Manchester, NH is called the Queen City. It is the largest city in the state of New Hampshire. Historically this nickname is reserved for the largest city, that is not the capitol, in any given state. We are lucky that here in Manchester we have this distinction. This city is a great place to call home for many reasons. Here are 8 reasons to live in downtown Manchester.
Reasons to Live in Downtown Manchester- The Location
Geographically, Manchester is pretty close to being in the center of our state. Major highways are everywhere! Interstates 93, 293 and Route 101 all run through the city. It is easy to access any of them from downtown. When you are this close to good roads, traveling anywhere is easy. Manchester dwellers are just 45 minutes to Boston, the NH mountains or the NH seacoast. There is always something exciting to do in those locations. The downtown of the city is lively and full of interesting restaurants, businesses and art venues. Sporting teams play at the Fisher Cats Stadium and the SNHU Arena.
Entertainment in Downtown Manchester
If concerts, music jam sessions, live comedy or cultural events are your thing, then Manchester will not disappoint. The SNHU Arena is an amazing venue that can seat upwards of 10,000 guests. This is the place where many big-name entertainers come to try out their new shows. Think Cher, Maroon 5, Jonas Brothers and Matchbox 20 to name a few. This venue is also home to the Monster Jam car show and many expositions.
The Rex Theatre and the Palace Theatre are venues for live performances. The Palace has been in operation for over 100 years and hosts many NY quality shows. The Rex Theatre is the newest venue for music in the city. With over 400 seats this is a great performance center for live music, films and choral events. The Dana Center at St Anslem’s College has a performing arts calendar that brings many internationally known entertainers to the city. Live comedy shows appear at many smaller clubs in town. The Doubletree Hotel hosts several each year. The city has several museums. Of note are the Currier Art Museum, the SEE Science Center, the Credit Union Museum and the Manchester Historical Center Museum. All have revolving and permanent exhibits that cater to many interests.
Nightlife in Downtown Manchester
If clubbing and bar hopping are of interest to you, then Manchester will not disappoint. We can say that Manchester has plenty of nightlife clubs. Some are private Social Clubs but the vast majority are public. Try the “prohibition style club” called 815. Once inside, you will love the signature cocktails and the cozy atmosphere. Another favorite place is called Industry East at 28 Hanover Street. Try the amazing cocktails and delicious tapa style food offerings here.
There are many bars on the main street (Elm Street) that are in close proximity to each other. It makes for a fun night of “bar hopping.” Take an Uber home. Manchester is a college town. There are 11 colleges in town representing over 8,000 students. This makes for a lively and fun atmosphere in the city.
Housing Options in Downtown Manchester
Manchester is a city that has a variety of housing options. Looking to buy a permanent home? There are many neighborhoods that offer single family homes and condos in the city. There are plenty of apartment communities available if you are not sure where to buy a house. Red Oak Apartment Homes has over 1,800 apartments ranging from entry level apartments to luxury penthouse styles. Why not try Red Oak’s luxury apartments at 875 Elm Street, 409 Elm Street or the Historic Opera Block Apartments that are both in downtown? Picking a downtown neighborhood in Manchester is not hard. Sure, there are some locations that are a little bit “tougher” than others but if you keep to yourself you will be fine. This is a great city to call home. Contact Red Oak for more information or a tour.
Healthcare and Hospitals in Manchester
Manchester has two hospitals that are leaders in providing exceptional health services in the state. Catholic Medical Center is known for its cardiac care and the Norris Cotton Cancer Care Center. The Elliot Hospital has a top trauma center, a cancer care unit and an intensive care center that has won awards. The hospitals are located on opposite sides of the city so you are never far from good medical attention.
Jobs in Manchester NH
The economy has its ups and downs, but NH has stayed strong even in tougher times. Manchester has many jobs available. It is leading the region in high tech medical development jobs, and start up technologies. The colleges employ a large number of individuals as well. Large employers are in the insurance and manufacturing fields. Unemployment is low in our city and pay scales average above the national levels.
The Scenery is a Reason to Live in Downtown Manchester
You are not far from beautiful parks and scenic vistas when you are in Manchester. The stunning Merrimack River runs through the city. Visit Arms Park to walk along the riverfront. The Fisher Cats Ballpark is along this Riverwalk and the views from the stadium are beautiful. The Uncannouc Mountains are in neighboring Goffstown NH and can be seen majestically hovering over the city. There are places in the city for peaceful walks that will show off mother nature in all her glory.
Quality of Life in Manchester
In a word it is GREAT! Manchester was named the 9th best place to live in the US a few years ago. The crime rate is relatively low, the economy is booming, there is a focus on bringing new technology focused businesses here and the 11 area colleges enhance the workforce. Public transportation is readily available, there are many civic organizations and events held in the city. There is a thriving downtown with shops, restaurants and bars. The overall happiness factor for families is high here. It is a clean city with great access to major highways and the Manchester- Boston Airport. New Hampshire has no income tax or sales tax so living here is cost effective too.