Nashua Relocation Deep Dive: 2026 Data Report

Nashua: The Data Profile (2026)

Nashua represents a high-value equilibrium for professionals seeking a balance between urban amenities and suburban stability. The city's population stands at 90,997, creating a "smaller city" footprint that avoids the congestion of major metros while retaining economic gravity. The median income is a statistical standout at $97,667, which is $23,087 higher than the US median of $74,580—a +31.0% variance. This income premium is supported by an educated workforce, with 41.0% of residents holding a college degree, significantly outpacing the national average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic is the "Hybrid Professional." This cohort, typically aged 28-45, earns above the national median but is priced out of Tier-1 cities like Boston or NYC. They prioritize low crime rates, high air quality, and commute flexibility over nightlife density.

Cost of Living Analysis

While Nashua offers an income advantage, the cost structure is nuanced. The aggregate Cost of Living Index is 100.0, exactly matching the US average, but the composition of expenses reveals specific pressures. Housing is the primary cost driver at 108.0, sitting 8.0% above the national baseline. Conversely, groceries offer relief at 96.6 (-3.4%), and transportation costs are negligible at 98.4 (-1.6%).

The most critical variable for 2026 is energy costs. Electricity rates are currently 23.4 cents/kWh, a staggering 46.3% premium over the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh. This significantly impacts the disposable income of residents working from home.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis:
With a median income of $97,667, the average monthly take-home pay is approximately $6,100 (after taxes). A single professional spending $2,815 retains $3,285 monthly (53.9% savings rate). A family spending $5,770 retains $330 monthly (5.4% savings rate), indicating that the median family income is stretched thin by 2026 standards.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The Nashua housing market is characterized by a "Rent vs. Buy" gap that favors renting in the short term. The median home price is estimated at $485,000, which is 11.5% higher than the US average of $435,000. However, the rental market remains competitive. A 1-bedroom unit averages $1,250/mo, while a 3-bedroom rental sits at $1,950/mo.

The Housing Index of 108.0 confirms that real estate is the primary inflationary pressure in the region.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buy vs. Rent Verdict:
Renting is currently 19.4% cheaper than the national average, while buying is 11.5% more expensive. For a buyer putting 20% down on a $485,000 home at a projected 6.5% interest rate (2026 forecast), the monthly mortgage exceeds $2,800, not including taxes and insurance. This creates a spread of over $850/mo compared to renting an equivalent unit.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The post-remote work landscape of 2026 has stabilized Nashua's economy. The unemployment rate is 3.0%, significantly lower than the 4.0% national average. This low unemployment indicates a tight labor market where employers must compete for talent.

RTO Impact:
While full remote is common, the "Hybrid" model drives demand for proximity to the Boston metro area. Nashua is 45 miles from Boston, placing it within the "commute radius" for mandatory RTO days. Average commute times are 26 minutes, well below the national average of 29 minutes. The local economy is anchored by defense, advanced manufacturing, and tech services, insulating it from the volatility seen in pure tech sectors.

Quality of Life Audit

Nashua offers a high Quality of Life (QoL) score of 82.0/100, driven primarily by safety and air quality. Violent crime is exceptionally low at 146 incidents per 100k residents, compared to the US average of 380. Property crime is also suppressed at 1,123 per 100k (US avg: 2,000).

Health metrics present a mixed picture. While the aggregate Health Score is high, the Obesity Rate is 33.2%, slightly above the US average of 31.9%. However, Smoking Rates are low at 10.9% (US avg: 14.0%).

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Air Quality Analysis:
The Air Quality Index (AQI) averages 32, which falls into the "Good" category. PM2.5 levels are 4.5 µg/m³, nearly half the World Health Organization's safety guideline. This is a major draw for health-conscious families.

Weather & Schools:
Current conditions show a temperature of 34.0°F with highs reaching 42°F. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with winters averaging 55 inches of snow. School districts in Nashua generally perform above average, with proficiency rates hovering around 55% in Math and Reading, though they lag slightly behind affluent Boston suburbs.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Income Premium: Median income is +31.0% higher than the US average.
• Safety: Violent crime is 61.6% lower than the national average.
• Air Quality: AQI of 32 is among the best in the nation for a city of this size.

Cons:

• Housing Cost: Buying a home costs +11.5% more than the national average.
• Energy Costs: Electricity is 46.3% more expensive than the US average.
• Health Risks: Obesity rates are higher than average.

Final Recommendation:
Nashua is a Strong Buy (for Renters) / Caution (for Buyers) in 2026. It is an ideal location for high-earning singles or couples who rent, allowing them to bank the income premium. Families looking to buy should scrutinize the $485,000 median price against their budget, as the cost of ownership erodes the area's income advantage.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Nashua?
For a single professional, a salary of $75,000 provides a comfortable lifestyle with significant savings potential. For a family of four, $130,000 is required to maintain a middle-class standard of living without financial strain.

2. How does Nashua's value compare to other cities?
Nashua offers better value than Boston (where similar housing costs +150% more) but worse value than Manchester, NH (where housing is -12% cheaper). The trade-off is the superior safety and school ratings Nashua offers over Manchester.

3. Are the safety statistics reliable?
Yes. The data indicates 146 violent crimes per 100k residents. This is exceptionally safe for a city with a population approaching 91,000 and proximity to a major metro area like Boston.

4. Is the high electricity cost a dealbreaker?
It is a significant factor. With rates at 23.4 cents/kWh, a home office adds roughly $50-$75 per month compared to the national average. If you are fully remote, this should be factored into your utility budget.