Young Residents Could Leave New Hampshire Soon
Nearly a quarter of residents under 35 may move within five years due to high childcare and housing costs.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Child Care
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A new University of New Hampshire report indicates that nearly 25% of the state population may move away within the next five years. Young adults under age 35 are the most likely group to consider relocating due to factors like childcare costs and housing.
Why it matters
The high cost of living, specifically the $32,000 average annual expense for childcare for two children, is driving younger residents to weigh leaving the state. Addressing these financial barriers is seen as critical for maintaining the local workforce and supporting family stability.
A report from the University of New Hampshire found that 25% of state residents are considering moving within five years, with those under 35 most likely to relocate. While these projections signal potential migration, 95% of community college students currently remain in the state.
The players
Kelly Ayotte
A political leader in New Hampshire who has proposed increasing funding for the University of New Hampshire to support retention.
Joyce Craig Warmington
A political figure debating strategies to keep young residents living and working in New Hampshire.
University of New Hampshire
A public research university that tracks demographic and migration data for New Hampshire residents.
The details
Retention efforts in New Hampshire currently focus on alleviating financial pressure through existing child care tax credits and scholarship programs. These initiatives aim to offset the significant cost of child care, which averages $32,000 annually for a two-child household. Policymakers are also leveraging dual and concurrent high school enrollment programs to encourage young people to pursue career development locally.
Timeline
A University of New Hampshire report on resident retention trends was released in 2026.
Data indicates a five-year window in which many residents are considering moving.
Funding for the university is proposed for the next biennium.
Health Landscape
The study updates long-standing migration data by quantifying how specific financial stressors impact state retention. It highlights a departure from historical trends as cost-of-living factors increasingly influence where young families establish their careers.
Families struggling with the high cost of childcare should review available state tax credits and scholarship opportunities. If balancing these expenses feels unsustainable, consider scheduling a conversation with a financial advisor or state social services representative to discuss potential assistance.
The takeaway
The high cost of childcare is a primary factor pushing young adults to reconsider their future in New Hampshire. Residents should monitor upcoming legislative budget discussions for potential expansions in education funding and family support programs.
Further reading
Learn more about the resources available to families in our Child Care section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WMUR9.
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