Well, NH has been where I call home all my life, and I can’t see myself living elsewhere. I might change my mind when I’m in my 80’s and can’t handle the thought of doing wood for another winter.

I can’t really offer any advice for the sea coast area because I’m about as far inland as it gets in NH. But, locating in Portsmouth/Rochester area will get you decently close to the White Mountains for hiking, MTB , camping and skiing/boarding. Portsmouth has a decent music and microbrew scene, and a drive to Boston is relatively quick on the interstate. Plus, you will be really close to Maine and will be able to take advantage of the wonderful amenities of that state.

I think you’ll be glad you chose NH over MA once you’ve been here a while.