Dover, NH
The Seacoast's most livable city
Photo by MoVaughn123
Dover is a vibrant small city in the heart of New Hampshire's Seacoast region, consistently ranked among the state's best places to live. With a thriving downtown full of restaurants, breweries, and local shops, plus easy access to both the coast and the mountains, Dover offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and New England charm.
Coast to Creek Rentals manages long-term rental properties in and around Dover, from modern apartments to spacious family homes. Whether you're relocating for work, attending UNH, or simply looking for a great place to call home, we have options to fit your lifestyle.
Dover's walkable downtown along Central Avenue is the city's social hub, anchored by locally owned restaurants, craft breweries, and a restored 1920s movie theater. The Cochecho River runs right through the center of town, powering the mills that drove Dover's growth in the 19th century and now providing scenic riverside parks and walking trails.
With a population around 32,000, Dover is big enough to have everything you need — good schools, a hospital, shopping, and transit — while still feeling like a community where neighbors know each other. The Amtrak Downeaster stops in Dover, putting Boston just 90 minutes away by train.
Why Dover?
- Walkable downtown with restaurants and shops
- 20 minutes to Portsmouth and the beaches
- Easy commute to Boston via Amtrak Downeaster
- Excellent schools and family neighborhoods
- Growing craft brewery and dining scene
Photo by Deb Talukdar
Things To Do in Dover
Attractions, events, and experiences you won't want to miss.
Children's Museum of New Hampshire
Year-roundInteractive museum on the Cochecho River with exhibits on science, nature, music, and art for kids of all ages.
Cochecho Arts Festival
SummerAnnual summer arts festival in Henry Law Park with live music, local artists, food vendors, and family activities.
The Strand Theatre
Year-roundBeautifully restored 1920s movie theater in downtown Dover showing first-run films and hosting community events.
Downtown Gallery Walks
Year-roundMonthly art walks through downtown Dover's galleries and studios with artist receptions and live demonstrations.
Farmers' Market
Spring–FallWeekly outdoor market in downtown Dover with local produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and live music.
Outdoor Recreation
Trails, water, and wide-open spaces in every season.
Bellamy River Wildlife Management Area
Year-roundOver 400 acres of conservation land with trails through forests and wetlands. Great for hiking, birding, and cross-country skiing.
Cochecho River Walk
Year-roundPaved riverside trail through downtown Dover connecting parks, historic mills, and public art installations.
Garrison Hill Park & Tower
Year-round60-acre park with a stone observation tower offering 360-degree views of the Seacoast, playgrounds, and wooded trails.
Tuttle's Red Barn
Spring–FallAmerica's oldest family farm with apple picking, corn maze, hayrides, and a farm stand with cider donuts.
Henry Law Park
Year-roundWaterfall park in the heart of Dover overlooking the Cochecho River falls. Popular for picnics and community events.
Dining & Entertainment
Where to eat, drink, and enjoy yourself in and around Dover.
Stages at One Washington
RestaurantUpscale American dining in a historic building overlooking Central Avenue. Creative seasonal menus and craft cocktails.
7th Settlement Brewery
BreweryDover's craft brewery with a rotating selection of house-brewed ales, IPAs, and stouts paired with pub fare.
Flight Coffee Co.
CafeSpecialty coffee roaster and cafe in downtown Dover. Pour-overs, espresso, and fresh pastries.
Cara Irish Pub
Bar & PubAuthentic Irish pub with shepherd's pie, fish and chips, and a well-curated whiskey and beer selection.
Garrison City Beerworks
BreweryMicrobrewery and taproom with small-batch craft beers, food trucks, and a welcoming community vibe.
Living in Dover
What you need to know about making Dover your home.
Schools & Education
Dover School District serves 4,200+ students across 7 schools. Dover High School consistently ranks among NH's top public schools. The University of New Hampshire in nearby Durham adds academic resources and cultural events.
Cost of Living
Dover offers a moderate cost of living by Seacoast standards with no state income or sales tax. Average rents are below Portsmouth and Exeter while still providing excellent walkability and amenities.
Major Employers
Commute Times
15 min
Portsmouth
25 min
Hampton Beach
10 min
Durham/UNH
90 min
Boston (Amtrak)
60 min
Portland, ME
Long-Term Rentals in Dover
3 units
Currently Occupied67 Oak Street — Unit 3 (3rd Floor)
67 Oak Street, Dover, NH
Cozy top-floor unit with plenty of character. Updated kitchen with white cabinetry, stone-style backsplash, and full-size appliances including a refrigerator and range. Bathroom features a glass-enclo...
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Currently Occupied67 Oak Street — Unit 2 (2nd Floor)
67 Oak Street, Dover, NH
Bright and updated second-floor unit with an open feel. Kitchen features white cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and recessed lighting. Generous living area with large window...
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Currently Occupied67 Oak Street — Unit 1 (1st Floor)
67 Oak Street, Dover, NH
Spacious first-floor unit with three bedrooms and plenty of storage. Updated kitchen with white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a large window overlooking the yard. Bathroom features a whit...
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Questions About Long-Term Rentals in Dover?
We manage apartments and homes available for year-round leasing. Contact us to learn about current availability, pricing, and the application process.