Keene, NH
Culture and community in the Monadnock Region
Photo by WaxMulatter603
Keene is the cultural hub of southwestern New Hampshire's Monadnock Region. Home to Keene State College and a thriving arts community, the city offers an eclectic mix of local shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and year-round events on its beautiful Main Street — one of the widest in New England.
Our long-term rentals in Keene serve students, professionals, and families looking for quality housing in this welcoming community. With Mount Monadnock nearby for hiking and covered bridges dotting the surrounding countryside, Keene is a special place to put down roots.
The city punches well above its weight culturally, with the Colonial Theatre hosting live performances, the Monadnock International Film Festival drawing cinephiles each fall, and a downtown that supports more independent shops and restaurants per capita than almost anywhere in the state. Main Street's tree-lined width creates a sense of openness rare in New England downtowns.
Surrounding Keene, the Monadnock Region is a landscape of small villages, working farms, and covered bridges that feels like stepping back in time. Six covered bridges lie within a short drive of downtown, and the rolling terrain is threaded with hiking trails, country roads perfect for cycling, and streams ideal for fly fishing.
Why Keene?
- Vibrant downtown with local shops and restaurants
- Home to Keene State College
- Near Mount Monadnock — most-climbed mountain in North America
- Active arts and music scene
- Affordable cost of living
Photo by Jonwmcinenrey
Things To Do in Keene
Attractions, events, and experiences you won't want to miss.
Colonial Theatre
Year-roundBeautifully restored 1924 theater hosting live music, plays, comedy, and film screenings in downtown Keene.
Monadnock International Film Festival
FallAnnual fall film festival showcasing independent cinema from around the world at venues across Keene.
Main Street Shopping
Year-roundOne of New England's widest main streets lined with independent bookstores, galleries, clothing shops, and specialty stores.
Keene State College Events
Year-roundThe college hosts concerts, lectures, art exhibitions, and theater productions open to the public throughout the year.
Covered Bridge Tours
Year-roundSix historic covered bridges within a short drive of Keene. Self-guided driving tours wind through scenic countryside.
Stonewall Farm
Year-roundWorking dairy farm and education center with farm tours, a farm store, hiking trails, and seasonal events.
Outdoor Recreation
Trails, water, and wide-open spaces in every season.
Mount Monadnock
Year-roundAt 3,165 feet, Monadnock is the most-climbed mountain in North America. Multiple trails from easy to challenging with stunning summit views.
Ashuelot River Park
Year-roundRiverside greenway with paved walking and biking trails, kayak launch, and playground in the heart of Keene.
Otter Brook State Park
SummerQuiet state park with a beach on Otter Brook Lake, picnic areas, and wooded trails for hiking.
Pisgah State Park
Year-roundNew Hampshire's largest state park with 13,000+ acres of wilderness, multi-use trails, and ponds for fishing.
Cheshire Rail Trail
Year-roundConverted rail trail running from Keene to Brattleboro, VT. Flat terrain ideal for biking, walking, and cross-country skiing.
Photo by John Phelan
Dining & Entertainment
Where to eat, drink, and enjoy yourself in and around Keene.
Luca's Mediterranean Cafe
RestaurantFarm-to-table Mediterranean cuisine with seasonal menus, house-made pasta, and an award-winning wine list.
The Stage Restaurant
RestaurantCreative American fare in a warm downtown setting. Known for craft cocktails and locally sourced ingredients.
Branch & Blade Brewing
BreweryCraft brewery with a rotating tap list, wood-fired pizza, and a spacious taproom with live music.
Prime Roast Coffee
CafeLocal favorite roasting their own beans. Cozy downtown spot with espresso drinks and fresh baked goods.
Elm City Brewing Company
BreweryKeene's original brewpub housed in a converted mill building with handcrafted ales and hearty pub meals.
Living in Keene
What you need to know about making Keene your home.
Schools & Education
Keene School District offers strong public education K-12. Keene High School is the region's largest and offers extensive AP and vocational programs. Keene State College and Antioch University provide higher education options.
Cost of Living
Keene offers one of the most affordable costs of living on NH's I-91/Route 101 corridor, with no state income or sales tax. Housing costs are well below Seacoast and southern NH cities while providing strong amenities.
Major Employers
Commute Times
25 min
Brattleboro, VT
75 min
Concord, NH
65 min
Nashua
70 min
Manchester
20 min
Mount Monadnock
Long-Term Rentals in Keene
7 units
Available — Apply Now706 Main Street — Unit 2
706 Main Street, Keene, NH
Bright second-floor unit with a sunny eat-in kitchen featuring white cabinetry, subway tile backsplash, full-size appliances, and a modern pendant light. Bathroom has a dark vanity with wainscoting, t...
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Currently Occupied61 Winter St — Unit 3
61 Winter St, Keene, NH
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Currently Occupied61 Winter St — Unit 2
61 Winter St, Keene, NH
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Currently Occupied61 Winter St — Unit 1
61 Winter St, Keene, NH
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Currently Occupied706 Main Street — Unit 3
706 Main Street, Keene, NH
Charming standalone-feel unit in the ell with its own entrance. Updated kitchen with white cabinetry, butcher block counters, black pendant lighting, and full-size appliances. Open living area with ce...
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Currently Occupied61 Winter St — Unit 4
61 Winter St, Keene, NH
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Currently Occupied706 Main Street — Unit 1
706 Main Street, Keene, NH
Spacious first-floor unit with a large eat-in kitchen featuring white cabinetry, full-size appliances, and plenty of counter space. Two generously sized bedrooms with closets and big windows for natur...
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Questions About Long-Term Rentals in Keene?
We manage apartments and homes available for year-round leasing. Contact us to learn about current availability, pricing, and the application process.