1100
Additional Activities Things to Do Near Hooksett NH
- Heads Pond - Expansive park with a large pond and dog-friendly hiking trails.
- Charmingfare Farm - Working farm just outside of Hooksett with animal encounters and seasonal events.
- Bear Brook State Park - 10,000-acre state-run park with swimming, hiking, biking, and camping opportunities.
The city’s parks and recreation department maintains the few parks within the city limits and hosts a handful of local events and clubs.
Restaurants in Hooksett NH
Are you looking for tasty food in Hooksett NH? Explore these top eateries in your potential new community.
Considered one of Hooksett’s best restaurants, New England’s Tap House Grille is known for its poutine, unique flatbreads, and refreshing brews.
1292 Hooksett Rd, Hooksett, NH 03106, (603) 782-5137
Located in Manchester, La Carreta is an authentic Mexican restaurant with traditional favorites like fajitas, margaritas, and chimichangas.
Livingston Park, North End Shops at, 545 Hooksett Rd, Manchester, NH 03104, (603) 628-6899
Jobs Hooksett NH
Hooksett is a large city near even larger economies, making it an ideal location for young professionals and growing families who need easy access to high-paying jobs. The city’s largest employers are Southern NH University, GE Aviation, and United Healthcare; the metro area’s leading industries are health care and social assistance, retail trade, and manufacturing, which is reflected in Hooksett’s major employers.
If you plan to open a business when living in Hooksett NH, just know that the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) is on your side. A few of their initiatives include developing outreach materials, nurturing relationships with businesses through an “Ambassador Group,” and advocating for policy improvements.
You may also like to hear the tax incentives available to businesses within city limits. Per the Economic Revitalization Zone (ERZ) Tax Credits, up to $40,000 per year for six years is offered to businesses that invest in infrastructure and create full-time jobs within designated zones.
If you’re looking for jobs in Hooksett NH, you should consider the following companies:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly rate for Manchester metropolitan area residents is $34.21.
Schools in Hooksett New Hampshire
School Administrative Unit 15 (SAU 15) services Hooksett, Auburn, and Candia. SAU 15 is small, with only 1,265 students and a student-to-teacher ratio of 12.9:1.
There are three public schools within Hooksett:
While the district does not operate a high school, your student has options through contractual agreements. Most Hooksett 9-12 students attend Pinkerton Academy in Derry, a private, non-profit institution. Some attend Bow High School, Pembroke Academy, or Londonderry High School.
If you’re looking for more ways to advance your child's education, explore the resources Hooksett Library offers. Their community events and gatherings consist of a genealogy club, adult crafting, and storytimes. Cardholders also receive free/discounted admission to countless museums and attractions in the region.
Hooksett Statistics & Information
- Hooksett NH county: Merrimack
- Hooksett NH area: 37.1 square miles
- Hooksett NH zip code: 03106
- Hooksett NH area code: 603
- Hooksett NH elevation: 213
- Hooksett NH time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5 and -4)
- Closest airport to Hooksett NH: Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) is 10.6 miles from Hooksett
Map of Hooksett NH
Explore more of this great town with this handy map.
Moving to Hooksett NH With Preferred Movers
Living in Hooksett, NH offers a great location with a welcoming, small-town feel. Whether you’re starting a new chapter in life or exploring the best places to settle, Hooksett movers can help you decide with ease. Count on a reliable team to make your move stress-free. Call Preferred Movers today at (603) 379-2272 for a free estimate.
