Cities and Towns in Cheshire County, New Hampshire
Founded in 1769, Cheshire County is one of 10 counties in the state of New Hampshire. Historically, Cheshire County was one of five original counties. The city of Keene is the county seat. With FIPS code of 5, Cheshire County has a population of 76,458 and area of 708 square miles (1,834 km²).
List of all cities in Cheshire County, NH alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alstead, NH | 03602 | 603 |
| Alstead Center, NH | 03602 | 603 |
| Ashuelot, NH | 03441 | 603 |
| Chesterfield, NH | 03443 | 603 |
| Drewsville, NH | 03604 | 603 |
| Dublin, NH | 03444 | 603 |
| East Alstead, NH | 03602 | 603 |
| East Sullivan, NH | 03445 | 603 |
| East Swanzey, NH | 03446 | 603 |
| Fitzwilliam, NH | 03447 | 603 |
| Gilsum, NH | 03448 | 603 |
| Harrisville, NH | 03450 | 603 |
| Hinsdale, NH | 03451 | 603 |
| Jaffrey, NH | 03452 | 603 |
| Keene, NH | 03431 | 603 |
| 03435 | 603 | |
| Keene State College, NH | 03435 | 603 |
| Langdon, NH | 03602 | 603 |
| Marlborough, NH | 03455 | 603 |
| Marlow, NH | 03456 | 603 |
| Munsonville, NH | 03457 | 603 |
| Nelson, NH | 03445 | 603 |
| Nelson, NH | 03457 | 603 |
| No Walpole, NH | 03609 | 603 |
| North Swanzey, NH | 03431 | 603 |
| North Walpole, NH | 03609 | 603 |
| Richmond, NH | 03470 | 603 |
| Rindge, NH | 03461 | 603 |
| Roxbury, NH | 03431 | 603 |
| Spofford, NH | 03462 | 603 |
| Stoddard, NH | 03457 | 603 |
| 03464 | 603 | |
| Sullivan, NH | 03445 | 603 |
| Surry, NH | 03431 | 603 |
| Swanzey, NH | 03446 | 603 |
| Swanzey Center, NH | 03446 | 603 |
| Troy, NH | 03465 | 603 |
| Walpole, NH | 03608 | 603 |
| West Chesterfield, NH | 03466 | 603 |
| West Swanzey, NH | 03469 | 603 |
| Westmoreland, NH | 03467 | 603 |
| Winchester, NH | 03470 | 603 |
Major Cities and Towns in Cheshire County, New Hampshire
Keene
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 43.3 square miles
- Population: 23,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 03431, 03435
- Latitude: 42.9251° N
- Longitude: 72.2807° W
Location and History
Keene is the largest city and the county seat of Cheshire County, located in the southwestern part of New Hampshire, near the Vermont border. The city was first settled in 1736 and incorporated in 1753. Originally a farming and timbering community, Keene became an important center for trade and manufacturing during the 19th century, with industries such as shoe-making, paper mills, and textiles contributing to its economic growth. The city was also strategically positioned along the Connecticut River, which facilitated transportation and commerce. Keene’s vibrant downtown area has remained a focal point throughout its history, with many historic buildings dating back to the 19th century. In the 20th century, Keene’s economy diversified into education, retail, and healthcare. Today, the city is known for its picturesque setting surrounded by mountains and its role as a regional hub for business, education, and culture. Keene is home to Keene State College, an institution that further bolstered the city’s academic and cultural standing. Keene also has a strong sense of community, with a downtown area that offers local shops, restaurants, and a growing arts scene.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Keene is served by the Keene School District, with notable schools including Keene High School and several elementary and middle schools. Keene State College, part of the University System of New Hampshire, is a major educational institution in the city and plays a central role in the community. Keene’s downtown area features several historic landmarks, such as the Colonial Theatre, a restored 1920s movie palace, and the Keene Public Library, a historic building that serves as an important cultural center. The city is also home to the Cheshire County Historical Society, which offers exhibits on the region’s history. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy access to nearby parks such as the Ashuelot River Park and the vast Monadnock Region, with the nearby Mount Monadnock providing world-class hiking opportunities. Keene is known for its vibrant arts and cultural events, such as the annual Keene Pumpkin Festival, which has attracted thousands of visitors in previous years. The city’s diverse offerings in education, history, and outdoor activities make it a dynamic and welcoming place to live and visit.
Chesterfield
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 35.7 square miles
- Population: 3,800 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 03443
- Latitude: 42.9272° N
- Longitude: 72.3750° W
Location and History
Chesterfield is a rural town located in the southwestern corner of Cheshire County, New Hampshire, nestled between the Connecticut River and the Green Mountains of Vermont. The town was first settled in 1752 and incorporated in 1799. Initially, Chesterfield was a farming and timber community, with settlers taking advantage of the fertile land and abundant forest resources. During the 19th century, the town developed a thriving agricultural economy, particularly in dairy farming, and became known for its scenic views and quiet country lifestyle. As the railroad expanded through the region, Chesterfield became an important transportation hub for goods being transported through southern New Hampshire. Today, the town is primarily residential, with many people drawn to its rural charm, low population density, and proximity to Keene. Chesterfield’s economy has shifted toward tourism and seasonal residents who enjoy the area’s natural beauty, including lakes, forests, and the nearby Connecticut River.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chesterfield is served by the Chesterfield School District, with the Chesterfield School providing education for elementary and middle school students. Students in the town typically attend Keene High School for secondary education. Chesterfield is known for its natural beauty, including access to the Connecticut River, which offers recreational opportunities such as kayaking, fishing, and boating. The town is also home to several nature trails and parks, including the Pisgah State Park, the largest state park in New Hampshire, offering hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Other landmarks include the Chesterfield Gorge, a scenic spot for hiking and picnicking, and the picturesque historic town center, which features classic New England architecture. While Chesterfield is a small town, it offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of larger cities, with its quiet streets, rural vistas, and close-knit community making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Swanzey
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 38.5 square miles
- Population: 7,300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 03446
- Latitude: 42.9183° N
- Longitude: 72.2597° W
Location and History
Swanzey is located in the southwestern part of Cheshire County, New Hampshire, bordered by Keene to the north and the Connecticut River to the south. The town was first settled in 1749 and incorporated in 1763. Swanzey’s early economy was based on agriculture, timber, and manufacturing, with the construction of gristmills and sawmills along the Ashuelot River in the 19th century. The town grew during the Industrial Revolution, with several factories and textile mills established along the river, helping to drive the local economy. Swanzey also played an important role in the development of railroads in the region, with the Ashuelot Railroad providing an important transportation route for goods and people. Today, Swanzey is a mix of residential neighborhoods and agricultural areas, with many people commuting to Keene and other nearby towns for work. The town offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle with easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking and boating.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Swanzey is served by the Monadnock Regional School District, which includes schools such as Monadnock Regional High School in nearby Swanzey and several elementary schools within the town. Swanzey’s most notable landmarks include the historic Ashuelot Covered Bridge, built in 1864, which is one of the few surviving covered bridges in the area. The town is also home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Keene Swanzey Rail Trail, a popular route for hiking, cycling, and snowmobiling. The Ashuelot River is another major natural feature of Swanzey, offering ample opportunities for fishing and canoeing. Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the town’s proximity to Pisgah State Park, which spans over 13,000 acres and provides hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. While Swanzey is largely residential, its historic landmarks and natural beauty make it an attractive place for those seeking a quieter, nature-filled lifestyle with easy access to Keene and the surrounding region.
Walpole
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 38.3 square miles
- Population: 3,700 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 03608
- Latitude: 43.0986° N
- Longitude: 72.4269° W
Location and History
Walpole is a small town located in the southern part of Cheshire County, New Hampshire, along the Connecticut River, which forms the town’s western border. The town was first settled in 1749 and was incorporated in 1763. Walpole’s early history was tied to agriculture, with settlers engaging in farming, livestock raising, and timber harvesting. In the 19th century, Walpole became known for its dairy farming and the production of cheese, with several local creameries contributing to the town’s economy. During the Industrial Revolution, the town also saw growth in manufacturing, including the production of textiles, woolen goods, and paper products. Over the years, Walpole has maintained a rural charm while slowly transitioning to a more residential community. The town is known for its scenic beauty, including its proximity to the Connecticut River and the surrounding hills. Today, Walpole remains a peaceful, small-town community with a strong emphasis on preserving its historic character and natural surroundings.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Walpole is part of the Fall Mountain Regional School District, with Walpole High School serving students in the town, along with several elementary and middle schools. Walpole is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Walpole Village Historic District, which features several 18th- and 19th-century buildings. Notable landmarks include the Walpole Covered Bridge, which dates back to the 19th century, and the Walpole Creamery, which showcases the town’s dairy farming heritage. For outdoor enthusiasts, the town provides access to the Connecticut River, where visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and boating. The surrounding countryside offers numerous trails for hiking, as well as scenic views of the river and the nearby mountains. Walpole is also close to the Pisgah State Park, which offers additional opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping. With its historic buildings, rural charm, and easy access to the natural beauty of the Connecticut River and nearby parks, Walpole is a picturesque town with a strong sense of history and community.
