Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
8% cheaper
Plano is 8% more affordable than Manchester. A $75,000 salary in Manchester is equivalent to $69,280 in Plano.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Hampshire salaries · Texas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Manchester has a housing index of 140 while Plano sits at 123 (national average = 100). The median home in Manchester costs $350,000 compared to $400,000 in Plano, a difference of $50,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,600 in Manchester versus $1,700 in Plano.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Manchester scores 105 while Plano scores 98. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Manchester (112) are higher than Plano (100).
Median household income in Manchester is $65,018 compared to $96,348 in Plano. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Plano.
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