Affectionately known as the City on the Lakes, Laconia is the seat of Belknap County and nestled in the New Hampshire Lakes region. With approximately 17,000 permanent residents, this small city is a hub for outdoor tourism. "I’ve been watching Laconia grow since 2018. Laconia offers a mix of tourism and year-round residents, with great communities like Southbound Shores and the Weirs Beach district,” says Dakota Coburn, a local Realtor and team leader for the Coburn Collective. “The city has been on an upward trend for the last five years, with big investors moving in, fixing up homes and investing in downtown and the Lakeport area. Laconia is a huge hub for the Lakes Region, it’s the biggest town here, and plenty of people are taking notice.” The economy is bolstered by its tourism, as well as healthcare, and one of the area’s top employers is Lakes Region General Hospital. Historic sites and proximity to Lake Winnipesaukee attract visitors during the warmer months, while residents enjoy quieter winters playing games at the Fun Spot arcade, skiing or visiting maple sugar houses.
Beach goers at the Endicott Rock Park Beach at Weirs Beach in Laconia, NH.
The Lakes Region Hospital or Concord Hospital is known as one of Laconia's largest employers.
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Getting outdoors all year long in Laconia
The Weirs Beach district on Lake Winnipesaukee draws thousands of tourists to its shores annually. “Weirs Beach has a blast-from-the-past retro feel to it, but they’ve done a lot to update older buildings and the arcades, and modern restaurants are moving in,” Coburn says. Whether boating, fishing, swimming or just enjoying the lively atmosphere, tourists and locals can always find something to do. Open all year, Gunstock Mountain Resort has skiing in winter and mountain biking trails, ziplining and hiking in summer. When it's cold outside, residents go ice fishing, snowmobiling or head inside to play at the Fun Spot arcade. Guinness World Records named it the world’s largest arcade back in 2008, and it still holds the title today. Fun Spot includes over 600 retro and modern games, a mini golf course, a bowling alley and a restaurant.
Spend a day on the slopes at Gunstock Mountain Resort near Laconia.
Funspot Arcade in Laconia has one of the largest game collections in the world.
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Downtown Laconia, the Colonial Theatre and local attractions
Laconia’s downtown offers a variety of shopping and dining experiences to cater to diverse tastes, budgets and interests. "There’s been a lot of positive growth in local businesses,” Coburn says. “Wayfarer Coffee has expanded with two locations and brought a more upscale vibe to the area. The Local Eatery and Trillium Farm to Table are phenomenal, and Koung’s Sushi Mart is a great tucked away, hidden little spot. I almost wish it wouldn’t become too popular, but I really want them to thrive and succeed,” Coburn says. Residents also choose John’s Roast Beef for quality sandwiches, and Coburn himself is a fan of Bernini’s Italian. For those who enjoy plays and performances, educational events and art exhibits, the Colonial Theatre and the Belknap Mill Museum are popular attractions downtown. For longer shopping trips, people head to the stores at Belknap Mall just a short drive away, or to the Tanger Outlets in Tilton. Mill Falls Marketplace has specialty shops and boutiques with locally made crafts and gifts.
Be sure to keep an eye on the events calendar for any upcoming performances at the Colonial Theatre in Laconia.
The Belknap Mill Museum is a historic landmark sitting in downtown Laconia.
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Rev up for Laconia Motorcycle Week
The city is also famous for its Laconia Motorcycle Week, one of the world’s oldest motorcycle rallies. The event dates back to 1916 when the first group of riders made their trek to the city up Route 3. Today, the event includes stunt shows, races with the Loudon Classic and demos from major motorcycle manufacturers like Harley-Davidson and Yamaha. Live music, food vendors and thousands of motorcycles to view are all part of the fun.
Lakeside properties, downtown living and country club communities
Lakeside properties near Weirs Beach offer incredible views and access to Lake Winnipesaukee. Its lively atmosphere during the warmer months comes from guests staying at nearby hotels. "The housing market is thriving, with many fixer-upper homes being flipped or renovated, especially around the hospital and in the downtown area just off Pleasant Street, where you’ll find beautiful old colonial homes. There are also a lot of waterfront properties on Winnisquam and Opechee," Coburn says. The median single family home price in the city is around $490,000, which is lower than in nearby Gilford, Meredith and Sanbornton. Locals can live in the Laconia Country Club residential community, or head farther out to get away from the tourist traffic. "While opportunities for first-time buyers are getting harder to find, there’s still a balanced market. Some buyer price points are being pushed out toward Belmont and Tilton, but Laconia’s market continues to boom," Coburn says. Condos and townhouses help homebuyers live the downtown lifestyle but on a tighter budget.
Many Colonial and Raise-Ranch homes with private access to the water sit along Lake Winnipesaukee near Laconia.
You'll find there are many historic Victorian and Colonia-era homes located near downtown Laconia.
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Laconia School District programs and Lakes Region Community College
Laconia School District, which is graded an overall C-minus on Niche, is comprised of five schools. Its three elementary schools and Laconia Middle School are all rated a C-minus, while Laconia High School is graded a C. Lakes Region Community College has hands-on training programs and academic classes for post-high school students and adults looking to change careers or learn something new.
Laconia Middle School has a student-teacher ratio of 11 to 1.
Laconia High School has an overall grade of C on Niche.
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Commutes on Route 3 and Interstate 93
Route 3, also known as Daniel Webster Highway, is the area’s major thoroughfare, which connects to nearby towns like Meredith, Tilton and Concord, the state capital. It also runs through downtown, so traffic can be heavy. About 10 miles west of Laconia is Interstate 93, which can take drivers all the way to Boston. The Laconia Municipal Airport mainly supports small private flights, and public transportation is quite limited. Most residents rely on their own vehicles to get around.
Crime in Laconia
According to the crime statistics on the Laconia Police Department site, offenses for violent crime in 2023 increased from the previous year, but offenses for property crime and theft decreased.
Written By
Shelby Sullivan
Photography Contributed By
Kyle Cook
Video By
Alex Jacobsen
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Laconia, NH sell after 61 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Laconia, NH over the last 12 months is $437,500, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Sunsets over Paugus Bay. Your own deeded mooring. A tiki bar down by the water. This is lakeside living done right. This beautifully updated 2 level 4-bed, 2-bath condo in the boutique Hi Spot community checks every box — remodeled kitchen and baths, an open sun-filled layout, a private primary balcony, and a second double balcony perfect for dinner with a view. Shared beach access, cabana, swim
Located in the small and quiet Parkside Manor condominium community in the heart of the Lakes Region. This spacious two-story townhouse offers approximately 1,296 square feet of living space, providing a comfortable layout with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, ideal for year-round living, a vacation getaway, or an investment opportunity. The main level features a functional kitchen and a bright
Positioned in the heart of New Hampshire’s sought-after Lakes Region, this contemporary townhouse offers a refined blend of modern comfort and natural beauty, and is offered turnkey, professionally decorated and furnished for immediate enjoyment. Western-facing views of Lake Winnipesaukee create a picturesque backdrop, complemented by optional lake access through an exclusive partnership with
Location, location, location! Enjoy the ease of resort-style living just steps from the association's recently upgraded saltwater pool, complete with lounge chairs, tables, gas grills, and a shaded pergola-perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Nearby, you'll also find a children's playground along with the upgraded Pickleball/tennis court, adding to the appeal of this community. This
Don't miss this opportunity to own an updated condo just a short walk from Weirs Beach in the heart of the Lakes Region. Whether you're looking for a vacation retreat, year-round residence, or an income-producing short-term rental, this property offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and style. The open-concept living area features an updated kitchen, dining space, and a spacious
Lake Winnipesaukee, this beautifully reimagined lakefront residence, offers exceptional design, timeless appeal, thoughtful craftsmanship, & 86' of shoreline with its own boat slip. The home, rebuilt in 2023, spans three levels of light-filled living space with striking architectural lines, expansive glass, & a wraparound deck, including an inviting enclosed porch, all designed to maximize lake
Nestled within the desirable Bay Reach Assoc in the gated waterfront community of Long Bay, this freestanding 3,012 sq ft home offers comfort, space and year-round enjoyment, complemented by an array of premium amenities. residents enjoy access to 2 sandy beaches, a heated outdoor pool with stunning lake views, pickleball courts, and more-all just a short walk away. inside, the home features a
Welcome to this like-new 2419 sq.ft. home, perfectly situated in the sought after gated community of Long Bay on Lake Winnipesaukee. From the moment you arrive, the pride of ownership is evident in every detail of this beautifully maintained property. Step inside to a bright and airy open concept main living area, filled with natural light and featuring gleaming hardwood & tiled floors. The
Welcome to your ideal Lakes Region getaway with short-term rental capabilities and onsite rental management. This roomy, fully furnished garden style condo offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and location. The open concept living, dining, and kitchen area features a mix of carpet and tile flooring, a cozy electric fireplace, and sliders leading out to your private balcony with a
Welcome to 96 Church Street—a grand Victorian residence perched along the banks of the Winnipesaukee River in the heart of Laconia. With an impressive 13 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, this expansive multi-family home offers exceptional versatility, whether you’re looking for a unique investment property, a spacious multi-generational residence, or the opportunity to revive a historic boarding house.
Rare opportunity to own a deeded boat slip at the highly sought-after Spinnaker Cove Yacht Club (SCYC) on Lake Winnipesaukee — just in time for lake life 2026! Club opening is April 25, 2026. Slip 3-4 measures approximately 16' wide with unlimited length, making it one of the most versatile slips on the lake — capable of accommodating virtually any vessel on Lake Winnipesaukee.SCYC is a
An iconic presence in the heart of the Lakes Region, Grand View Resort operates at full strength with consistent maximum occupancy—a testament to its reputation, premier location, and loyal guest following. This is more than a property purchase; it’s the acquisition of a thriving, turnkey hospitality business with proven performance, positioned along a high-visibility corridor with strong traffic
OPEN HOUSE: Sat & Sun Apr 11–12, 10AM–12PM & 2PM–4PM. City-Approved STR | Fully Furnished | Proven Rental Income | Turnkey Colonial in the Heart of the Lakes Region! This beautifully maintained 1903 Colonial offers 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths & 2,543 sq ft of finished space across 3 levels — fully furnished and ready to generate income from day one. Main level features hardwood floors, gas
Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, 33 Marcia Ann Way offers an exceptional opportunity to build your dream home in the heart of the Lakes Region. This level 0.5-acre lot is ideally situated in Laconia—providing both privacy and convenience in one of New Hampshire’s most sought-after areas. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of a low-traffic neighborhood while remaining just minutes from
Welcome to lake life at its finest in the highly sought-after Gables at South Down Shores! This beautifully renovated detached condo offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and recreation on Lake Winnipesaukee—with the potential opportunity to purchase turnkey.This stunning 2-bedroom with loft, 3-bath home has been thoughtfully updated with state-of-the-art appliances, modern finishes,
Welcome to The Estates at Langley Cove. Get 2 MONTHS FREE on any NEW 14 Month Lease. PLUS $500 security deposit with qualifying credit.Experience sophisticated townhome living at The Estates where spacious layouts, modern finishes, and multi-level design come together in a serene lakeside setting. Perfect for those who want the feel of a home with the ease of community living, The Estates offer
Easy living in this single level unit, with a 2 step entry directly from paved driveway. Low pile carpet in living room and bedroom. Small kitchen\Living room. Walk out your door and enjoy the lake view. Very convenient location.
Wonderful location, close to shopping, schools, parks, beach, and sports. Close to the ski area, skating, and much more. This 3-bedroom, 1-bath house has been totally renovated. Full basement with laundry hookups. Don't miss out, call me right away. Sorry No pets
Brenda RowanColdwell Banker Realty Gilford NH
$1,795 per month
Lakeshore Estates - Newly Remodeled studios, 1, 2 and 3 br Apartment Homes
Lakeshore Estates is all about location, convenience and comfort! Our fully remodeled apartment homes offer studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom open concept floor plans. Upgrades include new windows, patio doors and balconies! New stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops in bathroom and kitchen, vinyl plank flooring, ultra-plush carpet, LED lighting and more! Our community offers an outdoor pool,
$500 INITIAL SECURITY DEPOSIT with good credit. Special is valid for NEW LEASES ONLY. Terms apply. Neat as a pin! Rent this 2 Br, 1 Ba Ranch home with full basement. Having the ability to rent a single family and having a yard.
Get 1 Month Free on a 13 Month Lease! $500 INITIAL SECURITY DEPOSIT with good credit. Special is valid for NEW LEASES ONLY. Terms apply. High quality finishes at Apple Ridge include bamboo floors, granite countertops and designer carpets and paint colors. Every apartment home comes complete with your own washer and dryer, stainless steel appliances, central air conditioning and individual heating
These beautiful, pet-friendly 1, 2 & 3 bedroom garden-style townhomes feature sleek, modern kitchens, elegant wood floors, private deck, community workout room, on-site parking, convenient elevator access, individual heating and cooling and more! Contact us to meet your leasing team, receive a personal video tour of your new apartment—even apply online, all without leaving home!
Year-round rental, Main house 2 bedrooms, living room, den with woodstove, eat-in kitchen with kitchen nook area, Pantry and Plenty of storage. Back deck/patio out to the accessory unit with a kitchenette and a 3/4 bath. Also a separate building without plumbing perfect guest room with electricity. Walk to beach. Day dock. No pets please.
Brand New Construction Apartments Now OPEN on Province Street in Laconia, NH!Be among the first to experience modern living at our brand-new apartments on Provence Street in Laconia, NH! Offering 1, 2, and 3-bedroom units, each designed with luxury finishes and modern amenities. Located just 5 minutes from downtown Laconia shops, restaurants, and entertainment and only a short drive to
Large, more than 5 thousand Sq Ft, beautiful 3-bedroom, 3-bath duplex overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee. Gourmet kitchen, plenty of cupboard and counter space. granite kitchen, hardwood floors, pellet stove, propane heat (very well insulated), finished walkout basement, attic storage, and large decks with gorgeous lake views, with private beach access. No pets, no smoking. Tenant pays all utilities.
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