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Cost of Living in
New Hampshire

Living cost is 10.4% higher than avg
Families spend upto $9,691/mo on avg
Homeowners spend $9,036/mo on avg
Renters spend $5,842/mo on avg

Cost of Living in
New Hampshire

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A Breakdown of the Cost of Living in New Hampshire

U.S. Avg.

New Hampshire

Difference Diff

Home Price

$534,127

$557,325

Apartment Rent (per month)

$1,354

$2,271

68%

U.S. Avg.

New Hampshire

Difference Diff

Phone (per month)

$219.9

$190.66

13%

Total Energy (per month)

$194.67

$278.51

43%

U.S. Avg.

New Hampshire

Difference Diff

Grocery Staples

Corn Flakes (per box)

$5.88

$5.81

Frozen Corn (per bag)

$2.33

$2.26

Frozen Meal (per package)

$4.75

$3.88

18%

Cooking Oil (per bottle)

$6.00

$9.74

62%

Detergent (per bottle)

$18.81

$20.94

11%

Facial Tissues (per box)

$2.54

$2.52

Sweet Peas (per can)

$1.74

$1.81

Sugar (per bag)

$4.46

$5.38

21%

Bread (per loaf)

$3.66

$3.78

Frying Chicken (per lb)

$1.64

$1.44

12%

Meat & Poultry

Chicken (per lb)

$1.67

$1.52

Steak (per lb)

$13.56

$16.99

25%

Sausage (per lb)

$4.89

$4.77

Ground Beef (per lb)

$7.90

$6.89

13%

Snacks & Beverages

Soft Drink (per bottle)

$3.08

$2.9

Potato Chips (per bag)

$5.08

$4.15

18%

Coffee (per lb)

$5.92

$6.1

Fresh Orange Juice (per half gallon)

$4.85

$4.81

Fruits & Vegetables

Peaches (per can)

$4.29

$2.66

38%

Lettuce (per head)

$1.85

$2.01

Bananas (per lb)

$0.62

$0.74

19%

Potatoes (per bag)

$4.61

$5.18

12%

Dairy & Eggs

Parmesan Cheese (per lb)

$4.46

$5.11

15%

Margarine (per lb)

$1.26

$1.45

15%

Eggs (per dozen)

$4.50

$4.73

Whole Milk (per gallon)

$4.02

$4.84

20%

Seafood

Chunk Light Tuna (per can)

$1.06

$1.41

33%

U.S. Avg.

New Hampshire

Difference Diff

Tire Balance (per tire)

$69.15

$78.26

13%

Gasoline (per gallon)

$2.82

$2.96

U.S. Avg.

New Hampshire

Difference Diff

Doctor Visit (per visit)

$113.53

$185.67

64%

Dentist Visit (per visit)

$144.14

$115.16

20%

Ibuprofen (per bottle)

$11.48

$12.09

Prescription Drug (per month)

$21.09

$24.76

17%

Optometrist Visit (per visit)

$93.18

$191.86

106%

U.S. Avg.

New Hampshire

Difference Diff

Women’s Slacks

$34.9

$33.72

Boys’ Jeans

$29.45

$25.95

12%

Men’s Shirt

$39.14

$34.12

13%

Wine (per bottle)

$7.14

$12.08

69%

Beer (per 6-pack)

$10.78

$9.88

Veterinary Services (per visit)

$65.41

$96.38

47%

Tennis Balls (per pack)

$3.49

$4.15

19%

Yoga (per class)

$11.89

$27.44

131%

Movie (per ticket)

$11.41

$13.13

15%

Newspaper (per copy)

$18.96

$14.62

23%

Washer Repair (per service)

$109.38

$113.12

Women Slacks

$34.88

$34.14

Boy Jeans

$29.51

$27.87

Man Dress Shirt

$39.05

$40.14

Dry Cleaning (per item)

$13.25

$26.68

101%

Shampoo (per bottle)

$1.56

$1.54

Toothpaste (per tube)

$3.59

$4.1

14%

Beauty Salon (per visit)

$46.61

$63.58

36%

Haircut (per cut)

$26.79

$32.1

20%

Fried Chicken (per serving)

$4.36

$5.74

32%

Pizza (per pizza)

$11.88

$12.57

Hamburger (per serving)

$5.25

$6.7

28%

Welcome to the Granite State! The average cost of living in New Hampshire is 10.4% higher than the US average. Housing and healthcare are more expensive, but transportation costs are a bit lower. Despite having no sales tax and no state income tax, living in New Hampshire still isn’t cheap. People are drawn here for the quiet towns, mountain air, and four true seasons. But if you're thinking of calling the Granite State home, be ready for a few price tags that might surprise you.

Housing is 4% higher than the national average. The median home price in New Hampshire is $557,325.00. A 10–20% down payment means setting aside $56,650 to $113,300 upfront. Monthly mortgage payments usually land between $3,700 and $4,200, depending on loan terms and credit.
Rent in New Hampshire is 67.7% higher than the national average. One-bedrooms average $2,271.00. Two-bedrooms are $2,145. A three-bedroom home in New Hampshire will cost you around $2,631. Rent rarely includes extras like covered parking or central air. Heating may be included, but in older buildings, insulation is often lacking.
Utilities are 13% higher the US average. Electric bills average $278.51 per month. Add $60 for water and $78 for high-speed internet. The natural gas bill is around $2.96 per month, and oil heat can double your winter bills. HOA fees, if applicable, fall between $100 and $1000 monthly. And in snowy months, factor in snow removal costs or equipment.
Groceries can get up to 0% lower the national average, depending on whether you’re a single adult or a family of four. A gallon of milk costs $4.84. A dozen eggs are $4.73. Bread sits at $3.78. These may not sound outrageous, but the bills add up. A family of four spends $993 to $1,568 per month on groceries. A single adult averages $183 to $529, depending on eating habits.
Transportation is 18.92% higher than the US average. Gas averages $2.96 per gallon. Monthly car insurance costs around $143. Unless you live in a city, you’ll need a car. Public transportation is minimal, mostly limited to Manchester or Nashua. Winter adds costs like snow tires, AWD vehicles, and more frequent maintenance.
Healthcare costs 17.28% higher than the US average. Routine check-ups run about $400. Dental cleanings cost $150. An ER visit without insurance can climb past $3,000. Residents often travel to cities like Concord or Manchester for appointments due to lack of specialists in rural areas. Insurance premiums also skew higher.
Miscellaneous costs can get as much as 13.47% higher than the national average. Gym memberships fall between $30 and $60 monthly. Daycare ranges from $1,200 to $1,500. Although, ski passes, lake cabins, or fall festivals are not cheap. A simple weekend outing—dinner, gas, event tickets—can add up quickly in New Hampshire’s more tourism-heavy towns.

Moving to New Hampshire? Be ready to pay more. But hey, the scenic beauty’s free—just make sure your paycheck can handle everything else!

👉 Next Step: Compare single-family homes in New Hampshire. Cost of living data is sourced in part from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Figures are provided for informational purposes only and may not reflect real-time changes.

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Is Living in New Hampshire Expensive?

Yes, New Hampshire is more expensive than the US average. The overall cost of living in NH is about 10.4% higher than the national average, with housing costs being a major reason—homes are roughly 4% higher than the US median. Although transportation costs are about 18.92% higher, healthcare is more expensive at 17.28% higher. Groceries, utilities, and miscellaneous expenses vary, but mostly hover close to national norms, with some items costing up to 8.9% more.

With a $557,325.00 budget, you can buy a modest three-bedroom home in some small towns. However, prices are higher in many places, especially near the coast, in the south, and in good school districts. In contrast, that same amount might buy a one-bedroom condo in Boston or a modest fixer-upper in parts of California. For many, New Hampshire strikes a balance between higher living costs and quality of life.

Housing in New Hampshire

Buying a home in New Hampshire comes with higher upfront costs—median prices hover at $557,325.00, about 4% higher than the national average. With mortgage rates between 6.5% and 7%, most monthly payments fall between $3,700 and $4,200. The absence of income and sales tax can help you balance out the higher cost of housing over the long run.

Buying a House in New Hampshire

If you’re a young adult or single, one-bedroom homes in Manchester or Nashua offer a solid start. Prices range from $300,000 to $500,000, with access to major employers, local breweries, and easy commutes via I-93 or Route 3. Mortgage payments typically fall between $1,900 and $2,400. For more affordable options, look at Franklin or Rochester, where homes start under $280,000.
If you’re a married couple with young children (under 6), three-bedroom homes in Bedford, Windham, and Exeter are family favorites. These towns offer quiet streets, large yards, and access to schools like Riddle Brook Elementary and Windham Center School—both highly rated for early learning. Prices range from $500,000 to $750,000, with mortgage payments between $4,000 and $5,500 per month.
If you’re a married couple with older children (ages 6 to 17), four-bedroom homes in Hollis, Amherst, and Portsmouth offer space and access to strong academics. Hollis-Brookline High and Portsmouth High are top-rated for college prep and extracurriculars. In Hollis, the median listing price is about $1.1 million, while Amherst’s median is closer to $380,000. Portsmouth properties average around $421,000, though newly built homes can reach $528,000. The average monthly housing cost in these three towns is roughly $3,700–$3,900 before utilities and maintenance. These towns also offer proximity to hiking trails, local shops, and the Seacoast.

Renting a House in New Hampshire

Renting a home in New Hampshire costs 67.7% higher than the national average. While typical US rent hovers near $2,271.00 per month, renters in New Hampshire pay closer to $2,145 for a one-bedroom home and $2,631 for a two-bedroom home. In the real hot spots, the price shoots way up for more room or the latest amenities.

If you're a young adult or single renter, one-bedroom homes in Dover, Keene, or Laconia are popular choices. Rent ranges between $1,300 and $1,700 depending on location and finishes. Dover offers a walkable downtown and quick access to the Amtrak Downeaster. Keene is cherished for its college-town vibe and arts scene; while Laconia offers affordable rents with access to Lake Winnipesaukee. Most rentals include basic appliances, though newer complexes may charge more for in-unit laundry or parking.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), two- or three-bedroom rental homes in Hooksett offer the family-friendly environment you’re likely seeking ranging from $1,800 to $2,900. These areas provide access to quiet neighborhoods, daycare centers, and grocery stores. Hooksett in particular delivers solid value, though Stratham may offer affordable alternatives amounting to $1800 per month. Public transit is limited, so a personal vehicle is essential for most families.
If you’re a family with older children (ages 6 to 17), three- or four-bedroom homes in Gilford, Merrimack, or Goffstown tend to offer more space and access to reputable public schools. Expect to pay $2,400 to $4,600 per month, depending on the home's location and condition. Gilford is close to the lakes region and offers highly rated schools like Gilford High. Merrimack provides shopping convenience with access to Route 3, while Goffstown offers a small-town feel with outdoor recreation.
If you're a retiree or downsizer, one- or two-bedroom homes in Rye, Lebanon, or Claremont cater to quieter lifestyles. Monthly rent typically ranges from $1,700 to $2,300 with Rye offering proximity to the Seacoast and a peaceful atmosphere. Lebanon is home to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center with the monthly rent hovering around $1,800. Claremont offers more affordable options—ranging from $1,300 to $1,700—and scenic views, though it’s more rural with limited services.
If you're an international student, shared three-bedroom homes in Durham, Plymouth, or Concord are ideal. Expect to budget around $2,200 to $2,800 per month, though sharing with roommates can cut individual costs by 25–35%. Durham, home to the University of New Hampshire, has three-bedroom rentals averaging about $3,100 per month—way above the budgeted range. Plymouth State University and NHTI in Concord offer off-campus housing near public transit, with Plymouth rents averaging about $1000 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Utilities in New Hampshire

Food and Groceries in New Hampshire

Transportation in New Hampshire

Healthcare in New Hampshire

Healthcare costs in New Hampshire run about 17.28% higher than the US average. While routine visits are manageable, unexpected emergencies or specialized treatments can still lead to significant bills. Rural areas often lack specialists, so residents travel to cities like Concord or Manchester for appointments. Here’s a breakdown of what healthcare expenses look like in the Granite State:

Doctor Visit — $185.67 per visit: Routine check-ups, flu shots, and prescription renewals typically cost around $400. More specialized visits—like dermatology or cardiology—can push prices higher, especially in rural areas where options are limited.
Dentist Visit — $115.16 per visit: A standard cleaning runs about $150, with cavity fillings costing between $160 and $210. X-rays and fluoride treatments add to the bill but remain roughly 5% below costs in a cosmopolis like New York.
Optometrist Visit — $191.86 per visit: The cost of routine eye exams can reach an average of $136 and include vision testing and prescription updates. Contact lens fitting or treatment for eye conditions usually add $50 to $130, depending on the provider.
Prescription Drugs: Monthly costs for common medications hover around $24.76 without insurance. For example, blood pressure meds like Lisinopril and diabetes medication like Metformin all run under $10. However, many programs like those at Walmart and Amazon Pharmacy, offer a 30-day supply of certain generics for as low as $4 to $5. Antibiotics for short-term use typically range from $20 to $35.
Over-the-Counter Meds: Basic meds such as ibuprofen, allergy relief, and cold remedies cost between $12.09 per package. Whether you’re battling winter sniffles or summer allergies, keeping these stocked is a smart move.

New Hampshire’s colder winters might mean more flu shots and respiratory check-ups, yet lead to fewer allergy spikes compared to warmer climates. While healthcare costs here are above the national average, they remain lower than in major hubs like New York or San Francisco, where prices and congestion can make access to care far more challenging.

It’s wise to have health insurance, as an average doctor’s visit costs around $400*. Monthly premiums for plans typically range from $520* to $940* depending on coverage, age, and the specific plan.

*Disclaimer: These figures are averages and can vary based on your personal circumstances and insurance provider. Always compare plans and consult experts to find the best fit for your needs.

Miscellaneous Costs in New Hampshire

What Salary Do You Need to Live in New Hampshire?

The median income in New Hampshire is 10.4% higher, which ranks 7th nationally. While the living expenses in New Hampshire are approximately 10.4% higher than the US average, the required average salary in New Hampshire to live a comfortable life varies based on household size and lifestyle choices.

Homeowners spend — $108,432.00 per year: This covers mortgage payments, property taxes, utilities, groceries, and transportation for a modest single-family home in areas like Dover or Laconia.

Renters spend — $70,104.00 per year: Rent for a one-bedroom home, combined with basic utilities, groceries, and daily commuting, makes this a practical income for single residents or couples without children.

Families with kids spend — $116,292.00 per year: Larger housing, childcare, school supplies, healthcare, and higher food consumption raise the cost for households with children—especially in cities like Concord or Portsmouth.

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What is a Cost of Living Calculator?

A cost of living calculator helps you compare the expenses required to live in a different location. The calculator factors in various living expenses like housing, food, utilities, transportation, fitness, and entertainment, etc., and helps you estimate how much salary you need to live in that city. Since the cost of goods and services varies in different cities, a New Hampshire cost of living calculator can help you make the decision to move to this city or not.

About Cost of Living Data

The data used to determine New Hampshire's cost of living is sourced from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Published since 1968, COLI data is recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This organization regularly updates its data to offer a detailed and well-researched view of living expenses in cities across the country. An independent Advisory Board reviews C2ER’s data collection methodologies and quarterly publications to ensure consistency and quality. For more information, visit www.coli.org. Data published as of Oct 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is gas in New Hampshire?

Gas in New Hampshire averages $2.96 per gallon, just a notch above the national average. Prices can spike during peak winter months or holiday weekends. With long rural drives and snowy commutes, fuel efficiency becomes even more important in the Granite State.

Is New Hampshire a good place to live?

Yes, New Hampshire is a great place to live if you value low crime rates, outdoor recreation, and no state income tax. It offers four-season beauty, highly ranked public schools, and proximity to Boston without Boston prices. Towns like Hanover and Exeter are popular for their strong communities and top-tier schools.

What is the cost of living in New Hampshire?

The estimated cost of living in New Hampshire is approximately $4,060 to $10,163 per month which is around 10.4% higher than the national average. While housing in cities like Portsmouth and Hanover can be pricey, smaller towns such as Claremont and Berlin offer much more affordable living options.

What is the average rent in New Hampshire?

A one-bedroom apartment in New Hampshire rents for $1,827 per month, depending on the location. Apartments in Portsmouth, Concord, and Nashua come with higher rents and better amenities, while places like Laconia or Keene offer more budget-friendly options.

How much is a two-bedroom apartment in New Hampshire?

A two-bedroom apartment costs $2,271.00 per month in areas like Manchester or Portsmouth. Expect higher rents in downtown neighborhoods or units with scenic mountain or lake views.

What is the average price of utilities in New Hampshire?

Monthly utility bills in New Hampshire range from $350 to over $500, depending on home size and heating method. Cold winters push heating costs higher, especially for oil-heated homes, while summer electricity use stays moderate.

How much is childcare in New Hampshire?

If you're moving to New Hampshire, childcare costs will likely fall between $833 and $1,067 per month for full-time toddler care. Centers in cities like Concord and Portsmouth sit on the higher end, while smaller towns and in-home providers often offer more affordable options.