Ellsworth, New Hampshire
Grafton County · White Mountains

Ellsworth

Home to New Hampshire's Only Dry Town and Mount Kineo

About Ellsworth

Ellsworth stands as one of New Hampshire's smallest incorporated towns, with just 87 residents spread across rural Grafton County in the White Mountains region. The town operates with minimal municipal infrastructure, relying on essential services and its connection to the Pemi-Baker Regional School District for educational needs. Life here centers around the realities of small-town New Hampshire living, where residents know their neighbors and town meetings actually matter. The population size means every voice carries weight in local decisions, and the rural setting provides the space and quiet that draws people to northern New Hampshire. Winter brings the full White Mountains experience, while the growing season supports those interested in rural property use.

Why Ellsworth?

  • Population of 87 means genuine small-town community where every resident matters
  • Rural Grafton County location with space between neighbors
  • Part of Pemi-Baker Regional School District serving multiple small towns
  • White Mountains region access for outdoor recreation
  • Low-key municipal environment with minimal local regulations

Quick Facts

Population
87
County
Grafton
Region
White Mountains
School District
SAU 48

Weather in Ellsworth

39°F

Clear

Today

42 / 31

Fri

38 / 27

Sat

47 / 28

Map

Living in Ellsworth

What you need to know about making Ellsworth your home.

Major Employers

Town of EllsworthPemi-Baker Regional School District

Schools & Education

Ellsworth is part of the Pemi-Baker Regional School District (SAU 48).

Cost of Living

Housing costs reflect rural Grafton County pricing, typically lower than southern New Hampshire but with limited inventory given the small population (est.). Property taxes align with northern New Hampshire rates (est.).

Real Estate

$285,000 (est.) median home price

$18.50 per $1,000 (est.) property tax rate

No state income or sales tax in NH

View listings in Ellsworth

Commute Times

2 hr 45 min
Boston
1 hr 15 min
Concord
25 min
Plymouth
35 min
Littleton
1 hr 45 min
Manchester

School District

Regional district

Pemi-Baker Regional School District(SAU 48)

Grades served: PreK-12

Website

Students attend high school in Plymouth.

Ellsworth serves as a district hub for students from nearby towns in this district.

Ellsworth local school (Pemi-Baker Regional School District)
PreK-12Elementary
Regional high school (in Plymouth) via Pemi-Baker Regional School DistrictBobcats
PreK-12High School

Hidden Gems in Ellsworth

Beyond the well-known attractions, Ellsworth has spots that locals love and visitors rarely find.

Carr Mountain Trail

summer

A challenging and lightly trafficked 6.8-mile hike to the summit of Carr Mountain, where old fire tower foundations offer views of Mount Moosilauke and the White Mountains. The trail crosses challenging Sucker Brook and features a unique section where you pass under the roots and trunk of a dead tree shaped like an octopus. This is a true locals' mountain—rugged, unmarked in sections, and offering the solitude that seasoned hikers crave.

Three Ponds Loop

year-round

A hidden 5.1-mile loop through a secluded wilderness valley between Carr Mountain and Mount Kineo. The trail passes beaver ponds, marshlands, and offers glimpses of wildlife including moose tracks. The Three Ponds Shelter sits beside a large pond and provides a remote backcountry camping experience. Water levels and beaver activity create an ever-changing landscape of wetlands and cascades.

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