Cost of Living in New Hampshire [2025]
Whether you are interested in bright bustling cities, soaring mountains, or vast unspoiled forests, there are plenty of things to enjoy in New Hampshire.
It comes as no surprise that New Hampshire, one of the original 13 colonies of the nation, is filled with the old-world charm of historic towns. Still, it also offers residents and visitors breathtaking landscapes and cityscapes.
This particular corner of the country is becoming an increasingly popular place to call home. So, you might wonder what the cost of living in New Hampshire might look like. Don’t worry, we’ve done the research, so you don’t have to. Start by checking out this apartment guide, then keep scrolling for all the details on building out your new budget in New Hampshire.
Cost of Living in New Hampshire
What Is the Cost of Living in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is the tenth most expensive state in the U.S. with a cost that's 14.3% higher than the national average. The cost of living in New Hampshire varies depending on the area you move to. We looked over the data from the U.S. Census Bureau to look at the data of different cost of living categories:
| Cost of Living | New Hampshire | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 105.8 | 100 |
| Grocery | 107 | 100 |
| Health | 82.9 | 100 |
| Housing | 122.4 | 100 |
| Median Home Cost | $421,300 | $338,100 |
| Utilities | 120.5 | 100 |
| Transportation | 87.6 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 109.5 | 100 |
Where Is Cost of Living Highest in New Hampshire?
The biggest city in New Hampshire with the highest cost of living is Manchester. Currently, the cost of living is 10.7% higher compared to the state average and 4.6% higher than in the rest of the U.S. As of December 2024, we found that one bedroom apartments in Manchester are currently listed on our website at an average of $2,091 a month. Check out our Manchester listings for more information.
If you want an idea of the cost of living in Manchester, here is some data to consider:
| Cost of Living | Manchester | New Hampshire | U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 110.7 | 105.8 | 100 |
| Grocery | 105.3 | 107 | 100 |
| Health | 83.0 | 82.9 | 100 |
| Housing | 111.9 | 122.4 | 100 |
| Median Home Cost | $348,500 | $421,300 | $338,100 |
| Utilities | 118.5 | 120.5 | 100 |
| Transportation | 87.5 | 87.6 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 131.1 | 109.5 | 100 |
Where Is Cost of Living Lowest in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire already has a relatively inexpensive cost of living, but the cheapest place big city is Berlin. Currently, the cost of living is 21.4% lower compared to the state average and 25.7% higher than in the rest of the U.S. If you look at our data from December 2024, one bedroom apartments in Berlin current start at $1,250 a month. Check out our Berlin listings for more information.
Here are some of the cost of living categories and their data for Berlin, NH:
| Cost of Living | Berlin | New Hampshire | U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 78.6 | 105.8 | 100 |
| Grocery | 101.5 | 107 | 100 |
| Health | 85.3 | 82.9 | 100 |
| Housing | 30.0 | 122.4 | 100 |
| Median Home Cost | $164,700 | $421,300 | $338,100 |
| Utilities | 119 | 120.5 | 100 |
| Transportation | 63.8 | 87.6 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 96.4 | 109.5 | 100 |
How Much Is Rent in New Hampshire?
As of December 2024, overall rent in New Hampshire averages $1,508 per month. For one bedroom apartments, the average is $1,177, while two-bedrooms go for around $1,643.
In Manchester, New Hampshire's largest city, rents are slightly higher. Overall median rent is $1,583, while one-bedrooms tend to cost around $1,261, and two-bedrooms around $1,698 per month. Here's a look at the current rent prices for one and two-bedroom apartment units in New Hampshire's major metropolitan areas.
| City | Median 1-Bedroom Rent | Median 2-Bedroom Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Manchester, NH | $1,261 | $1,698 |
| Nashua, NH | $1,322 | $1,818 |
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a 1-Bedroom in New Hampshire?
If you're renting a one-bedroom apartment in New Hampshire, the average price is $1,777 per month. Here's a look at rent at two of the largest cities in New Hampshire and typical rents:
| City | Median 1-Bedroom Rent |
|---|---|
| Manchester, NH | $1,261 |
| Nashua, NH | $1,322 |
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a 2-Bedroom in New Hampshire?
Two-bedroom apartments in New Hampshire currently run around $1,643 on average across the state. Rent is always location-specific, so we took a look at rents in two of the larger cities:
| City | Median 2-Bedroom Rent | |
|---|---|---|
| Manchester, NH | $1,698 | |
| Nashua, NH | $1,818 |
How Much Does a House Cost in New Hampshire?
If you're considering buying a home in New Hampshire, you should get acquainted with some of the median home prices in the setate.
| City | Median Home Price |
|---|---|
| Manchester, NH | $348,500 |
| Concord, NH | $360,000 |
| Nashua, NH | $425,900 |
| Derry, NH | $415,500 |
What Salary Do I Need to Live in New Hampshire?
We use a budgeting rule to determine livable salary that says you should not be spending more than one-third of your gross income on rent in order to pay all your bills and have enough left over for savings and entertainment. At the current average rate of $1,508, you would need to earn just over $60,320 a year to afford an apartment in New Hampshire.
If you’re planning to rent in Manchester, where the median rent for a one-bedroom is $1,261, then you'll only need around $50,440 a year to afford an apartment.
It's also a good idea to consider the living wage in New Hampshire. According to data from MIT, the state's living wage is $23.58 an hour, or $49.046 a year. That hourly wage covers the necessities, including food, transportation, healthcare.
The U.S. Census Bureau also has data on the meidan household income in New Hampshire, which is $95,682 a year, or $45.98 an hour. You can compare that to the U.S. median household income of $78,538 a year, or $37.76 an hour.
How Much Is Transportation in New Hampshire?
Getting around in New Hampshire can add up, with average annual transportation costs of $10,938 for a single individual, according to the MIT Living Wage Calculator. If you’re a family of four with two working parents and two children, you can anticipate paying around $18,346 in transportation costs on an annual basis.
Every county within the state has public transportation, with a wide range of services, including specialized services for individuals with disabilities and seniors, intercity services, and local bus systems.
You can view an extensive list of the available transit services available in New Hampshire through the state’s Department of Transportation Rideshare Transit Services website.
While public transportation is one option, it is easiest to have your own reliable transportation. To get a better idea of the costs associated with having your own vehicle, take a look at the average gas prices in the major cities in New Hampshire:
- Dover: $3.29/gallon
- Portsmouth: $3.50/gallon
- Concord: $3.89/gallon
- Manchester: $3.53/gallon
Keep in mind that these prices are well below the national average, which currently sits at $3.78 per gallon of regular gas.
How Much Are Food Costs in New Hampshire?
The average single New Hampshire resident spends around $4,526 annually on food or roughly $377.16 per month. A family of two working adults and two children nearly triples the cost to $13,302 annually, roughly $1,108.50 per month.
Keep in mind that these figures are associated with food that has been picked up at the local Shaw’s, Hannaford Supermarket, or Kulick’s Market and has been entirely prepared in the home. You may also want to budget for other additional food costs if you are anything short of a mastermind in the kitchen.
With so many delicious restaurants to choose from and iconic New Hampshire foods, it’s hard to resist a few meals out on the town. Remember to account for eating out in your budget, and make sure you try the famous apple cider donuts, venison, spiked cider, and of course, clam chowder.
To get a better idea of how to budget, here’s a look at some of the average costs for a meal for two people in a mid-range restaurant, with three courses, across New Hampshire:
- Dover: $60
- Portsmouth: $100
- Concord: $75
- Manchester: $80
How Much Is Healthcare in New Hampshire?
When considering the move to New Hampshire, don’t overlook healthcare costs. A single adult with no children will pay around $3,655 for medical care in a single year. A family of four with two working adults and two children can expect to pay $10,186, not including child care.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle should always be a top priority, regardless of where you choose to live. So, whether you see your doctor annually or suffer from any chronic illnesses, it is always essential to have proper health insurance to stay on top of costs for care. It can be beneficial in emergencies to ensure you can afford any treatments necessary.
Check out the federal healthcare marketplace to see what coverage is available in your new location before your big move. You can report your move to make sure you qualify for out-of-state coverage if you happen to relocate outside of an enrollment period, which usually falls in November.
Even when moving to a different state, if you’re under the age of 26 and still on your parent’s insurance plan, it is possible to maintain standing through their policy. You'll want to check with your current provider first to see which doctors, if any, fall in network in your new location.
How Much Are Utilities in New Hampshire?
Average utility bills tend to be higher in New Hampshire than the national average, which is $253.14 per month for a 915 square foot apartment. In NH, that number is $282.21. For electricity, expect to pay an average of $141.52 a month, while gas will cost around $71.76, water will be closer to $23.04, while fuel should run around $45.90. Learn more about the estimated utility costs per city!.
Unfortunately, these average costs do not include other expenses, such as the internet. The average monthly costs of internet of 60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, or cable/ADSL in these major cities are:
- Dover: $94.67
- Portsmouth: $64.60
- Concord: $84.29
- Manchester: $84.29
Don't forget about other necessary expenses that start to add up, such as the monthly cost of your cell phone bill, which averages $127.37 for the nation. You might be able to combine your cell phone and internet into one plan for an additional discount. Otherwise, other discounts might also be available to new customers, so always be sure to ask.
New Hampshire Fitness and Entertainment
There is no shortage of fitness and entertainment opportunities for anyone throughout New Hampshire. Remember to account for some of your fitness and entertainment expenses in your budget, too. Thankfully, we’re here to help you by providing you with a breakdown of some of these costs before moving to New Hampshire.
Gym Memberships
In New Hampshire, winters are freezing and filled with snow, with an average of nearly 72” of snowfall each year. As to be expected, this can make outdoor exercise challenging. To maintain your fitness through the harsh winters, you might want to consider a gym membership.
Thankfully, the average cost, per month, of a fitness club in major cities throughout New Hampshire is relatively low:
- Dover: $71.33
- Portsmouth: $25
- Concord: $70
- Manchester: $41.67
Outdoor activities such as running, hiking, biking, and walking can help you save on costs as weather permits. Just remember that there are four very distinct seasons in New Hampshire, meaning you’ll have to account for the proper attire for each.
State Parks in New Hampshire
While New Hampshire does not have any national parks, it is home to 93 state parks with unique outdoor activities and recreation. Some of the most popular national and state parks in New Hampshire:
- Franconia Notch State Park in Lincoln
- Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown
- Crawford Notch State Park in the White Mountains
- Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park in Cornish
- Echo Lake State Park in Conway
Museums
In addition to its extensive parks, New Hampshire is also home to over 150 museums, great for year-round family entertainment. Some of the most famous museums in the state include:
- Strawbery Banke Museum
- Currier Museum of Art
- USS Albacore Museum
- Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center
- Wright Museum of WWII
Visit a Famed Attraction
New Hampshire may not boast the same scale of attractions as some larger states, but it more than makes up for it with its natural beauty, charm, and unique experiences. Many of these activities are also affordable or even free to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a day filled with adventure and relaxation, take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, explore the picturesque Mount Washington Valley, or visit the historic Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth. For thrill-seekers, a ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway or zip-lining through the White Mountains makes for an unforgettable experience.
How Much Are Taxes in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is one of the few states that doesn’t impose a state income tax on earned wages, which is a major financial perk for residents of the Granite State.
However, keep in mind that New Hampshire does have a 5% tax on interest and dividends, which could impact certain investments. The state also lacks a general sales tax, which is a significant savings compared to many other states. This means you won’t see added percentages tacked onto most purchases, making day-to-day expenses a bit more manageable. Be sure to consider these tax advantages when weighing the cost of living in New Hampshire.
Other Expenses to Consider in New Hampshire
The great news is that there is no income tax on salary and wages in addition to no sales tax in New Hampshire. Unfortunately, this does come at a cost as New Hampshire is known for having the highest average effective property tax rates in the nation and a 5% tax on interest and dividends.
Renters considering moving to New Hampshire from out of state will also have to account for additional costs, including movers, storage, hotels, and transportation. Big moves like this will also require additional fees such as apartment application fees, security deposits, pet deposits, and other optional add-ons.
Another often overlooked expense comes once you have moved into your new apartment. After all, you’ll want to do some decorating to make it feel like a home. Unfortunately, furnishing a new apartment can be expensive. Check out these tips on how to decorate your apartment on a budget.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking to move to a small state with a big personality, New Hampshire might be the state for you. Register with Apartment List today and start checking out the thousands of available apartments to rent in New Hampshire!
FAQs about Cost of Living in New Hampshire
How expensive is an apartment in New Hampshire?
In Manchester, New Hampshire's largest city, rents are slightly more expensive than the state as a whole. Overall median rent is $1,583, while one-bedrooms tend to cost around $1,261, and two-bedrooms around $1,698 per month.
What is the cheapest rent in New Hampshire?
Currently, the cheapest rent in New Hampshire is in Berlin where rents start at $1,250 a month or lower.
How expensive is it to live in New Hampshire?
The average single New Hampshire resident spends around $4,559 annually on food or roughly $379.92 per month. A family of two working adults and two children nearly triples the cost to $13,429 annually, roughly $1,119.08 per month. Transportation in New Hampshire costs $4,470 for a single individual. Two working parents and two children spend around $11,821 in transportation annually.
How far is New Hampshire from New York?
New Hampshire to New York is 268.9 miles and takes about four and a half hours to drive via I-95 N. You can also take a train from New Hampshire to New York and connect in Boston.
How far is New Hampshire from Boston?
Boston to New Hampshire is 69 minutes and takes about an hour to drive via I-93 N. Train service is also available from New Hampshire to Boston.
What is the population of New Hampshire?
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of New Hampshire was 1,402,054 in 2023.
What is a good salary in New Hampshire?
U.S. Census Bureau reports that the average salary for New Hampshire residents is $95,628. However, to stick to the rule of spending only 30% on your monthly income on rent, you need an income of a bit over $63,320 to comfortably afford the overall average rent of $1,583 a month.
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