Let the numbers do the talking.
Keene, NH vs Portsmouth, NH
Keene, NH vs Portsmouth, NH: What the data shows
Keene, NH is in Keene, NH while Portsmouth, NH is in Portsmouth, NH — both in the same state. On home prices, Keene, NH is the more affordable option at $221,600 median — $383,700 less than Portsmouth, NH's $605,300. WYLT rates Keene, NH as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Portsmouth, NH as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Keene, NH has the stronger safety profile of the two. Keene, NH has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Portsmouth, NH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Keene, NH has Low flood risk and Portsmouth, NH has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Keene, NH rates 4.7/10 and Portsmouth, NH rates 4.7/10.
| Category | Keene, NH | Portsmouth, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $222K ✓ Lower price | $605K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $70K | $101K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 28/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 4.7/10 | 4.7/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesSuburban livingBudget-conscious buyers | FamiliesProfessionalsStudents |
Bottom line
For a budget-conscious family seeking a safe, quiet place, Keene might still be worth considering despite its limitations. However, if you value convenience, walkability, and better local amenities but can afford the higher cost of living in Portsmouth, it might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, unless you have specific reasons to prioritize the lower cost and limited options of Keene, Portsmouth offers a more well-rounded lifestyle.
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