$965,717Average Value$679Average Price per Sq Ft25Homes For Sale
Waterfront living in Rockingham County
Outlined by the Piscataqua River on the east side, Portsmouth is a small coastal city in New Hampshire adjacent to the Maine border. The area was originally settled by the Abenaki tribes until European colonists landed in the 17th century. Portsmouth soon became a seaport colony in the 1630s and was one of the most important shipbuilding cities in the country, including being home to the former Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and Pease National Guard Air Force Base. Today, Portsmouth is considered a gateway and green city, with convenient transportation options and trails. Also known for its proximity to the Atlantic Coast, waterfront festivals and contemporary art scene, Portsmouth is a vibrant beach community that balances urban experiences with a suburban lifestyle. “Portsmouth is a city that punches above its weight with a lot of amenities and has a small-town feel,” says Monte Bohanan, Portsmouth’s director of communications and community engagement. “If you live here you can get to know anyone from the coffee shop’s barista to our mayor.” The area's workforce is concentrated in health care and social services, education, science and tech sectors. Top Employers include the US Dept of State Consular Center, Liberty Mutual, Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) Hospital – Portsmouth Regional Hospital and Lonza Biologics.
A view of the South End neighborhood and the Piscataqua River of Portsmouth, NH.
Badgers Island has all the details of a classic New England feel.
The N W Barrett Gallery is an established art gallery in the heart of downtown Portsmouth.
The Portsmouth Regional Hospital is both a major employer and community asset.
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Waterfront properties in Portsmouth continue to be in demand
Homes in Portsmouth can date to the 1800s, but most were built in the 20th century in eclectic New England, colonial-inspired and ranch styles. Many newer homes from the past several decades feature New Traditional or contemporary architecture. Multifamily properties are concentrated in the downtown area, and waterfront properties—be it single-family, condos or townhouses—continue to attract homebuyers. “There are lots of new developments happening along the Route 1 Corridor on the north side of the city,” Bohanan says. “The majority of homes are still single-family, but a good mix of condos and townhouses are spread throughout.”
The median home price is $839,900, which is nearly double the national median. Condos and townhouses typically start around $300,000 and $400,000, respectively. Luxury newer builds or penthouse units by the water may reach over $2.5 million. Single-family houses usually go between $400,000 and $1.2 million. Custom-built new construction homes with deeded waterfront access rights and private boat docks may fetch well over $5 million.
Most homes have waterfront view on Badgers Island.
Downtown Portsmouth is full of beautiful Colonial Revival styled homes around the area.
This well-maintained Farmhouse is nestled in Downtown Portsmouth.
Rows of Colonial and Victorian inspired homes line the streets of Portsmouth, NH.
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An A-rated public school system with the best public high school in the county
Portsmouth School District serves approximately 2,500 students and has an A Niche grade. The school system has an early education center, three primary schools, one middle and one high school, and the student-teacher ratio is 11-to-1. Portsmouth High also has the Career Technical Education Center, which provides students with career pathway programs in architecture, business, education, health science and more. The Community College System of New Hampshire, Great Bay Community College has a campus in Portsmouth and offers over 200 degree and certificate programs.
Little Harbour School in Portsmouth has a well maintained campus.
Portsmouth Middle School serves students from grades 6 through 8.
Portsmouth High School was founded in the year 1873.
The Great Bay Community College provides additional educational opportunities to residents.
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Lively establishments line around Downtown Portsmouth's Market Square
Eclectic stores, vintage shops, independent eateries and cafes are housed in historic brick buildings in the Portsmouth Downtown Historic District. From waterfront dining to visiting local bakeries and taverns, Downtown’s Market Square is the city’s most popular retail hub. Additional big-box stores, businesses and restaurants are located along Route 1.
Wild Valentine is both a local coffee shop and florist in the South End of Portsmouth, NH.
Many small and local boutique ships line the Downtown Portsmouth streets and draw many visitors.
Loaded Question Brewing Company is a small-batch craft brewery in Downtown Portsmouth.
From breakfast to dinner and drinks the Hearth Market is close by in Portsmouth, NH.
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Festivals by the waters and a vibrant art scene
As a coastal city, summers in Portsmouth are filled with lively events by the beach, including a concert series, a river festival and the Tall Ships Festival, featuring a parade of sailboats. The Annual Market Square Day has a traditional 10K road race, live entertainment and goods from over 150 local vendors. The Chowder Festival is a nearly 40-year custom in Portsmouth that kicks off the summer season.
At the heart of Downtown Portsmouth, residents will also discover a flourishing art and theatre scene, with historic museums boasting private art collections and innovative and traditional theatrical performances. These art venues range from the simple black-box theater at Player’s Ring to The Music Hall, an 1878 Victorian Landmark that continues to showcase performances, films and comedy. For 50 years, Prescott Park Arts Festival, a local non-profit dedicated to providing audiences with accessible art, has been bringing theatre, music and entertainment to the community. Historic houses such as the Strawbery Banke Museum serve as both heritage centers and contemporary exhibit spaces.
Waterfront parks and scenic trails are abound
Portsmouth has about 22 public parks, playgrounds, trails, several recreation centers and the 27-hole Pease Golf Course. Albacore Park is popular for its seasonal maritime museum, which features tours of the decommissioned USS Albacore submarine. The waterfront Prescott Park is home to many of the city’s summer festivities and community events. Locals regularly bring their pets to Urban Forestry Center for walks and playtime, and Water Country Water Park offers water slides and themed pools. Partially outlined by the Piscataqua River and with proximity to the Atlantic Coast, residents here can also go boating, fishing and swimming in the summer.
The Charles Hovey Fountain can be found in Downtown Portsmouth overlooking the river.
The popular South Mill Pond Playground is in the Downtown Portsmouth neighborhood.
People look over the Piscataqua River as it flows past the Downtown Portsmouth neighborhood.
Boating is a popular activity in Downtown Portsmouth.
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Proximity to Boston and Portland
Portsmouth is accessible via Interstate 95, U.S. Route 1, U.S. Route 4 and New Hampshire Route 16. The state’s bus system, the Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation, serves its seacoast region with routes in and out of Portsmouth. The nearest Amtrak station is in Dover, which is about 13 miles away, and Portsmouth International Airport at Pease has flights by Allegiant Airlines and Breeze Airways. Both Boston and Portland are about 55 miles away, and Portsmouth Regional Hospital is right in town.
Crime data from recent years
According to crime data from the state of New Hampshire, violent crimes in 2023 decreased by almost 22 percent compared to 2022. The overall property crime rate is on par with the state’s numbers, and is well below national figures. Specifically, larceny has gone down approximately 16 percent in 2023.
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Christina Xu
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On average, homes in Portsmouth, NH sell after 50 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Portsmouth, NH over the last 12 months is $880,000, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 23 Eden Lane "The Prescott"—This charming pocket community of just six single-family condominium homes, perfectly positioned for convenience and lifestyle. Nestled alongside major travel routes and only 1.5 miles from vibrant downtown, this location offers seamless access to both work and play. Modeled to blend in with Historic Portsmouth, each home features approximately 1990 square
NEW CONSTRUCTION: READY FOR CLOSING! Located 1 mile from Downtown Portsmouth. The front porch leads into an elegant entrance to the open flow living area, which wraps around the custom staircase finished with open balusters and beautiful trim work. The custom kitchen has plenty of storage with painted cabinets to the ceiling, built-in pantry, spacious island, and under cabinet lighting, sparkling
Unit 6 Welcome to Eden Point "The Port"—READY NOW! This charming pocket community of just six single-family condominium homes, perfectly positioned for convenience and lifestyle. Nestled alongside major travel routes and only 1.5 miles from vibrant downtown, this location offers seamless access to both work and play. Modeled to blend in with Historic Portsmouth, each home features approximately
OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 2/7/26 11:00AM-1:00PM.Welcome to easy, first-floor living at 1703 White Cedar Blvd in Portsmouth. This thoughtfully designed ADA unit features an open-concept kitchen, dining, and living area that flows seamlessly. The unit features brand new carpets and paint throughout. A covered carport is available for added convenience. Privately tucked away yet ideally located, this
Here’s your chance to own a piece of land in one of the Seacoast’s most desirable cities! This .11-acre parcel on Elm Street, Portsmouth, NH, is perfect for buyers, investors, or anyone hoping to secure a spot in this vibrant, historic community. Nestled in a well-established neighborhood, this lot is just minutes from downtown Portsmouth and the ocean. Enjoy easy access to local shops,
OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7th, 11 AM to 1 PM. Exceptional first-floor living just steps from the Seacoasts best dining, shopping, waterfront, and cultural destinations. Unit 106 offers a rare balance of privacy, convenience, and modern design within The Residences at Foundry Place, downtown’s newest luxury condominium community. A Juliet balcony with city views and oversized windows deliver
Motivated Seller! An extraordinary opportunity awaits in one of Portsmouth’s most coveted locations! Currently configured as a luxury commercial office space, this expansive 4,600± sq.ft. third-floor condominium offers the rare potential to be transformed into a stunning residential unit in the vibrant downtown core!Positioned between Market Street and Congress Street, this historic 1860
Meaghan DeFrezeKW Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty
Welcome to 238 Deer Street, an exceptional new condominium project in the heart of downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire’s newly developed North End. This premier 21-unit condominium project is poised to redefine urban living. 238 Deer Street offers a mix of thoughtfully designed studio and one-bedroom condos, each crafted with contemporary living in mind. These residences will feature open floor
Welcome to 23 Eden Lane "The Prescott"—This charming pocket community of just six single-family condominium homes, perfectly positioned for convenience and lifestyle. Nestled alongside major travel routes and only 1.5 miles from vibrant downtown, this location offers seamless access to both work and play. Modeled to blend in with Historic Portsmouth, each home features approximately 1990 square
Welcome to The Landing at Shearwater—a sought-after pocket community just a short walk from vibrant downtown Portsmouth. With only nine fee-simple lots, each home is thoughtfully designed to make the most of its space, location, and charm. We’re thrilled to introduce the Carbonara Classic with Wing—a standout plan offering 2,885 square feet of beautifully crafted living space. The first floor is
Workforce Housing in Portsmouth only (3) One Bedroom residences available. Specific Buyer Requirements apply: Household Income not to exceed $140,500. Brand new construction. Experience luxury living at Sage Portsmouth, an exceptional new condominium community offering premium amenities, concierge services, on site parking, entertainment lounge, work-from-home spaces, club room with a terrace,
Move-in Ready at Woodbury Reserve! This exclusive pocket community celebrates urban living at its finest, seamlessly blending modern amenities with Portsmouth’s rich 400-year history. The stately "Matthias" twin townhome showcases classic sophistication with contemporary touches and a spacious 2,282 sq. ft. across 3 levels, complete with 9-foot ceilings. The kitchen and living room open concept
Discover elevated city living in this impeccably maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence at 77 Hanover Street, spanning 1,318 square feet of thoughtfully designed single-level space that combines contemporary style with everyday functionality. The bright, flowing floor plan showcases beautiful hardwood flooring and impressive ceiling heights that amplify natural light throughout, while your
Embrace modern comfort at Sage Portsmouth, an exceptional new condominium community offering premium amenities, parking, concierge services, entertainment lounge, work-from-home spaces, club room with a terrace, fitness center, game lounge, pet spa, and bike storage. Residence 317 features The Moffat floorplan, a two-bedroom, two-bathroom home with extensive natural light, oversized windows, and
Far more expansive than a typical one-bedroom, this is downtown Portsmouth luxury—reimagined. Perched on the top floor, this brand-new 991 sq ft residence delivers a rare blend of architectural character, flexibility, and true livability in the heart of the city. Set just steps from the best dining, shopping, and cultural experiences in Portsmouth, it offers the ease of downtown living without
Located in downtown Portsmouth, just a short walk from Prescott Park and all that Portsmouth has to offer. 3rd floor studio apartment. The apartment is situated in a quiet and secure building.
Stylishly updated Market Wharf condominium ideally located in Downtown Portsmouth, offering convenient access to nearby restaurants, shops, and local amenities. Situated adjacent to the Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel, this spacious approximately 1,300-square-foot residence has been extensively renovated. The unit offers two bedrooms, one and a half bathrooms, in-unit washer and dryer, and
Sagamore Court is situated in the heart of the charming seaside city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Within the city, our residents find fine dining, galleries, theatre and cultural attractions, as well as great shopping spots... The Fox Run Mall of Newington and the Outlet Stores at Kittery (Maine). Moments away, our residents can cruise to the Isle of Shoals or explore the area's many beaches. We
Cozy Studio Apartment Available Early March! Offering Modern Living In A Convenient Location! PET FRIENDLY Complex! Apartment Features Beautiful Granite Countertops, Newer Kitchen Cabinetry & SS Appliances! Easy To Maintain Vinyl Flooring Throughout! Landlord Provides Hot & Cold Water, Sewer, Snow & Trash Removal, Along With Private Wi-Fi! Tenant Responsible For Electric; Which Includes Power,
Arbor View offers an array of two and three bedroom apartment homes which feature eat-in kitchens with contemporary cabinets and countertops. Enjoy our community’s fitness center, take your dog for a walk in our newly constructed bark park, or relax on your own private balcony. Our community is situated minutes away from downtown Portsmouth, and is easily accessed by Interstate 95, Routes 16, and
Very Spacious 1 Bedroom + Bonus Room! Ready for Occupancy Early March! PET FRIENDLY Complex! 1st Floor Apartment Boasts Exceptional Natural Sunlight, Easy To Maintain Vinyl Plank Flooring Throughout, Newer SS Appliances, a Breakfast Bar & Beautiful Granite Countertops! Off Street Parking Available! Shared Coin-Op Laundry On Site! Landlord Provides Water/Sewer, Trash & Snow Removal Along with
Yokens of Portsmouth is a community of 32 newly built high-end townhome apartments in a great Portsmouth location! Minutes from Downtown and the Seacoast Beaches, walkable proximity to shopping, and easy access to major routes. All townhomes at Yokens feature three floors of living space, with three bedrooms and 3-4 baths, in-unit laundry hook-ups, and two car private garages. The open flow
Charming 2-Bedroom Townhouse Condo in Riverbrook – Portsmouth, NHWelcome home to this well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath end unit townhouse condo located in the desirable Riverbrook community of Portsmouth. This inviting home offers a spacious layout featuring a large, sun-filled living room—perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The eat-in kitchen provides ample space for dining and everyday
Located less than a mile from downtown Portsmouth, West End Yards offers a variety of spacious studio-, one-, and two-bedroom apartments featuring luxury finishes and high-end appliances in a pet-friendly community. All our floor plans are carefully designed to give ample storage and living space. Enjoy convenient amenities like a state-of-the-art fitness center, work-from-home space,
The Parlor Unit at the Jones Sinclair House - Live in a piece of history in this first floor adorable, one level one bedroom/studio apartment available immediately. Stunning historic interior detailing is largely intact including a non usable marble-faced fireplace for the ultimate character and finish. Rich period moldings, door details and windows infuse the apartment with charm and natural
Patriots Park Apartments is an inviting community with beautifully landscaped grounds, located in historic Portsmouth, NH. We offer studios, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments with water, sewer, and trash removal included. Patriots Park Apartments is located conveniently off Route 1 with a less than 10-minute drive to I-95, a 15-minute drive to the New Hampshire beaches, and an
Downtown direct waterfront townhouse with private off street parking. Immaculate unit with perfect southern exposure, and a private deck. Easy walk to everything great in downtown Portsmouth. Fully applianced, including washer & dryer. First time offered foe lease. No pets, no smoking, no exceptions please. Long term lease preferred.
Bill MouflouzeBill Mouflouze & Associates Real Estate
Downtown Portsmouth is a bustling neighborhood on the banks of the Piscataqua River, with a history that dates to the 1600s. While the community’s history is prevalent on every corner, with historic buildings such as the North Church Steeple in Market Square, built in 1854, and the Strawberry Banke Museum, there is also clear evidence of growth. “Portsmouth has changed a lot over the last 40 years,” says Tom Hardiman, keeper and executive director of the Portsmouth Athenaeum and longtime resident. This change is partly because of the ever-expanding restaurant scene, with businesses such as the Black Trumpet Bistro and Annabelle’s Natural Ice Cream breathing new life into old buildings. The past several decades have also seen more events find a home in the city, including Market Square Day, which was first celebrated in 1978.
Downtown Portsmouth has no shortage of eateries to try. “There’s more restaurant seats and bar seats than people,” says Realtor Joe Leddy, owner of Duston Leddy Real Estate who has worked in the area for almost 20 years. Options range from the vegetarian Green Elephant to the historic Library Restaurant, a steakhouse that opened as The Rockingham Hotel in 1833. Ceres Bakery, which Hardiman says “is a go-to spot for people who work downtown,” serves fresh breakfast and lunch. Of course, downtown is more than just restaurants. Local boutiques include Nahcotta, which sells artwork and home goods, and Wear House, a consignment shop. A couple of independent grocery stores, including Richardson’s Market, are in the neighborhood, and Hannaford is less than 1 mile away. Target, Walmart and Home Depot are within 5 miles of Downtown Portland.
Pro Portsmouth is a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating the city’s arts, culture and history through events. The first one that the group organized was Market Square Day, which started in 1978. Now, the festival attracts over 50,000 people a year, who explore more than 150 vendors and listen to live music. The day begins with a 10K Road Race. Another popular time for gathering is Summer in the Street, a free concert series on Saturday nights in June and July.
With wide brick sidewalks and bike lanes through most of downtown, it is easy for commuters to get around on foot or bike. There are also several options for public transit, with Wildcat Transit offering a route between Portsmouth and Newington and COAST servicing buses from Portsmouth to Farmington. For anyone who prefers to drive themselves, nearby major roads include Interstate 95, U.S. Route 4 and the bypass for U.S. Route 1. Portsmouth International Airport is about 5 miles away, and planes can often be heard overhead. The closest emergency room is at Portsmouth Regional Hospital, about 2 miles away.
The Piscataqua River separates Portsmouth from Maine, with strong currents that are best for boating and fishing. “We only have 18 miles of coastline, but it’s all beautiful,” Leddy says. Both locals and tourists can dock their boats at the Marina at Harbour Place. Prescott Park sits on the riverbank, with about 10 acres of gardens that people can walk through. Families can visit the South Mill Pond for a round of tennis or pickleball or to run around the playground. The Strawberry Banke Museum is one of the many places where people can learn about the city, with actors leading traditional craft demonstrations and tours of historic properties dating back 350 years. At the Portsmouth Public Library, patrons can check out books, join a book club and attend lecture series.
A walk along downtown Portsmouth’s streets reveals several brick buildings. In fact, Hardiman says that “any building built in the downtown area that is more than one story has to be brick.” This is because of the Brick Act, which was passed in 1814 after three fires destroyed hundreds of wooden buildings. The hope was that brick buildings would prevent another fire from spreading as quickly. Colonial, Colonial Revival, and Victorian-era homes are common housing styles, especially those farther from the harbor. Most properties were built between the 18th century and early 20th century, with prices typically ranging from $850,000 to $1.3 million. Many people live in condos, with units built in the late 20th century costing between $325,000 and $350,000 and renovated 19th-century and early 20th-century properties costing anywhere from $450,000 to $750,000. Over half of the residents downtown are renters, who can expect to pay between $2,500 and $4,000 every month.
The Portsmouth School Department serves the community. Little Harbour School and Portsmouth Middle School, as well as the school district, earn an A from Niche. Portsmouth High School receives an A-minus and partners with Green Bay Community College (GBCC) to offer the Early College program, where students can enroll in GBCC courses for both high school and college credit.
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