Massachusetts vs Connecticut: Which Is Better to Live In?
Massachusetts ranks #13 of 50 overall and Connecticut #16 as of the latest release. Connecticut is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.6 vs 105.8), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 64% lower violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 64% lower in Connecticut (110 vs. 303 in Massachusetts).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 34% lower in Connecticut ($2,034 vs. $3,074 in Massachusetts).
- Typical home value is 32% lower in Connecticut ($450,873 vs. $661,896 in Massachusetts).
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +3.1 pts | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | 66.9#16 of 50 · B+ | +3.1 pts | — | MA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 103.6#42 of 50 | +2.2 pts+2% | 100 | CT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$30,806 · US -$11,758 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | -$31,415#40 of 50 | -$30,806 | -$11,758 | CT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$211,023 (+47%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $450,873#37 of 50 | +$211,023+47% | $368,697 | CT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 9.9%#41 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +193 (+176%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 110#2 of 50 | +193+176% | 328 | CT |
| Median household incomeGap +$8,779 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $96,049#10 of 50 | +$8,779+9% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 88.9%#11 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 79.4#5 of 50 | +0.4 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,704 · US -33 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -5,674#40 of 50 | -9,704 | -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 Massachusetts or Connecticut better to live in?
Massachusetts scores higher overall: 70 to 66.9 out of 100, #13 of 50 against #16. Massachusetts leads 5 of 11 categories, Connecticut leads 3, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +0.4 | 15% | 59.8#10 · A | 59.4#11 · B+ | +0.4 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -13.7 | 12% | 76.4#19 · B | 90.1#4 · A+ | -13.7 pts | CT |
| Health12% of scoregap +14.3 | 12% | 88.6#1 · A+ | 74.3#10 · A | +14.3 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap +17.9 | 12% | 92.0#1 · A+ | 74.1#6 · A | +17.9 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -18.7 | 10% | 29.3#48 · D | 48.0#41 · C | -18.7 pts | CT |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +11.7 | 8% | 50.1#39 · C | 38.4#46 · D | +11.7 pts | MA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -11.9 | 7% | 19.4#47 · D | 31.3#32 · C+ | -11.9 pts | CT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +0.3 | 7% | 51.7#24 · B | 51.4#25 · B | +0.3 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -1.4 | 7% | 34.3#23 · B | 35.7#19 · B | -1.4 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +8.2 | 6% | 32.0#20 · B | 23.8#27 · C+ | +8.2 pts | MA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +16.1 | 4% | 54.4#9 · A | 38.3#29 · C+ | +16.1 pts | MA |
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 Massachusetts cheaper than Connecticut?
Connecticut is cheaper: cost of living index 103.6 vs 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $30,806 more a year in Connecticut after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 103.6#42 of 50 | +2.2 pts+2% | 100 | CT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.8#37 of 50 | 97.3#32 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.10¢ (+4%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | 29.38¢/kWh#46 of 50 | +1.10¢+4% | 17.84¢/kWh | CT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.23 (+49%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | $16.83/Mcf#33 of 50 | +$8.23+49% | $15.83/Mcf | CT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.04 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | $3.37/gal#42 of 50 | -$0.04-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$8,451 (+45%) · US $15,633 | $27,067#49 of 50 | $18,616#37 of 50 | +$8,451+45% | $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 | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$8,452 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$24,682costs $50,319 | -$8,452 | CT |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$11,482 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$13,945costs $61,056 | -$11,482 | CT |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$30,806 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | -$31,415costs $106,415 | -$30,806 | CT |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$10,267 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$28,046costs $46,954 | -$10,267 | CT |
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 | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$12,346 | $47,775 | $35,429 | +$12,346 | CT |
| ChildcareGap +$16,902 | $54,134 | $37,232 | +$16,902 | CT |
| UtilitiesGap +$105 | $5,078 | $4,973 | +$105 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$169 | $11,128 | $10,959 | +$169 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$125 | $10,466 | $10,591 | -$125 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,410 | $8,641 | $7,231 | +$1,410 | CT |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Massachusetts or Connecticut?
Massachusetts and Connecticut collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 9.57% vs 9.9%. Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Connecticut has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 9.9%#41 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.01 pts · US 5.46% | 9%#44 of 50 | 6.99%#38 of 50 | +2.01 pts | 5.46% | CT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.64 pts · US 1.02% | 1.15%#33 of 50 | 1.79%#47 of 50 | -0.64 pts | 1.02% | MA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.1 pts · US 6.66% | 6.25%#16 of 50 | 6.35%#18 of 50 | -0.1 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 Massachusetts or Connecticut?
Homes cost 47% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $661,896 in Massachusetts vs $450,873 in Connecticut. Buying the typical home takes about $177,190 of income in Massachusetts and $131,866 in Connecticut; the median household earns $104,828 and $96,049.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$211,023 (+47%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $450,873#37 of 50 | +$211,023+47% | $368,697 | CT |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +5%#6 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +1.2% | CT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,040 (+51%) · US $1,948 | $3,074#49 of 50 | $2,034#37 of 50 | +$1,040+51% | $1,948 | CT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$45,324 (+34%) · US $100,006 | $177,190#48 of 50 | $131,866#41 of 50 | +$45,324+34% | $100,006 | CT |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.6x (+34%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#48 of 50 | 4.7x#30 of 50 | +1.6x+34% | 4.6x | CT |
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.
| MA | CT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,405 | $2,320 |
| Income needed vs. median | +69% | +37% |
| Five-year change | +25.3% | +40.3% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Boston | 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 Massachusetts or Connecticut?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $96,049, with unemployment at 4.5% in Massachusetts and 4% in Connecticut. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Massachusetts's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Connecticut's in 6.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$8,779 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $96,049#10 of 50 | +$8,779+9% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#37 of 50 | 4%#25 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | CT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$11,796 (+13%) · US $64,333 | $99,274#2 of 50 | $87,478#5 of 50 | +$11,796+13% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.9%#25 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | MA |
| Population growthGap -0.16 pts · US +0.51% | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.38%#30 of 50 | -0.16 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 | MA | CT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | $144,014$149,775 in Bridgeport | MA |
| Lawyers | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | $170,242$177,052 in Bridgeport | MA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | $118,988$123,747 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | $251,244$261,294 in Bridgeport | MA |
| Electricians | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | $73,325$76,258 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | $51,406$53,462 in Bridgeport | MA |
| Civil Engineers | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | $110,298$114,710 in Bridgeport | CT |
| General & Operations Managers | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | $111,486$115,945 in Bridgeport | MA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | $64,328$66,901 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | $80,498$83,718 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | $83,333$86,666 in Bridgeport | MA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | $59,474$61,853 in Bridgeport | MA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | $48,586$50,529 in Bridgeport | CT |
| Registered Nurses | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | $98,059$101,981 in Bridgeport | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,999$75,599 in Boston | $71,641$74,507 in Bridgeport | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | $91,465$95,124 in Bridgeport | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | $72,317$75,210 in Bridgeport | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | $58,151$60,477 in Bridgeport | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,407$41,480 in Boston | $39,511$41,091 in Bridgeport | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,980$69,098 in Boston | $63,032$65,553 in Bridgeport | 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 Massachusetts safer than Connecticut?
Connecticut is safer: 110 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts (FBI). Property crime runs 1,031 and 1,146 per 100,000.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +193 (+176%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 110#2 of 50 | +193+176% | 328 | CT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -115 (-10%) · US 1,535 | 1,031#6 of 50 | 1,146#10 of 50 | -115-10% | 1,535 | MA |
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.
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
- Shelton, CT32 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Massachusetts or Connecticut?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #6), with high school graduation rates of 90.1% and 88.9%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #10); life expectancy is 79.8 years in Massachusetts and 79.4 in Connecticut.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 284#1 of 50 | 277#17 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 268#1 of 50 | 263#5 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 88.9%#11 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 79.4#5 of 50 | +0.4 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap -5 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#2 of 50 | 32%#14 of 50 | -5 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3 pts · US 7.6% | 2.8%#1 of 50 | 5.8%#13 of 50 | -3 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 37#17 of 50 | 39#20 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | MA |
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).
- Newton, MAeducation score 96
- 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: Massachusetts #1, Connecticut #6. Health: Massachusetts #1, Connecticut #10.
Are more people moving from Massachusetts to Connecticut, or from Connecticut to Massachusetts?
6,006 households moved from Massachusetts to Connecticut and 6,467 moved from Connecticut to Massachusetts in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 461 households for Massachusetts. Movers to Connecticut reported an average income of $86,523; movers to Massachusetts reported $86,034. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,612 people (±2,586) moving from Massachusetts to Connecticut and 9,936 (±1,952) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
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 | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +35,343 (+74%) | 83,296#17 of 50 | 47,953#28 of 50 | +35,343+74% | MA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +45,047 (+84%) | 98,674#36 of 50 | 53,627#25 of 50 | +45,047+84% | CT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,704 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -5,674#40 of 50 | -9,704 | CT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.6 | -2.1#45 of 50 | -1.5#41 of 50 | -0.6 | CT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$20,932 (-19%) | $89,890#7 of 50 | $110,822#2 of 50 | -$20,932-19% | CT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$8,935 (+8%) | $116,609#1 of 50 | $107,674#2 of 50 | +$8,935+8% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.1 | -4.7#46 of 50 | -1.6#40 of 50 | -3.1 | CT |
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, Massachusetts or Connecticut?
Massachusetts is the better fit for retirees and outdoor enthusiasts; Connecticut is the better fit for remote workers and young professionals; 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 | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +1 places | #9score 79.8 | #8score 80 | +1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -5 places | #19score 65.5 | #24score 62.4 | -5 places | MA |
| Remote WorkersGap +5 places | #42score 42.9 | #37score 46.2 | +5 places | CT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +16 places | #35score 48.4 | #19score 56.8 | +16 places | CT |
| Small BusinessGap -3 places | #29score 52.7 | #32score 51.6 | -3 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -4 places | #16score 55.3 | #20score 50.9 | -4 places | MA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#9 vs #8)
- RetireesMassachusetts (#19 vs #24)
- Remote WorkersConnecticut (#37 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsConnecticut (#19 vs #35)
- Small BusinessEven (#29 vs #32)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMassachusetts (#16 vs #20)
Which cities stand out in Massachusetts and Connecticut?
Massachusetts has 25 tracked cities and Connecticut has 20; the largest are Boston and Bridgeport. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Boston666,442 people | Bridgeport149,153 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Brooklinescore 79.5 | West Hartfordscore 75.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Newton56 violent per 100K | Shelton32 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Springfieldcost index 96.1 | Torringtoncost index 97.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 | New Havenwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 | Norwichcounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Newton96% graduation rate | Shelton95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Newtonmedian income $190,304 | West Hartfordmedian income $129,890 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Worcester+0.9% growth | Norwalk+0.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Massachusetts and Connecticut compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Massachusetts carries AA+ credit rating and Connecticut A+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +19 pts · US 29.34% | 24%#23 of 50 | 5%#48 of 50 | +19 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.0 (-77%) · US 29.6 | 3.6#3 of 50 | 15.6#12 of 50 | -12.0-77% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap +6.8 pts · US 17.16% | 7.7%#25 of 50 | 0.9%#49 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.6 min · US 25.2 min | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | 27 min#37 of 50 | +3.6 min | 25.2 min | CT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.8 pts · US 2.29% | 7.8%#3 of 50 | 4%#9 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.4 pts · US 12.28% | 14.8%#13 of 50 | 13.4%#20 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#7 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 | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 95#22 of 50 | 80#47 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US 12.39% | 12.8%#17 of 50 | 15.4%#8 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.39% | CT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +11 pts · US 74.3% | 63%#41 of 50 | 52%#48 of 50 | +11 pts | 74.3% | MA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,358 (-12%) · US $3,506 | $9,680#49 of 50 | $11,038#50 of 50 | -$1,358-12% | $3,506 | MA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +2.8%#39 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +4.66% | CT |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Massachusetts AA+, 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).
Massachusetts vs Connecticut: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Massachusetts is ahead on 19 of 51, Connecticut on 22, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | ConnecticutCT | GapMA−CT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,465,588 (+94%) · US 6.8 million | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | 3.7 million#29 of 50 | +3,465,588+94% | 6.8 million | MA |
| Median household incomeGap +$8,779 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $96,049#10 of 50 | +$8,779+9% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#37 of 50 | 4%#25 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | CT |
| Population growthGap -0.16 pts · US +0.51% | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.38%#30 of 50 | -0.16 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$11,796 (+13%) · US $64,333 | $99,274#2 of 50 | $87,478#5 of 50 | +$11,796+13% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.9%#25 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | MA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +193 (+176%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 110#2 of 50 | +193+176% | 328 | CT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -115 (-10%) · US 1,535 | 1,031#6 of 50 | 1,146#10 of 50 | -115-10% | 1,535 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 88.9%#11 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 237 | 247#1 of 50 | 239#17 of 50 | +7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 284#1 of 50 | 277#17 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 225#1 of 50 | 219#8 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 268#1 of 50 | 263#5 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 79.4#5 of 50 | +0.4 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap -5 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#2 of 50 | 32%#14 of 50 | -5 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3 pts · US 7.6% | 2.8%#1 of 50 | 5.8%#13 of 50 | -3 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$211,023 (+47%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $450,873#37 of 50 | +$211,023+47% | $368,697 | CT |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +5%#6 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +1.2% | CT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,040 (+51%) · US $1,948 | $3,074#49 of 50 | $2,034#37 of 50 | +$1,040+51% | $1,948 | CT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$45,324 (+34%) · US $100,006 | $177,190#48 of 50 | $131,866#41 of 50 | +$45,324+34% | $100,006 | CT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 103.6#42 of 50 | +2.2 pts+2% | 100 | CT |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.6x (+34%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#48 of 50 | 4.7x#30 of 50 | +1.6x+34% | 4.6x | CT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.10¢ (+4%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | 29.38¢/kWh#46 of 50 | +1.10¢+4% | 17.84¢/kWh | CT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.23 (+49%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | $16.83/Mcf#33 of 50 | +$8.23+49% | $15.83/Mcf | CT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.04 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | $3.37/gal#42 of 50 | -$0.04-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.8#37 of 50 | 97.3#32 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$8,451 (+45%) · US $15,633 | $27,067#49 of 50 | $18,616#37 of 50 | +$8,451+45% | $15,633 | CT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 9.9%#41 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.01 pts · US 5.46% | 9%#44 of 50 | 6.99%#38 of 50 | +2.01 pts | 5.46% | CT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.64 pts · US 1.02% | 1.15%#33 of 50 | 1.79%#47 of 50 | -0.64 pts | 1.02% | MA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.1 pts · US 6.66% | 6.25%#16 of 50 | 6.35%#18 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 95#22 of 50 | 80#47 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US 12.39% | 12.8%#17 of 50 | 15.4%#8 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.39% | CT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +11 pts · US 74.3% | 63%#41 of 50 | 52%#48 of 50 | +11 pts | 74.3% | MA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,358 (-12%) · US $3,506 | $9,680#49 of 50 | $11,038#50 of 50 | -$1,358-12% | $3,506 | MA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +2.8%#39 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +4.66% | CT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 37#17 of 50 | 39#20 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | MA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +19 pts · US 29.34% | 24%#23 of 50 | 5%#48 of 50 | +19 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.0 (-77%) · US 29.6 | 3.6#3 of 50 | 15.6#12 of 50 | -12.0-77% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap +6.8 pts · US 17.16% | 7.7%#25 of 50 | 0.9%#49 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.6 min · US 25.2 min | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | 27 min#37 of 50 | +3.6 min | 25.2 min | CT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.8 pts · US 2.29% | 7.8%#3 of 50 | 4%#9 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.4 pts · US 12.28% | 14.8%#13 of 50 | 13.4%#20 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#7 of 50 | 94%#12 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +35,343 (+74%) · US 78,682 | 83,296#17 of 50 | 47,953#28 of 50 | +35,343+74% | 78,682 | MA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +45,047 (+84%) · US 78,715 | 98,674#36 of 50 | 53,627#25 of 50 | +45,047+84% | 78,715 | CT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,704 · US -33 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -5,674#40 of 50 | -9,704 | -33 | CT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.6 · US +0.4 | -2.1#45 of 50 | -1.5#41 of 50 | -0.6 | +0.4 | CT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$20,932 (-19%) · US $77,690 | $89,890#7 of 50 | $110,822#2 of 50 | -$20,932-19% | $77,690 | CT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$8,935 (+8%) · US $77,024 | $116,609#1 of 50 | $107,674#2 of 50 | +$8,935+8% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.1 · US +1.1 | -4.7#46 of 50 | -1.6#40 of 50 | -3.1 | +1.1 | CT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$30,806 · US -$11,758 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | -$31,415#40 of 50 | -$30,806 | -$11,758 | CT |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$8,452 · US +$31,418 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$24,682#40 of 50 | -$8,452 | +$31,418 | CT |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$10,267 · US +$35,970 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$28,046#40 of 50 | -$10,267 | +$35,970 | CT |
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 Massachusetts and Connecticut numbers say when read together.
Massachusetts ranks higher overall
Massachusetts leads 5 of the 11 categories to Connecticut's 3, with 3 even; Connecticut is ahead on affordability and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Massachusetts is ahead on 19 and Connecticut on 22.
Connecticut is cheaper day to day
Connecticut's cost of living index is 103.6 against 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). The typical home costs $661,896 in Massachusetts and $450,873 in Connecticut. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$62,221 a year after typical costs in Massachusetts and -$31,415 in Connecticut.
Tax burdens are close
Massachusetts collects 9.57% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, with property and sales taxes 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).
Massachusetts pays more
Median household income is $104,828 in Massachusetts and $96,049 in Connecticut, with unemployment at 4.5% and 4%. Violent crime runs 303 per 100,000 residents in Massachusetts and 110 in Connecticut.
Moves between the two run about even
11,612 people moved from Massachusetts to Connecticut and 9,936 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Massachusetts is the better fit for retirees
For families, Massachusetts ranks #9 of 50 and Connecticut #8; for retirees, Massachusetts ranks #19 and Connecticut #24.
Massachusetts vs Connecticut: frequently asked questions
Is Massachusetts or Connecticut better to live in?
Massachusetts ranks #13 of 50 overall and Connecticut #16 as of the latest release. Connecticut is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.6 vs 105.8), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 64% lower violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Massachusetts cheaper than Connecticut?
Connecticut is cheaper than Massachusetts: cost of living index 103.6 vs 105.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$62,221 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Massachusetts, and -$31,415 in Connecticut. The typical home value is $661,896 in Massachusetts and $450,873 in Connecticut.
Which has lower taxes, Massachusetts or Connecticut?
Massachusetts and Connecticut have similar tax burdens: 9.57% vs 9.9% of income in state and local taxes. Massachusetts's top income tax rate is 9%, its effective property tax rate 1.15% and its combined sales tax 6.25%; Connecticut's are 6.99%, 1.79% and 6.35%.
Is Massachusetts safer than Connecticut?
Connecticut is safer: 110 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts, per the FBI. Massachusetts ranks #27 of 50 for violent crime and Connecticut #2. Property crime is 1,031 per 100,000 in Massachusetts and 1,146 in Connecticut. The safest tracked cities are Newton, MA, and Shelton, CT.
Are homes more expensive in Massachusetts or Connecticut?
Homes are 47% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $661,896 in Massachusetts and $450,873 in Connecticut. Buying the typical home takes about $177,190 of household income in Massachusetts and $131,866 in Connecticut, against median incomes of $104,828 and $96,049.
Do people earn more in Massachusetts or Connecticut?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $96,049 in Connecticut, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.5% in Massachusetts and 4% in Connecticut. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Massachusetts's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Connecticut's in 6, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Massachusetts to Connecticut or from Connecticut to Massachusetts?
6,006 households moved from Massachusetts to Connecticut and 6,467 moved from Connecticut to Massachusetts in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 461 households for Massachusetts. Movers to Connecticut reported an average income of $86,523; movers to Massachusetts reported $86,034. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,612 people (±2,586) moving from Massachusetts to Connecticut and 9,936 (±1,952) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Massachusetts or Connecticut?
Massachusetts is the better fit for retirees: #19 of 50 on the retiree index vs #24 for Connecticut. Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes 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 +$17,779 left after typical costs in Massachusetts and +$28,046 in Connecticut.
Which is better for families, Massachusetts or Connecticut?
Massachusetts and Connecticut are close for families: #9 and #8 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $27,067 a year in Massachusetts and $18,616 in Connecticut. High school graduation rates are 90.1% and 88.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$62,221 after typical costs in Massachusetts and -$31,415 in Connecticut.
Is Connecticut better than Massachusetts?
No: Massachusetts ranks higher than Connecticut overall, #13 of 50 vs #16, with a composite score of 70 to 66.9. Massachusetts leads 5 of 11 categories and Connecticut leads 3, including affordability 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 Massachusetts vs Connecticut.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (6,467 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).