
Maine vs. New Hampshire: Which State Gives You More House for Your Money?
5No major news flash here, homes are not cheap in the current market. If you're house hunting in New England and torn between Maine and New Hampshire, here's the lowdown on where your dollar stretches further.
As of early 2025, Maine Home Connection stated that Maine's median home price sits at $385,000, reflecting a 9.1% increase from the previous year. In contrast, according to NH Business Review, New Hampshire's median home price reached $514,000 in 2024, marking a 9.4% rise from 2023. This means that, on average, homes in Maine are approximately $129,000 less expensive than those in New Hampshire.
Next, let's dive into to the cost of living. According to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), Maine has a slight edge. Maine's cost of living index was 113.5 in 2024 Unbiased, while New Hampshire's was 116.1, according to Data Pandas. This suggests that everyday expenses, including housing, groceries, and healthcare, are marginally more affordable in Maine.
However, it's worth noting that New Hampshire boasts no state income tax, which can be a significant financial advantage for some residents. On the flip side, Maine's housing market offers more bang for your buck, especially if you're looking for a larger property or more land.
In summary, if your priority is a more affordable home and slightly lower living costs, Maine might be the better choice. But if tax considerations are a big concern, New Hampshire's tax-friendly policies could tip the scales in its favor.
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