Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Wilmington is 12% more affordable than Manchester. A $75,000 salary in Manchester is equivalent to $66,102 in Wilmington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Hampshire salaries · Delaware salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Manchester has a housing index of 140 while Wilmington sits at 104 (national average = 100). The median home in Manchester costs $350,000 compared to $235,000 in Wilmington, a difference of $115,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,600 in Manchester versus $1,200 in Wilmington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Manchester scores 105 while Wilmington scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Manchester (112) are higher than Wilmington (106).
Median household income in Manchester is $65,018 compared to $46,520 in Wilmington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Wilmington.
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