Masons Neighborhood Overview
Masons is a historic and highly desirable neighborhood located in the heart of Concord, New Hampshire. Bounded roughly by Pleasant Street to the north, Centre Street to the south, and encompassing the area around the State House and the Concord Hospital campus, its central location is a primary draw. The neighborhood's character is defined by its quiet, tree-lined streets, elegant historic architecture, and a palpable sense of being at the center of the city's civic and cultural life.
The neighborhood's history is deeply intertwined with Concord's development as the state capital. Many of its stately homes were built in the 19th and early 20th centuries for prominent legislators, judges, and business leaders. Walking through Masons, one encounters a living timeline of architectural styles, from Federal and Greek Revival to Victorian and Colonial Revival. This central yet serene enclave offers a rare blend of walkability to downtown amenities and a peaceful residential atmosphere.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in Masons is predominantly composed of single-family homes, many of which are large, well-preserved historic properties. These homes often feature classic New England details such as widow's walks, wraparound porches, and intricate woodwork. There is also a notable presence of grand brick and clapboard mansions, particularly along Pleasant Street and surrounding the State House grounds, reflecting the area's legacy as a home for the city's elite.
Real estate in Masons commands some of the highest prices in the Concord market, with homes typically ranging from the mid-$600,000s well into the millions for the most significant historic estates. The market is primarily owner-occupied, with a very low rental vacancy rate. Recent trends show sustained demand for these character-rich homes, with properties often receiving multiple offers, driven by buyers seeking a premium central location, architectural significance, and proximity to top-tier city services.
Schools & Education
Families in the Masons neighborhood are served by the Concord School District, which is consistently rated among the best in the state. Elementary students typically attend the nearby Abbot-Downing School, known for its strong academic programs and community involvement. Middle school students progress to Rundlett Middle School, and high school students attend Concord High School, which offers a wide array of Advanced Placement courses and extracurricular activities.
In addition to the excellent public schools, the neighborhood's central location provides easy access to private educational options, including St. Paul's School (a short drive away) and the Concord Christian Academy. The neighborhood is also just a walk from the Concord Public Library's main branch, a vital resource for lifelong learning and community events, further enhancing its appeal to education-focused residents.
Parks & Recreation
Despite its urban core location, Masons offers residents access to several cherished green spaces. The most prominent is the New Hampshire State House lawn, which functions as a de facto neighborhood park for casual strolls, lunch breaks, and seasonal events. Nearby, Eagle Square and the adjacent Merrimack River riverwalk provide scenic paths for walking, running, and biking along the water, connecting to a broader trail network.
For more active recreation, the Everett Arena, located on the edge of the neighborhood, offers public skating, hockey, and special events. The neighborhood's walkability is a key recreational asset, allowing residents to easily access downtown fitness studios, yoga centers, and the Capitol Center for the Arts for cultural enrichment. The annual Market Days festival and numerous parads that wind through the streets further activate the public realm.
Local Dining & Shopping
Living in Masons means having Concord's vibrant downtown dining and shopping scene at your doorstep. Main Street, just a short walk away, is lined with an eclectic mix of restaurants, from cozy cafes like The Works Café to fine dining establishments such as O Steaks & Seafood and Granite Restaurant & Bar. The neighborhood itself is home to a few local gems, including coffee shops and eateries that cater to both state employees and residents.
For shopping, residents enjoy the convenience of independent boutiques, bookstores, and gift shops downtown. While the neighborhood is primarily residential, daily grocery needs are met at the nearby Concord Food Co-op, a community-focused market offering local and organic products, and larger chain supermarkets are just a short drive away. The historic Concord Market, a year-round indoor artisan market, is also a major draw for unique local goods and prepared foods.
Who Lives Here
The Masons neighborhood attracts a mix of professionals, established families, and empty-nesters who value history, convenience, and community. Its residents often include state government officials, attorneys, healthcare professionals from the nearby hospital, and university faculty. There is a strong sense of civic engagement and pride of place among homeowners, many of whom are stewards of the area's historic architecture and participate in neighborhood associations.
The community vibe is one of quiet sophistication and neighborliness. It draws people seeking an urban lifestyle without the intensity of a larger city—a place where you can walk to the theater, a fine meal, or a legislative session, yet return home to a tree-shaded street. This combination of historical prestige, unparalleled walkability, and a tight-knit, educated community solidifies Masons' status as Concord's most prestigious and sought-after downtown neighborhood.