Portsmouth

NH
Average Sales Price
$1,436,455
Median Sales Price
$879,000
Population
21,773
Total Listings
201
Discover Life in Portsmouth with Luke Morris
Local Perspective
If I were walking a client through Portsmouth, I’d tell them that this city is where New England history, coastal charm, and a vibrant community intersect. Portsmouth holds a unique position in the Seacoast market—it's a place where you can feel the pulse of a lively downtown, yet still find pockets of quiet, tree-lined streets. Over the years, I’ve helped buyers and sellers navigate everything from historic homes to modern condos here, and I often recommend Portsmouth to clients looking for a blend of walkability, culture, and coastal living. Its proximity to both Maine and Massachusetts adds another layer of appeal, making it a strategic spot for those who want access to multiple states without sacrificing a strong sense of place.
Neighborhood Highlights
Portsmouth’s atmosphere is energetic but never overwhelming. The historic downtown is a hub for independent shops, local restaurants, and cultural events, all set against a backdrop of brick sidewalks and waterfront views. Just a few blocks away, neighborhoods transition into quieter residential enclaves, with parks and community gardens dotting the landscape. What makes Portsmouth distinct is its ability to feel both like a small town and a destination city—there’s a creative, inclusive vibe here, whether you’re attending a festival at Prescott Park, exploring the Strawbery Banke Museum, or simply enjoying a coffee on Market Square. Compared to neighboring towns, Portsmouth stands out for its walkability, arts scene, and the sheer variety of things to do year-round.
Homes & Architecture
Portsmouth’s housing is as diverse as its residents. You’ll find everything from classic New England Colonials and Federal-style homes, many dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, to tastefully renovated condos and newer townhomes. In the South End and Little Harbour, historic homes with wide-plank floors and original fireplaces are common, while areas closer to downtown feature converted mill buildings and contemporary lofts. Many properties balance period details with modern updates, and layouts often favor open living spaces and functional kitchens—ideal for both entertaining and everyday living. Whether you’re drawn to the character of an older home or the convenience of a newer build, Portsmouth’s housing stock offers something for most tastes.

Demographics

Data provided by Attom Data
Population
Employment
Population
21.8K
21.8K in 2020
Density
732.7
per square mile
Households
10.4K
Total households
Gender
48% / 52%
Men Vs Women
Occupancy
52% / 48%
Owned Vs Rented
Age Median: Years
Education Level

Educational Environment

Elementary Schools (6)Middle Schools (3)High Schools (2)
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
8/10
Mary C. Dondero Elementary School
32 Van Buren Ave, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Public
KG - 5
No
10:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
8/10
Little Harbour School
50 Clough Dr Ste 1, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Public
KG - 5
No
10:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
8/10
New Franklin School
1 Franklin Dr, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Public
KG - 5
No
10:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
The Birchtree Center
2064 Woodbury Ave Ste 204, Newington, NH 03801
Private
KG - 12
Yes
5:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
Newington Public School
133 Nimble Hill Rd, Newington, NH 03801
Public
KG - 6
No
7:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
6/10
Portsmouth Middle School
155 Parrott Ave, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Public
6 - 8
No
10:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
The Birchtree Center
2064 Woodbury Ave Ste 204, Newington, NH 03801
Private
KG - 12
Yes
5:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
St Patrick School
125 Austin St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Private
PK - 8
Yes
11:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Name
Category
Grades
Library
Ratio
6/10
Portsmouth High School
50 Andrew Jarvis Dr, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Public
9 - 12
No
12:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
0/10
The Birchtree Center
2064 Woodbury Ave Ste 204, Newington, NH 03801
Private
KG - 12
Yes
5:1 STUDENTS/TEACHERS
Show More

Amenities & Attractions

Restaurants
Home Services
Health & Medical
Local Services
Shopping
Recreation
Arts & Entertainment
Food
Beauty
Nightlife
Event Planning & Services
Automotive
Religious Organizations
Financial Services
Professional Services
Travel
Public Services & Government
Education
Pets
Local Media
  • Thirsty Moose Taphouse

    21 Congress St, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    Pubs Phone: 603-427-8645

  • Comfort Foods Grill

    3548 Lafayette Rd, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    American (New) Phone: 603-319-1700

  • Chestnuts At the Nest

    3548 Lafayette Rd, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    American (Traditional) Phone: 603-373-6515

  • Hebert’s Restaurant & Pub

    1500 Lafayette Rd, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    Seafood Phone: 603-431-5882

  • The Golden Egg

    960 Sagamore Ave, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    Breakfast & Brunch Phone: 603-436-0519

  • 99 Restaurant & Pub

    2454 Lafayette Road,, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    American (Traditional) Phone: 603-422-9989

  • Vida Cantina

    2456 Lafayette Rd, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    Mexican Phone: 603-501-0648

  • Weathervane Seafoods

    306 US Rt 1, Kittery, ME 03904

    Seafood Phone: 207-439-0316

  • Subway

    290 US Rt 1, Kittery, ME 03904

    Fast Food Phone: 207-439-8511

  • Pizza Hut

    2600 Lafayette Rd Unit 2, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    Chicken Wings Phone: 603-436-7488

  • The Portsmouth Brewery

    56 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    American (Traditional) Phone: 603-431-1115

  • Cataqua Public House

    35 Corporate Dr, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    American (New) Phone: 603-430-8600

  • Joe’s Ny Pizza

    124 Congress St, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    Pizza Phone: 603-431-1200

  • Kim Lai Chinese Restaurant

    599 Lafayette Rd, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    Chinese Phone: 603-430-0761

  • Madeline’s Truly Organic Kitchen

    151 Congress St, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    Vegetarian Phone: 603-436-1722

  • The Rusty Hammer

    49 Pleasant St, Portsmouth, NH 03801

    Burgers Phone: 603-319-6981

Featured Listings

For Sale (216)
For Sold (4551)
More

Portsmouth Living: Your Key Questions Answered

To help you make informed decisions, we've compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

What types of homes are common in Portsmouth?
Portsmouth features a blend of historic homes, charming colonials, classic New England capes, and newer condos. Whether you’re looking for single-family homes with character or low-maintenance townhomes, there’s a variety of options to suit different lifestyles and needs.
How is the commute and connectivity from Portsmouth?
What’s the lifestyle and walkability like in Portsmouth?
How fast do homes typically sell in Portsmouth?
What should I know about Portsmouth schools?
Are there HOAs or fees to consider in Portsmouth?

Get In Touch