Rankings / By State

Best Colleges in New Hampshire

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 18 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$56,047

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

49%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$21,745

Avg. Net Price

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New Hampshire is home to a diverse range of colleges, each offering unique opportunities. With 18 institutions to choose from, students and families are faced with the task of finding the right fit based on various factors like earnings potential and graduation rates. It's essential to understand how these schools stack up against each other to make an informed decision.

The best colleges in this list stand out due to their strong outcomes. Metrics such as average earnings, graduation rates, net price, and student debt are crucial indicators of a school's effectiveness in preparing students for life after graduation. For example, Dartmouth College leads with impressive earnings of $97,434 and a graduation rate of 96%, while other colleges may have lower earnings but also lower debt levels, showcasing different trade-offs.

Take Dartmouth College and Keene State College, for instance. Dartmouth graduates earn an average of $97,434, compared to Keene State's $54,368. However, Keene State has a lower net price at $17,887, which could appeal to budget-conscious students. As you explore the list below, keep these contrasts in mind to find a college that aligns with your priorities and financial situation.

Key Findings

Dartmouth College graduates earn an average of $97,434.

The average graduation rate among these colleges is 49%.

Keene State College has a net price of $17,887, making it more affordable.

University of New Hampshire at Manchester has a graduation rate of only 56%, which is below the average.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 18

Avg. earnings at 10yr $56,047

Avg. graduation rate 49%

Avg. net price $21,745

Avg. median debt $21,890

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions in New Hampshire

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH

Graduation96%

Earnings$97,434

Net Price$29,519

View full profile →

Keene State College

Keene, NH

Graduation59%

Earnings$54,368

Net Price$17,887

View full profile →

Saint Anselm College

Manchester, NH

Graduation82%

Earnings$73,371

Net Price$34,779

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College, located in Hanover, NH, has a vibrant campus home to 4,541 students. With a remarkable 96% graduation rate, it cultivates an environment where academic success is a priority, and graduates often enjoy substantial earnings, hitting a median of $97,434 after ten years in the workforce. This strong track record attracts high-achieving students, as evidenced by a selective acceptance rate of just 5%.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

Keene State College

Keene, NH · 2,699 students · Public

With a 90% acceptance rate, Keene State College in New Hampshire welcomes a diverse range of students. The college emphasizes experiential learning, making it a solid choice for those interested in hands-on opportunities that enhance their education and job readiness.

90% accepted 59% graduate $54,368 earnings

Saint Anselm College

Manchester, NH · 2,087 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Anselm College, located in Manchester, NH, is a private nonprofit institution with a welcoming community of 2,087 students. The college enjoys an 82% graduation rate, highlighting its commitment to student success and a supportive learning environment. With a moderate acceptance rate of 78%, it invites a diverse group of students eager to excel in their studies and engage in campus life.

78% accepted 82% graduate $73,371 earnings

Franklin Pierce University

Rindge, NH · 992 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, NH, welcomes a diverse group of 992 students with a 93% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many. The school has a graduation rate of 50%, and graduates earn a median income of $53,353 ten years after starting, which highlights its potential for strong post-college success in various fields.

93% accepted 50% graduate $53,353 earnings

Franklin's full profile

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH · 163,164 students · Private nonprofit

Southern New Hampshire University is a large institution in Manchester, NH, boasting a student population of 163,164. With a graduation rate of 44% and median earnings of $50,318 ten years post-graduation, many students find successful career paths after completing their degrees. The school's commitment to accessibility is reflected in its 100% acceptance rate, inviting a wide range of students to consider their options here.

100% accepted 44% graduate $50,318 earnings

Southern's full profile

Lakes Region Community College

Laconia, NH · 482 students · Public

Located in Laconia, New Hampshire, Lakes Region Community College offers a close-knit community feel while focusing on career readiness. The college emphasizes personalized instruction and student support, making it an appealing choice for those who thrive in smaller educational settings.

44% graduate $51,182 earnings

Colby-Sawyer College

New London, NH · 771 students · Private nonprofit

At Colby-Sawyer College in New London, NH, the focus is on student success, reflected in a graduation rate of 60%. With a median earning potential of $46,474 within ten years of graduation, many students leave with the skills and credentials needed to thrive in their careers. The college's 80% acceptance rate also suggests a welcoming environment for a diverse range of students.

80% accepted 60% graduate $46,474 earnings

Colby-Sawyer's full profile

Nashua Community College

Nashua, NH · 1,135 students · Public

With a student body of 1,135, Nashua Community College is a vital part of the local community in Nashua, NH. The college has a graduation rate of 34%, and those who do earn their degrees see median earnings of $46,164 a decade after graduation. This suggests that students here can gain valuable skills that translate into solid job opportunities.

34% graduate $46,164 earnings

Nashua's full profile

River Valley Community College

Claremont, NH · 608 students · Public

River Valley Community College, located in Claremont, NH, serves around 608 students and has a graduation rate of 27%. Graduates can expect to earn about $44,700 in their first decade after leaving, signaling that the college has pathways to employment, even if the graduation rate is lower than some may prefer.

27% graduate $44,700 earnings

University of New Hampshire-Main Campus

Durham, NH · 11,261 students · Public

Home to over 11,000 students, the University of New Hampshire-Main Campus in Durham, NH, provides a larger university experience without losing the personal touch. With a graduation rate of 76%, it strikes a balance between accessibility and academic rigor, making it a fitting choice for students seeking a well-rounded education. The school's 88% acceptance rate means a wide range of students can join the community, fostering a diverse academic environment.

88% accepted 76% graduate $66,479 earnings

University's full profile

#11

New England College

Henniker, NH · 1,022 students · Private nonprofit

New England College, located in Henniker, NH, has a tight-knit community with about 1,022 students enrolled. The acceptance rate is high at 92%, which can be appealing for students looking for a more accessible college experience. However, the graduation rate of 33% raises questions about student retention and support for completing their degrees.

92% accepted 33% graduate $42,092 earnings

University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online

Manchester, NH · 1,157 students · Public

The University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online caters to those seeking flexibility in their education. With a focus on online learning, it can be an excellent fit for working adults or anyone juggling multiple responsibilities while pursuing a degree.

22% graduate $66,479 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Plymouth State University

Plymouth, NH · 3,153 students · Public

Plymouth State University in Plymouth, NH, has a welcoming environment for 3,153 students, with a graduation rate of 50%. The median earnings of $57,304 a decade after graduation speak to the school's ability to prepare students for successful careers, which is an encouraging prospect for both students and their families.

88% accepted 50% graduate $57,304 earnings

Plymouth's full profile

#14

Rivier University

Nashua, NH · 1,231 students · Private nonprofit

Rivier University has a welcoming community in Nashua, NH, with a student body of around 1,231. Nearly 28% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds. The graduation rate sits at 55%, suggesting that while some students find their path here, others may face challenges in completing their degree.

83% accepted 55% graduate $52,248 earnings

Rivier's full profile

#15

University of New Hampshire at Manchester

Manchester, NH · 443 students · Public

The University of New Hampshire at Manchester, with a close-knit community of 443 students, offers a unique urban campus experience. It has a graduation rate of 56%, which can reflect the diverse paths students take, and a welcoming atmosphere that supports those looking to thrive in smaller settings. Students here often find their niche, as the 81% acceptance rate makes it accessible for many.

81% accepted 56% graduate $66,479 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Manchester Community College

Manchester, NH · 1,587 students · Public

Manchester Community College offers a solid pathway for students looking to gain skills quickly. With a focus on affordability and accessibility, nearly 25% of its student body is made up of Pell Grant recipients, showing a commitment to supporting those from various economic backgrounds.

39% graduate $49,063 earnings

Manchester's full profile

#17

NHTI-Concord's Community College

Concord, NH · 2,154 students · Public

NHTI-Concord's Community College, located in Concord, NH, is home to 2,154 students with a graduation rate of 30%. The median earnings for graduates reach $48,943 after ten years, which reflects the institution's commitment to equipping students with valuable skills for the workforce, even if the completion rate is a bit lower compared to other schools.

30% graduate $48,943 earnings

NHTI-Concord's's full profile

#18

Great Bay Community College

Portsmouth, NH · 1,259 students · Public

Located in Portsmouth, NH, Great Bay Community College serves a close-knit student body of 1,259. With a graduation rate of 32%, students who stay through to the end can expect to earn a median income of $42,397 a decade after enrolling, indicating solid earning potential for graduates in the local job market.

32% graduate $42,397 earnings

While examining the data, a notable difference emerges between Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire-Main Campus. Dartmouth's graduation rate of 96% and earnings of $97,434 significantly outshine the University of New Hampshire-Main Campus, which boasts a graduation rate of 76% and the same earnings of $66,479. This pattern highlights how a school's resources and support systems can lead to better post-graduation outcomes.

After reviewing the rankings, consider what matters most to you. Are you prioritizing a strong earnings potential or a lower debt burden? Look into the campus culture, location, and specific programs offered. Each college has a unique feel and set of opportunities, so make sure to weigh these aspects against the data you see here.

Ultimately, these numbers reflect a broader reality about the transition from college to a stable life. A family's choice of college can shape not only financial outcomes but also career trajectories. As you decide, remember that the right fit can set the foundation for a successful future, and making an informed choice is crucial.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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