Franklin is one of the smallest cities in New Hampshire, and its history as a mill town is evident along Winnipesaukee's growing riverfront. The city’s iconic “upside-down” Sulphite Railroad Bridge stretches across the river and was used to carry the Boston and Maine Railroad tracks in the late 1890s. Today, there’s been a surge of new riverfront shops and restaurants, as well as emerging housing developments. “Franklin's been up and coming over the last couple of years,” says Realtor Dakota Coburn with Realty One Group Next Level in Concord. “They’re building the first whitewater rafting park in New England, so that’s been drawing in a lot of big investors who have been arriving in order to rebuild the riverfront.” Despite its ongoing growth, Franklin has just under 9,000 residents and maintains a small-town atmosphere.
Historic architecture can be found all over Franklin.
Welcome to Franklin Nh.
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New England homes and Webster Lake properties
Franklin’s housing styles range from cottages in the woods to Victorian homes near the river. Capes, colonials and ranch-style homes are popular, as well. “There are also a lot of older homes that are being updated by a few development companies,” Coburn says. Duplexes and rental properties are common east of the river and are often bought by investors looking to capitalize on Franklin’s expansion and growth. The overall median price sits at about $370,000. Waterfront properties on Webster Lake have some of the highest price tags, with costs occasionally surpassing $1 million, while the smallest cottages can fall in the $100,000 range.
Homes in Sanbornton include farmhouses on acres and beautiful scenic porches.
Homes in Tilton vary in style and include New Englander style homes in downtown.
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Mill City Park improvements and miles of multiuse trails
Mill City Park is a nonprofit working to create a whitewater rafting park on the Winnipesaukee River. The organization’s aim is to transform the Franklin Falls Historic District into an outdoor attraction with rafting, tide pools, a climbing wall, pedestrian and bicycle bridges and tent sites for overnight stays. The river leads to Lake Winnipesaukee, the Lakes Region’s largest vacation and recreation destination. For land activities, the Franklin Falls Recreational Trails, which is on U.S. Army Corps land, offers multiuse paths, a disc golf course and picnic areas.
Enjoy a walk a long the river through Odell Park in Franklin.
Enjoy a day out on the boat on Lake Winnisquam in Tilton.
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Central Street shopping and pubs near the Winnipesaukee River
Folks will find fast-food spots and locally owned restaurants throughout the city, though new developments on the Winnipesaukee River bring a new flavor to the area. “They’re redoing the riverfront to be much nicer,” Coburn says. “Lots of new bars and restaurants have gone in over the past couple of years, like brewpubs and pizza places. It’s drawn a lot of people in.” Big-box shopping options are available off Central Street.
Grab a drink and a delicious dinner at Waterhorse Irish Pub in Franklin.
Families visit Heritage Farm Pancake House in Sanbornton for delicious food.
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Three schools in the Franklin School District
The Franklin School District scores an overall D grade on Niche, with one school for each division. Private education is available in neighboring cities, including the Tilton School, an A-rated option for ninth through 12th grade.
Franklin High School serves area students in grades 9-12.
Franklin Middle School serves area students in grades 4-8.
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The annual Franklin Rodeo
People come together for events throughout the year, from the Franklin Fall Fest and the Community Day Parade to summer concerts in Marceau Park. The Franklin Rodeo, run by the local Rotary Club, comes to town each May, with a parade, petting zoo and professional rodeos. To celebrate the end of the school year, kindergarten through 12th graders march through the city in the Class Day Parade.
People begin to gather for the free music at the Franklin Farmers Market in Franklin, NH.
Tilton Farmers Market is the perfect place to enjoy some shopping and to meet friends.
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Commutes south to Concord and Manchester
Concord Area Transit buses stop throughout the city, though most residents get around by car. “Franklin is in a great location,” Coburn says. “It's not far off the highway, so it's an easy commute to Concord or the Lakes Region.” Commuters can take either U.S. Route 3 or Interstate 93 to reach Concord, which is about 20 miles south. Manchester and its regional airport sit farther down I-93, about 38 miles south. There is a small Concord Hospital branch in Franklin off of Edwards Street, but the major branch takes about 35 minutes to reach via I-93.
Franklin crime patterns and possible flooding on riverbanks
According to New Hampshire Crime Statistics, Franklin saw a 22% decrease in violent crimes between 2023 and 2024, and reported property crimes increased by about 38%.
Because of Franklin’s location on the Winnipesaukee and Pemigewasset rivers, flooding and rainwater overflow can be a concern for some residents. Lenders may require flood insurance, depending on property location.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
