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Cost of Living in New Hampshire

Is it better to rent or buy in New Hampshire? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$105,084
$1,568/mo

Median in area: $1,568

$412,342

Median in area: $412,342

$82,468

If you Rent

🔑
$1,813 /mo
Base Rent$1,568
Est. Utilities$245
% of Income20.7%
Pre-tax Residual$6,944

If you Buy

🏠
$3,065 /mo
P&I (6.813%)$2,153
Taxes & Ins$667
Est. Utilities$245
% of Income35.0%
Pre-tax Residual$5,692

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in New Hampshire?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in New Hampshire. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,813, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $3,065 per month (a difference of $1,252).

How much do utilities cost in New Hampshire?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in New Hampshire is approximately $245. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in New Hampshire?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in New Hampshire without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $72,520 per year.