Milford NH

Milford, New Hampshire – A charming New England gem where small-town warmth meets natural beauty and rich history. Nestled along the Souhegan River and surrounded by scenic landscapes, Milford is more than just a classic town green and historic downtown. Whether you're wandering through antique shops, enjoying the annual Pumpkin Festival, or hiking the trails nearby, Milford offers a peaceful yet vibrant escape with a strong sense of community and hometown pride.

• Population: ~16,500
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; warm summers (70-85°F), snowy winters (20-35°F), colorful falls, and mild springs.
• Places To Visit: Milford Oval, Emerson Park, Monson Center, The Granite Town Rail Trail, Hitchiner Manufacturing historic site.
• Top Activities: Strolling the farmers market, enjoying local breweries, leaf-peeping in fall, sledding in winter, hiking year-round.
• Famous Food: Homemade pies at Red Arrow Diner, maple bacon donuts from Union Coffee Co., and New England clam chowder at local taverns.

Milford, New Hampshire, may be a small town, but it plays a significant role in the regional economy. Known for its charming downtown and proximity to major cities like Nashua and Manchester, Milford is home to a blend of industries ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to education and skilled trades. Below are some of the top jobs currently in demand in Milford, NH.

Top 5 Jobs in Milford, NH

Milford, New Hampshire might be a small town, but it’s full of charm and cozy spots where students can take a break, unwind, and enjoy their free time. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to study outdoors or some low-key weekend fun, Milford has plenty to offer.

Milford Oval – This is the heart of the town and a great place to just sit, relax, and people-watch. You’ll find benches, cute little shops, and cafés where you can grab a bite or a coffee with friends. It’s especially pretty in the fall and during local festivals.

Union Coffee Co. – A trendy local coffee shop and popular student hangout. Union Coffee offers a cozy vibe, tasty drinks, and often hosts live music or open mic nights. It’s perfect for studying during the day and unwinding in the evening.

Keyes Memorial Park – If you’re looking for outdoor space to stretch out and breathe, this is the spot. There’s a swimming pool, tennis courts, and open fields where you can toss a frisbee or just relax under a tree with a good book.

Monson Center – A hidden gem for nature lovers. This historic site has peaceful trails, stone foundations, and scenic views that make for a great escape from the usual routine. Bring some friends and pack a picnic!

Milford Drive-In Theater – Just a short ride from the center of town, this old-school drive-in is still going strong. It’s one of the few drive-ins left in New England and makes for a super chill night out under the stars. Don’t forget the snacks!

Granite Town Rail Trail – Great for biking, walking, or jogging, this trail connects parts of Milford and offers a quiet place to think or enjoy nature. It’s an ideal spot if you need to clear your head after a tough exam.

The Riverhouse Café – Located near the river, this casual eatery has outdoor seating during the warmer months and is a lovely place for dinner with friends. The menu’s student-budget friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed.

Milford might not have the buzz of a big city, but that’s part of its magic. It's the perfect mix of peaceful hangouts and community vibes that make students feel right at home. Whether you're grabbing coffee, catching a movie, or hiking a trail, there's always a way to unwind and enjoy your time here.

Milford, NH is a charming New England town situated in Hillsborough County. While Milford itself is primarily known for its close-knit community and beautiful landscapes, it is also surrounded by excellent educational institutions—both public and private—catering to a variety of academic interests and career goals. Whether you’re a prospective student or a parent researching higher education options, here are the top public and private colleges and universities in and around Milford, NH.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Milford, NH Area

Nashua Community College – Located just a short drive from Milford, Nashua Community College is known for its strong associate degree and certificate programs in nursing, business, engineering technology, and culinary arts. The college offers small class sizes and extensive student support.

University of New Hampshire at Manchester – This urban campus is part of the University of New Hampshire system and offers popular undergraduate and graduate programs in biology, computer science, and business. Its partnerships with area businesses provide hands-on learning experiences.

Keene State College – Just under an hour from Milford, Keene State is celebrated for its exceptional liberal arts education, teacher preparation, and sustainable science programs. The campus community focuses on civic engagement and creativity.

Granite State College – Now part of UNH as the College of Professional Studies, Granite State was created to serve adult learners and offers flexible online, hybrid, and in-person programs in business, healthcare, and education.

Merrimack College (North Andover, MA, accessible to Milford residents) – While just over the state border, Merrimack’s public programs in engineering, health sciences, and liberal arts attract many students from Milford and southern New Hampshire.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Milford, NH Area

Franklin Pierce University – With a campus in Rindge, less than an hour from Milford, Franklin Pierce is known for its supportive atmosphere and programs in business, education, health sciences, and the arts. The university emphasizes leadership and real-world experience.

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) – SNHU, based in Manchester, is one of the fastest-growing private universities in the country and is highly regarded for its online degree programs, as well as on-campus studies in business, education, and creative writing.

Rivier University – Located in Nashua, Rivier is a private Catholic university offering highly respected nursing, biotechnology, business, and education programs. Rivier is known for its commitment to service and academic excellence.

Saint Anselm College – Situated in Manchester, Saint Anselm thrives as a top Catholic liberal arts institution with standout programs in nursing, politics, and criminal justice. Its scenic campus and vibrant community appeal to students regionally and nationally.

New England College – With a campus in Henniker, New England College provides a welcoming environment with robust programs in the liberal arts, environmental science, and business. The college is recognized for its innovative teaching and support for first-generation students.

Milford and its surroundings are home to some of New Hampshire’s top public and private higher education institutions. Whether you’re looking for accessible community colleges, large universities, or private liberal arts colleges, this area offers options that can help you achieve your academic and career ambitions. Explore, dream, and take your next step with confidence!

Milford, New Hampshire, is a charming New England town known for its tight-knit community and commitment to quality education. Despite its modest size, Milford offers excellent options for both public and private high school education. Families in this area value strong academics, safe learning environments, and programs that foster personal growth and college readiness. Whether you're new to the area or exploring educational opportunities for your teen, here's a helpful guide to the top public and private high schools in Milford, NH.

Top Public High Schools in Milford, NH

• Milford High School – As the main public high school in town, Milford High serves grades 9–12 and offers a variety of academic tracks, including college prep and career and technical education. The school is known for its strong community involvement, dedicated teachers, and extracurricular activities like robotics, drama, and athletics.
• Hollis-Brookline High School (nearby in Hollis) – Consistently ranked among the top public schools in the state, this school offers a challenging curriculum, including AP classes and STEM-focused programs, and is a short commute from Milford. Many families in the region look to Hollis-Brookline for its high standards and engaging school culture.
• Souhegan High School (in nearby Amherst) – This highly respected regional high school is known for its progressive learning model, student empowerment, and interdisciplinary curriculum. Students benefit from project-based learning and a supportive academic environment. It’s a great option for Milford residents depending on districting and school choice policies.
• ConVal Regional High School (Peterborough area) – Serving a broader region that includes some Milford-area students, ConVal offers solid academic programs and career development opportunities. Its partnerships with local businesses provide practical, real-world learning experiences.
• Wilton-Lyndeborough Cooperative High School – Located in a neighboring town, this smaller high school stands out for its low student-teacher ratio and close-knit school community. It’s an excellent choice for families who value personalized attention and a supportive learning setting.

Top Private High Schools in or Near Milford, NH

• The Derryfield School (Manchester, NH) – A top-rated independent day school about 30 minutes from Milford, Derryfield is known for rigorous academics, small classes, and focus on leadership and service. Families seeking a strong preparatory school often find this a perfect fit.
• Bishop Guertin High School (Nashua, NH) – A private Catholic high school that offers a solid college-prep curriculum and competitive athletics. With a reputation for academic excellence and moral guidance, many students from Milford make the short commute for the enriching experience here.
• Mount Royal Academy (Sunapee, NH) – For families seeking a classical education and faith-based approach, Mount Royal offers small classes, a focus on character development, and strong arts and humanities programs. Though a bit farther out, it appeals to parents looking for values-based schooling.
• The Founders Academy (Manchester, NH) – A public charter school with a mission to develop principled leaders. Its classical focus and structured environment set it apart, and it’s been gaining traction with Milford-area families who value a strong civic education.
• Applewild School (Fitchburg, MA – with New Hampshire bus service) – Slightly further afield but accessible, Applewild offers a unique preparatory education with a focus on creativity, global citizenship, and leadership. It serves a range of grade levels, including middle and high school, and is ideal for families looking for an alternative to traditional education models.

Choosing the right high school can feel overwhelming, but Milford offers a variety of quality options tailored to different academic goals, interests, and learning styles. Whether you're drawn to a rigorous college prep curriculum, hands-on career programs, or a values-based education, there’s a school nearby that can meet your family’s needs and set your teen on the path to success.

Milford, New Hampshire may be a charming, close-knit town with a rich history and a strong sense of community, but it does not have any major professional sports teams of its own. However, that doesn’t mean sports fans in Milford are left out of the action. Being located in southern New Hampshire, Milford residents are just a short drive from some of the most iconic professional teams in New England. Whether it’s the roar of a crowd in a sold-out stadium or cheering from your favorite local sports bar, fans in Milford have plenty of reasons to sport their team colors proudly.

Here’s a look at the professional sports teams that residents of Milford, NH commonly support:

Football – New England Patriots (NFL)

• New England Patriots – Based in Foxborough, Massachusetts, just about an hour and a half drive from Milford, the Patriots are one of the most successful franchises in NFL history. With six Super Bowl titles (2001, 2003, 2004, 2014, 2016, and 2018), they’ve built a legacy behind legendary coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady. Their loyal fanbase spreads deep into New Hampshire — Sundays in Milford often mean wearing Patriots jerseys and gathering with friends to root for the team.

Baseball – Boston Red Sox (MLB)

• Boston Red Sox – Playing at the iconic Fenway Park, just over an hour southeast of Milford, the Red Sox are one of the oldest and most storied teams in Major League Baseball. With nine World Series championships, including a dramatic end to an 86-year title drought in 2004, the Red Sox have millions of passionate fans across New England. Milford residents often head to Boston during summer weekends to catch a game and take in the electric atmosphere of Fenway.

Basketball – Boston Celtics (NBA)

• Boston Celtics – Another powerhouse just outside of Milford's backyard, the Celtics have an incredible history filled with excellence and prestige. Holding 17 NBA championships, the team has had legends like Bill Russell, Larry Bird, and more recently Jayson Tatum lead the charge. Celtics fans in Milford enjoy a strong connection to the team, and many can remember where they were during the thrilling 2008 title run.

Hockey – Boston Bruins (NHL)

• Boston Bruins – For hockey enthusiasts in Milford, the Bruins bring grit, history, and heart. With six Stanley Cup titles, the Bruins have long been a force in the NHL. The team plays at TD Garden in Boston, which is a favorite destination for Milford locals looking to watch fast-paced, physical hockey in person. With stars like Brad Marchand and captain Patrice Bergeron (recently retired), the Bruins always give New England plenty to cheer for.

Soccer – New England Revolution (MLS)

• New England Revolution – Also based in Foxborough, the Revolution is one of Major League Soccer’s original franchises. While they’ve yet to clinch an MLS Cup, they have made several finals appearances and continue to build a competitive team. Soccer is growing in popularity across New Hampshire, and many families in Milford support their local soccer heroes while participating in youth leagues themselves.

While Milford, NH doesn’t host its own professional teams, its residents are part of the larger New England sports family, supporting teams that are elite, historical, and full of passion. Whether it's football Sunday, baseball under the summer sun, or intense hockey playoffs in the spring, there's always a reason for Milford sports fans to get excited.

Milford, New Hampshire might seem like a quiet New England town, but it’s bursting with small-town charm, rich history, and some surprising trivia. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, here are 10 fun facts about Milford that might just make you see it in a whole new light:

1. Known as the "Granite Town in the Granite State" – Milford earned this nickname because of its many granite quarries, which helped build landmarks across the country.
2. The Oval is a Big Deal – The Milford Oval (yes, it’s actually more of a triangle!) is the town’s bustling heart, lined with shops, cafes, and centuries of history.
3. Presidential Politics Stop Here – During election season, Milford is a popular stop for presidential hopefuls during the New Hampshire primary. You never know who you’ll bump into!
4. Historic Pumpkin Festival – Milford throws one of the best pumpkin festivals around each October, complete with food, rides, and thousands of pumpkins lighting up the night.
5. Home to the First Bank Robbery in NH – In 1865, Milford was the site of New Hampshire’s first-ever bank robbery. Spoiler: the robbers didn’t get away with it for long.
6. It Was Once a Mill Town – The Souhegan River, which runs through town, powered Milford's mills and helped fuel the town’s early growth in the 19th century.
7. A Star Was Born Here – Actress and comedian Sarah Silverman was born in Bedford but raised in Milford. She's proud of her Granite State roots!
8. Railroad History Runs Deep – Milford was a stop on the Boston & Maine Railroad, helping connect the region to the rest of New England in the late 1800s.
9. Ice Skating on Osgood Pond – Every winter, locals lace up for a hometown favorite—ice skating on the scenic Osgood Pond surrounded by snow-covered trees.
10. Business is Blooming – Milford is home to a vibrant small-business community, from family-owned bakeries to unique gift shops and antique stores—perfect for a weekend stroll.