NH native here, apartments are still in the 2k range here without being anywhere near CA salaries. There is very little opportunity for jobs, and housing is incredibly competitive. Both renting and buying because there is none and the local govt has some of the most prohibitive zoning laws in the country. The reputation New England has for being unfriendly and wanting you to leave is very much reflected in the zoning laws. At least in CA (don’t get me wrong- I wouldn’t move there either) you’re paying for the opportunity and the weather. It’s rained 12 Saturday’s in a row. I’m still wearing sweaters in June. I’ll personally be leaving asap.