Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Grafton County, NH had a population of 91,118. The median age was 42.4 years, with 48.7% male and 51.3% female residents. The racial makeup was predominantly White (89.8%), followed by Asian (4.5%), Black or African American (1.5%), and Hispanic or Latino of any race (2.6%). The county also includes Native American (0.3%) and persons identifying with two or more races (3%).
Elections
Grafton County, NH, has about 58,000 registered voters as of 2022. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries, general, and town meetings. In the 2020 presidential election, 57% voted for Democrat Joe Biden and 41% for Republican Donald Trump. There are over 40 polling locations across 39 towns, coordinated by municipal clerks and overseen by the County Board of Elections. Key issues include property taxes, education, and healthcare. The county leans Democratic but has active Republican and Independent voters. Voter registration is open year-round, with Democrats, Republicans, and undeclared as primary options.
Education, Employment and Housing
Grafton County, NH, hosts about 17 public high schools, with an average graduation rate of 93%. Over 44% of adults hold at least a bachelor’s degree, reflecting Dartmouth College’s local presence. The region's public schools have an average state assessment score of 61%. Adult education is supported by local community colleges and outreach programs. School safety index rates are above the national average, and unique STEM and AP educational programs are widespread, contributing to a robust academic environment throughout the county.
As of 2023, Grafton County, NH, had an unemployment rate of approximately 2.3%. Major employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance (21%), educational services (18%), and retail trade (10%). Leading occupations are in management, education, and healthcare, with around 32% holding professional roles. The average commute time is 22 minutes; about 68% of workers drive alone, while 6% carpool. Most residents work within the county, but approximately 20% commute to neighboring counties, such as Merrimack and Strafford.
Grafton County, NH, has a homeownership rate around 68%, with median home values near $295,000 and median gross rents about $1,050 (2022). The housing market has seen steady appreciation, with property values increasing roughly 7% year-over-year. Housing types range from single-family homes in rural areas to rentals and condos in towns like Lebanon and Hanover. Notable neighborhoods include North Haverhill, Littleton, and Plymouth. Property tax rates average about $22 per $1,000 of assessed value, varying by town. The rental market is competitive, particularly near Dartmouth College, with low vacancy rates under 4%.
County Crime & Safety
Grafton County, NH, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 10.2 property crimes and 1.2 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer. Major towns like Lebanon and Littleton account for most incidents, predominantly theft and burglary. Grafton County’s law enforcement agencies participate in regular crime reporting, and the clearance rate for violent crimes stands at about 55%. Overall, the region is considered safe, with community-based programs helping sustain low crime levels.
Popular names
- Thomas Smith
- Michael Martin
- Richard Smith
- Susan Smith
- Jennifer Smith
- Linda Smith
- Nancy Smith
- Angela Smith
- David Smith
- Linda Johnson
- Mary Smith
- Michael Thompson
- Robert Miller
- Robert Williams
- William Brown
- Deborah Brown
- James Sullivan
- John Smith
- Kathleen Smith
- Kenneth Smith
- Michael Murphy
- Michael Young
- Richard Brown
- Robert Wilson
- Barbara Stevens
- Carol Smith
- David Cole
- Elizabeth Jones
- Eric Chase
- James Brown
- Justin Smith
- Matthew Smith
- Paul Smith
- Richard Martin
- Robert Adams
- Robert Smith
- Steven Smith
- Adam Smith
- Andrew Smith
- Ashley Clark
- Charles Smith
- David Allen
- David Davis
- David Johnson
- David Miller
- David Thompson
- David Walker
- David White
- Donna Smith
- Elizabeth Davis
- Gary Smith
- George Smith
- James Adams
- James Cole
- James Roberts
- James White
- Jeffrey Winn
- Jennifer Jones
- Jeremy Brown
- John Aldrich