Salaries in Derry CDP, NH

Derry CDP is one of those New Hampshire towns that quietly out-earns its reputation. With a median household income of $88,901 and an unemployment rate of just 2.5%, it’s punching way above its weight for a community of 21,668 people. What’s surprising isn’t just the money—it’s who’s making it.

Here’s the math that matters: Derry’s cost of living sits at 111.6, meaning you’re paying about 12% more than the national average just to live there. A one-bedroom apartment runs $1,506 a month. That $88,901 median income sounds great until you realize the average salary across all roles is only $58,991. After COL adjustment, that real take-home power drops to $52,859. For many, this isn’t a bargain—it’s a squeeze.

So who’s thriving? The tech folks, hands down. Software developers pull in $131,688, which adjusts to a still-strong $118,000 here. The healthcare and finance sectors are solid anchors too, with accountants and nurses both earning around $89,000. You’ll find plenty of commuters heading toward Manchester or the Boston tech corridor, but Derry itself has a stable base of mid-sized employers and a surprisingly robust small-business scene. The education level—34% with a bachelor’s degree or higher—tracks with this professional workforce.

Here’s my honest take: Derry works financially if you’re in one of those top-paying fields or have a dual-income household. For everyone else, especially teachers and tradespeople earning in the $60,000 range, that 111.6 COL index is a real burden. Wages aren’t keeping up with the cost creep I’ve seen since 2023. It’s a great place to build wealth if you’re already in the right lane, but it’s getting tougher for everyone else.

The numbers below will show you exactly where the gaps are—and who’s closing them.