New Hampshire Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Epping, New Hampshire

Population: 5,476

Located in Rockingham County

If you're contemplating a move to the Epping area, you've chosen one of the hottest places in New Hampshire to consider. We enjoy all the modern conveniences technology has to offer, close proximity of cultural centers, first-rate schools and recreational facilities, and an extensive transportation network all contributing to an unparalleled quality of life. Whether you chose to be in-town or out in the country, none of it's more than a short drive away.

Epping residents have an understandable sense of pride in their community's venerable history, schools, arts center and community-mindedness. No wonder the town's unofficial slogan is "Epping-Center of the Universe," as occasionally seen on bumper stickers.

From the time Epping was established in 1741, it served as a hub for local travel. Its two original settlements were to the north and west of its current town center. Many of the town's lovely Victorian-era homes still stand along Route 27. The options and prices ranges for home ownership are almost boundless. Expect to spend anywhere from $100,000 to $800,000 depending on personal taste, preference, and style.

Each year between April and October, more than 300,000 visitors travel to Epping for a day at two of the town's businesses. Star Speedway's NASCAR stock car oval operates Saturdays, while New England Dragway, the only 1/4-mile track in all of New England, runs races Wednesday and Friday nights and all day on the weekends. Occasional special community events are held at the tracks, including Scout bike-a-thons and local fund-raising carnivals.

From a cultural standpoint, Epping attracts thousands of visitors each year to the nationally recognized Leddy Center for the Performing Arts. This thriving amateur production company, now celebrating its 26th anniversary, showcases quality musical theater and concerts throughout the year; Leddy Center also hosts a professional faculty of 16 and an enrollment of nearly 200 students of all ages for acting, dance and instrumental lessons. Epping is home to another amateur theater group, "Upstairs, Downstairs," which produces several plays a year at the town hall.

In addition to the arts programs in town, Epping residents and adults benefit from programs run by the Epping Youth Athletic Association, as well as town recreation and conservation committees. The town skating pond has a small warming house and is a popular spot for lessons in the winter.

The business structure in town is widely varied, including small agricultural enterprises offering pick-your-own fruits and vegetables; wagon and sleigh rides; unique breads and crackers, made and sold in town; and landscape supplies. This unique mix is what old families and newcomers love the most about Epping.