Cost of Living in Keene, NH

With a cost of living index of 96, Keene, NH is slightly more affordable than average. Living here is 4% cheaper than the national average and 6% below the New Hampshire state average of 102. Keene is a smaller community of 22,923 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Keene's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,275 (3% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $232,500 (24% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Keene is $78,183, which is 4% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 20% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Keene. The area sees an average annual temperature of 46.4°F, with summers averaging 67°F and winters around 25°F. Annual rainfall totals 46.4 inches spread over roughly 151 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.