13 Charming New Hampshire Cities Where You Can Live on Nothing but Social Security

With its stunning vistas of mountains and lakes, New Hampshire is one of New England's crown jewels. As you plan for retirement, consider it a great place to live out your golden years. The average monthly Social Security benefit for a retiree in the Granite State is approximately $2,183. How far can that go?

As this list of 13 New Hampshire cities shows, that's more than enough to pay the rent and still enjoy the maple syrup and fall foliage.

Editor's note: Unless otherwise noted, all data listed below on rent came from Apartments.com, and housing costs from Realtor.com.

Median rent: $716

Median home price: $475,000

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, Littleton offers a picturesque and affordable way of life.

Its vibrant Main Street, historic architecture, and abundance of outdoor recreational activities make it an attractive option for retirees seeking a peaceful yet engaging community.

Median rent: $730

Median home price: $520,000

Known as the gateway to the Mount Washington Valley, Conway juxtaposes stunning natural beauty and a lower cost of living.

The Conway area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate a quieter, rural pace of life. At the same time, it offers easy access to shopping and services.

Median rent: $1,208

Median home price: $324,500

Located along the Connecticut River, Claremont boasts a rich industrial history and an affordable housing market.

The city's charming downtown area has that classic New England appeal, and you'll find numerous parks and recreational opportunities in the area.

Median rent: $1,310

Median home price: $389,000

Located at the confluence of the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee Rivers, Franklin is currently undergoing a revitalization effort, making it an up-and-coming location for affordable living.

Franklin's central location offers easy access to larger cities while preserving its small-town charm.

Median rent: $1,400

Median home price: $213,800

In the northern part of the state, Berlin is known for its rich logging and paper mill history.

Berlin offers some of the most affordable housing in New Hampshire and is surrounded by the White Mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Median rent: $1,273

Median home price: $399,900

Rochester, situated in the Seacoast region, offers a blend of city amenities and a more suburban atmosphere.

Compared to other coastal cities, Rochester's relative affordability makes it an attractive option for retirees who want to be near the ocean.

Median rent: $1,322

Median home price: $592,500

Nestled between Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Winnisquam, Laconia is a dream destination for those who love being on the water.

While home prices can be higher due to its desirable location in the Lakes Region, Laconia still offers affordable rentals.

Median rent: $1,467

Median home price: $470,000

Concord, New Hampshire's state capital, offers a vibrant downtown, a rich history, and a thriving arts and culture scene.

For retirees seeking a more urban environment with access to the best of New England culture, Concord is one of the better options in the state.

Median rent: $1,612

Median home price: $375,000

Located in the picturesque Monadnock Region, Keene is a lively college town with a charming, walkable downtown.

Numerous cultural events and many opportunities for outdoor recreation mark a typical year in Keene.

Median rent: $1,913

Median home price: $647,000

The oldest permanent settlement in New Hampshire, Dover is a historic city with a growing reputation as an exciting place to live.

Dover's location on the Cocheco River and proximity to the Seacoast make it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts of all types.

Median rent: $1,740

Median home price: $425,000

In Manchester, New Hampshire's largest city, you'll find a vibrant arts scene alongside the fine dining and entertainment options you'd expect in a modern urban area.

Still, Manchester remains relatively affordable compared to other major metropolitan areas in New England.

Median rent: $1,842

Median home price: $435,000

Somersworth is a historic mill city located in New Hampshire's Seacoast region that's known for its rustic New England charm.

Generally more affordable than its coastal neighbors, Somersworth offers a community feel with convenient access to cities like Dover and Portsmouth.

Median rent: $1,956

Median home price: $547,400

Nashua may be New Hampshire's second-largest city, but it's been named the number one "Best Place to Live in America" by Money magazine twice.

Although Nashua has the highest median rent on this list, its proximity to the Boston area and the rest of New Hampshire places it squarely between the big city and natural attractions.

Your Social Security check can go farther in New Hampshire than you might think. While some parts of the state carry a high price tag, many cities and towns offer a smart money move for seniors, providing affordable living options.

Perhaps more important to some retirees will be the independent spirit New Hampshire is known for. If you want to enjoy your golden years stress free, one of these 13 locations might just be the right fit for you.