New York vs Colorado: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Colorado #18 as of the latest release. Colorado is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.1 vs 107.9), has a 4.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 13% higher violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 47% lower in Colorado ($1,922 vs. $3,615 in New York).
- Residential electricity price is 40% lower in Colorado (15.85¢/kWh vs. 26.39¢/kWh in New York).
- Total tax burden is 36% lower in Colorado (8.73% vs. 13.56% in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -9.8 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | -9.8 pts | — | CO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.8 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | +4.8 pts+5% | 100 | CO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$7,898 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$7,898 | -$11,758 | CO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$6,034 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$6,034-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.83 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | +4.83 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -53 (-13%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -53-13% | 328 | NY |
| Median household incomeGap -$11,293 (-12%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$11,293-12% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| Life expectancyGap +1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | +1.0 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -83,328 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -83,328 | -33 | CO |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is New York or Colorado better to live in?
Colorado scores higher overall: 64.7 to 54.9 out of 100, #18 of 50 against #29. New York leads 4 of 11 categories, Colorado leads 7, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -14 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 60.3#9 · A | -14 pts | CO |
| Safety12% of scoregap +12.6 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 50.4#46 · D | +12.6 pts | NY |
| Health12% of scoregap +4.3 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 75.4#7 · A | +4.3 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap -8.7 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 65.3#18 · B+ | -8.7 pts | CO |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -15.9 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 53.1#38 · C | -15.9 pts | CO |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -15.9 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 60.4#22 · B | -15.9 pts | CO |
| Growth7% of scoregap -17 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 31.0#33 · C+ | -17 pts | CO |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -8.8 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 61.4#3 · A+ | -8.8 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap +15.2 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 34.2#24 · B | +15.2 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -14.3 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 44.5#9 · A | -14.3 pts | CO |
| Environment4% of scoregap +12.5 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 45.9#20 · B | +12.5 pts | NY |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is New York cheaper than Colorado?
Colorado is cheaper: cost of living index 103.1 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $7,898 more a year in Colorado after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.8 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | +4.8 pts+5% | 100 | CO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.6 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 98.7#36 of 50 | +8.6 pts+9% | 100 | CO |
| Residential electricity priceGap +10.54¢ (+66%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | +10.54¢+66% | 17.84¢/kWh | CO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.41 (+57%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | +$6.41+57% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.04 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | +$0.04+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap $0 (0%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $00% | $15,633 | Even |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$4,894 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | -$4,894 | CO |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$6,476 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | -$6,476 | CO |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$7,898 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | -$7,898 | CO |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$5,838 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | -$5,838 | CO |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$5,661 | $40,598 | $34,937 | +$5,661 | CO |
| ChildcareGap $0 | $41,956 | $41,956 | $0 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap +$230 | $5,179 | $4,949 | +$230 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$968 | $12,085 | $11,117 | +$968 | CO |
| TransportationGap +$126 | $9,963 | $9,837 | +$126 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$913 | $8,448 | $7,535 | +$913 | CO |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Colorado?
Colorado collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.73% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.83 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | +4.83 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.38 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 4.4%#17 of 50 | +10.38 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.15 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.49%#3 of 50 | +1.15 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.65 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 7.89%#35 of 50 | +0.65 pts | 6.66% | CO |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Colorado?
Typical home values are about the same: $526,714 in New York and $532,748 in Colorado. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $138,758 in Colorado; the median household earns $85,820 and $97,113.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$6,034 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$6,034-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap +7 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +7 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,693 (+88%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,922#34 of 50 | +$1,693+88% | $1,948 | CO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$1,951 (+1%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $138,758#43 of 50 | +$1,951+1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+11%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 5.5x#40 of 50 | +0.6x+11% | 4.6x | CO |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| NY | CO | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $2,741 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +43% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +6.8% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | New York | Denver |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in New York or Colorado?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $85,820, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 4% in Colorado. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 17 after adjusting for local costs and Colorado's in 1.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$11,293 (-12%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$11,293-12% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4%#26 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$27,003 (+36%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $75,024#7 of 50 | +$27,003+36% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.39 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.4%#28 of 50 | -0.39 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | NY | CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is New York safer than Colorado?
New York is safer: 368 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 2,144 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -53 (-13%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -53-13% | 328 | NY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -569 (-27%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 2,144#49 of 50 | -569-27% | 1,535 | NY |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or Colorado?
Colorado scores higher for education (#18 of 50 vs #30), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 82.3%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #7); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 78.5 in Colorado.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 278#15 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 265#3 of 50 | -8 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| Life expectancyGap +1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | +1.0 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 25%#1 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 7.9%#30 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -6 pts (-14%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 42#35 of 50 | -6 pts-14% | 38.8 | NY |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: New York #30, Colorado #18. Health: New York #3, Colorado #7.
Are more people moving from New York to Colorado, or from Colorado to New York?
3,987 households moved from New York to Colorado and 3,210 moved from Colorado to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 777 households for Colorado. Movers to Colorado reported an average income of $96,605; movers to New York reported $85,207. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,792 people (±1,352) moving from New York to Colorado and 7,985 (±3,618) the other way, a net gain of about 4,193 people for New York beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +70,850 (+58%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 121,390#11 of 50 | +70,850+58% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +154,178 (+140%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 110,049#39 of 50 | +154,178+140% | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -83,328 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -83,328 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -5.5 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$11,670 (+14%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $82,532#16 of 50 | +$11,670+14% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$21,443 (+25%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $84,540#13 of 50 | +$21,443+25% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.9 | -6.9#50 of 50 | -2.0#42 of 50 | -4.9 | CO |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, New York or Colorado?
Colorado is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +7 places | #29score 62.6 | #22score 66.1 | +7 places | CO |
| RetireesGap +9 places | #25score 62 | #16score 67 | +9 places | CO |
| Remote WorkersGap +21 places | #44score 41.4 | #23score 53.8 | +21 places | CO |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +20 places | #40score 42.8 | #20score 56.7 | +20 places | CO |
| Small BusinessGap +24 places | #44score 37.5 | #20score 59.8 | +24 places | CO |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #21score 50.9 | #15score 55.8 | +6 places | CO |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesColorado (#22 vs #29)
- RetireesColorado (#16 vs #25)
- Remote WorkersColorado (#23 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsColorado (#20 vs #40)
- Small BusinessColorado (#20 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsColorado (#15 vs #21)
Which cities stand out in New York and Colorado?
New York has 20 tracked cities and Colorado has 20; the largest are New York and Denver. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Denver718,877 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Broomfieldscore 68.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Pueblocost index 91.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | Pueblo93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Grand Junction+1.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and Colorado compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and Colorado AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -9 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 39%#14 of 50 | -9 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -14.1 (-79%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 17.9#16 of 50 | -14.1-79% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap -21.1 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 36.2%#9 of 50 | -21.1 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.5 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | +7.5 min | 25.2 min | CO |
| Commuters using public transitGap +22.5 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 1.7%#18 of 50 | +22.5 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -8.1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 19.9%#1 of 50 | -8.1 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 94.9%#5 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 92.67% | CO |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 95#24 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.4 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 13.2%#14 of 50 | -9.4 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +23 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 67%#37 of 50 | +23 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,010 (+161%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $3,120#29 of 50 | +$5,010+161% | $3,506 | CO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.5%#34 of 50 | -5 pts | +4.66% | CO |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, Colorado AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
New York vs Colorado: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New York is ahead on 13 of 51, Colorado on 27, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | ColoradoCO | GapNY−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +13,989,866 (+233%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 6 million#20 of 50 | +13,989,866+233% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap -$11,293 (-12%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$11,293-12% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4%#26 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.39 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.4%#28 of 50 | -0.39 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$27,003 (+36%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $75,024#7 of 50 | +$27,003+36% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -53 (-13%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -53-13% | 328 | NY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -569 (-27%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 2,144#49 of 50 | -569-27% | 1,535 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 239#18 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 278#15 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 221#5 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 265#3 of 50 | -8 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | +1.0 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 25%#1 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 7.9%#30 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$6,034 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$6,034-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap +7 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +7 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,693 (+88%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,922#34 of 50 | +$1,693+88% | $1,948 | CO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$1,951 (+1%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $138,758#43 of 50 | +$1,951+1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.8 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | +4.8 pts+5% | 100 | CO |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+11%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 5.5x#40 of 50 | +0.6x+11% | 4.6x | CO |
| Residential electricity priceGap +10.54¢ (+66%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | +10.54¢+66% | 17.84¢/kWh | CO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.41 (+57%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | +$6.41+57% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.04 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | +$0.04+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.6 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 98.7#36 of 50 | +8.6 pts+9% | 100 | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap $0 (0%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $00% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.83 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | +4.83 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.38 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 4.4%#17 of 50 | +10.38 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.15 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.49%#3 of 50 | +1.15 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.65 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 7.89%#35 of 50 | +0.65 pts | 6.66% | CO |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 95#24 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.4 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 13.2%#14 of 50 | -9.4 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +23 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 67%#37 of 50 | +23 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,010 (+161%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $3,120#29 of 50 | +$5,010+161% | $3,506 | CO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.5%#34 of 50 | -5 pts | +4.66% | CO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -6 pts (-14%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 42#35 of 50 | -6 pts-14% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -9 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 39%#14 of 50 | -9 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -14.1 (-79%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 17.9#16 of 50 | -14.1-79% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap -21.1 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 36.2%#9 of 50 | -21.1 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.5 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | +7.5 min | 25.2 min | CO |
| Commuters using public transitGap +22.5 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 1.7%#18 of 50 | +22.5 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -8.1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 19.9%#1 of 50 | -8.1 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 94.9%#5 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +70,850 (+58%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 121,390#11 of 50 | +70,850+58% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +154,178 (+140%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 110,049#39 of 50 | +154,178+140% | 78,715 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -83,328 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -83,328 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -5.5 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$11,670 (+14%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $82,532#16 of 50 | +$11,670+14% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$21,443 (+25%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $84,540#13 of 50 | +$21,443+25% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.9 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | -2.0#42 of 50 | -4.9 | +1.1 | CO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$7,898 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$7,898 | -$11,758 | CO |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$4,894 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | -$4,894 | +$31,418 | CO |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$5,838 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | -$5,838 | +$35,970 | CO |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the New York and Colorado numbers say when read together.
Colorado ranks higher overall
Colorado leads 7 of the 11 categories to New York's 4, with 0 even; New York is ahead on livability and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New York is ahead on 13 and Colorado on 27.
Colorado is cheaper day to day
Colorado's cost of living index is 103.1 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $532,748 in Colorado. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$35,330 in Colorado.
Colorado takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); Colorado collects 8.73% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Colorado pays more
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $97,113 in Colorado, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 422 in Colorado.
People move to New York on net
7,985 people moved to New York from Colorado in the latest Census release, against 3,792 going the other way.
Colorado fits families and retirees better
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and Colorado #22; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and Colorado #16.
New York vs Colorado: frequently asked questions
Is New York or Colorado better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Colorado #18 as of the latest release. Colorado is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.1 vs 107.9), has a 4.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 13% higher violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
Is New York cheaper than Colorado?
Colorado is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 103.1 vs 107.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$43,228 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New York, and -$35,330 in Colorado. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $532,748 in Colorado.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Colorado?
Colorado has the lower tax burden: 8.73% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. New York's top income tax rate is 14.78%, its effective property tax rate 1.64% and its combined sales tax 8.54%; Colorado's are 4.4%, 0.49% and 7.89%.
Is New York safer than Colorado?
New York is safer: 368 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and Colorado #43. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 2,144 in Colorado. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Castle Rock, CO.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Colorado?
Typical home values are about the same: $526,714 in New York and $532,748 in Colorado. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $138,758 in Colorado, against median incomes of $85,820 and $97,113.
Do people earn more in New York or Colorado?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $85,820 in New York, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 4% in Colorado. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 17 after adjusting for local costs and Colorado's in 1, with 2 even.
Are more people moving from New York to Colorado or from Colorado to New York?
3,987 households moved from New York to Colorado and 3,210 moved from Colorado to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 777 households for Colorado. Movers to Colorado reported an average income of $96,605; movers to New York reported $85,207. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,792 people (±1,352) moving from New York to Colorado and 7,985 (±3,618) the other way, a net gain of about 4,193 people for New York beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, New York or Colorado?
Colorado is the better fit for retirees: #16 of 50 on the retiree index vs #25 for New York. New York has high across the board; Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$28,486 in Colorado.
Which is better for families, New York or Colorado?
Colorado is the better fit for families: #22 of 50 on the families index vs #29 for New York. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $20,978 in Colorado. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 82.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$35,330 in Colorado.
Is Colorado better than New York?
Yes: Colorado ranks higher than New York overall, #18 of 50 vs #29, with a composite score of 64.7 to 54.9. Colorado leads 7 of 11 categories and New York leads 4, including livability and safety. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside New York vs Colorado.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (3,987 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).