New Hampshire’s life sciences industry is growing at a pace that is surpassing the broader state economy, creating a significant opportunity for the state to build a high-value industry cluster, strengthen its workforce, and capitalize on its strategic location within the greater Boston life sciences ecosystem.
New data from the state Department of Employment Security (NHES) highlights the extent of that growth, with the number of employers in the state's core life sciences sector increasing from 325 in 2019 to 536 in 2025—a 65% increase. Total employment rose from 6,192 workers in 2019 to 7,659 in 2025, representing a 24% increase. In comparison, statewide private-sector employment grew by 4% over the same period.
"A 65% increase in life sciences employers and 24% job growth since 2019 clearly demonstrates that New Hampshire is no longer just adjacent to the Boston-Cambridge hub—we are an established destination for biotech and R&D expansion," said Lucy Lange, Commissioner of the Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA). "At BEA, our focus is translating this momentum into long-term economic strength by partnering with NHLS to expand infrastructure, build housing, and develop the skilled workforce these high-value companies require to scale here."
Some of the strongest expansion is occurring in research and development (R&D) and biotechnology, as New Hampshire capitalizes on its manufacturing expertise and regional proximity. Key sector findings include:
- Biotech R&D: Employers nearly tripled from 62 in 2019 to 163 in 2025, while employment expanded 55% (from 579 to 896 workers).
- Life Sciences R&D: Employer count rose from 115 to 235, with employment increasing 57% (from 1,239 to 1,946 workers).
- Pharmaceutical & Medical Manufacturing: Pharmaceutical manufacturing employment grew from 1,666 to 2,280 workers, while medical equipment manufacturing sustained a strong core base of 2,117 jobs in 2025.
“This growth speaks to the tremendous potential of New Hampshire’s life sciences ecosystem,” said Andrea Hechavarria, President of NH Life Sciences (NHLS). “We’re seeing companies grow and high-value jobs being created. At NH Life Sciences, we’re excited to bring industry, higher education, and workforce partners together to build on this momentum and position New Hampshire for continued growth.”
Through its Economic Development Committee, NHLS brings together industry leaders, developers, and state officials to attract new biotech, medtech, and advanced manufacturing investment while building the infrastructure needed for sustained expansion.
With over 200 life sciences employers and nearly 1,500 core jobs added over six years, the sector increasingly joins advanced manufacturing and tourism as a primary driver of high-wage employment and long-term economic opportunity across New Hampshire.
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About the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs:
The Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) is dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality of the State of New Hampshire while promoting it as a destination for domestic and international visitors. BEA oversees programs in economic development, international commerce, outdoor recreation industry development, planning and community development, travel and tourism, visitor services, and workforce development. For more information, visit
www.nheconomy.com.
About the New Hampshire Life Sciences:
Established in 2023, NHLS is the statewide life sciences association—built by the industry, for the industry. Our mission is to foster growth and awareness of the life sciences industry in New Hampshire and to attract and retain world-class talent and innovation to the Granite State. New Hampshire's life sciences industry includes more than 500 companies, across five major industry groups (medical device manufacturing, medical equipment/supplies, research and development, pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing, and medical and diagnostic laboratories).