Salem NH

Salem – Nestled in southern New Hampshire near the Massachusetts border, Salem is a charming town that blends New England tradition with modern living. From the thrills of Canobie Lake Park to tax-free shopping at the Mall at Rockingham Park, Salem offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're exploring peaceful nature trails, enjoying local eats, or diving into local history, this lively town is a great spot for families, shoppers, and outdoor lovers alike.

• Population: ~30,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons with cold winters, warm summers (20-85°F), and colorful autumns.
• Places To Visit: Canobie Lake Park, America's Stonehenge, Tuscan Village, Mall at Rockingham Park, Salem Town Forest.
• Top Activities: Family fun at amusement rides, hiking local trails, outlet shopping, dining at lakeside restaurants, exploring historical sites.
• Famous Food: Fresh seafood at Windham Junction, Italian specialties at Tuscan Kitchen, local diners, and seasonal treats at local farms.

Salem, New Hampshire is a growing town with a strong business presence, especially in retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. Thanks to its location near the Massachusetts border and access to Interstate 93, Salem is a hub for companies looking to grow in New England. Below are some of the most sought-after jobs in Salem, NH.

Top 5 Jobs in Salem, New Hampshire

Salem, NH might be a small town, but it's brimming with spots where students can chill, unwind, and enjoy themselves. From serene parks to bustling centers, there's something for everyone in this cozy New England town.

Canobie Lake Park – A classic amusement park with thrilling rides, games, and live entertainment. It's the perfect place to let loose and enjoy a fun day out with friends.

Tuscan Village – This vibrant mixed-use development offers a variety of shops, eateries, and activities. Stroll around, grab a coffee, or catch live events and entertainment.

Hedgehog Pond – A serene setting for those who love the outdoors. Whether you prefer hiking, picnicking, or simply lazing by the water, Hedgehog Pond is the ideal spot for relaxation.

Salem Ice Center – If you're into skating, head to the Ice Center. It's a great place for skating sessions and perfect for hanging out with friends while staying active.

America's Stonehenge – Explore this mysterious archaeological site filled with stone structures and intriguing history. It's a cool spot for students who appreciate history and outdoor exploration.

Rockingham Park Mall – For some retail therapy and delicious food, this mall offers a range of stores and dining options. It's a popular hangout spot, especially on weekends.

Salem, New Hampshire, is a growing community located near the Massachusetts border. While the city itself doesn't host large universities, it's close to several respected institutions offering high-quality education. Students living in Salem enjoy quick access to both New Hampshire and Massachusetts colleges, making it an ideal location for academic growth and career opportunities.

Top Public Colleges & Universities near Salem, NH

University of New Hampshire (UNH) – Located in Durham, about an hour from Salem, UNH is New Hampshire’s flagship public research university. It offers top programs in engineering, environmental science, business, and health sciences.

Granite State College (part of the University System of New Hampshire) – With locations throughout the state and a strong online presence, Granite State College provides flexible options for working adults and offers degrees in education, business, and public service.

Nashua Community College – Just 30 minutes from Salem, this college is known for its affordable programs in nursing, engineering technology, and automotive technology.

Middlesex Community College – Located in Lowell and Bedford, Massachusetts, it serves students from southern New Hampshire with strong associate degree programs in liberal arts, healthcare, and criminal justice.

River Valley Community College (Online Programs Available) – This college offers a range of online programs in allied health and management, making it a convenient choice for Salem residents.

Top Private Colleges & Universities near Salem, NH

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) – Headquartered in Manchester, just 30 minutes away, SNHU is known nationwide for its online learning platform and is respected for degrees in business, education, and IT.

Merrimack College – Located in North Andover, Massachusetts, less than 15 minutes from Salem, Merrimack is a Catholic liberal arts college renowned for its programs in education, health sciences, and business.

Franklin Pierce University – While its main campus is farther north, their Manchester center offers graduate programs in healthcare and MBA options for working professionals in the region.

Endicott College (Graduate Programs in Nearby Beverly, MA) – This small private college offers high-quality programs in hospitality, nursing, and interior architecture, with graduate extensions accessible to Salem students.

Rivier University – Located in Nashua, this Catholic university offers strong undergraduate and graduate programs in nursing, education, and business, with a commitment to community service and academic excellence.

Salem, NH is home to several high-performing high schools that offer a strong academic foundation and a variety of programs designed to prepare students for college and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a public or private education experience, Salem and its surrounding areas provide top-tier options for students and families.

Top Public High Schools in Salem, NH

• Salem High School, Salem – The main public high school in the town, it offers a variety of AP courses, athletic programs, and career-focused pathways. It emphasizes student success and community involvement.
• Pinkerton Academy, Derry – Though technically a private academy, it serves as the public school for several surrounding towns and offers a wide array of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Many Salem students attend here under sending contracts.
• Timberlane Regional High School, Plaistow – Located close to Salem, Timberlane serves students from nearby towns and is known for its strong STEM and music programs.
• Windham High School, Windham – Just a short drive from Salem, Windham offers a strong academic foundation with competitive sports and arts programs, making it a popular choice for local families.
• Londonderry High School, Londonderry – A nearby public school with a solid reputation for academic excellence, strong community support, and a broad range of student activities.

Top Private High Schools Near Salem, NH

• Central Catholic High School, Lawrence, MA – Just over the border, this co-ed college preparatory school offers a rigorous curriculum, modern facilities, and a strong focus on values and leadership.
• Bishop Guertin High School, Nashua – A Catholic school known for its academic excellence, character development, and competitive sports teams. Students from Salem often commute here for its strong programs.
• Presentation of Mary Academy, Methuen, MA – This all-girls private school offers a supportive learning environment emphasizing academics, service, and the arts.
• St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Dover – Though a bit farther away, this school is well-regarded for its college-prep academics, spiritual education, and inclusive atmosphere.
• The Derryfield School, Manchester – A top-rated prep school offering small class sizes, advanced academics, and robust extracurricular options, including fine arts and sports.

Salem, New Hampshire, is a growing town full of charm and community spirit. While it may not host any major professional sports teams of its own, its close location to Boston gives residents easy access to world-class teams and legendary sports venues.

🏀 Basketball – Boston Celtics (NBA)

• Boston Celtics – Just about 30 miles south of Salem, the Celtics are one of the most celebrated teams in NBA history, with a record-tying 17 championships. Known for legends like Bill Russell, Larry Bird, Paul Pierce, and Jayson Tatum, the Celtics are a major draw for basketball fans in the region.

⚾ Baseball – Boston Red Sox (MLB)

• Boston Red Sox – Playing at the historic Fenway Park, the Red Sox are beloved across New England. With 9 World Series titles, including memorable wins in 2004, 2007, 2013, and 2018, they are a major part of the local sports culture.

🏈 Football – New England Patriots (NFL)

• New England Patriots – Based in nearby Foxborough, Massachusetts, the Patriots are one of the most successful NFL teams. They have won 6 Super Bowl titles under legendary coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady. Fans in Salem eagerly cheer for the team every season.

🏒 Hockey – Boston Bruins (NHL)

• Boston Bruins – The Bruins are one of the NHL’s Original Six teams and have won 6 Stanley Cup titles. With a strong following in Salem, fans love heading into the city to watch fierce hockey battles featuring stars like Patrice Bergeron and David Pastrňák.

⚽ Soccer – New England Revolution (MLS)

• New England Revolution – Sharing a stadium with the Patriots, the Revolution are the region’s premier Major League Soccer team. They've had multiple playoff appearances and reached the MLS Cup Final five times, showcasing exciting talents like Carles Gil.

While Salem, NH, may not have its own pro teams, it stands as a proud part of New England sports culture. With top-tier teams just a short drive away, residents enjoy the thrill of professional sports all year round.

Salem, New Hampshire may be a small town, but it’s packed with charm, surprises, and a rich history. From haunted legends to historic amusement parks, here are some fun facts about this unique New England city:

1. America’s Stonehenge – Salem is home to a mysterious site called America’s Stonehenge, a series of rocks and stone structures believed to be over 4,000 years old!
2. Canobie Lake Park – One of the oldest amusement parks in the U.S., Canobie Lake Park opened in 1902 and still operates today with thrilling rides and live entertainment.
3. State Line Shopping – Salem is famous for shopping, thanks to its location on the New Hampshire–Massachusetts border, where shoppers enjoy tax-free purchases.
4. Oldest Farming Community – Originally part of Massachusetts, Salem is one of the oldest European-settled farming communities in New England, dating back to the 1600s.
5. Haunted Legends – Locals say several places in Salem are haunted, including America’s Stonehenge and nearby forests . Ghost hunters have even visited the area.
6. Historic Border Skirmish – Salem became part of New Hampshire after an 18th-century dispute about the state line, moving it north of its earlier location.
7. Rockingham Park Racetrack – Once a horse racing hub, Rockingham Park was active for over 100 years. Today, the space has been redeveloped as Tuscan Village.
8. Tuscan Village Transformation – Salem is undergoing a major makeover thanks to the Tuscan Village development, which includes a mix of shops, restaurants, and luxury residences.
9. Popular Filming Location – Though small, Salem has been used as a backdrop in several movies and TV shows, including scenes with New England fall charm.
10. Open Spaces – Despite its growth, Salem maintains over 1,000 acres of conservation land, offering trails and parks for residents and visitors who love the outdoors.