Cost of Living in Grafton County, New Hampshire
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Grafton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Grafton County ranks #2,134 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 32%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Grafton County, New Hampshire
Grafton's rental costs strain household budgets
Grafton County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% represents some of the highest affordability stress in New Hampshire and exceeds the national sustainable benchmark. Despite a solid median income of $84,021—12% above the national average—the $1,292/month median rent consumes a larger share of earnings than most peers.
Grafton among the state's least affordable
Grafton County's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks second-worst in New Hampshire, surpassed only by Hillsborough County. This places Grafton households under greater housing cost pressure than most other counties statewide.
Pricier rents, comparable incomes to Belknap
Grafton's $1,292/month rent exceeds Belknap's $1,184 by $108, while incomes are nearly identical ($84,021 vs. $87,983). Grafton's higher rents create measurable affordability disadvantage; Belknap and Carroll counties offer better rental value in the region.
Rents and mortgages demand significant income share
Renters spend $1,292/month and homeowners $1,457/month, reflecting robust mountain-region demand for housing. Combined with a median income of $84,021, housing costs consume roughly 18% of household earnings, limiting flexibility for savings and emergencies.
Grafton rewards those who can afford it
Grafton County's scenic beauty and outdoor recreation justify higher housing costs for many relocators, but budget-conscious movers should compare with Belknap or Carroll counties. If affordability is your threshold, consider that Grafton's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio approaches financial stress for median-income households.
Cost of Living Advisory: Grafton County
Affordability Verdict
Grafton County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,292/month representing approximately 18.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,292/month rent versus $1,457/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $165/month cheaper — a 11% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $51,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $62,443/year. With a median household income of $84,021, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Grafton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Cheshire County where rent averages $1,220/month, Grafton County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Grafton County
Rent Burden
18.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,960
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.8%
of gross income
The median home in Grafton County may be a stretch
Median home value is $298,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,383 vs. your max of $1,960.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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