Cities and Towns in Merrimack County, New Hampshire
Founded in 1823, Merrimack County is one of 10 counties in the state of New Hampshire. Historically, Merrimack County was formed from parts of Hillsborough County and Rockingham County. The city of Concord is the county seat. With FIPS code of 13, Merrimack County has a population of 153,808 and area of 934 square miles (2,419 km²).
List of all cities in Merrimack County, NH alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Allenstown, NH | 03275 | 603 |
| Andover, NH | 03216 | 603 |
| Boscawen, NH | 03303 | 603 |
| Bow, NH | 03304 | 603 |
| Bradford, NH | 03221 | 603 |
| Canterbury, NH | 03224 | 603 |
| Chichester, NH | 03258 | 603 |
| Concord, NH | 03301 | 603 |
| 03302 | 603 | |
| 03303 | 603 | |
| 03304 | 603 | |
| 03305 | 603 | |
| 03307 | 603 | |
| Contoocook, NH | 03229 | 603 |
| Danbury, NH | 03230 | 603 |
| Dunbarton, NH | 03046 | 603 |
| East Andover, NH | 03231 | 603 |
| Elkins, NH | 03233 | 603 |
| Epsom, NH | 03234 | 603 |
| Franklin, NH | 03235 | 603 |
| Goffstown, NH | 03046 | 603 |
| Henniker, NH | 03242 | 603 |
| Hill, NH | 03243 | 603 |
| Hooksett, NH | 03106 | 603 |
| Hopkinton, NH | 03229 | 603 |
| Loudon, NH | 03307 | 603 |
| Manchester, NH | 03106 | 603 |
| Mount Sunapee, NH | 03255 | 603 |
| New London, NH | 03257 | 603 |
| Newbury, NH | 03255 | 603 |
| Newbury, NH | 03272 | 603 |
| Nh Dept of Safety, NH | 03305 | 603 |
| North Chichester, NH | 03258 | 603 |
| North Sutton, NH | 03260 | 603 |
| Pembroke, NH | 03275 | 603 |
| Penacook, NH | 03303 | 603 |
| Pittsfield, NH | 03263 | 603 |
| Salisbury, NH | 03268 | 603 |
| South Newbury, NH | 03272 | 603 |
| South Sutton, NH | 03273 | 603 |
| Suncook, NH | 03275 | 603 |
| Sutton, NH | 03221 | 603 |
| 03257 | 603 | |
| 03278 | 603 | |
| 03287 | 603 | |
| Warner, NH | 03278 | 603 |
| Webster, NH | 03303 | 603 |
| West Franklin, NH | 03235 | 603 |
| Wilmot, NH | 03287 | 603 |
| Wilmot Flat, NH | 03287 | 603 |
Major Cities and Towns in Merrimack County, New Hampshire
Concord
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 69.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 43,000
- Zip Codes: 03301, 03302, 03303
- Latitude: 43.2081° N
- Longitude: 71.5375° W
Location and History
Concord is the capital city of New Hampshire, located in the central part of the state along the Merrimack River. Originally settled in 1725 as “Penacook,” the area was later incorporated as Concord in 1765. Its strategic location along the Merrimack River made it an essential hub for trade and transportation. In 1808, Concord became the state capital, cementing its role as the political center of New Hampshire. During the 19th century, Concord was a prominent manufacturing city, known for its iron works, railroad industry, and shoe production. The city played a significant role during the Civil War, supplying materials and troops. Over the years, Concord has evolved into a vibrant city with a strong economy based on government, healthcare, and education.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Concord is home to several notable institutions, including Concord High School, which serves as one of the largest public schools in the state, and St. Paul’s School, a prestigious private school with a rich academic tradition. Landmarks in Concord include the New Hampshire State House, the oldest state house in continuous legislative use, and the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, a space and aviation museum. The city also offers access to the scenic beauty of Rollins Park and the nearby Contoocook River, which provide recreational opportunities. Additionally, the charming downtown area is filled with historic buildings, shops, and cultural attractions, reflecting Concord’s deep roots in New Hampshire’s history.
Franklin
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 6.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 8,500
- Zip Codes: 03235
- Latitude: 43.4335° N
- Longitude: 71.6279° W
Location and History
Franklin, located at the confluence of the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee Rivers, is a small city in central New Hampshire. It was incorporated in 1828 and was named in honor of Benjamin Franklin. Historically, the area was known for its rich resources, particularly the granite quarries that flourished in the 19th century. Franklin was also home to a significant textile industry during the early Industrial Revolution. As a key railroad hub, the city’s economy grew rapidly in the mid-1800s, with numerous mills and factories springing up along the rivers. Though it faced economic challenges following the decline of manufacturing, Franklin has revitalized itself in recent years with a focus on community development and outdoor tourism, taking advantage of its proximity to the White Mountains and the Lakes Region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Franklin’s educational institutions include Franklin High School and the smaller Tilton School, a private institution with a focus on preparing students for higher education. Major landmarks include the Franklin Falls Dam, a popular spot for fishing and boating, and the Daniels Summit, offering panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The city’s historic downtown is a testament to its industrial past, with numerous preserved mill buildings, while the adjacent Winnepesaukee River Walk offers scenic trails perfect for outdoor activities. Franklin is also known for its proximity to the New Hampshire Audubon Society’s nature reserves and the nearby Profile Falls, a favorite local destination.
Pembroke
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 26.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,500
- Zip Codes: 03275
- Latitude: 43.1980° N
- Longitude: 71.4745° W
Location and History
Pembroke, located just south of Concord, was settled in 1727 and incorporated in 1759. It originally served as a farming community, with much of its early economy tied to agriculture and logging. Pembroke is part of the larger Concord metropolitan area and has seen significant suburban development in recent decades, especially as more people moved to the region seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle while remaining close to the urban amenities of Concord. Pembroke played a role in the early industrial economy, with mills established along the Suncook River in the 19th century. Today, it remains largely residential but retains its small-town character, with a focus on maintaining green spaces and outdoor recreation areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Pembroke Academy, established in 1816, is the town’s primary high school and is one of the oldest in New Hampshire. Pembroke’s landmarks include the Suncook River, which provides scenic views and recreational opportunities, including fishing and kayaking. The historic Pembroke Town Hall, built in 1795, stands as a testament to the town’s early governance, and nearby, the scenic Catamount Hill offers hiking and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Additionally, Pembroke is home to several local parks and nature reserves, including the popular Shaker Village, which was once the site of a thriving religious commune.
Hopkinton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 53.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,300
- Zip Codes: 03229
- Latitude: 43.2302° N
- Longitude: 71.6794° W
Location and History
Hopkinton is a rural town located to the west of Concord, situated along the Contoocook River. Originally settled in the 1700s and incorporated in 1770, the town was known for its fertile soil and was primarily a farming community. During the 19th century, Hopkinton’s economy grew as the railroad arrived, leading to the development of mills and an increase in industrial activity. The town is home to the famous Hopkinton State Fair, one of the oldest agricultural fairs in New Hampshire, which has been held annually since 1868. Over the years, Hopkinton has maintained its agricultural roots while also fostering a sense of community and preserving its natural beauty, making it a popular place for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle near Concord.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hopkinton’s schools include Hopkinton High School, which offers a range of extracurricular activities and a strong academic reputation. Major landmarks in Hopkinton include the Hopkinton Village, with its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, and the nearby Contoocook River, known for its scenic beauty and opportunities for canoeing and fishing. The Hopkinton State Park is a popular destination, featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and a pond for swimming and boating. The town also boasts several historic sites, including the charming Grange Hall and the Old Meeting House, which reflect Hopkinton’s deep historical roots in the region.
Warner
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 16.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,900
- Zip Codes: 03278
- Latitude: 43.2613° N
- Longitude: 71.7104° W
Location and History
Warner, located to the west of Concord, is a small town known for its natural beauty and rural charm. It was settled in the 1760s and incorporated in 1774. Like many towns in Merrimack County, Warner was originally focused on agriculture, with farming and milling being central to its early economy. As the railroad arrived in the 19th century, Warner became a center for trade and transportation, but it has largely remained a quiet, residential community. The town prides itself on its historical preservation and its role as a gateway to the surrounding mountains and lakes, which provide numerous outdoor recreation opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Warner’s educational institutions include the K-8 Kearsarge Regional School and the nearby Kearsarge Regional High School, which serves the broader community. Warner’s notable landmarks include the Warner Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town’s early agricultural and industrial history, and the picturesque Mt. Kearsarge, which offers some of the best hiking in central New Hampshire. Additionally, the town is known for the Warner River, a popular spot for canoeing and fishing, and the Red Apple Farm, where visitors can enjoy farm-to-table produce and other local goods. The town also hosts the annual Warner Fall Foliage Festival, drawing visitors from across the region to celebrate the autumn season.