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Readers sound off on the cost of living in NH

Readers sound off on the cost of living in NH

(AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

By Katy Savage

August 1, 2025

A version of this story appears in the Granite Post’s newsletter. Subscribe to it here.

In a state known for its scenic beauty and no income tax, New Hampshire residents say the cost of living is still taking a major toll on their wallets.

The Granite Post recently asked readers to share which expenses are hitting them the hardest. The overwhelming response? Property taxes. Especially for those on fixed incomes, this recurring cost is forcing some tough choices.

Here’s a roundup of responses:

“Property taxes! For anyone on a fixed income, such as social security, an increase in property taxes means we have to cut back on something else, usually essentials such as food, medication, heat.” — Mary Livingston

 “Property taxes especially when on social security.” — Sharon Clarke

 “Housing prices escalating as well as property taxes. As a result we are stuck where we are for another eight months to a year.” — Joni Brennan

Others cited rising costs in utilities, housing, and childcare as major pain points:

💬 “Utilities.” — Marion Reid
💬 “Daycare is our single biggest expense by a lot.” — @samj0yce
💬 My rent has gone up 40% in the last five years. It’s absolutely insane. — @emiliadicola

💬 Rent and medical expenses. — @viviansbullshit92

Some readers pointed to broader structural issues, like the imbalance between wages and the cost of living:

💬 “1. Affordable housing
2. Addiction and mental health
3. Wages v. cost of living” — Samantha Marshall

Even expenses like car registration didn’t go unnoticed:

💬 “Car registration.” — @woodstina

Author

  • Katy Savage

    Katy Savage is the Granite Post's newsletter editor. Katy is an award-winning reporter with more than 10 years of experience working in daily, weekly, and digital news organizations as both an editor and reporter. Katy is a New England native and has a passion for telling stories about where she grew up.

    Have a story tip? Reach Katy at [email protected]. For local reporting in New Hampshire that connects the dots, from policy to people, sign up for Katy's newsletter.

CATEGORIES: MONEY AND JOBS

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