Carroll County offers building opportunities in White Mountains, though some factors need consideration.
📊62/100AcreScore
💰$7KLand $/acre
🏠$340KHome Value
👥49,211Population
📈+3%Growth (10yr)
🌊18%Flood RiskModerate
🌡️Cold continentalClimateZone 5a
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Carroll County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Carroll County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check New Hampshire requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Carroll County Building Department
Ossipee, NH
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Elevated flood risk at 18%. Carroll County has significant FEMA flood zone coverage — careful site selection and flood insurance may be required. Check FEMA maps for your specific parcel.
18%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Affordable land market. At roughly $6,500 per acre, Carroll County offers good value for builders looking for rural acreage.
$7K
Median $/acre
$340K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
1.62%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Carroll County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Carroll County sits in the heart of White Mountains. Portland is 70 min away. No state income tax means your dollar stretches further here than in most states.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $6,500/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population49,211
10-Year Growth+3%
County SeatOssipee
State Income TaxNone
ClimateCold continental (Zone 5a)
How Close Is Everything?
Portland70 min
Portland (PWM)75 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Carroll County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Ossipee. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
Carroll County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans — zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Carroll County?
Check with the Carroll County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Carroll County?
Median price is approximately $6,500 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Carroll County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes — most of Carroll County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Carroll County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 1.62%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Carroll County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In New Hampshire, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.