Often called New Hampshire’s “Mill City,” Franklin sits at the confluence of the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee Rivers, where they form the Merrimack River. Once a historic manufacturing hub, Franklin has undergone a thoughtful revival—blending walkable downtown living, riverfront recreation, and an emerging arts and outdoor culture.
Franklin offers a different entry point into the Lakes Region lifestyle: less about shoreline exclusivity and more about community, accessibility, and momentum. It appeals to buyers who value character, affordability, and proximity to both the Lakes Region and central New Hampshire employment corridors.
What makes Franklin a unique place to live?
Franklin stands out for its energy and reinvention. The city has invested heavily in downtown revitalization, river access, and public spaces, creating a community that feels creative, active, and increasingly connected.
Residents enjoy a blend of historic architecture, local restaurants, small businesses, and outdoor recreation—all within a compact, walkable footprint that’s rare in the region.
What types of properties are available in Franklin?
Real estate in Franklin is varied and approachable. Property types include:
• Historic mill-era homes and classic New Englanders
• Updated in-town single-family residences
• Condos and multi-unit properties near downtown
• Riverfront and river-view homes
• Investment-friendly multifamily properties
Compared to nearby lake towns, Franklin often offers more square footage and architectural character at a lower price point.
Is Franklin a good area for investment or first-time buyers?
Yes. Franklin is widely considered one of the strongest value markets in central New Hampshire. Its revitalization efforts, improving amenities, and proximity to Concord, Tilton, and the Lakes Region support continued buyer interest. It’s especially attractive to:
• First-time homebuyers
• Buyers priced out of lakefront markets
• Investors focused on long-term appreciation rather than short-term tourism
What attractions and amenities are nearby?
Franklin has become a destination in its own right, with highlights including:
• Mill City Park, a nationally recognized whitewater kayaking and tubing park
• Riverwalks and downtown events
• Easy access to hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation
• Proximity to Franklin Falls Dam and surrounding trails
• Short drives to Lake Winnipesaukee, Tilton Outlets, and Concord
What is the lifestyle like in Franklin?
Life in Franklin is active, community-focused, and evolving. Summers bring river sports, festivals, and outdoor dining. Fall highlights foliage and trail access. Winters are quieter but connected, with nearby skiing and year-round local events.
Franklin appeals to those who enjoy being part of a town that’s growing intentionally—where neighbors know each other and progress feels tangible.
Why Buyers Are Drawn to Franklin
Franklin offers something distinct within the broader Lakes Region: authentic city character paired with outdoor adventure and long-term upside. It’s not a resort town—and that’s exactly the appeal.
For buyers seeking value, walkability, riverfront access, or an emerging market with real community roots, Franklin stands out as a smart and increasingly popular choice.
— Corina Cisneros, Broker | Experience Matters. Top 1% in New Hampshire and the Lakes Region since 2019
8,843 people live in Franklin, where the median age is 42.9 and the average individual income is $35,690. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Franklin, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Milltuck Farm & Creamery, V’s sandwich, and Wyatts Family Restaurant.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 4.19 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 4.11 miles | 62 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.72 miles | 10 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
| Dining | 1.37 miles | 5 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
| Dining | 4.16 miles | 4 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining · $ | 1.39 miles | 38 reviews | 4.7/5 stars | |
| Dining · $ | 4.06 miles | 424 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
| Dining | 1.38 miles | 21 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$ | 4.11 miles | 154 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$ | 1.34 miles | 64 reviews | 4.5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 1.3 miles | 3 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 2.95 miles | 8 reviews | 4.5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.33 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.37 miles | 4 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.1 miles | 6 reviews | 4.5/5 stars | |
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Franklin has 3,623 households, with an average household size of 2.38. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Franklin do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 8,843 people call Franklin home. The population density is 296.35 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
Population by Age Group
0-9 Years
10-17 Years
18-24 Years
25-64 Years
65-74 Years
75+ Years
Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
Without Children:
Blue vs White Collar Workers
Blue Collar:
White Collar:
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