Connecticut vs New Hampshire: Which Is Better to Live In?
Connecticut ranks #16 of 50 overall and New Hampshire #1 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.6 vs 104.2); Connecticut carries a 4-point higher tax burden and has a 7% lower violent crime rate. New Hampshire scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
- Total tax burden is 40% lower in New Hampshire (5.94% vs. 9.9% in Connecticut).
- Property crime rate is 29% lower in New Hampshire (818 vs. 1,146 in Connecticut).
- Residential electricity price is 16% lower in New Hampshire (24.56¢/kWh vs. 29.38¢/kWh in Connecticut).
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -16.5 pts | 66.9#16 of 50 · B+ | 83.4#1 of 50 · A+ | -16.5 pts | — | NH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.6 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 103.6#42 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | -0.6 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,203 · US -$11,758 | -$31,415#40 of 50 | -$30,212#38 of 50 | -$1,203 | -$11,758 | NH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$65,433 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $450,873#37 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | -$65,433-13% | $368,697 | CT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.96 pts · US 8.74% | 9.9%#41 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +3.96 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -8 (-7%) · US 328 | 110#2 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | -8-7% | 328 | CT |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,733 (-4%) · US $80,903 | $96,049#10 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | -$3,733-4% | $80,903 | NH |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 88.9%#11 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | CT |
| Life expectancyGap +0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.4#5 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | +0.7 yrs | 76.9 | CT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -7,842 · US -33 | -5,674#40 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -7,842 | -33 | NH |
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 Connecticut or New Hampshire better to live in?
New Hampshire scores higher overall: 83.4 to 66.9 out of 100, #1 of 50 against #16. Connecticut leads 1 of 11 categories, New Hampshire leads 8, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -14.6 | 15% | 59.4#11 · B+ | 74.0#2 · A+ | -14.6 pts | NH |
| Safety12% of scoregap -4.2 | 12% | 90.1#4 · A+ | 94.3#2 · A+ | -4.2 pts | NH |
| Health12% of scoregap +0.4 | 12% | 74.3#10 · A | 73.9#11 · B+ | +0.4 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -3.4 | 12% | 74.1#6 · A | 77.5#2 · A+ | -3.4 pts | NH |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -0.9 | 10% | 48.0#41 · C | 48.9#40 · C | -0.9 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -24.7 | 8% | 38.4#46 · D | 63.1#19 · B | -24.7 pts | NH |
| Growth7% of scoregap -18.6 | 7% | 31.3#32 · C+ | 49.9#12 · B+ | -18.6 pts | NH |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +5.3 | 7% | 51.4#25 · B | 46.1#33 · C+ | +5.3 pts | CT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -14.4 | 7% | 35.7#19 · B | 50.1#4 · A+ | -14.4 pts | NH |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -19.2 | 6% | 23.8#27 · C+ | 43.0#11 · B+ | -19.2 pts | NH |
| Environment4% of scoregap -6.9 | 4% | 38.3#29 · C+ | 45.2#21 · B | -6.9 pts | NH |
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 Connecticut cheaper than New Hampshire?
Connecticut and New Hampshire cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 103.6 vs 104.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $1,203 more a year in New Hampshire after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.6 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 103.6#42 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | -0.6 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.3 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 97.3#32 of 50 | 98.6#35 of 50 | -1.3 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.82¢ (+20%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 29.38¢/kWh#46 of 50 | 24.56¢/kWh#42 of 50 | +4.82¢+20% | 17.84¢/kWh | NH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.78 (-10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.83/Mcf#33 of 50 | $18.61/Mcf#41 of 50 | -$1.78-10% | $15.83/Mcf | CT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.12 (+4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.37/gal#42 of 50 | $3.25/gal#28 of 50 | +$0.12+4% | $3.32/gal | NH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,154 (+13%) · US $15,633 | $18,616#37 of 50 | $16,462#31 of 50 | +$2,154+13% | $15,633 | NH |
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 | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$466 | +$24,682costs $50,319 | +$24,216costs $50,785 | +$466 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,126 | +$13,945costs $61,056 | +$11,819costs $63,182 | +$2,126 | CT |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$1,203 | -$31,415costs $106,415 | -$30,212costs $105,213 | -$1,203 | NH |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,704 | +$28,046costs $46,954 | +$26,342costs $48,658 | +$1,704 | 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 | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$5,658 | $35,429 | $41,087 | -$5,658 | CT |
| ChildcareGap +$4,308 | $37,232 | $32,924 | +$4,308 | NH |
| UtilitiesGap -$29 | $4,973 | $5,002 | -$29 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$146 | $10,959 | $11,105 | -$146 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$377 | $10,591 | $10,214 | +$377 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,350 | $7,231 | $4,881 | +$2,350 | NH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Connecticut or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 5.94% vs 9.9%. Connecticut has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; New Hampshire has no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.96 pts · US 8.74% | 9.9%#41 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +3.96 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.99 pts · US 5.46% | 6.99%#38 of 50 | none#1 of 50 | +6.99 pts | 5.46% | NH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.1 pts · US 1.02% | 1.79%#47 of 50 | 1.89%#48 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.35 pts · US 6.66% | 6.35%#18 of 50 | 0%#1 of 50 | +6.35 pts | 6.66% | NH |
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 Connecticut or New Hampshire?
Homes cost 15% more in New Hampshire: a typical home value of $450,873 in Connecticut vs $516,306 in New Hampshire. Buying the typical home takes about $131,866 of income in Connecticut and $127,122 in New Hampshire; the median household earns $96,049 and $99,782.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$65,433 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $450,873#37 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | -$65,433-13% | $368,697 | CT |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.1 pts · US +1.2% | +5%#6 of 50 | +2.9%#18 of 50 | +2.1 pts | +1.2% | CT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$144 (-7%) · US $1,948 | $2,034#37 of 50 | $2,178#39 of 50 | -$144-7% | $1,948 | CT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$4,744 (+4%) · US $100,006 | $131,866#41 of 50 | $127,122#39 of 50 | +$4,744+4% | $100,006 | NH |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-10%) · US 4.6x | 4.7x#30 of 50 | 5.2x#36 of 50 | -0.5x-10% | 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.
| CT | NH | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,320 | $2,656 |
| Income needed vs. median | +37% | +27% |
| Five-year change | +40.3% | +35.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Hartford | Manchester |
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 Connecticut or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire pays more: median household income $99,782 vs $96,049, with unemployment at 4% in Connecticut and 3.2% in New Hampshire. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Connecticut's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and New Hampshire's in 0.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$3,733 (-4%) · US $80,903 | $96,049#10 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | -$3,733-4% | $80,903 | NH |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#25 of 50 | 3.2%#7 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | NH |
| GDP per capitaGap +$18,662 (+27%) · US $64,333 | $87,478#5 of 50 | $68,816#15 of 50 | +$18,662+27% | $64,333 | CT |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#25 of 50 | +2.3%#16 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.1 pts · US +0.51% | +0.38%#30 of 50 | +0.48%#24 of 50 | -0.1 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 | CT | NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $251,244$261,294 in Bridgeport | $212,609$223,239 in Manchester | CT |
| Lawyers | $170,242$177,052 in Bridgeport | $139,498$146,473 in Manchester | CT |
| Civil Engineers | $110,298$114,710 in Bridgeport | $90,612$95,143 in Manchester | CT |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,988$123,747 in Bridgeport | $99,507$104,482 in Manchester | CT |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,486$115,945 in Bridgeport | $95,385$100,154 in Manchester | CT |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,498$83,718 in Bridgeport | $64,704$67,939 in Manchester | CT |
| Registered Nurses | $98,059$101,981 in Bridgeport | $82,400$86,520 in Manchester | CT |
| Electricians | $73,325$76,258 in Bridgeport | $59,120$62,076 in Manchester | CT |
| Software Developers | $144,014$149,775 in Bridgeport | $130,790$137,330 in Manchester | CT |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,465$95,124 in Bridgeport | $79,559$83,537 in Manchester | CT |
| Secondary School Teachers | $71,641$74,507 in Bridgeport | $61,830$64,922 in Manchester | CT |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,333$86,666 in Bridgeport | $74,064$77,767 in Manchester | CT |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,328$66,901 in Bridgeport | $56,480$59,304 in Manchester | CT |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,032$65,553 in Bridgeport | $55,812$58,603 in Manchester | CT |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $39,511$41,091 in Bridgeport | $32,347$33,964 in Manchester | CT |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,474$61,853 in Bridgeport | $52,401$55,021 in Manchester | CT |
| Construction Laborers | $48,586$50,529 in Bridgeport | $42,305$44,420 in Manchester | CT |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $72,317$75,210 in Bridgeport | $66,601$69,931 in Manchester | CT |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,406$53,462 in Bridgeport | $45,985$48,284 in Manchester | CT |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,151$60,477 in Bridgeport | $54,262$56,975 in Manchester | 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 Connecticut safer than New Hampshire?
Connecticut is safer: 110 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 118 in New Hampshire (FBI). Property crime runs 1,146 and 818 per 100,000.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -8 (-7%) · US 328 | 110#2 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | -8-7% | 328 | CT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +328 (+40%) · US 1,535 | 1,146#10 of 50 | 818#2 of 50 | +328+40% | 1,535 | NH |
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.
- Shelton, CT32 violent per 100K
- Hanover, NH17 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Connecticut or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire scores higher for education (#2 of 50 vs #6), with high school graduation rates of 88.9% and 87.7%. They are close on health (#10 and #11); life expectancy is 79.4 years in Connecticut and 78.7 in New Hampshire.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 277#17 of 50 | 280#9 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 263#5 of 50 | 264#4 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 88.9%#11 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | CT |
| Life expectancyGap +0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.4#5 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | +0.7 yrs | 76.9 | CT |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.9 pts · US 34.03% | 32%#14 of 50 | 31.1%#11 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 34.03% | NH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#13 of 50 | 4.5%#4 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 7.6% | NH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 39#20 of 50 | 37#15 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | NH |
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).
- Shelton, CTeducation score 95
- Durham, NHeducation score 98
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: Connecticut #6, New Hampshire #2. Health: Connecticut #10, New Hampshire #11.
Are more people moving from Connecticut to New Hampshire, or from New Hampshire to Connecticut?
937 households moved from Connecticut to New Hampshire and 611 moved from New Hampshire to Connecticut in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 326 households for New Hampshire. Movers to New Hampshire reported an average income of $127,088; movers to Connecticut reported $84,635. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,139 people (±752) moving from Connecticut to New Hampshire and 3,295 (±1,250) the other way, a net gain of about 2,156 people for Connecticut 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 | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +21,377 (+80%) | 47,953#28 of 50 | 26,576#38 of 50 | +21,377+80% | CT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +29,219 (+120%) | 53,627#25 of 50 | 24,408#12 of 50 | +29,219+120% | NH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -7,842 | -5,674#40 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -7,842 | NH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.0 | -1.5#41 of 50 | +1.5#15 of 50 | -3.0 | NH |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,504 (+1%) | $110,822#2 of 50 | $109,318#3 of 50 | +$1,504+1% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$19,631 (+22%) | $107,674#2 of 50 | $88,043#11 of 50 | +$19,631+22% | CT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.2 | -1.6#40 of 50 | +4.6#9 of 50 | -6.2 | NH |
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, Connecticut or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire 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 | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +7 places | #8score 80 | #1score 89.6 | +7 places | NH |
| RetireesGap +18 places | #24score 62.4 | #6score 78.7 | +18 places | NH |
| Remote WorkersGap +29 places | #37score 46.2 | #8score 67.7 | +29 places | NH |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +15 places | #19score 56.8 | #4score 74.9 | +15 places | NH |
| Small BusinessGap +28 places | #32score 51.6 | #4score 78.3 | +28 places | NH |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +13 places | #20score 50.9 | #7score 68.8 | +13 places | NH |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew Hampshire (#1 vs #8)
- RetireesNew Hampshire (#6 vs #24)
- Remote WorkersNew Hampshire (#8 vs #37)
- Young ProfessionalsNew Hampshire (#4 vs #19)
- Small BusinessNew Hampshire (#4 vs #32)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew Hampshire (#7 vs #20)
Which cities stand out in Connecticut and New Hampshire?
Connecticut has 20 tracked cities and New Hampshire has 20; the largest are Bridgeport and Manchester. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Bridgeport149,153 people | Manchester115,643 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | West Hartfordscore 75.4 | Hanoverscore 80.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Shelton32 violent per 100K | Hanover17 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Torringtoncost index 97.9 | Concordcost index 100.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | New Havenwalkability 13.9 of 20 | Hanoverwalkability 14.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Norwichcounty median AQI 38 | Laconiacounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Shelton95% graduation rate | Durham98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | West Hartfordmedian income $129,890 | Hanovermedian income $153,281 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Norwalk+0.8% growth | Dover+2.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Connecticut and New Hampshire compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Connecticut carries A+ credit rating and New Hampshire AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -9 pts · US 29.34% | 5%#48 of 50 | 14%#29 of 50 | -9 pts | 29.34% | NH |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap 0.0 (0%) · US 29.6 | 15.6#12 of 50 | 15.6#11 of 50 | 0.00% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap -12.6 pts · US 17.16% | 0.9%#49 of 50 | 13.5%#17 of 50 | -12.6 pts | 17.16% | NH |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27 min#37 of 50 | 27.5 min#40 of 50 | -0.5 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.4 pts · US 2.29% | 4%#9 of 50 | 0.6%#34 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 2.29% | CT |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 13.4%#20 of 50 | 16%#5 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.28% | NH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 94%#12 of 50 | 95.3%#1 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | NH |
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 | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 80#47 of 50 | 95#17 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | NH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.3 pts · US 12.39% | 15.4%#8 of 50 | 10.1%#26 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 12.39% | CT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 52%#48 of 50 | 65%#39 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | NH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$7,828 (+244%) · US $3,506 | $11,038#50 of 50 | $3,210#32 of 50 | +$7,828+244% | $3,506 | NH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#39 of 50 | +6.8%#11 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | NH |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Connecticut A+, New Hampshire 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).
Connecticut vs New Hampshire: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Connecticut is ahead on 13 of 51, New Hampshire on 25, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | New HampshireNH | GapCT−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,273,154 (+161%) · US 6.8 million | 3.7 million#29 of 50 | 1.4 million#41 of 50 | +2,273,154+161% | 6.8 million | CT |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,733 (-4%) · US $80,903 | $96,049#10 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | -$3,733-4% | $80,903 | NH |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#25 of 50 | 3.2%#7 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | NH |
| Population growthGap -0.1 pts · US +0.51% | +0.38%#30 of 50 | +0.48%#24 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$18,662 (+27%) · US $64,333 | $87,478#5 of 50 | $68,816#15 of 50 | +$18,662+27% | $64,333 | CT |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#25 of 50 | +2.3%#16 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -8 (-7%) · US 328 | 110#2 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | -8-7% | 328 | CT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +328 (+40%) · US 1,535 | 1,146#10 of 50 | 818#2 of 50 | +328+40% | 1,535 | NH |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 88.9%#11 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | CT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 239#17 of 50 | 242#4 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 277#17 of 50 | 280#9 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 219#8 of 50 | 222#4 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 263#5 of 50 | 264#4 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.4#5 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | +0.7 yrs | 76.9 | CT |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.9 pts · US 34.03% | 32%#14 of 50 | 31.1%#11 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 34.03% | NH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#13 of 50 | 4.5%#4 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 7.6% | NH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$65,433 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $450,873#37 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | -$65,433-13% | $368,697 | CT |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.1 pts · US +1.2% | +5%#6 of 50 | +2.9%#18 of 50 | +2.1 pts | +1.2% | CT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$144 (-7%) · US $1,948 | $2,034#37 of 50 | $2,178#39 of 50 | -$144-7% | $1,948 | CT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$4,744 (+4%) · US $100,006 | $131,866#41 of 50 | $127,122#39 of 50 | +$4,744+4% | $100,006 | NH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.6 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 103.6#42 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | -0.6 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-10%) · US 4.6x | 4.7x#30 of 50 | 5.2x#36 of 50 | -0.5x-10% | 4.6x | CT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.82¢ (+20%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 29.38¢/kWh#46 of 50 | 24.56¢/kWh#42 of 50 | +4.82¢+20% | 17.84¢/kWh | NH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.78 (-10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.83/Mcf#33 of 50 | $18.61/Mcf#41 of 50 | -$1.78-10% | $15.83/Mcf | CT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.12 (+4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.37/gal#42 of 50 | $3.25/gal#28 of 50 | +$0.12+4% | $3.32/gal | NH |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.3 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 97.3#32 of 50 | 98.6#35 of 50 | -1.3 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,154 (+13%) · US $15,633 | $18,616#37 of 50 | $16,462#31 of 50 | +$2,154+13% | $15,633 | NH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.96 pts · US 8.74% | 9.9%#41 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +3.96 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.99 pts · US 5.46% | 6.99%#38 of 50 | none#1 of 50 | +6.99 pts | 5.46% | NH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.1 pts · US 1.02% | 1.79%#47 of 50 | 1.89%#48 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.35 pts · US 6.66% | 6.35%#18 of 50 | 0%#1 of 50 | +6.35 pts | 6.66% | NH |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 80#47 of 50 | 95#17 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | NH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.3 pts · US 12.39% | 15.4%#8 of 50 | 10.1%#26 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 12.39% | CT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 52%#48 of 50 | 65%#39 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | NH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$7,828 (+244%) · US $3,506 | $11,038#50 of 50 | $3,210#32 of 50 | +$7,828+244% | $3,506 | NH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#39 of 50 | +6.8%#11 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | NH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 39#20 of 50 | 37#15 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | NH |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -9 pts · US 29.34% | 5%#48 of 50 | 14%#29 of 50 | -9 pts | 29.34% | NH |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap 0.0 (0%) · US 29.6 | 15.6#12 of 50 | 15.6#11 of 50 | 0.00% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap -12.6 pts · US 17.16% | 0.9%#49 of 50 | 13.5%#17 of 50 | -12.6 pts | 17.16% | NH |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27 min#37 of 50 | 27.5 min#40 of 50 | -0.5 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.4 pts · US 2.29% | 4%#9 of 50 | 0.6%#34 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 2.29% | CT |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 13.4%#20 of 50 | 16%#5 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.28% | NH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 94%#12 of 50 | 95.3%#1 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | NH |
| Households moving inIRSGap +21,377 (+80%) · US 78,682 | 47,953#28 of 50 | 26,576#38 of 50 | +21,377+80% | 78,682 | CT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +29,219 (+120%) · US 78,715 | 53,627#25 of 50 | 24,408#12 of 50 | +29,219+120% | 78,715 | NH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -7,842 · US -33 | -5,674#40 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -7,842 | -33 | NH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.0 · US +0.4 | -1.5#41 of 50 | +1.5#15 of 50 | -3.0 | +0.4 | NH |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,504 (+1%) · US $77,690 | $110,822#2 of 50 | $109,318#3 of 50 | +$1,504+1% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$19,631 (+22%) · US $77,024 | $107,674#2 of 50 | $88,043#11 of 50 | +$19,631+22% | $77,024 | CT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.2 · US +1.1 | -1.6#40 of 50 | +4.6#9 of 50 | -6.2 | +1.1 | NH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,203 · US -$11,758 | -$31,415#40 of 50 | -$30,212#38 of 50 | -$1,203 | -$11,758 | NH |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$466 · US +$31,418 | +$24,682#40 of 50 | +$24,216#41 of 50 | +$466 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,704 · US +$35,970 | +$28,046#40 of 50 | +$26,342#43 of 50 | +$1,704 | +$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 Connecticut and New Hampshire numbers say when read together.
New Hampshire ranks higher overall
New Hampshire leads 8 of the 11 categories to Connecticut's 1, with 2 even; Connecticut is ahead on transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Connecticut is ahead on 13 and New Hampshire on 25.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 103.6 in Connecticut and 104.2 in New Hampshire, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $450,873 and $516,306. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$31,415 a year after typical costs in Connecticut and -$30,212 in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire takes a smaller share in taxes
Connecticut collects 9.9% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); New Hampshire collects 5.94% (no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax).
New Hampshire pays more
Median household income is $96,049 in Connecticut and $99,782 in New Hampshire, with unemployment at 4% and 3.2%. Violent crime runs 110 per 100,000 residents in Connecticut and 118 in New Hampshire.
People move to Connecticut on net
3,295 people moved to Connecticut from New Hampshire in the latest Census release, against 1,139 going the other way.
New Hampshire fits families and retirees better
For families, Connecticut ranks #8 of 50 and New Hampshire #1; for retirees, Connecticut ranks #24 and New Hampshire #6.
Connecticut vs New Hampshire: frequently asked questions
Is Connecticut or New Hampshire better to live in?
Connecticut ranks #16 of 50 overall and New Hampshire #1 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.6 vs 104.2); Connecticut carries a 4-point higher tax burden and has a 7% lower violent crime rate. New Hampshire scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Connecticut cheaper than New Hampshire?
Connecticut and New Hampshire cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 103.6 vs 104.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$31,415 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Connecticut, and -$30,212 in New Hampshire. The typical home value is $450,873 in Connecticut and $516,306 in New Hampshire.
Which has lower taxes, Connecticut or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has the lower tax burden: 5.94% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.9% in Connecticut. Connecticut's top income tax rate is 6.99%, its effective property tax rate 1.79% and its combined sales tax 6.35%; New Hampshire's are zero, 1.89% and 0%.
Is Connecticut safer than New Hampshire?
Connecticut is safer: 110 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 118 in New Hampshire, per the FBI. Connecticut ranks #2 of 50 for violent crime and New Hampshire #3. Property crime is 1,146 per 100,000 in Connecticut and 818 in New Hampshire. The safest tracked cities are Shelton, CT, and Hanover, NH.
Are homes more expensive in Connecticut or New Hampshire?
Homes are 15% more expensive in New Hampshire: the typical home value is $450,873 in Connecticut and $516,306 in New Hampshire. Buying the typical home takes about $131,866 of household income in Connecticut and $127,122 in New Hampshire, against median incomes of $96,049 and $99,782.
Do people earn more in Connecticut or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire pays more: median household income is $99,782 vs $96,049 in Connecticut, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Connecticut and 3.2% in New Hampshire. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Connecticut's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and New Hampshire's in 0.
Are more people moving from Connecticut to New Hampshire or from New Hampshire to Connecticut?
937 households moved from Connecticut to New Hampshire and 611 moved from New Hampshire to Connecticut in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 326 households for New Hampshire. Movers to New Hampshire reported an average income of $127,088; movers to Connecticut reported $84,635. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,139 people (±752) moving from Connecticut to New Hampshire and 3,295 (±1,250) the other way, a net gain of about 2,156 people for Connecticut beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Connecticut or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is the better fit for retirees: #6 of 50 on the retiree index vs #24 for Connecticut. Connecticut has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; New Hampshire has no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$28,046 left after typical costs in Connecticut and +$26,342 in New Hampshire.
Which is better for families, Connecticut or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is the better fit for families: #1 of 50 on the families index vs #8 for Connecticut. Center-based infant care costs $18,616 a year in Connecticut and $16,462 in New Hampshire. High school graduation rates are 88.9% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$31,415 after typical costs in Connecticut and -$30,212 in New Hampshire.
Is New Hampshire better than Connecticut?
Yes: New Hampshire ranks higher than Connecticut overall, #1 of 50 vs #16, with a composite score of 83.4 to 66.9. New Hampshire leads 8 of 11 categories and Connecticut leads 1, including transportation. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
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