Ashland, NH vs Meredith, NH
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Ashland is 23.5% cheaper than Meredith. With a cost index of 84 vs 110, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Ashland to Meredith should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Ashland is $1,069/month compared to $1,255/month in Meredith — a 15% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ashland is more affordable at $169,000 median vs $415,800.
Median household income in Ashland is $41,429 compared to $52,083 in Meredith (-20.5%). The higher salaries in Meredith partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Ashland spend roughly 31% of their income on rent, more than the 28.9% in Meredith. The Meredith ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (46°F vs 47.2°F). Meredith receives more rainfall at 42" per year compared to 38.1" in Ashland.
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Housing
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)