Best Affordable Places to Live in New Hampshire in 2025

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    By Ashley Kilroy

    (Last Updated – 03/2025)

    Nestled in the heart of New England, New Hampshire offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and modern opportunities. The state’s job market excels in technology, health care, and education, bolstered by its proximity to major cities like Boston.

    However, New Hampshire’s cost of living (COL) is a notable consideration: It clocks in at fully 12% higher than the national average. Driving the higher cost of living are factors like utilities, groceries, health, and transportation costs.

    Despite its reputation as a low-tax state (owing to its absence of sales tax and income tax on wages and salaries), New Hampshire still demands careful consideration before making a move. With the fourth-highest property tax rates in the U.S. and boasting an average effective rate of 1.77%, prospective residents must plan well to ensure the state is the right fit for their financial situation and goals.

    If it is, a wonderful home state can await. Whether drawn by the allure of outdoor adventures or the promise of professional growth, New Hampshire can provide a dynamic blend that draws a diverse population.

    Best Places to Live in New Hampshire

    Home to Dartmouth College and the beautiful New England outdoors, New Hampshire also boasts numerous towns and cities with appeal for families, young professionals, nature-lovers, and more. The state also has a higher median household income and lower poverty rate than the national average, indicating that economic opportunities are available for residents. For more details, here are several lists of the places to live in New Hampshire based on such variables as affordability and age.

    New Hampshire’s cost of living can be a key focus for many potential residents, so first consider the most affordable places to live in the state.

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    Best Affordable Places to Live in New Hampshire

    Is cost of living (COL) a concern? If so, here are the top three cities in New Hampshire ranked for affordability:

    1. Berlin

    Berlin, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons/
    AlexiusHoratius
    , Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported

    If you want small-town life with a state forest in your backyard while maintaining a modest budget, Berlin can accommodate your needs perfectly. It’s also popular for retirees. Berlin’s rental costs are relatively affordable, and the town’s affordability combined with outdoor recreation (fishing the Androscoggin River, camping and hiking in Jericho Mountain State Park) make it an attractive option for those who want to enjoy nature and pay lower prices for housing. Housing is more affordable here, a fact that can be especially important to first-time homebuyers.

    Population: 9,459

    Median Household Income: $43,972

    Cost of Living: 94% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,075

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.2

    2. Claremont

    Claremont, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Avid outdoors fans will also love Claremont, where the Sugar River, Cornish Town Forest, and Green Mountain Trail are within easy reach. In addition, the Claremont Opera House is a venue for all forms of art, enhancing the area’s cultural and entertainment offerings. Claremont combines suburban flair with country surroundings at a low price point, which can be attractive, especially when combined with first-time homebuyer programs in New Hampshire.

    Population: 13,111

    Median Household Income: $54,520

    Cost of Living: 96% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,600

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.7

    While property taxes are more than twice the national average, the absence of state income and sales taxes offsets this expense. As a result, Claremont combines suburban flair with country surroundings at a low price point, which can be attractive, especially when combined with first-time homebuyer programs in New Hampshire.

    3. Rochester

    Rochester, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    One of New Hampshire’s most populated cities, Rochester features a fine art museum, opera house, and nature trails. Its more urban setting means higher prices than the towns above, but the average median income helps to accommodate the costs. Those looking for an urban feel in New Hampshire can find their place here without the massively inflated prices of bigger cities. Here are the metrics for this bustling region:

    Population: 33,519

    Median Household Income: $79,388

    Cost of Living: 108% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,800

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.7

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    Best Places to Live in New Hampshire for Families

    Families across America have similar priorities, such as good schools, safety, health care, and kid-friendly amenities. Fortunately, New Hampshire has several optimal locations for families to live:

    1. Bedford

    Bedford, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons/
    John Phelan
    , Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International

    Bedford’s population is about 91% family households, and people under age 20 make up 27% of the population. Parents are likely drawn here in part because the town is known for a top-notch K-12 public school system with an average of 13 students per teacher in the district. Here are additional data points to note about Bedford:

    Population: 23,764

    Median Household Income: $160,253

    Cost of Living: 117% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,095

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.4

    2. Dover

    Dover, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/jmoor17

    Dover is another of the best places to live in New Hampshire for families. Home to the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire and the Hilltop Fun Center, the city provides excitement and activities throughout the year. It’s located on the Atlantic coast, meaning it offers quick access to the beach, and it’s more populous than most of New Hampshire’s cities. Here are some essential numbers to know about Dover:

    Population: 33,485

    Median Household Income: $92,748

    Cost of Living: 114% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,100

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.4

    3. Somersworth

    Somersworth, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Somersworth is a suburb sitting on the Maine border. It offers numerous parks, a golf course, and a higher median income than rural areas in the state. Plus you benefit from all the family-friendly activities in Dover, which is close by. Here are the numbers to know about this region:

    Population: 12,192

    Median Household Income: $79,677

    Cost of Living: 108% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,950

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.1

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    Best Places to Live in New Hampshire for Young Adults

    New Hampshire has numerous places for young folk looking for nightlife and economic opportunity to thrive in. Here are the top three:

    1. Lebanon

    Lebanon, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    A diverse suburb packed with shops, restaurants, and outdoor recreation, Lebanon offers a lively atmosphere for young people. It has a lower price tag than Portsmouth and provides transportation to New York and Boston via the Dartmouth Coach. The city also houses the Powerhouse Mall, a regional shopping center, and is next door to Dartmouth College. Young adults — those between the ages of 20 and 39 — make up 36% of its population.

    Population: 15,342

    Median Household Income: $92,288

    Cost of Living: 115% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,400/month

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.7

    2. Portsmouth

    Portsmouth, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/Sean Pavone

    New Hampshire’s oldest city captures the hearts of the state’s younger crowd by combining top-notch breweries, boutiques, restaurants, and outdoor activities. About 17% of its residents are between ages 20 and 39, and residents compare the city’s nightlife to that of Boston. Here are more stats on the city:

    Population: 22,733

    Median Household Income: $105,756

    Cost of Living: 128% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,750

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 6.8

    3. Salem

    Home to the Rockingham Park Mall, the largest in New Hampshire, Salem has numerous amenities for young adults. The Castaway Island water park features a 60-foot water slide, while those who seek pure wilderness can find it in the White Mountains and surrounding lakes. In addition, Tuscan Village offers shopping, nightlife, and economic opportunities. Salem’s population includes 28% of residents between the ages of 20 and 39.

    Population: 31,549

    Median Household Income: $101,339

    Cost of Living: 135% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,495

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.6

    Best Places to Live in New Hampshire for Retirees

    As retirees embark on a new chapter of life, their priorities tend to align around factors like tranquility, health care access, recreational opportunities, and a welcoming community. In this regard, New Hampshire emerges as a haven for retirees, offering a selection of prime destinations tailored to meet these needs. Consider these three:

    1. Exeter

    Exeter, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    In southern New Hampshire, a short drive from Manchester, Exeter shines as a unique retirement destination. With a remarkable 0.43 retirement community availability per 1,000 residents, the town offers abundant specialized living options. This figure, the highest among its peers on the list, underscores Exeter’s commitment to catering to retirees. Here’s more about this historically significant town that dates back to 1638:

    Population: 16,172

    Median Household Income: $96,483

    Cost of Living: 117% of U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,225

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.9

    2. Rochester

    Rochester, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Situated along the border shared with Maine, Rochester emerges as another best place to live in New Hampshire for retirees. Rochester boasts a significant senior demographic, with 19% of its population composed of individuals 65 and over. It’s a promising prospect for retirees yearning for an urban ambiance in New Hampshire.

    Population: 33,519

    Median Household Income: $79,388

    Cost of Living: 108% of U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,800

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.7

    3. Londonderry

    Londonderry presents a prime location with proximity to Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, easing travel for retirees and their social circles. It also boasts a robust medical infrastructure, with 3.82 medical centers per 1,000 residents.

    The town has a senior population of 17%. Londonderry is an appealing choice for retirees seeking a diverse community inclusive of various ages and family structures. Londonderry is an economical choice for retirees looking to embrace their golden years.

    Population: 26,708

    Median Household Income: $130,481

    Cost of Living: 116% of U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,355

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.3

    Best Places to Live in New Hampshire Near the Water

    New Hampshire features lakes, rivers, and beachfronts to swim in, fish in, and enjoy. If you’re a fan of the water, consider living in these cities:

    1. Hampton

    Hampton, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Sitting on the Atlantic Coast, Hampton offers a boardwalk with beautiful beaches, the Casino Ballroom entertainment venue, carnival games, deep sea fishing, and whale watching tours. In addition, bird-lovers and adventure-seekers can enjoy exploring the Hampton Salt Marshes. While the Average Rental and homeownership costs are higher than other areas, its water-related offerings are unique to the state.

    Population: 16,484

    Median Household Income: $87,418

    Cost of Living: 122% of U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,700

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.61

    2. Laconia

    Laconia, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Nestled amidst a cluster of lakes, including Lake Winnipesaukee, Laconia boasts one of the lowest cost of living rankings in the state. The town has four beaches, including one for residents only. Locals enjoy entertainment at the Cake Theatre and Lakeport Opera House, not to mention boating, fishing, and other hallmarks of lakeside life. If home shopping is your next step, visit a home loan help center to learn more about the process and mortgage options.

    Population: 17,142

    Median Household Income: $68,427

    Cost of Living: 103% of U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,800

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.9

    3. Portsmouth

    Portsmouth, New Hampshire

    Photo credit: iStock/SeanPavonePhoto

    Portsmouth makes a second appearance, this time as an ideal beach town. It contains the mouth of the Piscataqua River, which features fantastic beaches, Peirce Island, and cliffside hiking areas. Plus, the USS Albacore Museum will inspire you to embrace life on the sea. Remember, Portsmouth is one of the more expensive locations in New Hampshire, so it can be cost-prohibitive depending on your budget.

    Population: 22,733

    Median Household Income: $105,756

    Cost of Living: 128% of U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,750

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 6.8


    The Takeaway

    Exploring the most affordable places to live in New Hampshire reveals a range of options that balance cost-effectiveness with quality of life. From the serene landscapes of Berlin, where the average monthly rent is a wallet-friendly $1,075, to the pricier beach town of Hampton, the state has plenty of options for young professionals, families, and retirees alike.

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    FAQ

    Where is the cheapest place to live in New Hampshire?

    Berlin, New Hampshire, stands out as an affordable place to reside, boasting a notably low cost of living highlighted by a mere $1,075 average monthly rent. This may make Berlin an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking comfortable living arrangements.

    How much money do you need to live comfortably in New Hampshire?

    Living comfortably in New Hampshire requires an estimated annual income of around $51,552 for a single adult to cover expenses such as housing, utilities, transportation, and daily essentials, according to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator.

    Is New Hampshire cheaper to live in than Maine?

    New Hampshire’s overall cost of living is slightly higher than Maine’s, however Maine has higher housing costs.


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