Downtown Nashua looking south along Main Street. The city was recently named the country’s best city to move to. Courtesy photo/City of Nashua

NASHUA – The Gate City recently received the esteemed honor of being named the country’s best city to move to.

According to the Move-In Magnet Index produced by MRI Software, Nashua boasts 66,342 job openings, a cost of living score of 61 and a safety score of 73.

Other cities in MRI’s top 10 include Portland, Maine, Worcester, Mass., Grand Rapids, Mich., Salt Lake City and Cleveland.

MRI spokesperson Cederick Johnson said Nashua was awarded the top ranking for its booming job market and low crime rate.

“Places like Nashua are thriving because they offer more than economic opportunity; they deliver a lifestyle balance that major metros can’t match,” he said. “This year’s index shows a clear shift toward smaller, safer and more affordable cities.”

Earlier this year, WalletHub ranked Nashua as the fifth best run city in the U.S. In 2022, it was ranked as the safest city in New England and the second safest in the country.

“It’s no wonder Nashua continues to top the lists of the best places to live,” said Board of Education President Jennifer Bishop. “We have excellent schools that meet the needs of our diverse community, award-winning public safety services, dedicated city employees and engaged, involved citizens. Nashua’s continued recognition isn’t a matter of luck, it’s the result of a citywide commitment to growth and a shared belief that we can always be better.”

According to U.S. News and World Report, the city’s current population is 91,943 and the median age of its residents is 38.

The average annual household income is now $98,469, which is well beyond the national average of $79,466.

Nashua’s median home value also exceeds the national average of $370,489 and is now at $421,719. The median monthly rent is $1,570.

Although pleased with the city’s top ranking, Ward 8 Alderman Derek Thibeault said the lack of housing continues to be a deterrent for prospective residents.

“We have little to no vacancy, so before people come knocking, we need more housing and affordable housing at that,” he said. “Once we have more places for people to live we can increase business. I am proud of this city and the work the mayor and staff have done to make the city so inviting.”

Alderman-at-Large Melbourne Moran said the MRI accolade is very much welcomed as Nashua has endured a “period of struggle.”

“It gives me hope that by working together, we can make Nashua even better,” he said. “Our collective focus should be on solving the crises within our unhoused population and social services system, as these challenges pose a risk to maintaining this excellent recognition in the future.”