Laconia
RANK #352 / 996 NAT · POP 63,914
1YR FORECAST: +1.9%
5YR OUTLOOK: +27%
Belknap County, New Hampshire, is defined by its position within the state's Lakes Region, with a significant portion of Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire's largest lake, lying within its borders. The county seat, Laconia, is situated between Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Winnisquam. Approximately 80 miles north of Boston, the county is accessible via Interstate 93 and Route 3. This central New Hampshire location offers a community feel that blends small-town charm with access to extensive outdoor recreation, including hiking trails in the Belknap Mountains and skiing at Gunstock Mountain Resort.
Life in Belknap County often attracts retirees drawn to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The economy is influenced by tourism, particularly around Lake Winnipesaukee, which sees increased activity in warmer months. While many residents own their homes, the area also offers various housing options. Commute options include carpooling services and a regional transit program for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Local public schools, such as Gilford High School and Gilmanton Elementary School, serve the county's families.
Above national median (4.7x)
Moderate climate & terrain
Above national median (13x)
Housing is fairly valued at 5.7x relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Estimated local headcount ranges. Larger employers shown as floor + "+"; smaller employers show exact counts where reported.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
Source: CDC/NCHS vital statistics via County Health Rankings (2020–2022 avg). Rates per 100,000 population. Grade based on homicide rate relative to national average (~6.3). Learn more →
Source: EPA Air Quality System (2021–2023). Grade based on 3-year average median AQI. Learn about AQI →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Colonial Theater Redevelopment
Belknap Economic Development Council (and partners)
|
$50M | Under Construction |
|
Residential New Construction Portfolio
Multiple Developers
|
$50M | Under Construction |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
With a Boom Town Index score of 64/100, Belknap County sits in the upper half of all 996 ranked counties. Employment is expanding at +1.1%, and median household income stands at $80,719 — indicators that suggest solid fundamentals even if it's not among the fastest-growing counties in NH.
Housing in Belknap County is roughly in line with national affordability norms. The median home costs $295,900 and the income-to-home-value ratio sits at 0.27, with rents averaging $1,153/month. Not a bargain, but not a stretch for most local earners either.
Belknap County is growing on multiple fronts. Population is up +0.8% year-over-year while employers added jobs at a +1.1% clip. Home values shifted +3.0% in the past year.
There's a moderate stream of newcomers. About 2.95% of residents moved from another state, which is above average and suggests Belknap County has appeal as a relocation destination — though it's not among the highest-inflow counties nationally.