Advanced Transit runs M-F on a 15 minute schedule between Hanover and Lebanon. You still need a car because downtown Lebanon somehow doesn't have even a small market type place so you're effectively in a food dessert when on foot, but if you work a typical schedule it can often be easier to bus than worry about parking in Hanover.

I would say though that the housing issues facing NH are even more dire in Lebanon so be ready for a long search or an expensive rent. Beyond that... there's not that much offered in Manchester that can' be found amongst the many communities of the Upper Valley. Just be sure to familiarize yourself with all of them. Not just Lebanon and Hanover.