Manchester, New Hampshire, is a vibrant and diverse city that has so much to offer those who choose to call it home. Divided into two sections by the beautiful Merrimack River, it is the largest city in the state and is often listed by publications across the United States for being a wonderful place to live – including being named one of the top 15 cities in the United States in which to start a new business, an affordable place to live, and as a city with a great metro area. If you’re thinking of making a move to New Hampshire, Manchester would make a wonderful place to call home.
A Look at Manchester's History
Manchester was initially settled in the early 1700s and was officially incorporated in 1752. At that time, it was named Derryfield. The name was officially changed to Manchester in 1810, reflecting the settler's desire for the city to become the "Manchester of America," in reference to Manchester, England, which was at that time at the forefront of England's Industrial Revolution. Indeed, the city did grow to become an important center of industry, business, and higher education, and it remains so to this day. It is also a warm, welcoming, and diverse city with a smaller, but thriving LGBTQ community, and plenty to offer visitors and residents alike.
A Few Fun Facts About Manchester
Read more fun facts about Manchester and the state of New Hampshire here.
Manchester’s LGBTQ Community
Manchester is a city that loves and supports its LGBTQ community with a variety of resources, including:
PFLAG-NH, short for PFLAG New Hampshire, is the Manchester area’s local chapter of the national PFLAG organization, which is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country. PFLAG is well-known for its mission of supporting LGBTQ people, friends, family, and allies across the country in a wide variety of ways. With 500 chapters and more than 200,000 members in the United States, PFLAG plays a critical role in providing advocacy, support, and resources to the LGBTQ community.
Manchester Outright
Manchester Outright is a community center specifically dedicated to serving Manchester’s LGBTQ youth. The group works to accomplish this mission by offering events, resources, support groups, and a welcoming, fun, encouraging atmosphere for all.
What's the Weather Like in Manchester?
Those who live in Manchester can expect to experience all four distinct seasons each year. Throughout the year, temperatures fluctuate quite a bit, with the average high temperature in July being around 82ºF, and the average low in January dropping to around 13ºF. Spring and fall are typically mild and pleasant, with spring bringing lots of blooming flowers, and fall promising the beautiful colors of changing leaves for which New England is so well known. Manchester receives an average of 44 inches of rainfall each year, and around 58 inches of snow.
Can’t-Miss Events in Manchester
Queen City Pride is Manchester’s annual LGBTQ pride celebration, and it’s one celebration you’ll definitely want to put on your calendar. This annual celebration includes family-friendly entertainment, plenty of vendors, speakers, excellent performances, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities to meet friends and have fun!
The Best Neighborhoods in Manchester
The LGBTQ community in Manchester is sprinkled throughout the city, which means that there are many wonderful places to choose from. Northeast Manchester is a particularly popular area with the LGBTQ community. This neighborhood, located just above Bridge Street, is generally considered very safe, friendly, and full of much to see and do. As a bonus, it's also fairly close to the downtown area and all that it offers. There are a wide variety of homes available in Manchester, in many different styles and price ranges, and connecting with a realtor who knows and loves the area will be important to help you find the one that best suits your needs. The median list price of homes available in Manchester is currently around $228,900.
Arts and Entertainment
Initially founded by New Hampshire governor Moody Currier, this beautiful and historic art museum features an excellent collection of European and American artwork, including pieces from prominent artists like Matisse, Monet, Picasso, and others.
The beautiful, historic Palace Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Manchester. Built in 1914, the theatre has stunning architectural detail and historical touches that make audiences feel as if they've gone back in time. The theatre offers a wide variety of shows each year, from concerts to off-Broadway shows, to comedies, dramas, and more. Whatever your preferences, you're sure to find a show (or several!) to enjoy here!
Parks and Recreation
Lake Massabesic is often described as being one of the most beautiful areas in all of New England. This beautiful and serene lake and the surrounding area is a great spot for fishing, hiking, kayaking, or simply relaxing, and is the perfect spot to spend a beautiful Manchester day.
Livingston Park is the perfect place to enjoy all of the natural beauty that the Manchester area has to offer. This park offers a lovely boardwalk for a scenic stroll, as well as a one-mile trail loop for cycling, walking, or running, as well as a splash play pool center for hot summer days.
Manchester Nightlife
Breezeway Pub is a very popular LGBTQ hangout in Manchester, known for its relaxed atmosphere, excellent karaoke, pool tables, strong drinks, friendly crowds, and fun times. It’s a great spot to put on your list for a night out!
Doogie’s Bar and Grill is a LGBTQ bar and grill with a chill vibe, offering a dance floor, pool tables, and patio seating. Even better, it offers lively, friendly crowds, great drinks, good food, and plenty of fun.
Contact a Manchester Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Manchester, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Manchester, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Manchester gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
