Nashua is a city located in southern New Hampshire near the Massachusetts border. With a population of over 88,000 as of 2019, it is the second largest city in New Hampshire after Manchester.
Population and Demographics
According to Wikipedia, Nashua has an estimated population of 88,664 as of 2019. This makes it the second most populous city in the state of New Hampshire.
The racial makeup of Nashua is predominantly white (80.7%), with Hispanic or Latino residents making up 8.6% of the population. Other races include Asian (6.6%), Black or African American (2.4%), and two or more races (2.6%).
The median age in Nashua is 36.7 years old. 22.8% of the population is under 18 years old, while 13.3% is aged 65 or older.
There are 36,364 households in the city, with an average household size of 2.45 people. The median household income is $70,133.
History and Economy
Nashua has a long history dating back to the 17th century when it was first settled. It was officially incorporated as a city in 1853 and developed into a major manufacturing hub thanks to its location along the Nashua River.
Major employers in Nashua include BAE Systems, Hewlett Packard, St. Joseph Hospital, Southern New Hampshire Health System, and Oracle Corporation. The city has successfully transitioned from a manufacturing-based economy to one focused on technology and advanced manufacturing.
Some key facts about the Nashua economy:
- Unemployment rate: 2.6% (lower than national average)
- Top industries: Healthcare, retail trade, manufacturing
- Median household income: $70,133
- Poverty rate: 11.9%
For more details on economic data and major companies headquartered in Nashua, check out the city’s economic development site.
Attractions and Landmarks
Some of the top attractions and landmarks in Nashua include:
- Greeley Park and Greeley House – a 37 acre public park with Greeley House mansion built in the 1840s.
- Nashua Riverfront Park – a riverfront park along the Nashua River with walking trails.
- Mine Falls Park – a large forested park with hiking trails and views of Mine Falls.
- Jackson House – an 1803 Federal-style mansion museum.
The city also has a lively arts and culture scene. Venues like the Capitol Center for the Arts host concerts, theater, comedy shows, and more throughout the year.
Sports
The Nashua Silver Knights are a collegiate summer baseball team based in Nashua. They play at Holman Stadium and are part of the Futures Collegiate Baseball League.
Youth and amateur sports are also hugely popular in the city. Ice hockey, soccer, basketball, football, baseball, and lacrosse are widely played throughout Nashua’s school system and youth leagues.
For more on Nashua’s sports teams and recreation, see the city recreation department site.
Education
Nashua has two public high schools – Nashua High School North and Nashua High School South. There are also several private schools in the city.
In higher education, Nashua is home to Rivier University, a private Catholic liberal arts college.
Transportation
Nashua is easily accessible by road and public transportation:
- Highways: Nearby major highways include I-495, I-93, and Route 3.
- Airports: Manchester-Boston Regional Airport provides the closest major airport access.
- Public transit: The Nashua Transit System provides local bus transportation.
- Rail: An MBTA Commuter Rail line connects south to Boston.
Living in Nashua
Nashua provides an excellent quality of life as a smaller New England city with a thriving economy and proximity to Boston. It offers affordability, recreational opportunities, lively arts and dining attractions, and strong public services and infrastructure.
To learn more about Nashua from locals, check out the Nashua city Facebook page.