Salaries in Keene, NH

Here’s a surprising truth about Keene: for a city of just 22,923 people, it’s got a software developer earning a six-figure salary that, when adjusted for local costs, rivals what you’d make in much larger tech hubs. It’s a small city with a surprisingly high-tech spine.

But let’s talk real purchasing power. Keene’s cost of living sits at 109.0, meaning you’ll pay about 9% more than the national average for groceries, utilities, and housing. That $1,471 median rent for a one-bedroom apartment isn’t cheap, especially when stacked against the median household income of $78,183. The COL-adjusted average salary here drops to $53,711, which tells you the city isn’t a steal—it’s a calculated trade-off. You’re paying a premium to live here, but the trade-off is a tight job market with just a 2.5% unemployment rate.

Who’s thriving? The data points clearly to healthcare and education. The region’s largest employers, like Cheshire Medical Center and Keene State College, anchor the economy, which is why registered nurse and elementary school teacher salaries make the top five. There’s also a quiet but steady demand for skilled trades, with electricians earning a respectable COL-adjusted wage of nearly $58,000. It’s a town where a professional with a bachelor’s degree (held by 43.4% of residents) can find a stable, well-paying niche.

Here’s my honest take: wages here aren’t exploding, but they’re holding steady against a cost of living that’s creeping up faster than the national average. If you’re a remote worker bringing in a coastal salary, Keene is a bargain. If you’re a local relying on the in-town job market, it can feel tight. It works best for dual-income households or those in the top-paying fields listed below.

The numbers that follow will break down exactly what you can expect to earn in Keene’s key roles, both in raw dollars and what your paycheck will actually buy you.