NH gets mixed review from residents under forty

May 23, 2018

A new survey of residents under age forty found the vast majority are satisfied with New Hampshire, but 30% are likely to consider moving out of state in the next two years.

The survey, sponsored by Stay Work Play, included 420 adults. It was intended to evaluate the quality of life for young residents and whether they plan to stay in New Hampshire. Stay Work Play is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting and growing the young adult population in New Hampshire.

When comparing New Hampshire to other states, most poll respondents said New Hampshire had better taxes, public schools, outdoor recreation, safety, and sense of community.

On the other hand, respondents said New Hampshire had worse public transportation and nightlife. 21% also said they had no close friends in the area.

New Hampshire has one of the oldest populations in the United States, on average, and a relatively low percentage of college students who stay in-state after graduation. This aging population concerns some policymakers, who believe New Hampshire will face workforce shortages and higher health care costs.

Click here to learn more about New Hampshire’s aging population.

Do you think New Hampshire is a good state for young people – and does that matter? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Comments

Chuck

May 24, 2018

Where are these people moving to? Are they moving to Mass so they can be closer to Boston? Are they pursuing higher-paying jobs that just aren't available in NH? We've known about this challenge for years now, it would be great to get more details on the who and why.

Jackie

May 28, 2018

As a member of the generation in question here, I've watched hordes of family members and friends desert the Granite State over the past decade. My own impression of the situation is that many of those folks just simply weren't seeing New Hampshire as a place of opportunity - that this is a problem of marketing as well as of creating the right opportunities. There are real challenges here - the lack of affordable housing being a tremendous one - but there are also a great many advantages. We can't do anything about the weather, but we could certainly do a better job marketing what's great about the Granite State.

NH gets mixed review from residents under forty

Comments

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