A lot of people seem to be downplaying crime but I can think of at least three murders off the top of my head. Schools aren't doing too hot, with funding + drug epidemic.

North end feels a little safer, but they're still a number of car thefts and break-ins. Lot of people getting their catalytic converters cut out of their car while it sat in the drive way.

You could avoid Manchester, but the drug problem is still there, and prices go way up. WMUR ran an article a month back, regarding NHs tight housing supply; there's less than 1000 houses for sale, for the entire state of NH. Outside of Manchester your looking at higher prices and even higher Taxes.

IDK, try Maine or VT.