New Hampshire, known as the "Granite State", is a tax-friendly New England state with no income or sales tax but high property taxes. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Granite State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in New Hampshire for a single person earning the median income of $83,300/year:
Each category shows how New Hampshire compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in New Hampshire.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in New Hampshire.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in New Hampshire:
Housing is the single biggest expense in New Hampshire, as it is everywhere. The median home price in New Hampshire is $445,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,350/month. With a housing cost index of 118, New Hampshire housing is 18% more expensive than the national average.
Housing costs in New Hampshire are above average but manageable for households earning the median income. The 30% rule (spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing) is achievable in most areas.
New Hampshire is one of only 9 states with no state income tax. This is a major financial benefit — a household earning $83,300 saves approximately $4,998/year compared to a state with a 6% income tax rate. This extra take-home pay effectively reduces your cost of living and increases your purchasing power.
The average single person in New Hampshire spends approximately $430/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,075-$1,290/month. The food cost index of 102 means groceries in New Hampshire are 2% above the national average.
Gas prices in New Hampshire average $3.35/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $2,010/year in fuel costs.
New Hampshire healthcare costs are 11% above the national average (index: 111). The average annual healthcare cost per person in New Hampshire is approximately $6,660 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in New Hampshire averages $1,200/month ($14,400/year). This is a significant expense that rivals rent in many areas. Many families in New Hampshire find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
New Hampshire is a higher-cost state, but the higher expenses often come with higher incomes, better infrastructure, and more job opportunities. The median household income of $83,300 helps offset the 12% premium on living costs. No state income tax is a significant advantage at higher income levels.
See all New Hampshire financial calculators:
New Hampshire (NH) has a cost of living index of 112, meaning it is 12% more expensive than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 118. The median rent is $1,350/month and the median home price is $445,000. New Hampshire ranks #40 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in New Hampshire is approximately $108,290/year ($9,024/month). For a family of four, aim for $183,260/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($430/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in New Hampshire is $83,300.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New Hampshire is approximately $1,350/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,823/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Manchester, Nashua, Concord are the most popular metro areas. Housing costs in New Hampshire are above average — budget carefully.
New Hampshire is a more expensive state (COL index 112), but offers no state income tax, strong job markets and high median incomes ($83,300). Popular areas include Manchester, Nashua, Concord.
The most affordable areas in New Hampshire are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within New Hampshire, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Manchester metro) and more affordable areas. Dover and Rochester tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in New Hampshire for a single person is approximately $430 ($1,075 for a family of four). New Hampshire food costs are 2% above the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in New Hampshire is approximately $160. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $352/month. New Hampshire utilities are 17% above the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
New Hampshire has NO state income tax, saving the average household $4,165-$6,664/year compared to states with typical income tax rates. This is one of only 9 states with no income tax. However, New Hampshire may collect more revenue through sales tax or property tax.