Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Austin is 9% more affordable than Manchester. A $75,000 salary in Manchester is equivalent to $68,008 in Austin.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · New Hampshire salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Austin has a housing index of 123 while Manchester sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Austin costs $430,000 compared to $350,000 in Manchester, a difference of $80,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Austin versus $1,600 in Manchester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Austin scores 96 while Manchester scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Austin (97) are lower than Manchester (112).
Median household income in Austin is $75,413 compared to $65,018 in Manchester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Austin.
Amazon affiliate links