Cities and Towns in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire

Founded in 1769, Hillsborough County is one of 10 counties in the state of New Hampshire. Historically, Hillsborough County was one of five original counties. The city of Manchester and Nashua is the county seat. With FIPS code of 11, Hillsborough County has a population of 422,937 and area of 876 square miles (2,269 km²).

List of all cities in Hillsborough County, NH alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Amherst, NH 03031 603
Antrim, NH 03440 603
Bedford, NH 03110 603
Bennington, NH 03442 603
Brookline, NH 03033 603
Deering, NH 03244 603
Francestown, NH 03043 603
Goffstown, NH 03045 603
Greenfield, NH 03047 603
Greenville, NH 03048 603
Hancock, NH 03449 603
Hillsboro, NH 03244 603
Hillsborough, NH 03244 603
Hollis, NH 03049 603
Hudson, NH 03051 603
Litchfield, NH 03052 603
Lyndeborough, NH 03082 603
Manchester, NH 03101 603
03102 603
03103 603
03104 603
03105 603
03107 603
03108 603
03109 603
03110 603
03111 603
Mason, NH 03048 603
Merrimack, NH 03054 603
Milford, NH 03055 603
Mount Vernon, NH 03057 603
Nashua, NH 03060 603
03061 603
03062 603
03063 603
03064 603
New Boston, NH 03070 603
New Ipswich, NH 03071 603
Nh Insurance, NH 03107 603
Pelham, NH 03076 603
Peterborough, NH 03458 603
Pinardville, NH 03102 603
Shared Firm Zip, NH 03111 603
Sharon, NH 03458 603
Temple, NH 03084 603
Weare, NH 03281 603
West Peterborough, NH 03468 603
Wilton, NH 03086 603
Windsor, NH 03244 603

Major Cities and Towns in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire

Manchester, New Hampshire

Location and History

  • Area: 33.3 square miles
  • Population: 115,644 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 03101, 03102, 03103, 03104, 03105
  • Latitude: 42.9956° N
  • Longitude: 71.4654° W

Manchester is the largest city in New Hampshire, located in the southern part of the state along the Merrimack River. The city was first settled in 1722 and incorporated in 1751 as “Derryfield.” It was renamed Manchester in 1810, inspired by the industrial city of Manchester, England. Manchester’s early economy was shaped by its role as a textile manufacturing hub, with mills built along the Merrimack River, driving the city’s rapid growth in the 19th century. By the early 20th century, Manchester became a center for the textile industry and later diversified into electronics, finance, and services. As New Hampshire’s economic and cultural capital, Manchester has continued to thrive, expanding its infrastructure and developing a robust arts and culture scene. The city’s central location and its position as a transportation hub have made it a focal point for commerce and tourism. Over the years, the city has worked to revitalize its downtown and improve its public services, making it a vibrant urban center.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Manchester is home to several notable educational institutions, including the University of New Hampshire at Manchester and Southern New Hampshire University, both of which offer a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Public schools in the city are operated by the Manchester School District, with notable institutions such as Central High School and Memorial High School. The city also has a number of private and charter schools. Key landmarks in Manchester include the historic Millyard District, a former industrial area now home to museums, restaurants, and businesses, as well as the Currier Museum of Art, which houses a world-class collection of American and European works. The Verizon Wireless Arena (now the SNHU Arena) hosts concerts and sports events, while the beautiful Manchester City Hall and surrounding Elm Street provide a hub for local culture. The city’s parks, such as Livingston Park and Derryfield Park, offer green spaces for outdoor recreation. Manchester’s proximity to the Merrimack River also provides opportunities for riverfront activities like kayaking and fishing.

Nashua, New Hampshire

Location and History

  • Area: 31.6 square miles
  • Population: 89,255 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 03060, 03061, 03062, 03063, 03064
  • Latitude: 42.7654° N
  • Longitude: 71.4670° W

Nashua is located in southern New Hampshire, near the Massachusetts border, along the Nashua River. Established in 1673 and incorporated as a town in 1746, Nashua’s early economy was based on agriculture and milling. However, the city’s major growth began in the 19th century, when it became an industrial center, particularly in textiles. By the 20th century, Nashua evolved into a hub for electronics and high-tech manufacturing, with companies like Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) and later, BAE Systems, contributing to its economic development. The city has retained much of its historic charm while embracing new industries and developments. Nashua has long been known for its strong community spirit, a good quality of life, and proximity to major urban centers like Boston and Manchester. In recent years, the city has worked to revitalize its downtown, with new businesses and cultural institutions bringing growth and vibrancy to the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Nashua is served by the Nashua School District, with notable institutions such as Nashua High School South and Nashua High School North. The city is also home to private schools like Bishop Guertin High School. Higher education institutions in the area include Nashua Community College and several nearby universities in Manchester and Boston. Nashua’s landmarks include the historic Greeley Park, a beautiful green space that hosts concerts and seasonal events, and the Nashua Riverwalk, which offers scenic views of the river and access to various parks. The city also has several museums, including the Nashua Historical Society Museum and the New Hampshire Holocaust Memorial. The city’s downtown area is known for its mix of Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and restaurants, and it regularly hosts community events such as the annual Nashua International Sculpture Symposium. Nashua is also home to the Nashua Public Library, a modern facility with an extensive collection and cultural programming.

Bedford, New Hampshire

Location and History

  • Area: 34.0 square miles
  • Population: 23,149 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 03110
  • Latitude: 42.9484° N
  • Longitude: 71.5181° W

Bedford is a suburban town located in the southern part of Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, situated just to the north of Manchester. The town was settled in 1735 and incorporated in 1750. Historically, Bedford was known for its farming and agricultural industries, and it remained a rural community for much of its early history. The arrival of the railroad in the 19th century helped to increase its population and foster the development of local businesses. In the late 20th century, Bedford transformed into a suburban town, attracting families and professionals working in nearby cities, particularly Manchester. Today, Bedford is known for its high quality of life, good schools, and proximity to major transportation routes, including Interstate 93, making it an attractive place for commuters. The town maintains its rural character while offering suburban amenities and a high standard of living. Bedford has also worked to preserve its natural beauty, with parks, trails, and open spaces contributing to its charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bedford is served by the Bedford School District, which includes Bedford High School, a well-regarded public high school that is consistently ranked among the top schools in the state. The district also includes McKelvie Intermediate School and Bedford Village School. Bedford is home to the Bedford Library, which offers a wide range of community programs and events. Major landmarks in the town include the historic Bedford Village Common, a well-preserved town center that features beautiful old homes and a gazebo used for public events. The town also has several parks, such as the Bedford Village Common Park and the Murhpy’s Pond Recreation Area, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The town is also home to the New Hampshire Aviation Museum, which is dedicated to preserving the state’s aviation history, as well as the annual Bedford Olde Towne Day, a community celebration featuring parades, food, and entertainment. Bedford’s mix of history, nature, and suburban convenience makes it a desirable location for families and retirees alike.

Hollis, New Hampshire

Location and History

  • Area: 36.4 square miles
  • Population: 14,220 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 03049
  • Latitude: 42.7383° N
  • Longitude: 71.6043° W

Hollis is a rural town located in southern Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, just west of Nashua and near the Massachusetts border. The town was settled in the 1730s and was incorporated in 1746. Originally a farming community, Hollis became known for its agricultural industry, particularly for orchards and dairy farming. Over the years, the town has maintained its rural character, with many open spaces and farmland preserved by conservation efforts. Hollis is renowned for its excellent schools, historic charm, and strong sense of community. The town has experienced modest growth in recent decades as families seek out its peaceful environment while still being close to the amenities of larger cities like Nashua and Manchester. Its picturesque landscape, dotted with colonial-era homes and barns, contributes to Hollis’s appeal as one of New Hampshire’s most desirable towns.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hollis is served by the Hollis School District, with Hollis-Brookline High School being the primary public high school. The town also has several elementary and middle schools, including Hollis Primary School and Hollis Upper Elementary School. Hollis is also home to private educational institutions like the Hollis Montessori School. Key landmarks in Hollis include the picturesque Silver Lake, a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The town is also home to several parks, including the Hollis Town Forest and the Witches Brook Preserve, offering miles of hiking trails. Hollis is known for its well-preserved historic district, which includes colonial-era buildings, many of which are still in use today. The town also hosts community events like the Hollis Agricultural Fair, which celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage and features rides, games, and agricultural exhibits. The historic Hollis Congregational Church, which dates back to the 18th century, is another notable landmark, along with the beautiful homes that line the scenic, tree-lined roads of the town.