Breaking down the cost of living in New Hampshire

New Hampshire attracts people looking for a good balance between comfortable living and financial security. The state appeals to retirees, families, and young workers because it offers lower taxes, plenty of outdoor activities, and a healthy job market. Residents save more money since there is no state income tax or sales tax, greatly lowering the overall cost of living in New Hampshire. Outdoor lovers enjoy year-round activities such as hiking in the White Mountains and kayaking on Lake Winnipesaukee. Many people also appreciate being close to larger cities like Boston without paying expensive city prices. Families moving to the state often hire trusted Southern New Hampshire movers, who clearly explain everyday expenses. These movers help new residents understand real costs, making the relocation process simpler and easier to manage.

Housing costs: Renting vs. buying in New Hampshire

Understanding housing costs in New Hampshire is one of the first steps toward planning a realistic move. Home prices, property taxes, and rent rates vary greatly across towns. What you’ll pay in Merrimack or Nashua looks very different from what you might see in Concord or Manchester. Compared to its neighbors, the Granite State offers competitive pricing in many areas, but some regions are growing quickly and becoming less affordable. For people who want to relocate without overspending, learning how the market behaves—and knowing where to look—can make a major difference. Having help from local professionals also makes the process smoother, especially when unfamiliar with the area’s neighborhoods and price ranges.

Home prices in New Hampshire vs. neighboring states

In early 2025, the median home price in New Hampshire reached $499,000. In 2019, that number was $248,008, meaning prices have more than doubled in just six years. These increases have changed how affordable New Hampshire feels compared to nearby states. For example, the median home in Vermont now costs $390,220; in Maine, it’s about $391,452. Massachusetts is still more expensive, with a median home price of $646,000. That makes New Hampshire a mid-range option—more affordable than Boston suburbs but pricier than parts of rural Maine or Vermont. Still, with no state income or sales tax, many buyers find the overall cost of living easier to manage here, especially when housing is paired with other financial perks.

Rental market overview: Nashua and Manchester vs. Boston and Portland

Renting in New Hampshire gives people more flexibility and is often cheaper than buying—at least short-term. The average rent across the Manchester–Nashua area in 2025 is $2,106 monthly. A one-bedroom in Manchester averages $1,977, while Nashua is slightly higher at $2,131. While these prices aren’t low, they’re still far more manageable than what you’d pay in Boston, where rents easily top $3,000 monthly in many neighborhoods. Portland, Maine, also has higher rental prices than most New Hampshire cities, especially in walkable downtown areas. New Hampshire’s rental market gives people more room for money and easier access to jobs and schools without dealing with Boston’s extreme rent costs.

Property taxes and local housing budgets

Property taxes in New Hampshire vary greatly depending on the town, affecting monthly costs as much as mortgage payments. In 2024, Portsmouth had a rate of $11.18 per $1,000 in assessed value. In Concord, it was $27.69 per $1,000. That’s more than double. These tax rates can raise or lower your yearly expenses by thousands of dollars. Even homes with the same market price may carry different costs based entirely on local tax decisions. If you plan to buy, it’s smart to immediately factor this into your budget.

Finding affordable housing: Market trends in Merrimack, Salem, and Nashua

Some areas still offer better value, especially for those who act fast. In Merrimack, for example, the median home sold for $540,000 in March 2025. That’s up 2.9% from the previous month, showing how fast prices are moving. Salem and Nashua show similar growth, driven by demand from buyers priced out of southern Massachusetts. Getting into these markets early can mean better long-term savings. To simplify this process, many people work with movers Merrimack NH who know the housing trends, understand where new listings appear, and help families settle into neighborhoods that match their budget and lifestyle.

Taxes & cost of living in New Hampshire: How New Hampshire saves you money

Taxes shape daily expenses more than many people realize. The rules are different in New Hampshire—and for many, they’re more favorable. The state’s approach helps residents keep more of what they earn, which plays a big role in the overall cost of living in New Hampshire.

No state income tax or sales tax: Major financial benefits

New Hampshire does not tax wages. It does not charge a general sales tax. People here take home more of each paycheck. They also pay less when they shop. In 2025, the state removed its 3% tax on interest and dividends. That change helps retirees, self-employed workers, and investors. These tax breaks can add up. Over time, they help families stretch their budgets. When you earn and spend in New Hampshire, the state takes less from you.

Property taxes – A key consideration

New Hampshire avoids taxing income or sales. But it collects high property taxes. The average rate sits near 1.89%. Most homeowners pay around $6,372 per year. Local tax rates vary a lot. In 2024, Concord taxed at $27.69 per $1,000 of value. Portsmouth’s tax is at $11.18 per $1,000. That means a $300,000 home costs $8,307 annually in Concord and $3,354 in Portsmouth. Two homes with the same value can lead to very different bills. So, when people look for a house, they must also check the local tax rate.

Overall tax burden compared to neighboring states

Even with high property taxes, New Hampshire keeps the total tax burden low. Residents pay about 6.9% of their income in state and local taxes. In Massachusetts, the rate is 8.9%. In Vermont, it’s 10.8%. These gaps make New Hampshire appealing. For people leaving Boston or Vermont, the difference adds up. Lower taxes mean more room for savings or other needs. That’s why families often work with one of the best moving companies Salem NH offers. These teams help people understand tax costs in different towns so they can confidently plan.

Everyday expenses – Utilities, groceries, and transportation

Living in New Hampshire brings steady expenses. Most fall near national averages, though a few stand out. Utility costs are higher than expected. In 2025, electricity averages 23.4 cents per kilowatt-hour. That rate beats Massachusetts at 21.8¢, Maine at 20.4¢, and Vermont at 19.3¢. Winter pushes bills higher, especially for homes that rely on oil or propane heat. Most households pay about $401 monthly for electricity, heat, water, and trash pickup.

Grocery prices are just above average. A gallon of milk costs around $3.50, a loaf of bread costs about $2.50, and apples and bananas sell for nearly $1.80 per pound. Market Basket offers good weekly sales, helping families stretch their food budgets. Local co-ops and small stores often carry specialty items at a higher price. Compared to Maine and Vermont, New Hampshire’s grocery totals are slightly steeper but still manageable with planning.

Transportation is another big part of the monthly budget. Most people need cars. Gas costs about $3.05 per gallon, which matches national trends. Public transit exists in places like Nashua but doesn’t cover wide areas. Without rail lines or frequent bus routes, people rely on driving. That’s why commute time matters when choosing a home. Many work with movers Nashua NH to settle near highways or local routes. These movers know which neighborhoods save time—and fuel. For most residents, cars aren’t just helpful—they’re necessary.

Healthcare costs in New Hampshire – Cost of living in NH

Healthcare in New Hampshire is good but not cheap. In 2025, the average monthly health insurance premium for a 40-year-old is about $419. That’s lower than Massachusetts, where the average is $525, but slightly higher than Maine at $411. These rates don’t include deductibles, co-pays, or out-of-pocket costs, which vary by plan and provider. For many families, insurance premiums remain one of their highest monthly bills.

Access to care depends on where you live. Cities like Manchester, Concord, and Nashua have large hospitals and more specialists. Rural areas still have clinics, but options can feel limited. Patients may need to travel 30 minutes or more to see a provider in remote towns. New Hampshire ranks well for quality of care but has fewer hospitals than larger states. The state’s major facilities are Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Elliot Hospital, and Catholic Medical Center.

Healthcare costs affect different groups in different ways. Retirees often face rising medication expenses and limited provider networks. Families need pediatricians, urgent care, and mental health services close by. Young professionals tend to seek flexible care and lower premiums. These factors make location a key part of planning. That’s why some families speak with movers Amherst NH before choosing a new home. Local movers understand which neighborhoods are near top hospitals or urgent care clinics. Their input helps newcomers avoid long drives for care and settle near services they’ll use often.

Job market and income levels & cost of living in New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s job market supports a high quality of life. People here earn more than in many states. As of 2023, the median household income reached $96,838. That’s among the highest in the country. But costs are higher too. The state’s overall cost of living sits about 13% above the national average. Still, most workers find their income stretches far enough to cover daily needs and plan ahead.

Strong incomes come from steady employment across key sectors. Health care, retail, and manufacturing employ the most people. Together, they make up more than one-third of the workforce. Advanced manufacturing is growing fast. From 2017 to 2022, the sector added over 1,000 jobs. Bioscience has also surged. Since 2019, jobs in that field have grown by nearly 28%. New Hampshire’s industries aren’t just growing—they’re evolving. These trends draw skilled workers, especially those in tech, health, and science.

For remote workers, location matters just as much as salary. Many now move outside big cities to cut costs. Goffstown is one of those towns. It offers quiet neighborhoods, easy highway access, and lower housing prices than nearby urban centers. People working from home often contact trusted movers Goffstown NH offers to help find homes that fit their lifestyle. These movers know which areas have stable internet, short drives to services, and less noise for meetings. In New Hampshire, job growth, flexible work options, and high wages create a solid foundation for people building long-term plans.

Quality of life vs. cost of living trade-offs

New Hampshire gives people more space, less noise, and a slower pace. Families often choose it for safer neighborhoods, cleaner air, and outdoor freedom. State parks, lakes, and trails are close to nearly every town. Many residents spend weekends hiking, fishing, or skiing. These activities cost little but add value to everyday life. That balance between living well and spending less is part of what makes New Hampshire appealing.

Urban centers like Manchester, Concord, and Nashua offer quick access to jobs, schools, and healthcare. Rent and home prices are higher in these cities, but commute times are shorter, and services are closer. Housing may cost less in rural towns, but travel can take longer. Some residents enjoy peace and privacy, while others prefer the energy of busier areas. The right fit depends on daily needs and how much space you want.

Compared to other states in New England, New Hampshire stands out. It’s less expensive than Massachusetts and Connecticut, especially regarding taxes and housing. Vermont and Maine have cheaper homes in some areas but fewer jobs and slower internet. New Hampshire blends access, comfort, and cost to suit many lifestyles. Families often work with packing services in Merrimack NH, to make the move easier. These local pros help with not just boxes but also planning. They know which towns offer convenience and calm, and they help families start life in New Hampshire without added stress.

What daily life looks like after you settle in

Daily life in New Hampshire moves with ease. People know their neighbors and greet them often. Towns hold small events that bring folks together. Many families shop at nearby markets and eat dinner at home. Weekends fill with simple plans—walks, drives, or quiet time outside. Streets stay calm, and most schools sit near where kids live. Whether you work from home or commute, the pace feels steady. It’s a place where routine brings comfort.

Is moving to New Hampshire worth it?

New Hampshire offers a strong mix of value and lifestyle. You get tax advantages, steady job growth, and safer, quieter living places. While some expenses run high, the lack of income and sales taxes helps your money go further. Families, retirees, and remote workers all find reasons to stay. Evaluating the real cost of living in New Hampshire helps you make a smart move, not a rushed one. To keep things simple, many people turn to expert help. Specialists like antique furniture movers handle what matters most while you focus on settling into a place that truly fits your goals.