New Hampshire Living Report — October 07, 2026

For anyone dreaming of tree-lined roads, four distinct seasons, and no state income or sales tax, New Hampshire presents a compelling case—but the reality of moving there requires a clear-eyed look at the numbers. With a population of roughly 1.38 million, the Granite State is one of the smallest in the nation, yet it consistently ranks as one of the most desirable places to live, particularly for those willing to trade some urban convenience for open space and community ties.

The cost of living in New Hampshire is a mixed bag. Housing, in particular, has grown expensive relative to national averages. The median home value sits at $337,100, a figure that has climbed steadily over the past decade. Renters face similar pressure: a median one-bedroom apartment goes for $1,336 per month. Given that the median household income is $90,845 annually, basic math puts rent at roughly 18% of gross monthly income—well below the traditional 30% affordability threshold, but that picture varies widely by location. In the pricier southern towns near the Massachusetts border, a one-bedroom can easily exceed $1,500, while more rural areas in the North Country offer cheaper options with fewer amenities.

On the economic front, New Hampshire enjoys one of the healthiest labor markets in the country. The unemployment rate as of August 2026 stands at just 2.8%, reflecting a state that has managed to maintain strong job growth across sectors like health care, advanced manufacturing, and professional services. The poverty rate is a low 7.1%, one of the best in the nation, and median income levels are high enough to give many households breathing room—though that breathing room can vanish quickly for anyone earning below the median.

Quality of life is driven by a striking demographic reality: the median age in New Hampshire is 43.1 years, notably older than the U.S. median of roughly 38. This helps explain the state’s dual appeal. Families with school-aged children are drawn to the top-rated public schools and low crime rates, while retirees appreciate the tax-friendly environment and access to outdoor recreation, from the White Mountains to Lake Winnipesaukee. Remote workers, too, have discovered the appeal of small towns like Hanover, Peterborough, or Portsmouth—the latter of which was recently named one of the best small cities in America. Data from

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Data: US Census Bureau ACS 2022, BLS. Updated October 07, 2026.

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