Maryland vs Connecticut: Which Is Better to Live In?
Maryland ranks #31 of 50 overall and Connecticut #16 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 105 vs 103.6); Maryland collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 69% higher violent crime rate. Connecticut scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 69% lower in Connecticut (110 vs. 358 in Maryland).
- Property crime rate is 37% lower in Connecticut (1,146 vs. 1,820 in Maryland).
- Residential electricity price is 34% lower in Maryland (19.48¢/kWh vs. 29.38¢/kWh in Connecticut).
| Measure | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -13.3 pts | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | 66.9#16 of 50 · B+ | -13.3 pts | — | CT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.4 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 103.6#42 of 50 | +1.4 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$731 · US -$11,758 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | -$31,415#40 of 50 | +$731 | -$11,758 | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$22,565 (-5%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $450,873#37 of 50 | -$22,565-5% | $368,697 | MD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.14 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 9.9%#41 of 50 | +0.14 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +248 (+227%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 110#2 of 50 | +248+227% | 328 | CT |
| Median household incomeGap +$6,856 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $96,049#10 of 50 | +$6,856+7% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 88.9%#11 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | CT |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 79.4#5 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | CT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -7,954 · US -33 | -13,628#45 of 50 | -5,674#40 of 50 | -7,954 | -33 | CT |
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 Maryland or Connecticut better to live in?
Connecticut scores higher overall: 66.9 to 53.6 out of 100, #16 of 50 against #31. Maryland leads 3 of 11 categories, Connecticut leads 6, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +5.9 | 15% | 65.3#6 · A | 59.4#11 · B+ | +5.9 pts | MD |
| Safety12% of scoregap -29.8 | 12% | 60.3#37 · C | 90.1#4 · A+ | -29.8 pts | CT |
| Health12% of scoregap -10.7 | 12% | 63.6#15 · B+ | 74.3#10 · A | -10.7 pts | CT |
| Education12% of scoregap -18.6 | 12% | 55.5#31 · C+ | 74.1#6 · A | -18.6 pts | CT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +2.3 | 10% | 50.3#39 · C | 48.0#41 · C | +2.3 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +16.6 | 8% | 55.0#35 · C | 38.4#46 · D | +16.6 pts | MD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -1.5 | 7% | 29.8#37 · C | 31.3#32 · C+ | -1.5 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -10.5 | 7% | 40.9#45 · D | 51.4#25 · B | -10.5 pts | CT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -14 | 7% | 21.7#46 · D | 35.7#19 · B | -14 pts | CT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -12 | 6% | 11.8#40 · C | 23.8#27 · C+ | -12 pts | CT |
| Environment4% of scoregap +7.8 | 4% | 46.1#19 · B | 38.3#29 · C+ | +7.8 pts | MD |
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 Maryland cheaper than Connecticut?
Maryland and Connecticut cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 105 vs 103.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 ends up in about the same place in both after typical costs.
| Measure | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.4 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 103.6#42 of 50 | +1.4 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5.2 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 102.5#42 of 50 | 97.3#32 of 50 | +5.2 pts+5% | 100 | CT |
| Residential electricity priceGap -9.90¢ (-34%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | 29.38¢/kWh#46 of 50 | -9.90¢-34% | 17.84¢/kWh | MD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.69 (-4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | $16.83/Mcf#33 of 50 | -$0.69-4% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.05 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | $3.37/gal#42 of 50 | -$0.05-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,508 (+8%) · US $15,633 | $20,124#40 of 50 | $18,616#37 of 50 | +$1,508+8% | $15,633 | CT |
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 | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,188 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | +$24,682costs $50,319 | +$2,188 | MD |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,591 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | +$13,945costs $61,056 | +$2,591 | MD |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$731 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | -$31,415costs $106,415 | +$731 | Even |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,065 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | +$28,046costs $46,954 | +$2,065 | MD |
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 | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$5,071 | $30,358 | $35,429 | -$5,071 | MD |
| ChildcareGap +$3,016 | $40,248 | $37,232 | +$3,016 | CT |
| UtilitiesGap +$67 | $5,040 | $4,973 | +$67 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$586 | $11,545 | $10,959 | +$586 | CT |
| TransportationGap -$157 | $10,434 | $10,591 | -$157 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$828 | $8,059 | $7,231 | +$828 | CT |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Maryland or Connecticut?
Maryland and Connecticut collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 10.04% vs 9.9%. Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Connecticut has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.14 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 9.9%#41 of 50 | +0.14 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.96 pts · US 5.46% | 8.95%#43 of 50 | 6.99%#38 of 50 | +1.96 pts | 5.46% | CT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.77 pts · US 1.02% | 1.02%#30 of 50 | 1.79%#47 of 50 | -0.77 pts | 1.02% | MD |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.35 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#11 of 50 | 6.35%#18 of 50 | -0.35 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Maryland or Connecticut?
Homes cost 5% more in Connecticut: a typical home value of $428,308 in Maryland vs $450,873 in Connecticut. Buying the typical home takes about $116,485 of income in Maryland and $131,866 in Connecticut; the median household earns $102,905 and $96,049.
| Measure | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$22,565 (-5%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $450,873#37 of 50 | -$22,565-5% | $368,697 | MD |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#41 of 50 | +5%#6 of 50 | -5 pts | +1.2% | CT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$86 (-4%) · US $1,948 | $1,948#35 of 50 | $2,034#37 of 50 | -$86-4% | $1,948 | MD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$15,381 (-12%) · US $100,006 | $116,485#36 of 50 | $131,866#41 of 50 | -$15,381-12% | $100,006 | MD |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-11%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#22 of 50 | 4.7x#30 of 50 | -0.5x-11% | 4.6x | MD |
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.
| MD | CT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,204 | $2,320 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +37% |
| Five-year change | +13.5% | +40.3% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Baltimore | Hartford |
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 Maryland or Connecticut?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $96,049, with unemployment at 4% in Maryland and 4% in Connecticut. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maryland's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Connecticut's in 20.
| Measure | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$6,856 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $96,049#10 of 50 | +$6,856+7% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#27 of 50 | 4%#25 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$19,121 (-22%) · US $64,333 | $68,357#16 of 50 | $87,478#5 of 50 | -$19,121-22% | $64,333 | CT |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +1.9%#25 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.06 pts · US +0.51% | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.38%#30 of 50 | -0.06 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 | MD | CT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | $170,242$177,052 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,537$244,958 in Baltimore | $251,244$261,294 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Civil Engineers | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | $110,298$114,710 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Software Developers | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | $144,014$149,775 in Bridgeport | CT |
| General & Operations Managers | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | $111,486$115,945 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Registered Nurses | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | $98,059$101,981 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | $118,988$123,747 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Electricians | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | $73,325$76,258 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | $80,498$83,718 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | $64,328$66,901 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | $71,641$74,507 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,061$87,423 in Baltimore | $91,465$95,124 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | $83,333$86,666 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | $39,511$41,091 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | $72,317$75,210 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Construction Laborers | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | $48,586$50,529 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | $59,474$61,853 in Bridgeport | CT |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | $63,032$65,553 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Mental Health Counselors | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | $58,151$60,477 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | $51,406$53,462 in Bridgeport | CT |
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 Maryland safer than Connecticut?
Connecticut is safer: 110 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland (FBI). Property crime runs 1,820 and 1,146 per 100,000.
| Measure | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +248 (+227%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 110#2 of 50 | +248+227% | 328 | CT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +674 (+59%) · US 1,535 | 1,820#43 of 50 | 1,146#10 of 50 | +674+59% | 1,535 | CT |
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.
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
- Shelton, CT32 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Maryland or Connecticut?
Connecticut scores higher for education (#6 of 50 vs #31), with high school graduation rates of 86.3% and 88.9%. Connecticut scores higher for health (#10 vs #15); life expectancy is 77.8 years in Maryland and 79.4 in Connecticut.
| Measure | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 268#38 of 50 | 277#17 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 258#21 of 50 | 263#5 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 88.9%#11 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | CT |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 79.4#5 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | CT |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#19 of 50 | 32%#14 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 34.03% | CT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 6.3%#18 of 50 | 5.8%#13 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 7.6% | CT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 40#25 of 50 | 39#20 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
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).
- Waldorf, MDeducation score 94
- Shelton, CTeducation score 95
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: Maryland #31, Connecticut #6. Health: Maryland #15, Connecticut #10.
Are more people moving from Maryland to Connecticut, or from Connecticut to Maryland?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 353 people (±291) moving from Maryland to Connecticut and 1,813 (±1,316) the other way, a net gain of about 1,460 people for Maryland 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 | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +35,328 (+74%) | 83,281#18 of 50 | 47,953#28 of 50 | +35,328+74% | MD |
| Households moving outIRSGap +43,282 (+81%) | 96,909#35 of 50 | 53,627#25 of 50 | +43,282+81% | CT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -7,954 | -13,628#45 of 50 | -5,674#40 of 50 | -7,954 | CT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.7 | -2.2#46 of 50 | -1.5#41 of 50 | -0.7 | CT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$30,001 (-27%) | $80,821#20 of 50 | $110,822#2 of 50 | -$30,001-27% | CT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$19,423 (-18%) | $88,251#10 of 50 | $107,674#2 of 50 | -$19,423-18% | CT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.3 | -1.9#41 of 50 | -1.6#40 of 50 | -0.3 | Even |
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, Maryland or Connecticut?
Connecticut is the better fit for families, retirees, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +30 places | #38score 56.3 | #8score 80 | +30 places | CT |
| RetireesGap +12 places | #36score 55.8 | #24score 62.4 | +12 places | CT |
| Remote WorkersGap +3 places | #40score 43.6 | #37score 46.2 | +3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +15 places | #34score 49.1 | #19score 56.8 | +15 places | CT |
| Small BusinessGap -1 places | #31score 52 | #32score 51.6 | -1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +16 places | #36score 33.6 | #20score 50.9 | +16 places | CT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesConnecticut (#8 vs #38)
- RetireesConnecticut (#24 vs #36)
- Remote WorkersEven (#40 vs #37)
- Young ProfessionalsConnecticut (#19 vs #34)
- Small BusinessEven (#31 vs #32)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsConnecticut (#20 vs #36)
Which cities stand out in Maryland and Connecticut?
Maryland has 20 tracked cities and Connecticut has 20; the largest are Baltimore and Bridgeport. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Baltimore573,243 people | Bridgeport149,153 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethesdascore 76.7 | West Hartfordscore 75.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Rockville108 violent per 100K | Shelton32 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Baltimorecost index 104.5 | Torringtoncost index 97.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 | New Havenwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 | Norwichcounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Waldorf94% graduation rate | Shelton95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Potomacmedian income $236,675 | West Hartfordmedian income $129,890 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Frederick+3% growth | Norwalk+0.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Maryland and Connecticut compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Maryland carries AAA credit rating and Connecticut A+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#36 of 50 | 5%#48 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.6 (-100%) · US 29.6 | 0.0#1 of 50 | 15.6#12 of 50 | -15.6-100% | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +7 pts · US 17.16% | 7.9%#24 of 50 | 0.9%#49 of 50 | +7 pts | 17.16% | MD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.3 min · US 25.2 min | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | 27 min#37 of 50 | +5.3 min | 25.2 min | CT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 5%#5 of 50 | 4%#9 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.6%#9 of 50 | 13.4%#20 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#8 of 50 | 94%#12 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +20 pts · US 92.7 | 100#14 of 50 | 80#47 of 50 | +20 pts | 92.7 | MD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7.9 pts · US 12.39% | 7.5%#39 of 50 | 15.4%#8 of 50 | -7.9 pts | 12.39% | CT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +23 pts · US 74.3% | 75%#25 of 50 | 52%#48 of 50 | +23 pts | 74.3% | MD |
| State debt per capitaGap -$6,688 (-61%) · US $3,506 | $4,350#40 of 50 | $11,038#50 of 50 | -$6,688-61% | $3,506 | MD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US +4.66% | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +2.8%#39 of 50 | -1 pts | +4.66% | CT |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Maryland AAA, Connecticut A+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Maryland vs Connecticut: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Maryland is ahead on 18 of 51, Connecticut on 18, and 15 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MarylandMD | ConnecticutCT | GapMD−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,576,851 (+70%) · US 6.8 million | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | 3.7 million#29 of 50 | +2,576,851+70% | 6.8 million | MD |
| Median household incomeGap +$6,856 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $96,049#10 of 50 | +$6,856+7% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#27 of 50 | 4%#25 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.06 pts · US +0.51% | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.38%#30 of 50 | -0.06 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$19,121 (-22%) · US $64,333 | $68,357#16 of 50 | $87,478#5 of 50 | -$19,121-22% | $64,333 | CT |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +1.9%#25 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +248 (+227%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 110#2 of 50 | +248+227% | 328 | CT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +674 (+59%) · US 1,535 | 1,820#43 of 50 | 1,146#10 of 50 | +674+59% | 1,535 | CT |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 88.9%#11 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | CT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 234#39 of 50 | 239#17 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 268#38 of 50 | 277#17 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 214 | 216#20 of 50 | 219#8 of 50 | -4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 258#21 of 50 | 263#5 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 79.4#5 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | CT |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#19 of 50 | 32%#14 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 34.03% | CT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 6.3%#18 of 50 | 5.8%#13 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 7.6% | CT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$22,565 (-5%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $450,873#37 of 50 | -$22,565-5% | $368,697 | MD |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#41 of 50 | +5%#6 of 50 | -5 pts | +1.2% | CT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$86 (-4%) · US $1,948 | $1,948#35 of 50 | $2,034#37 of 50 | -$86-4% | $1,948 | MD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$15,381 (-12%) · US $100,006 | $116,485#36 of 50 | $131,866#41 of 50 | -$15,381-12% | $100,006 | MD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.4 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 103.6#42 of 50 | +1.4 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-11%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#22 of 50 | 4.7x#30 of 50 | -0.5x-11% | 4.6x | MD |
| Residential electricity priceGap -9.90¢ (-34%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | 29.38¢/kWh#46 of 50 | -9.90¢-34% | 17.84¢/kWh | MD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.69 (-4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | $16.83/Mcf#33 of 50 | -$0.69-4% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.05 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | $3.37/gal#42 of 50 | -$0.05-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5.2 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 102.5#42 of 50 | 97.3#32 of 50 | +5.2 pts+5% | 100 | CT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,508 (+8%) · US $15,633 | $20,124#40 of 50 | $18,616#37 of 50 | +$1,508+8% | $15,633 | CT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.14 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 9.9%#41 of 50 | +0.14 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.96 pts · US 5.46% | 8.95%#43 of 50 | 6.99%#38 of 50 | +1.96 pts | 5.46% | CT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.77 pts · US 1.02% | 1.02%#30 of 50 | 1.79%#47 of 50 | -0.77 pts | 1.02% | MD |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.35 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#11 of 50 | 6.35%#18 of 50 | -0.35 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +20 pts · US 92.7 | 100#14 of 50 | 80#47 of 50 | +20 pts | 92.7 | MD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7.9 pts · US 12.39% | 7.5%#39 of 50 | 15.4%#8 of 50 | -7.9 pts | 12.39% | CT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +23 pts · US 74.3% | 75%#25 of 50 | 52%#48 of 50 | +23 pts | 74.3% | MD |
| State debt per capitaGap -$6,688 (-61%) · US $3,506 | $4,350#40 of 50 | $11,038#50 of 50 | -$6,688-61% | $3,506 | MD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US +4.66% | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +2.8%#39 of 50 | -1 pts | +4.66% | CT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 40#25 of 50 | 39#20 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#36 of 50 | 5%#48 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.6 (-100%) · US 29.6 | 0.0#1 of 50 | 15.6#12 of 50 | -15.6-100% | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +7 pts · US 17.16% | 7.9%#24 of 50 | 0.9%#49 of 50 | +7 pts | 17.16% | MD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.3 min · US 25.2 min | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | 27 min#37 of 50 | +5.3 min | 25.2 min | CT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 5%#5 of 50 | 4%#9 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.6%#9 of 50 | 13.4%#20 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#8 of 50 | 94%#12 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +35,328 (+74%) · US 78,682 | 83,281#18 of 50 | 47,953#28 of 50 | +35,328+74% | 78,682 | MD |
| Households moving outIRSGap +43,282 (+81%) · US 78,715 | 96,909#35 of 50 | 53,627#25 of 50 | +43,282+81% | 78,715 | CT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -7,954 · US -33 | -13,628#45 of 50 | -5,674#40 of 50 | -7,954 | -33 | CT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.7 · US +0.4 | -2.2#46 of 50 | -1.5#41 of 50 | -0.7 | +0.4 | CT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$30,001 (-27%) · US $77,690 | $80,821#20 of 50 | $110,822#2 of 50 | -$30,001-27% | $77,690 | CT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$19,423 (-18%) · US $77,024 | $88,251#10 of 50 | $107,674#2 of 50 | -$19,423-18% | $77,024 | CT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.3 · US +1.1 | -1.9#41 of 50 | -1.6#40 of 50 | -0.3 | +1.1 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$731 · US -$11,758 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | -$31,415#40 of 50 | +$731 | -$11,758 | Even |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,188 · US +$31,418 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | +$24,682#40 of 50 | +$2,188 | +$31,418 | MD |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,065 · US +$35,970 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | +$28,046#40 of 50 | +$2,065 | +$35,970 | MD |
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 Maryland and Connecticut numbers say when read together.
Connecticut ranks higher overall
Connecticut leads 6 of the 11 categories to Maryland's 3, with 2 even; Maryland is ahead on fiscal health and environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Maryland is ahead on 18 and Connecticut on 18.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 105 in Maryland and 103.6 in Connecticut, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $428,308 and $450,873. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$30,684 a year after typical costs in Maryland and -$31,415 in Connecticut.
Tax burdens are close
Maryland collects 10.04% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Connecticut collects 9.9% (high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
Maryland pays more
Median household income is $102,905 in Maryland and $96,049 in Connecticut, with unemployment at 4% and 4%. Violent crime runs 358 per 100,000 residents in Maryland and 110 in Connecticut.
People move to Maryland on net
1,813 people moved to Maryland from Connecticut in the latest Census release, against 353 going the other way.
Connecticut fits families and retirees better
For families, Maryland ranks #38 of 50 and Connecticut #8; for retirees, Maryland ranks #36 and Connecticut #24.
Maryland vs Connecticut: frequently asked questions
Is Maryland or Connecticut better to live in?
Maryland ranks #31 of 50 overall and Connecticut #16 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 105 vs 103.6); Maryland collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 69% higher violent crime rate. Connecticut scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Maryland cheaper than Connecticut?
Maryland and Connecticut cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 105 vs 103.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$30,684 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Maryland, and -$31,415 in Connecticut. The typical home value is $428,308 in Maryland and $450,873 in Connecticut.
Which has lower taxes, Maryland or Connecticut?
Maryland and Connecticut have similar tax burdens: 10.04% vs 9.9% of income in state and local taxes. Maryland's top income tax rate is 8.95%, its effective property tax rate 1.02% and its combined sales tax 6%; Connecticut's are 6.99%, 1.79% and 6.35%.
Is Maryland safer than Connecticut?
Connecticut is safer: 110 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland, per the FBI. Maryland ranks #34 of 50 for violent crime and Connecticut #2. Property crime is 1,820 per 100,000 in Maryland and 1,146 in Connecticut. The safest tracked cities are Rockville, MD, and Shelton, CT.
Are homes more expensive in Maryland or Connecticut?
Homes are 5% more expensive in Connecticut: the typical home value is $428,308 in Maryland and $450,873 in Connecticut. Buying the typical home takes about $116,485 of household income in Maryland and $131,866 in Connecticut, against median incomes of $102,905 and $96,049.
Do people earn more in Maryland or Connecticut?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $96,049 in Connecticut, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Maryland and 4% in Connecticut. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maryland's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Connecticut's in 20.
Are more people moving from Maryland to Connecticut or from Connecticut to Maryland?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 353 people (±291) moving from Maryland to Connecticut and 1,813 (±1,316) the other way, a net gain of about 1,460 people for Maryland beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Maryland or Connecticut?
Connecticut is the better fit for retirees: #24 of 50 on the retiree index vs #36 for Maryland. Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Connecticut has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$30,111 left after typical costs in Maryland and +$28,046 in Connecticut.
Which is better for families, Maryland or Connecticut?
Connecticut is the better fit for families: #8 of 50 on the families index vs #38 for Maryland. Center-based infant care costs $20,124 a year in Maryland and $18,616 in Connecticut. High school graduation rates are 86.3% and 88.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$30,684 after typical costs in Maryland and -$31,415 in Connecticut.
Is Connecticut better than Maryland?
Yes: Connecticut ranks higher than Maryland overall, #16 of 50 vs #31, with a composite score of 66.9 to 53.6. Connecticut leads 6 of 11 categories and Maryland leads 3, including fiscal health and environment. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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