The Truth About Buying Near the Massachusetts Border
Looking to buy a home in New Hampshire but still want to stay close to Massachusetts? You’re not alone! Buying near the Massachusetts border is becoming more popular than ever. And there are some really good reasons why.
Southern New Hampshire towns like South Hudson Houses for Sale offer a sweet blend of small-town comfort and easy access to the city. Plus, Southern NH houses for sale often come with more space, lower taxes, and quieter neighborhoods.
But, as with anything in life, there are both pros and cons. Let’s take a look at what it’s really like to buy a home close to the border—so you can make the best decision for your next move.
Why So Many Buyers Are Heading North
It’s no secret—Massachusetts real estate prices are high. Very high. And that’s one of the main reasons people are crossing the border into New Hampshire.
Southern NH offers:
Lower property taxes
More home for your money
Beautiful neighborhoods
Quick access to highways
Friendly communities
With places like South Hudson houses for sale, it’s no wonder buyers from Massachusetts are making the move.
Pros of Buying Near the Massachusetts Border
1. Lower Taxes Mean Bigger Savings
New Hampshire is known for its tax advantages. There’s no income tax. No sales tax. And property taxes, while still present, are often more manageable than those in Massachusetts.
When you’re buying near the Massachusetts border, this can make a big difference in your monthly budget.
2. You’ll Get More House for Your Money
In towns like Hudson, Litchfield, and other Southern NH spots, your dollar stretches farther. You can often afford:
A bigger yard
An extra bedroom
A garage
Modern updates
Compared to homes just across the line in Massachusetts, Southern NH houses for sale give you more space, comfort, and long-term value.
3. Easy Commutes to Boston or Lowell
If you work in Massachusetts, buying close to the border makes commuting a breeze. Many people live in South Hudson or nearby towns and commute daily.
With access to Route 3 and I-93, you can be in Boston or other key cities within an hour or less.
4. Charming Communities and Local Life
Southern NH towns near the border have a lot to love—great schools, pretty parks, friendly neighbors, and strong community pride.
You’ll find local shops, farmer’s markets, and peaceful trails. It’s perfect if you want a slower pace without feeling too far from the action.
5. Lower Utility and Living Costs
Aside from real estate prices and taxes, general living costs can be lower in NH. You’ll often see savings on:
Heating
Water and sewer
Gas
Groceries
That means more money in your pocket for family fun, savings, or home upgrades.
Cons of Buying Near the Massachusetts Border
Even with all the perks, there are still a few things to consider before buying near the Massachusetts border.
1. The Market Is Competitive
Southern NH’s border towns are hot. That means more buyers, faster sales, and tighter competition.
Homes in South Hudson and other border towns often get multiple offers. If you’re shopping in this area, you’ll need a good plan—and a great REALTOR®.
2. Property Taxes Can Still Be High in Some Towns
While New Hampshire doesn’t have an income or sales tax, property taxes can vary. Some towns have higher rates to make up the difference.
Make sure you check the full tax picture before you buy, so there are no surprises.
3. Out-of-State Work May Bring Tax Complexity
If you live in New Hampshire but work in Massachusetts, you might still pay MA income tax on your wages.
Talk with a tax pro to understand what this means for your situation.
4. Public Transit Is More Limited
New Hampshire towns don’t have the same public transportation systems as major Massachusetts cities.
If you rely on buses or trains, you might need to drive to the closest stop or switch to commuting by car.
5. Longer School Commutes or Less Diversity
While Southern NH schools are known for quality, some families notice differences in size, diversity, or program offerings compared to larger Massachusetts schools.
Think about what matters most for your family—academics, sports, arts, or class sizes—and look at each school district closely.
Best Southern NH Towns Near the Border
Let’s look at a few great places to start your search.
South Hudson
South Hudson is peaceful and commuter-friendly. With lots of trees, great neighborhoods, and easy access to Route 3, it’s perfect for families or retirees.
Many South Hudson houses for sale have large yards and updated interiors—and they’re close to shopping, dining, and nature trails.
Litchfield
If you want quiet charm, Litchfield is a hidden gem. It offers a small-town feel with country roads and great schools. Plus, it’s only minutes from Nashua and the MA line.
Litchfield homes are in high demand, so act fast when one pops up.
Pelham and Salem
Pelham and Salem are busy towns with great amenities. Shopping, restaurants, and recreation are just around the corner. And you’re still close to the Massachusetts border for commuting.
They’re both growing fast, which means lots of opportunities—but also more competition.
Nashua (South End)
If you want to be in a city but still close to MA, check out Nashua’s southern neighborhoods. Nashua offers everything—shops, hospitals, schools, and parks.
The real estate market moves quickly here, so be ready!
Tips for Buying Near the Massachusetts Border
Here are a few smart tips to keep in mind as you search.
✅ Work With a Local REALTOR®
A local agent knows what’s happening on both sides of the border. They’ll help you find the right home, avoid bidding wars, and understand taxes, town rules, and school zones.
✅ Know Your Budget (With Taxes)
Even though New Hampshire has lower overall taxes, each town is different. Be sure your mortgage lender includes local taxes in your pre-approval budget.
✅ Consider Commute Routes and Time
Check the distance to highways, traffic patterns, and tolls. If you work in Massachusetts, test your drive at different times of day.
✅ Check Internet and Cell Service
Some country areas have spotty coverage. Make sure your potential new home has strong internet and mobile access—especially if you work from home.
✅ Ask About Local Services
Does the town pick up trash? Are roads plowed in winter? What about access to emergency services, grocery stores, and doctors? These are important when choosing your new community.
Is Buying Near the Border Right for You?
If you’re craving space, peace, and a little more breathing room—but still want access to city life—then buying near the Massachusetts border might be your perfect move.
Just be ready for fast-moving homes, and make sure you understand how taxes, travel, and schools fit into your lifestyle.
What’s the Verdict?
There are plenty of pros to buying near the Massachusetts border—lower taxes, more space, and charming communities. But you also want to consider commute times, property taxes, and competition.
With a little planning and a helpful local REALTOR®, you’ll find a Southern NH home that checks all your boxes. And don’t forget—whether you’re eyeing South Hudson Houses for Sale or browsing Southern NH houses for sale, there’s something special waiting just across the border.
If you need more tips on buying near the Massachusetts border, or are ready to sell your house give us a call at (603) 883-8840. You can also sign up for your dream home search or reach out to Our Agents for more information. We’d love to help you with your real estate needs.
