Portsmouth, New Hampshire Real Estate
Portsmouth, NH Real Estate
The Definitive Guide to Portsmouth, NH Real Estate
Portsmouth is more than a town; it’s a lifestyle. From the cobblestone streets of Market Square to the historic “South End,” real estate here is some of the most coveted in New England. As your top realtor in Portsmouth, NH, I help clients navigate a fast-moving market where historic preservation meets modern sophistication.
A Legacy of “Strawbery Banke” and Global Diplomacy
Founded in 1630, Portsmouth was originally named “Strawbery Banke” for the wild fruit found along the banks of the Piscataqua River. It quickly grew into a major colonial seaport and shipbuilding center.
Strawbery Banke Museum: A ten-acre outdoor history museum that preserves the city’s continuous occupation over four centuries.
The Treaty of Portsmouth: In 1905, Portsmouth made history on the world stage when it hosted the signing of the treaty that ended the Russo-Japanese War, for which President Theodore Roosevelt won the Nobel Peace Prize.
Architectural Grandeur: The city is a living museum of Federal, Georgian, and Colonial architecture, with landmarks like the Moffatt-Ladd House and the Warner House representing the height of 18th-century merchant wealth.
Portsmouth, NH Real Estate Market Data (2026)
The Portsmouth market is characterized by high demand and chronically low inventory. In early 2026, the market has stabilized after years of rapid appreciation, yet remains a strong “seller’s market.”
| Market Metric | Current Value (Jan 2026) |
| Median Home Sale Price | ~$875,000 |
| Average Price Per Square Foot | $560 – $900+ (Downtown Peak) |
| Property Tax Rate (FY26) | $11.51 per $1,000 |
| Inventory Status | Limited / High Demand |
Top Real Estate Sales in Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth’s luxury tier is dominated by high-end waterfront estates and ultra-modern downtown penthouses.
The Condo Boom: Recent sales at 70 Maplewood Avenue have set the standard for urban luxury, with units frequently closing between $2,400,000 and $2,650,000.
Historic South End: Signature properties in the South End and along Pleasant Street often command prices exceeding $3,000,000, especially those with views of the Piscataqua River or private gardens.
Record Interest: A 2025 sale of the historic Peirce Mansion highlighted the enduring value of Portsmouth’s high-style Federal architecture.
What is Your Home Value in Portsmouth, NH?
If you own property in the 03801 ZIP code, your home value in Portsmouth, NH is likely at an all-time high. However, because Portsmouth is divided into distinct micro-markets (West End, South End, North End, and Downtown), automated valuations are often inaccurate.
When I determine your property’s value, I focus on:
The “Walkability” Score: Proximity to Market Square and the waterfront remains the #1 driver of value.
Historical Integrity: Restored homes that retain original details like pumpkin pine floors and hand-carved mantels see a “historic premium.”
Modern Upgrades: In the West End, renovated 19th-century workers’ cottages are fetching record prices when they include modern kitchens and off-street parking.
Get a Professional Valuation: In a market where homes often sell for 104% of list price, you need a top realtor in the Seacoast, NH to ensure you aren’t leaving money on the table.
Things to Do & Local Links
Portsmouth offers a world-class culinary scene, tax-free shopping, and a vibrant arts community.
Prescott Park Arts Festival: A waterfront venue for outdoor theater, concerts, and the city’s famous trial gardens.
Strawbery Banke Museum: Experience 300+ years of American history through preserved homes and living history demonstrations.
The Music Hall: An 1878 Victorian-era theater that hosts world-class musicians, speakers, and film festivals.
Market Square: The heart of the city, perfect for tax-free shopping at local boutiques and dining at nationally-acclaimed restaurants.
The USS Albacore: A research submarine that offers a unique look into Portsmouth’s rich naval and shipbuilding history.
Why Work with a Top Realtor in Portsmouth, NH?
The Portsmouth, NH real estate market moves with incredible speed. To secure a home in the South End or a penthouse downtown, you need an agent with deep local roots and a network that provides access to “pocket listings” before they hit the general market.
As a top realtor in the Seacoast, NH, I provide the aggressive negotiation and sophisticated marketing needed to succeed in New Hampshire’s most prestigious coastal city.
To Learn more about the town, you can checkout the town website!