Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Springfield is 9% more affordable than Manchester. A $75,000 salary in Manchester is equivalent to $68,008 in Springfield.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Hampshire salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Manchester has a housing index of 140 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Manchester costs $350,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $120,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,600 in Manchester versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Manchester scores 105 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Manchester (112) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Manchester is $65,018 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Springfield.
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