Cheshire County Public RecordsNew Hampshire

Cheshire County, NH serves over 6,000 K-12 students across approximately 20 public schools, including Keene High School (rated 6/10 on GreatSchools). About 34% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The region also hosts Keene State College, offering bachelor's programs. School districts emphasize safety, with above-average school security measures and a low incidence rate of violence. Adult education is available through Keene Community Education. Programs include STEM, advanced placement, and career-technical education. Graduation rates in local high schools average 86%, promoting strong post-secondary participation.

As of 2023, Cheshire County, NH has an employment rate of approximately 62%. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (23%), retail trade (13%), and manufacturing (12%). Leading occupations are in office/administrative support (14%), sales (11%), and management (10%). About 78% of workers commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 22 minutes. While most residents work within the county, around 27% commute to neighboring areas, primarily Sullivan and Hillsborough counties.

Cheshire County, NH, features a homeownership rate of about 70%, with median property values around $270,000 in 2023. Rental units account for 30% of housing; median rents are approximately $1,250/month. The market has seen 7% year-over-year value growth. Housing types include historic Colonials, farmhouses, and newer suburban homes, predominantly in Keene, Swanzey, and Jaffrey neighborhoods. Property tax rates average $25 per $1,000 assessed value, among the highest in NH. This region offers a mix of rural charm and small-city amenities, attracting both families and retirees.

Cheshire County, NH, has roughly 56,000 residents and around 40,000 registered voters as of 2024, split among Democrats, Republicans, and a significant number of undeclared voters. The county votes in local, state, and federal elections, including biennial primaries and general elections. In the 2020 presidential election, 54% voted Democratic and 44% Republican. Polling locations include schools and town halls across 23 towns. Key issues include education funding and property taxes. Elections are administered by the county clerk and local town officials, with New Hampshire requiring same-day voter registration and supporting major parties plus independents.

Cheshire County, NH, reports relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county saw a violent crime rate of 1.2 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 10.3 per 1,000 in 2022. Local law enforcement emphasizes community engagement and prompt reporting—over 85% of incidents are reported within 24 hours. The city of Keene, the county’s largest, experiences higher rates than rural areas but remains below state and national averages, contributing to Cheshire’s reputation for overall safety.

As of the 2020 Census, Cheshire County, NH, had a population of 76,458. The median age was 43.3 years, with 19.2% under 18 and 19.3% aged 65 or older. The gender split was roughly 51% female and 49% male. Racially, the population was 94.3% White, 1.1% Asian, 0.8% Black or African American, 0.2% Native American, and 2.7% Hispanic or Latino. The county remains less diverse than the national average.