Money & Jobs

Readers sound off on the cost of living in NH

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.

(AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

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

Keep Granite Post free for everyone

If you found this story useful, would you consider supporting Granite Post?

Every day, our team works to provide New Hampshirites with free, fact-based reporting about the issues, policies, and decisions shaping life across the state. We believe everyone deserves access to trustworthy local news—not just those who can afford a subscription.

That's why you'll never hit a paywall here (though we may ask you to sign up for our newsletter). But keeping our journalism free depends on readers who believe informed communities are worth investing in.

If our reporting has helped you better understand what's happening in New Hampshire, please consider making a donation today. Every contribution helps us continue reporting, informing, and serving communities across the state.

Colin Booth
Colin Booth Chief Political Correspondent
Support our team