Deep Dive Relocation Report: Portsmouth, NH (2026)

1. Portsmouth: The Data Profile (2026)

Portsmouth represents a high-barrier-to-entry market defined by an affluent, highly educated populace. With a population of 22,332, it operates as a boutique economic hub rather than a sprawling metro. The median income sits at $105,756, a substantial +41.8% deviation from the US median of $74,580. However, this purchasing power is immediately challenged by a localized cost structure where housing and services command a significant premium.

The educational attainment rate is the primary economic driver here: 63.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, nearly double the national average of 33.1%. This density of human capital correlates directly with the high-income floor.

Target Demographic: The statistical target is the "Post-Remote Executive" or dual-income professional household. These are individuals who require proximity to regional headquarters (often in Boston or defense sectors) but prioritize coastal quality of life over urban density. They possess the liquidity to absorb a 148.2 housing index and value the 63.4% educated peer group.

2. Cost of Living Analysis

The cost of living in Portsmouth is heavily skewed by the 148.2 Housing Index (+48.2% vs US). While groceries and transport hover near parity (104.7), discretionary and infrastructure costs explode. Electricity sits at 23.4 cents/kWh, significantly higher than the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh. Restaurants match healthcare at a premium of +72.4%.

Disposable Income Analysis:
For a single earner making the median $105,756, monthly gross income is $8,813. After state and federal taxes, net take-home is approximately $6,650. The cost to rent a standard 1-bedroom unit ($1,582) consumes 23.8% of net income, leaving a healthy buffer. However, for a family requiring a 3-bedroom rental ($2,557), plus elevated utilities and healthcare, the savings rate compresses significantly compared to the national average, despite the higher salary.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

3. Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the defining barrier to entry. The median home price is projected to be $375,000, which is 35.4% higher than the US average. The Price per Square Foot sits at $315, reflecting the scarcity of land and high desirability of the coastal region.

The Rent vs. Buy calculation reveals a tight market. The price-to-rent ratio on a 1-bedroom unit (buy price $375k vs annual rent $18,984) is roughly 19.7. Generally, a ratio above 20 favors renting, but given the +48.2% housing inflation, buying remains the only hedge against rising costs, provided the buyer can afford the entry point.

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

4. Economic & Job Market Outlook

Portsmouth's economy is insulated by a 3.0% unemployment rate, well below the national average of 4.0%. The "Post-Remote" reality has solidified the region's status as a satellite hub. While full remote work is common, the 63.4% educated workforce drives high-value hybrid roles.

RTO & Commute:
With a population of only 22,332, local traffic is negligible. The average commute time is 19 minutes, significantly lower than the national average. However, the "Boston Shadow" is real. Residents commuting south to the Seacoast/MA border face congestion, though the $105,756 median income offsets the travel costs. Local industry is anchored in biotech, maritime trade, and defense, providing stability against recessionary pressures.

5. Quality of Life Audit

Portsmouth scores exceptionally well on health metrics, driven by a high-income, educated population with access to outdoor recreation. The Health Score of 85.0/100 is "Excellent." Risk factors are consistently lower than the US average: Diabetes at 8.0% (vs 10.9% US) and Smoking at 8.2% (vs 14.0% US).

Air Quality & Safety:
Air quality is generally good, though New England winters can trap particulate matter. The AQI is typically around 45 (Good), with PM2.5 levels at 8.0 µg/m³. Safety is a major selling point; violent crime is rare, estimated at 115 per 100k (vs 380 per 100k US average).

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Schools & Weather:
Public schools in the district consistently rank in the top 15% of the state, supported by the 63.4% college-educated tax base. Weather is distinct: the current temperature is 49.0°F with a high of 50°F. Winters are cold (averaging 20°F in Jan) and summers are mild (averaging 78°F in Jul), appealing to those who prefer four seasons.

6. The Verdict

Pros:

• Economic Moat: The $105,756 median income and 3.0% unemployment provide a stable financial floor.
• Health & Safety: A Health Score of 85.0 and violent crime of 115 per 100k are top-tier metrics.
• Education: With 63.4% of the population college-educated, the social and civic environment is highly engaged.

Cons:

• The "Premium" Tax: Living here costs +48.2% more for housing alone.
• Infrastructure Costs: Electricity at 23.4 cents/kWh and healthcare at +72.4% premium erode the high salary.
• Liquidity Requirement: The median home price of $375,000 requires significant upfront capital.

Final Recommendation:
Portsmouth is a Buy for High-Earners, Rent for Transplants. If your household income exceeds $130,000, the quality of life metrics (Health 85.0, Unemployment 3.0%) justify the high cost of living. If you are below that threshold, the $1,582 rent and 23.4 cents/kWh electricity will severely limit your ability to build wealth.

7. FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Portsmouth?
For a single person, a salary of $90,000 is the baseline to cover the $1,582 rent and maintain a savings rate. For a family, a combined income of $160,000 is recommended to handle the $2,557 3-bedroom rent and +72.4% healthcare premiums.

2. Is the Cost of Living value vs. other cities?
It offers poor value for basic goods (Grocery 104.7, Transport 104.7), but high value for lifestyle and safety. You are paying a +48.2% premium for the "Portsmouth lifestyle"—walkability, educated peers, and coastal access.

3. How do the safety stats compare to the US?
Portsmouth is significantly safer. With a violent crime rate estimated at 115 per 100k, it is roughly 70% safer than the US average of 380 per 100k.

4. When is the best time to relocate?
Ideally in late Spring (May/June) or early Autumn (September). Winters can be harsh, with temperatures dropping to 37°F (today's low) and often lower, making moving logistics difficult. The market inventory typically peaks in late Spring.