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Exeter, New Hampshire

What It Is Like to Retire in Exeter

Home to the elite prep school, Phillips Exeter Academy, the town of Exeter in eastern New Hampshire is a small town New England classic. The presence of the prep school and its interesting faculty makes it a good choice for retirees looking for a strong cultural environment. The town is very old, going back to 1638. Local families such as the Gilmans made fortunes in the risky business of sailing ships, trading goods around the world. Exeter has just under 15,000 people. It's just a short hop the coast, Durham (Univ. of New Hampshire), and Boston. Wikipedia photo courtesy of Beancounter603

Here is how one enthusiastic visitor described Exeter on City-Data.com: "(Exeter is) Very bustling, lots of activity, and still a beautiful, historic New England town. Downtown was fantastic." Other posters tended to agree that Exeter's downtown and its schools are fantastic. Photo of Town Hall from a 1909 postcard courtesy of Wikipedia (public domain); photo of View of The Exeter Inn courtesy of Wikipedia and Qrsdogg (public domain).

Where to Retire in Exeter and Home Prices

There are several active communities to choose from in Exeter, with more in the surrounding area. The median home value here was $538,443 in mid-2023, according to Zillow.com.

What Is Special about Exeter

In addition to Phillips Exeter Academy, the town has a number of distinguished buildings including the Old Town Hall of 1855. The Old Public Library of 1894, is home to the Exeter Historical Society. The Gilman Garrison House is a National Historical Landmark.

What Is Not Special about Exeter

It's a small town with cold winters.

Who Will Like Retirement in Exeter

People who want to live in a classic New England small town with a vital downtown and a distinguished prep school will like it in Exeter.

Local Economy Is Driven by

The Phillips Exeter Academy is the driver of the local economy , along with the local hospital. New Hampshire is a low-tax state, there is no income tax (although there are taxes on interest and dividends) or sales tax.

Climate and Physical Environment

Exeter is situated where the Exeter River feeds the tidal Squamscott River in eastern New Hampshire. It is a short drive to New Hampshire's coast as well as to Boston. The average January temp is in the mid 20's and the average July temp is 70.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Exeter has many cultural events such as plays and concerts which are open to the public. The National Independence Museum is an interesting place to visit. There is also the Ioka Theatre of 1915 on Water Street. Boston and its many attractions are less than 50 miles. Durham and the University of New Hampshire is just 14 miles.