Salaries in Nashua, NH

Here’s the thing about Nashua: you might not expect a small New England city to punch above its weight in salary, but with a 2.5% unemployment rate, it’s a worker’s market. The median household income sits at a solid $97,667, well above the national average, and the job market is tight enough that employers are competing for talent.

But let’s talk real purchasing power. The cost of living index here is 105.1—about 5% pricier than the U.S. average. A one-bedroom apartment runs you $1,489 a month. That means the average salary of $70,522 doesn’t go as far as you’d hope. After adjusting for that 5% premium, your effective buying power drops to a COL-adjusted average of $67,100. It’s not a bargain, but it’s not a rip-off either; you’re paying a slight premium for the relative safety and proximity to Boston.

Nashua’s economy is a mix of old-school manufacturing and newer tech. The top-paying jobs are a tell: Marketing Managers, Pharmacists, and Software Developers lead the pack, with COL-adjusted salaries ranging from $122,937 to $152,265. That points to a healthy corporate and healthcare sector. You’ve got big employers like BAE Systems and Southern New Hampshire University anchoring things, plus a growing cluster of tech and defense contractors. Construction managers also do well, likely tied to the steady demand for housing and commercial development.

Here’s my honest take: wages are strong, but they’re barely keeping pace with the cost increases we’ve seen post-2024. If you’re in tech or healthcare, you’ll thrive. If you’re in retail or service, the math gets a lot harder. This city rewards specialized skills.

The data below breaks down the top-paying roles and what you can actually expect to take home.