Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
28% cheaper
Charleston is 28% more affordable than Manchester. A $75,000 salary in Manchester is equivalent to $54,025 in Charleston.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: West Virginia salaries · New Hampshire salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charleston has a housing index of 62 while Manchester sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Charleston costs $135,000 compared to $350,000 in Manchester, a difference of $215,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $850 in Charleston versus $1,600 in Manchester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Charleston scores 97 while Manchester scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charleston (91) are lower than Manchester (112).
Median household income in Charleston is $42,034 compared to $65,018 in Manchester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Charleston.
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