Let the numbers do the talking.
Nashua, NH vs Salem, NH
Nashua, NH vs Salem, NH: What the data shows
Nashua, NH is in Nashua, NH while Salem, NH is in Salem, NH — both in the same state. On home prices, Nashua, NH is the more affordable option at $310,900 median — $95,700 less than Salem, NH's $406,600. WYLT rates Nashua, NH as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Salem, NH as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Salem, NH has the stronger safety profile of the two. Nashua, NH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Salem, NH has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Nashua, NH has Low flood risk and Salem, NH has Low flood risk.
Nashua, NH is the more walkable neighborhood. Nashua, NH scores 37/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Salem, NH's 9/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Nashua, NH has the higher school rating — Nashua, NH rates 5.7/10 and Salem, NH rates 4.6/10.
| Category | Nashua, NH | Salem, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $311K ✓ Lower price | $407K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $69K | $102K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 37/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 39/100 ✓ Better transit | 1/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.7/10 ✓ Better schools | 4.6/10 |
| Best for | Families with school‑aged kidsRemote workersFirst‑time homebuyers | FamiliesRemote workersCommuters looking for a quieter suburb |
Bottom line
For a family with school-aged kids, Salem, NH might be the better choice due to its slightly more affordable median home price and a decent dining scene. However, for commuters to Boston who value walking and nightlife options, Nashua, NH is a better fit despite its higher cost of living.
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