Merrimack is increasingly a hot spot for jobs. The town is home to military engineering firm Nanocorp, a range of startups and, soon, the headquarters of medical device manufacturer Atrium Medical. Visitors and residents alike are drawn to the Anheuser-Busch factory, and a premium outlet mall opened on the outskirts of town last year, bringing new jobs and tourists.

Several parks, a strong youth-recreation program, and proximity to the Merrimack River keep residents busy year-round. --K.F.