Living in Dover, NH offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern convenience, making it an attractive place for many.
Whether you're considering a move for career opportunities, a change of scenery, or family reasons, understanding the key aspects of living in Dover is essential. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what you can expect when you decide to call Dover home.
Historical Background
Dover, New Hampshire, holds the distinction of being the oldest continuous settlement in the state and one of the earliest in the United States, established in 1623. Initially settled by English pioneers, Dover was first known as Northam before it became part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1692.
The original township covered a vast area, including present-day Dover, Durham, Lee, Madbury, Somersworth, Rollinsford, and parts of Newmarket, Newington, and Greenland. This extensive reach highlights Dover's early significance as a central hub in the region.
Throughout its history, Dover has capitalized on its natural resources, particularly the Cocheco and Bellamy Rivers. The city's economic foundations were laid with the establishment of a sawmill on the Cocheco River in 1642.
By the 1700s, shipbuilding had become a dominant industry, leveraging the river's strategic advantage. The 19th century marked Dover's emergence as a leading manufacturer of cotton goods, driven by the power of the Cocheco River mills.
This industrial prowess continued into the 20th century with the growth of brick-making and shoe manufacturing, underscoring Dover's adaptability and resilience through various economic phases.
Demographics
Dover, NH, is a vibrant and growing community with a population that has reached approximately 34,057 in 2024. This marks a steady growth rate of about 0.95% annually, reflecting a population increase of 3.91% since the last census in 2020.
The demographic makeup of Dover is predominantly White, accounting for 90.7% of the population, with smaller representations of Asian (4.5%), Black or African American (1.1%), and Hispanic or Latino (3.3%) communities.
The city has a relatively young median age of 37.2 years, which is slightly lower than the state average. This youthful demographic is complemented by a strong educational attainment, with significant portions of the population holding bachelor’s and advanced degrees.
Dover’s economic landscape is robust, featuring a median household income of $117,718, which significantly outpaces the national average.
Despite the affluence, the city maintains a manageable poverty rate of 7.61%, with the highest poverty rates found among Black residents at 18.93% and the lowest among Hispanics at 1.48%.
The employment scene in Dover is healthy, supported by diverse industries and a low unemployment rate. Furthermore, the city boasts a high population density of 1,194 people per square mile, which is conducive to vibrant social interactions and cultural exchanges.
This density also promotes environmental sustainability and efficient urban living, making Dover a desirable place for both families and professionals.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Dover, NH is notably higher than the national average, reflecting its desirability and the quality of life it offers. Housing is a significant factor in this elevated cost, with prices about 41% above the national average.
The median home price in Dover is approximately $356,630, while the average rent for an apartment hovers around $1,200 per month.
These costs are influenced by Dover’s attractive suburban environment and proximity to larger cities like Boston, which is only about an hour’s drive away.
Despite the higher housing costs, Dover offers competitive grocery prices and transportation costs that are below the national average, which can help balance overall living expenses.
Other living expenses in Dover include healthcare, which is 11.5% higher than the national average, and utilities, which are moderately priced.
The transportation index in Dover is 9.9% above the national average due to the need for personal vehicles in a region with limited public transportation options.
On the positive side, New Hampshire does not impose a sales tax, making everyday purchases more affordable compared to other states.
Additionally, the state’s lack of income tax on wages contributes to a more favorable financial environment for residents. Overall, while living in Dover can be costly, the high quality of life, combined with the state's tax benefits, makes it a compelling choice for many.
Housing Options
Housing options in Dover, NH are diverse, ranging from single-family homes to modern apartments, catering to various budgets and preferences.
As of 2024, the median listing home price in Dover is around $589,900, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 10.3%. Homes in Dover tend to receive multiple offers and sell quickly, with an average sale time of 28 days.
The price per square foot averages $352, indicating a competitive market driven by the city’s desirable location and quality of life.
In addition to traditional housing, Dover also offers affordable housing projects like the Cottages at Back River Road, providing 44 units aimed at low to moderate-income families.
For those seeking rental options, there are numerous apartments, such as those at Huntington Exchange Dover, which feature modern amenities like quartz countertops and in-unit washers and dryers.
The Dover Housing Authority also supports low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities through various housing assistance programs. This blend of housing types ensures that Dover can accommodate a wide range of residents, from young professionals to retirees.
Education System
The education system in Dover, NH, is robust and encompasses a range of educational facilities from elementary schools to high school and career technical centers.
The Dover School District serves approximately 5,380 students across its five public schools. The district includes three elementary schools, a middle school, and Dover High School, which also houses the Dover Regional Career Technical Center.
This setup ensures that students have access to a comprehensive education from kindergarten through 12th grade, with additional opportunities for vocational training and technical education at the high school level.
Dover High School is particularly noteworthy for its strong academic and extracurricular programs. The school offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and has a robust arts and athletics program, providing students with a well-rounded education.
The school district is focused on supporting students from diverse backgrounds, with 7% of the student body being Asian, 3% Hispanic, and 2% Black.
Despite facing challenges such as being in the bottom 50% for statewide testing in math and reading proficiency, the district strives to improve through various initiatives and community support.
Employment Opportunities
Dover, NH, offers a vibrant job market with diverse employment opportunities across various sectors.
Major industries in Dover include healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, a prominent employer in the area, provides numerous jobs in healthcare, ranging from nursing to administrative roles.
The Dover School District also hires extensively, offering positions for teachers, administrative staff, and support roles. Additionally, the city’s retail sector is robust, with businesses like The Herbal Path and local boutiques frequently seeking staff.
The city’s proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Boston enhances its appeal to professionals seeking a balance between urban and suburban living.
Employment opportunities are bolstered by community-focused initiatives and support from the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce, which regularly updates job listings and provides resources for job seekers.
Moreover, Dover’s economic landscape is attractive for entrepreneurs and small business owners, thanks to local programs that encourage business development and growth. This thriving job market, combined with Dover's high quality of life, makes it an excellent place for both career advancement and personal fulfillment.
Transportation
Dover, NH offers a variety of transportation options that make getting around the city and to nearby locations convenient. One of the key transportation hubs is the Dover Transportation Center, which serves as a stop for Amtrak’s Downeaster train service.
This station connects residents to major cities like Boston, Portland, and beyond, with five daily round trips. The station also offers metered parking, a self-service ticketing kiosk, and proximity to downtown Dover, making it a central point for both commuters and travelers.
Healthcare Facilities
Dover, NH boasts a range of healthcare facilities that cater to diverse medical needs. The flagship institution is Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, affiliated with Mass General Brigham, which provides comprehensive services including emergency care, surgical services, and specialized departments for cardiology, oncology, and pediatrics.
The hospital is known for its advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, as well as its commitment to community health through various outreach programs and partnerships with local health providers.
Additionally, Wentworth-Douglass offers specialized centers such as the Seacoast Cancer Center and extensive rehabilitation services to support patients through recovery and long-term care.
Beyond Wentworth-Douglass, Dover is home to several other healthcare facilities that enhance the city’s medical landscape. The Bellamy Health Center focuses on primary care, ensuring residents have access to family medicine, women's health, and preventive services.
For senior residents, Langdon Place of Dover and the Wentworth Home for the Aged offer specialized care, including assisted living and memory care services.
These facilities are designed to support the elderly with daily living activities, medical management, and recreational programs to promote well-being and social engagement.
This robust network of healthcare facilities ensures that Dover residents have access to high-quality medical care tailored to their needs.
Recreational Activities
Dover, NH, offers a wealth of recreational activities that cater to a variety of interests and age groups. The city's parks and nature attractions provide excellent opportunities for outdoor activities.
Bellamy River Wildlife Sanctuary, a 400-acre site, offers visitors a chance to explore wetlands, rivers, and woodlands, making it ideal for bird-watching and seasonal turkey hunting. The Dover Community Trail is another popular spot for hiking and biking, featuring well-maintained paths that connect different parts of the city.
Additionally, Hilton Park provides amenities like picnic tables, playgrounds, and a boat ramp, making it a favorite for family outings.
For indoor and community-based activities, the Dover Ice Arena stands out as a hub for ice sports, offering public skating sessions, hockey leagues, and figure skating lessons. Families can also enjoy the Dover Bowl Family Fun Center, which features bowling, laser tag, bumper cars, and arcade games.
The Children's Museum of New Hampshire provides engaging and educational exhibits for children, including outdoor play areas and picnic spots.
The city also hosts annual events such as Apple Harvest Day, which attracts over 60,000 visitors with its vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
These diverse recreational options ensure that both residents and visitors can find enjoyable and enriching activities throughout the year.
Safety and Crime
Dover, NH, generally enjoys a reputation as a safe city, with crime rates significantly lower than the national average. According to recent data, Dover's crime rate is 55% lower than the national average, with violent crimes being 89% lower.
Residents have a 1 in 95 chance of becoming a victim of crime, making Dover safer than 81% of cities in the United States. The most common crimes in Dover are property crimes, which include theft, burglary, and vehicle theft, with a rate of about 10.20 per 1,000 residents.
Violent crimes such as assault and robbery are relatively rare, with the violent crime rate standing at approximately 0.42 per 1,000 residents.
Despite these favorable statistics, Dover still faces certain challenges. The northeastern part of the city experiences higher crime rates, while the southwestern neighborhoods are considered the safest. Crime rates in the northeast can be as high as 29.83 per 1,000 residents.
To address safety concerns, the Dover Police Department actively engages with the community through various initiatives and uses tools like CrimeMapping.com to keep residents informed about local crime incidents. Community events and neighborhood watches also play crucial roles in maintaining safety and fostering a sense of community vigilance.
Conclusion
Living in Dover, NH offers a high quality of life with its rich history, strong community, and excellent amenities. Whether you're attracted by the educational opportunities, the vibrant cultural scene, or the safe and friendly environment, Dover is a city that promises a fulfilling and enjoyable living experience.
Additionally, for those planning to move to Dover, hiring a professional moving company is advisable.
Bridges Bros movers not only handle the logistics of transporting belongings but can also provide valuable insights into the best routes and neighborhoods, helping newcomers settle in more comfortably and efficiently.
