Amherst vs Bedford: Which Is Right for You?

Trying to choose between Amherst and Bedford in Southern New Hampshire? You are not alone. Both towns are popular for their small‑town New England charm, strong community feel, and easy access to larger job hubs. In this guide, you will see how the two compare on housing, schools, taxes, commute, lifestyle, and long‑term fit so you can buy or sell with confidence. Let’s dive in.

Quick take: Amherst vs Bedford

• Amherst: Rural and historic vibe, larger lots, quieter village center, and significant conservation land.
• Bedford: Suburban and convenient, more shopping and dining, newer subdivisions, and varied housing options.
• Both: Desirable communities with public schools that many families consider a priority and overall low crime compared with national averages.

Price and market feel

What you will find

Amherst tends to offer larger single‑family lots, more historic homes, and a classic village center. New subdivision activity is more limited, and inventory can feel tight. If you value privacy, character, and open space, Amherst often checks those boxes.

Bedford skews more suburban with a broader mix of housing types. You will see newer neighborhoods, some townhouse and condo options, and convenient access to retail and services. If you want move‑in‑ready homes with modern layouts and nearby shopping, Bedford usually makes the shortlist.

Snapshot to check now

Use this grid as your checklist for a current MLS snapshot before you decide:

A quick side‑by‑side view can reveal if one town is trending faster or offers more selection. If you are selling, this snapshot informs pricing and prep. If you are buying, it shapes timing, terms, and search strategy.

Schools and education

Each town has its own public school district. Families often compare state assessment results, graduation rates, class sizes, Advanced Placement options, and extracurriculars. Public data is updated regularly, and both districts publish details on programs and student support.

How to evaluate local schools:

• Review each district’s report cards from the New Hampshire Department of Education.
• Check recent school board and district reports for program offerings and initiatives.
• Compare student‑to‑teacher ratios, graduation rates, and participation in advanced coursework.
• Visit schools and speak with administrators to understand culture and opportunities.

Strong school reputations can influence demand and pricing at the neighborhood level. If schools are a priority, plan time for research and school visits alongside home tours.

Taxes and cost of living

New Hampshire relies heavily on property taxes, which vary by town. Your annual tax bill equals the town’s tax rate multiplied by your assessed value. A lower rate does not always mean a lower bill if assessed values differ, so it is smart to look at both.

A practical way to compare:

• Ask for each town’s current property tax rate from the assessing office.
• Look up the assessed value range for homes you are considering.
• Multiply rate by assessed value to estimate annual taxes for each property.
• Factor in utilities, trash or recycling fees, and any water or sewer district charges where applicable.

This method gives you a clearer, apples‑to‑apples view of carrying costs, which is essential for budgeting and long‑term planning.

Commute and transportation

Both towns are within the greater Manchester region, and most commuting is car based. Bedford sits closer to Manchester’s job centers, shopping, and services, which can shorten daily drives for many commuters. Amherst offers a quieter setting with a classic town center, and residents often travel to Manchester or Nashua for major shopping and services.

Public transit options in this part of New Hampshire are limited. Park‑and‑Ride lots and regional services exist, but schedules and routes change, so check current options if you plan to commute by bus. Manchester‑Boston Regional Airport is the nearest commercial airport for both towns, giving you convenient regional and national flights.

Lifestyle and amenities

Amherst highlights

• Historic village green, town common, and preservation of open space.
• A network of conservation lands and trails for hiking and outdoor activities.
• A low‑key, village‑centered lifestyle where you will likely drive to larger retail in nearby cities.

Bedford highlights

• Suburban convenience with grocery stores, restaurants, and services close to neighborhoods.
• Newer subdivisions and varied housing types, including some townhouse and condo options.
• Quick access to Manchester’s healthcare, employment centers, and cultural amenities.

Both towns support recreation programs, libraries, and seasonal events that foster a strong sense of community.

Zoning, development, and future growth

Zoning shapes what you see on the market. Amherst’s larger minimum lot sizes, conservation focus, and limited new subdivision activity help preserve its rural character, which can constrain supply. Bedford’s mix of residential zones and commercial corridors supports a broader range of housing, more recent development, and additional retail services.

If you plan to build, renovate, or add an accessory dwelling unit, review each town’s zoning ordinances and permitting timelines. Infrastructure such as water and sewer availability can vary by area. Many properties rely on private wells and septic systems, so factor system age and capacity into your due diligence.

Safety at a glance

Both Amherst and Bedford report relatively low crime compared with national averages. As you compare neighborhoods, consider local police annual reports, street lighting, sidewalks, and overall activity patterns. Touring at different times of day helps you understand day‑to‑day feel.

Who each town fits

• Young professional or first‑time buyer: Bedford often appeals if you want newer homes, varied housing options, and shorter drives to major services. Amherst can still work if you prioritize character and green space and are comfortable with a longer daily drive.
• Family with school‑age children: Both towns draw interest for their public school systems and community programs. Your choice may come down to home style, lot size, and commute.
• Downsizing couple: Bedford’s townhouse and condo options can make maintenance easier with close‑by retail and healthcare. Amherst may appeal if you want privacy, a historic setting, and access to trails.

How to choose: a simple checklist

• Clarify must‑haves: lot size, home age, layout, and maintenance level.
• Test your commute during typical rush times for both towns.
• Research current school data and visit schools if relevant.
• Compare property tax rate and assessed value for the homes you shortlist.
• Walk each town center and nearby neighborhoods to gauge daily convenience.
• Confirm utilities, well and septic details, and any HOA requirements.
• Review recent planning board minutes to understand upcoming development.
• Ask for an MLS snapshot with median price, days on market, and inventory.

Choosing between Amherst and Bedford is about matching your daily routine, budget, and long‑term plans with the right setting. If you want rural character and larger lots, Amherst often fits. If you prefer suburban convenience and more housing variety, Bedford might be the better match.

Ready to compare homes, neighborhoods, and numbers side by side? Reach out to the award‑winning team at Christensen Group, Inc. for local guidance and a current market snapshot that fits your goals.

FAQs

What are the key differences between Amherst and Bedford?

• Amherst leans rural and historic with larger lots, while Bedford offers a more suburban environment with broader retail and housing options.

How do property taxes compare in Amherst vs Bedford?

• Tax rates vary by town and change yearly, so compare each town’s current rate and multiply by the assessed value of the homes you are considering.

Which town is better for commuting to Manchester and Boston?

• Bedford is closer to Manchester’s job centers, while both towns are largely car dependent for commuting, with limited regional transit options.

How do schools in Amherst and Bedford compare?

• Each town has its own district and public data on performance; review state report cards, district reports, and school visits to compare programs and outcomes.

Where will I find more new construction or newer homes?

• Bedford typically offers more recent subdivisions and some townhouse or condo developments, while Amherst has fewer new subdivisions and more historic homes.

Is one town safer than the other?

• Both towns report relatively low crime compared with national averages; check local police reports and tour neighborhoods to assess comfort and fit.