The New Hampshire Advantage: One of only 2 states with no income tax or broad based sales tax, with lower living expenses come other benefits such as quality of life.

The U.S. Census Bureau observed the following features of life in the Granite State; 3 years average median income (2003-2005) New Hampshire ranks #3 behind Maryland and New Jersey but ahead of #4 Hawaii and #5 Connecticut. In terms of wellness index New Hampshire ranks #5 in best health care coverage behind Minnesota and three other mid-west states.

New Hampshire ranks in the top five in a number of other key indicators such as: lowest tax burden, labor market freedom, business tax climate, and local government rankings compared to the rest of the country. When being on the bottom is a good thing New Hampshire ranks 47th in state tax revenues per person, 50th in State tax revenues as a percentage of personal income and 50th in local taxes as a percentage of overall income.

The feelings on tax burdens are probably best understood in a speech made for the NH state house by Neal Kurk (Chair of the New Hampshire Finance Committee) when he said; “We believe that each citizen, if not adversely affected by government action is capable of achieving his God-Given potential and the purpose of state government is to facilitate that” (from the public records of the NH state house minutes 2003).

If you are looking for a vacation home with an eye towards retirement? Now may be the best time to take advantage of the New Hampshire advantage, enjoy the recreation now and retire where you are comfortable later.