New Hampshire – the Granite State, where the mountains are as strong as the people, the lakes are pristine, and the leaves are some of the most beautiful in the country. Whether you’re hiking the White Mountains, soaking in the view from a lake, or strolling through a charming small town, New Hampshire has a way of slowing down life while still giving you plenty to do. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in New Hampshire, here are 10 things only true Granite Staters will understand.
We take our “Live Free or Die” motto seriously
New Hampshire’s motto isn’t just a saying—it’s a way of life. We value our independence, freedom, and the ability to live life on our own terms. Whether it’s political views, outdoor adventures, or just enjoying the quiet solitude of the woods, we take pride in our “live free” mentality, and we’ll defend it to the end.
The White Mountains are our backyard
Living in New Hampshire means being just a short drive away from some of the most beautiful mountains in the Northeast. Whether you’re hiking Mount Washington, skiing at Cannon Mountain, or just enjoying a quiet moment by one of the many mountain streams, the White Mountains are always calling. We don’t take them for granted—they’re a part of who we are.
The lakes are stunning – especially Lake Winnipesaukee
Lake Winnipesaukee is New Hampshire’s crown jewel, but we have countless other lakes, each with its own charm. From swimming and boating to kayaking and ice fishing, the lakes here are a year-round destination. And if you’re lucky enough to have a camp or a boat on the lake, you’ll quickly learn that summers in New Hampshire are made for the water.
We love our small towns – they’re where the heart of the state is
While New Hampshire may have a few larger cities, it’s the small towns that really capture the essence of the state. With their quaint main streets, local diners, and community gatherings, these towns are what make New Hampshire feel like home. Whether it’s a town-wide Fourth of July parade or a local farmer’s market, there’s a sense of community here that’s hard to beat.
We’re serious about our fall foliage
New Hampshire is famous for its vibrant fall colors, and when the leaves change, you can bet that everyone is out taking in the beauty. From the brilliant reds and oranges to the golds and yellows, the foliage here is like a festival of color every autumn. It’s a time of year that every New Hampshirite looks forward to, and you’ll often find people driving up and down scenic routes just to enjoy the view.
Winter is a way of life
Living in New Hampshire means embracing winter—snow, ice, and all. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or just enjoying a hot cocoa by the fire, winter is part of our identity. Yes, it can get cold, but that’s nothing a warm jacket and a sense of adventure can’t handle. And when the first snow falls, there’s a collective sense of joy—we’re ready for it.
We know that “The Kanc” is one of the most scenic drives
The Kancamagus Highway is one of the most famous scenic routes in New Hampshire, and for good reason. Whether you’re taking it in the fall to see the leaves change or cruising through it in the summer to enjoy the lush forest, the views are always breathtaking. Locals love this drive and recommend it to anyone visiting the state.
We’re proud of our local food – especially the maple syrup
Maple syrup is more than just a sweet treat in New Hampshire—it’s a tradition. Whether it’s drizzled over pancakes, added to baked goods, or enjoyed straight from the bottle, we take our syrup seriously. And don’t even think about using anything other than New Hampshire maple syrup—it’s just the best.
We don’t need to “tax” our way to happiness
New Hampshire is known for having no state income tax, and for many of us, that’s a big deal. We pride ourselves on our small government, low taxes, and the ability to keep things simple. For visitors, it can be a pleasant surprise—and for locals, it’s one of the perks of calling the Granite State home.
We’ve got a special relationship with the outdoors
Whether it’s hiking, skiing, kayaking, or just enjoying a day in the woods, outdoor activities are a huge part of life in New Hampshire. The state’s natural beauty is an endless playground, and we take full advantage of it. From summer to winter, there’s always something to do outside, and if you’re from New Hampshire, you probably spend a fair amount of time enjoying it.
Living in New Hampshire means embracing the beauty of the landscape, the pride of independence, and the warmth of the community. From the mountains to the lakes, from the quiet moments on the porch to the excitement of a day on the trails, New Hampshire offers a life that’s peaceful, adventurous, and full of heart. So next time someone asks about New Hampshire, just smile and say, “Come for the foliage, stay for the people—and the freedom.”
