Connecticut vs Rhode Island: Which Is Better to Live In?
Connecticut ranks #16 of 50 overall and Rhode Island #19 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.6 vs 102.3); Connecticut collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 24% lower violent crime rate. Connecticut scores higher overall, leading 3 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 24% lower in Connecticut (110 vs. 144 in Rhode Island).
- Property crime rate is 21% lower in Rhode Island (911 vs. 1,146 in Connecticut).
- Median household income is 15% higher in Connecticut ($96,049 vs. $83,504 in Rhode Island).
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +4.9 pts | 66.9#16 of 50 · B+ | 62.0#19 of 50 · B | +4.9 pts | — | CT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.3 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.6#42 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +1.3 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,730 · US -$11,758 | -$31,415#40 of 50 | -$34,145#42 of 50 | +$2,730 | -$11,758 | CT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$60,360 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $450,873#37 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | -$60,360-12% | $368,697 | CT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.18 pts · US 8.74% | 9.9%#41 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | -0.18 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -35 (-24%) · US 328 | 110#2 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | -35-24% | 328 | CT |
| Median household incomeGap +$12,545 (+15%) · US $80,903 | $96,049#10 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | +$12,545+15% | $80,903 | CT |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.6 pts · US 85.62% | 88.9%#11 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +5.6 pts | 85.62% | CT |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.4#5 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,545 · US -33 | -5,674#40 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | -5,545 | -33 | RI |
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 Rhode Island better to live in?
Connecticut scores higher overall: 66.9 to 62 out of 100, #16 of 50 against #19. Connecticut leads 3 of 11 categories, Rhode Island leads 4, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +18 | 15% | 59.4#11 · B+ | 41.4#35 · C | +18 pts | CT |
| Safety12% of scoregap -0.7 | 12% | 90.1#4 · A+ | 90.8#3 · A+ | -0.7 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -2.2 | 12% | 74.3#10 · A | 76.5#6 · A | -2.2 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +20.6 | 12% | 74.1#6 · A | 53.5#33 · C+ | +20.6 pts | CT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +2.6 | 10% | 48.0#41 · C | 45.4#43 · D | +2.6 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -4.6 | 8% | 38.4#46 · D | 43.0#45 · D | -4.6 pts | RI |
| Growth7% of scoregap +3.4 | 7% | 31.3#32 · C+ | 27.9#38 · C | +3.4 pts | CT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -1.5 | 7% | 51.4#25 · B | 52.9#19 · B | -1.5 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -12.5 | 7% | 35.7#19 · B | 48.2#7 · A | -12.5 pts | RI |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -13.6 | 6% | 23.8#27 · C+ | 37.4#17 · B+ | -13.6 pts | RI |
| Environment4% of scoregap -15.1 | 4% | 38.3#29 · C+ | 53.4#10 · A | -15.1 pts | RI |
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 Rhode Island?
Connecticut and Rhode Island cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 103.6 vs 102.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,730 more a year in Connecticut after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.3 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.6#42 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +1.3 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 97.3#32 of 50 | 97.2#30 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.08¢ (0%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 29.38¢/kWh#46 of 50 | 29.46¢/kWh#47 of 50 | -0.08¢0% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$4.83 (-22%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.83/Mcf#33 of 50 | $21.66/Mcf#46 of 50 | -$4.83-22% | $15.83/Mcf | CT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.03 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.37/gal#42 of 50 | $3.34/gal#38 of 50 | +$0.03+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$356 (-2%) · US $15,633 | $18,616#37 of 50 | $18,972#38 of 50 | -$356-2% | $15,633 | Even |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,216 | +$24,682costs $50,319 | +$23,466costs $51,534 | +$1,216 | CT |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$1,886 | +$13,945costs $61,056 | +$12,059costs $62,941 | +$1,886 | CT |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$2,730 | -$31,415costs $106,415 | -$34,145costs $109,145 | +$2,730 | CT |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,633 | +$28,046costs $46,954 | +$26,413costs $48,588 | +$1,633 | 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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$2,698 | $35,429 | $38,127 | -$2,698 | CT |
| ChildcareGap -$712 | $37,232 | $37,944 | -$712 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap +$63 | $4,973 | $4,910 | +$63 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$11 | $10,959 | $10,948 | +$11 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$94 | $10,591 | $10,497 | +$94 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$512 | $7,231 | $6,719 | +$512 | RI |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Connecticut or Rhode Island?
Connecticut and Rhode Island collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 9.9% vs 10.08%. Connecticut has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Rhode Island has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.18 pts · US 8.74% | 9.9%#41 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | -0.18 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1 pts · US 5.46% | 6.99%#38 of 50 | 5.99%#32 of 50 | +1 pts | 5.46% | RI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.4 pts · US 1.02% | 1.79%#47 of 50 | 1.39%#38 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.65 pts · US 6.66% | 6.35%#18 of 50 | 7%#25 of 50 | -0.65 pts | 6.66% | CT |
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 Rhode Island?
Homes cost 13% more in Rhode Island: a typical home value of $450,873 in Connecticut vs $511,233 in Rhode Island. Buying the typical home takes about $131,866 of income in Connecticut and $139,686 in Rhode Island; the median household earns $96,049 and $83,504.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$60,360 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $450,873#37 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | -$60,360-12% | $368,697 | CT |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5%#6 of 50 | +3.4%#13 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +1.2% | CT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$133 (-6%) · US $1,948 | $2,034#37 of 50 | $2,167#38 of 50 | -$133-6% | $1,948 | CT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$7,820 (-6%) · US $100,006 | $131,866#41 of 50 | $139,686#44 of 50 | -$7,820-6% | $100,006 | CT |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.4x (-23%) · US 4.6x | 4.7x#30 of 50 | 6.1x#45 of 50 | -1.4x-23% | 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 | RI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,320 | $2,630 |
| Income needed vs. median | +37% | +67% |
| Five-year change | +40.3% | +33.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Hartford | Providence |
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 Rhode Island?
Connecticut pays more: median household income $96,049 vs $83,504, with unemployment at 4% in Connecticut and 4.5% in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island's in 0.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$12,545 (+15%) · US $80,903 | $96,049#10 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | +$12,545+15% | $80,903 | CT |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#25 of 50 | 4.5%#38 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | CT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$25,111 (+40%) · US $64,333 | $87,478#5 of 50 | $62,367#24 of 50 | +$25,111+40% | $64,333 | CT |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#25 of 50 | +1.9%#26 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.01 pts · US +0.51% | +0.38%#30 of 50 | +0.37%#31 of 50 | +0.01 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 | RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $251,244$261,294 in Bridgeport | $230,643$232,949 in Providence | CT |
| Lawyers | $170,242$177,052 in Bridgeport | $150,708$152,215 in Providence | CT |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,988$123,747 in Bridgeport | $102,402$103,426 in Providence | CT |
| Registered Nurses | $98,059$101,981 in Bridgeport | $84,974$85,824 in Providence | CT |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,486$115,945 in Bridgeport | $99,493$100,488 in Providence | CT |
| Civil Engineers | $110,298$114,710 in Bridgeport | $99,044$100,034 in Providence | CT |
| Software Developers | $144,014$149,775 in Bridgeport | $133,650$134,986 in Providence | CT |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,333$86,666 in Bridgeport | $73,593$74,329 in Providence | CT |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,465$95,124 in Bridgeport | $81,887$82,706 in Providence | CT |
| Electricians | $73,325$76,258 in Bridgeport | $64,685$65,332 in Providence | CT |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,498$83,718 in Bridgeport | $71,962$72,682 in Providence | CT |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,032$65,553 in Bridgeport | $57,200$57,772 in Providence | CT |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,328$66,901 in Bridgeport | $59,125$59,716 in Providence | CT |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,406$53,462 in Bridgeport | $46,438$46,902 in Providence | CT |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $39,511$41,091 in Bridgeport | $34,961$35,311 in Providence | CT |
| Secondary School Teachers | $71,641$74,507 in Bridgeport | $67,652$68,329 in Providence | CT |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,474$61,853 in Bridgeport | $56,064$56,625 in Providence | CT |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $72,317$75,210 in Bridgeport | $69,039$69,729 in Providence | CT |
| Construction Laborers | $48,586$50,529 in Bridgeport | $45,732$46,189 in Providence | CT |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,151$60,477 in Bridgeport | $56,037$56,597 in Providence | 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 Rhode Island?
Connecticut is safer: 110 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 144 in Rhode Island (FBI). Property crime runs 1,146 and 911 per 100,000.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -35 (-24%) · US 328 | 110#2 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | -35-24% | 328 | CT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +236 (+26%) · US 1,535 | 1,146#10 of 50 | 911#3 of 50 | +236+26% | 1,535 | RI |
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
- Westerly, RI26 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Connecticut or Rhode Island?
Connecticut scores higher for education (#6 of 50 vs #33), with high school graduation rates of 88.9% and 83.3%. They are close on health (#10 and #6); life expectancy is 79.4 years in Connecticut and 79.2 in Rhode Island.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 277#17 of 50 | 270#32 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 263#5 of 50 | 258#23 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.6 pts · US 85.62% | 88.9%#11 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +5.6 pts | 85.62% | CT |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.4#5 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.9 pts · US 34.03% | 32%#14 of 50 | 31.1%#12 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 34.03% | RI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#13 of 50 | 4.6%#5 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 7.6% | RI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+11%) · US 38.8 | 39#20 of 50 | 35#12 of 50 | +4 pts+11% | 38.8 | RI |
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
- Westerly, RIeducation score 87
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, Rhode Island #33. Health: Connecticut #10, Rhode Island #6.
Are more people moving from Connecticut to Rhode Island, or from Rhode Island to Connecticut?
1,494 households moved from Connecticut to Rhode Island and 1,769 moved from Rhode Island to Connecticut in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 275 households for Connecticut. Movers to Rhode Island reported an average income of $91,695; movers to Connecticut reported $70,588. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,786 people (±768) moving from Connecticut to Rhode Island and 2,143 (±790) 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 | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +29,956 (+166%) | 47,953#28 of 50 | 17,997#45 of 50 | +29,956+166% | CT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +35,501 (+196%) | 53,627#25 of 50 | 18,126#8 of 50 | +35,501+196% | RI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,545 | -5,674#40 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | -5,545 | RI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 | -1.5#41 of 50 | -0.1#29 of 50 | -1.4 | RI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$28,227 (+34%) | $110,822#2 of 50 | $82,595#15 of 50 | +$28,227+34% | CT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$27,740 (+35%) | $107,674#2 of 50 | $79,934#16 of 50 | +$27,740+35% | CT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 | -1.6#40 of 50 | -1.4#39 of 50 | -0.2 | 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, Connecticut or Rhode Island?
Connecticut is the better fit for families, young professionals, and small business; Rhode Island is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -8 places | #8score 80 | #16score 73.6 | -8 places | CT |
| RetireesGap +10 places | #24score 62.4 | #14score 68.6 | +10 places | RI |
| Remote WorkersGap +7 places | #37score 46.2 | #30score 49.3 | +7 places | RI |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -11 places | #19score 56.8 | #30score 51.4 | -11 places | CT |
| Small BusinessGap -8 places | #32score 51.6 | #40score 43.3 | -8 places | CT |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +10 places | #20score 50.9 | #10score 62.8 | +10 places | RI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesConnecticut (#8 vs #16)
- RetireesRhode Island (#14 vs #24)
- Remote WorkersRhode Island (#30 vs #37)
- Young ProfessionalsConnecticut (#19 vs #30)
- Small BusinessConnecticut (#32 vs #40)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsRhode Island (#10 vs #20)
Which cities stand out in Connecticut and Rhode Island?
Connecticut has 20 tracked cities and Rhode Island has 20; the largest are Bridgeport and Providence. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Bridgeport149,153 people | Providence191,767 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | West Hartfordscore 75.4 | Westerlyscore 70.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Shelton32 violent per 100K | Westerly26 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Torringtoncost index 97.9 | Providencecost index 101.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | New Havenwalkability 13.9 of 20 | Providencewalkability 15.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Norwichcounty median AQI 38 | Warwickcounty median AQI 31 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Shelton95% graduation rate | Westerly87% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | West Hartfordmedian income $129,890 | Cumberland Hillmedian income $130,506 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Norwalk+0.8% growth | Warwick+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Connecticut and Rhode Island compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Connecticut carries A+ credit rating and Rhode Island AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -7 pts · US 29.34% | 5%#48 of 50 | 12%#34 of 50 | -7 pts | 29.34% | RI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.2 (+550%) · US 29.6 | 15.6#12 of 50 | 2.4#2 of 50 | +13.2+550% | 29.6 | RI |
| Public land shareGap -3.5 pts · US 17.16% | 0.9%#49 of 50 | 4.4%#37 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 17.16% | RI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 27 min#37 of 50 | 26.3 min#29 of 50 | +0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.9 pts · US 2.29% | 4%#9 of 50 | 2.1%#15 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 2.29% | CT |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.8 pts · US 12.28% | 13.4%#20 of 50 | 11.6%#31 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 12.28% | CT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94%#12 of 50 | 93.4%#17 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | CT |
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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 80#47 of 50 | 90#31 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | RI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +9.9 pts · US 12.39% | 15.4%#8 of 50 | 5.5%#44 of 50 | +9.9 pts | 12.39% | CT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 52%#48 of 50 | 58%#46 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | RI |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,798 (+111%) · US $3,506 | $11,038#50 of 50 | $5,240#44 of 50 | +$5,798+111% | $3,506 | RI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#39 of 50 | +3.1%#38 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Connecticut A+, Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island: 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 21 of 51, Rhode Island on 13, and 17 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ConnecticutCT | Rhode IslandRI | GapCT−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,573,975 (+231%) · US 6.8 million | 3.7 million#29 of 50 | 1.1 million#44 of 50 | +2,573,975+231% | 6.8 million | CT |
| Median household incomeGap +$12,545 (+15%) · US $80,903 | $96,049#10 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | +$12,545+15% | $80,903 | CT |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#25 of 50 | 4.5%#38 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | CT |
| Population growthGap +0.01 pts · US +0.51% | +0.38%#30 of 50 | +0.37%#31 of 50 | +0.01 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$25,111 (+40%) · US $64,333 | $87,478#5 of 50 | $62,367#24 of 50 | +$25,111+40% | $64,333 | CT |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +1.9%#25 of 50 | +1.9%#26 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -35 (-24%) · US 328 | 110#2 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | -35-24% | 328 | CT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +236 (+26%) · US 1,535 | 1,146#10 of 50 | 911#3 of 50 | +236+26% | 1,535 | RI |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.6 pts · US 85.62% | 88.9%#11 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +5.6 pts | 85.62% | CT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 239#17 of 50 | 237#28 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 277#17 of 50 | 270#32 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 219#8 of 50 | 216#13 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 263#5 of 50 | 258#23 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.4#5 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.9 pts · US 34.03% | 32%#14 of 50 | 31.1%#12 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 34.03% | RI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#13 of 50 | 4.6%#5 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 7.6% | RI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$60,360 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $450,873#37 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | -$60,360-12% | $368,697 | CT |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5%#6 of 50 | +3.4%#13 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +1.2% | CT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$133 (-6%) · US $1,948 | $2,034#37 of 50 | $2,167#38 of 50 | -$133-6% | $1,948 | CT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$7,820 (-6%) · US $100,006 | $131,866#41 of 50 | $139,686#44 of 50 | -$7,820-6% | $100,006 | CT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.3 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.6#42 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +1.3 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.4x (-23%) · US 4.6x | 4.7x#30 of 50 | 6.1x#45 of 50 | -1.4x-23% | 4.6x | CT |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.08¢ (0%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 29.38¢/kWh#46 of 50 | 29.46¢/kWh#47 of 50 | -0.08¢0% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$4.83 (-22%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.83/Mcf#33 of 50 | $21.66/Mcf#46 of 50 | -$4.83-22% | $15.83/Mcf | CT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.03 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.37/gal#42 of 50 | $3.34/gal#38 of 50 | +$0.03+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 97.3#32 of 50 | 97.2#30 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$356 (-2%) · US $15,633 | $18,616#37 of 50 | $18,972#38 of 50 | -$356-2% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.18 pts · US 8.74% | 9.9%#41 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | -0.18 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1 pts · US 5.46% | 6.99%#38 of 50 | 5.99%#32 of 50 | +1 pts | 5.46% | RI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.4 pts · US 1.02% | 1.79%#47 of 50 | 1.39%#38 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.65 pts · US 6.66% | 6.35%#18 of 50 | 7%#25 of 50 | -0.65 pts | 6.66% | CT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 80#47 of 50 | 90#31 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | RI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +9.9 pts · US 12.39% | 15.4%#8 of 50 | 5.5%#44 of 50 | +9.9 pts | 12.39% | CT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 52%#48 of 50 | 58%#46 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | RI |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,798 (+111%) · US $3,506 | $11,038#50 of 50 | $5,240#44 of 50 | +$5,798+111% | $3,506 | RI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#39 of 50 | +3.1%#38 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+11%) · US 38.8 | 39#20 of 50 | 35#12 of 50 | +4 pts+11% | 38.8 | RI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -7 pts · US 29.34% | 5%#48 of 50 | 12%#34 of 50 | -7 pts | 29.34% | RI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.2 (+550%) · US 29.6 | 15.6#12 of 50 | 2.4#2 of 50 | +13.2+550% | 29.6 | RI |
| Public land shareGap -3.5 pts · US 17.16% | 0.9%#49 of 50 | 4.4%#37 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 17.16% | RI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 27 min#37 of 50 | 26.3 min#29 of 50 | +0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.9 pts · US 2.29% | 4%#9 of 50 | 2.1%#15 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 2.29% | CT |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.8 pts · US 12.28% | 13.4%#20 of 50 | 11.6%#31 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 12.28% | CT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94%#12 of 50 | 93.4%#17 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | CT |
| Households moving inIRSGap +29,956 (+166%) · US 78,682 | 47,953#28 of 50 | 17,997#45 of 50 | +29,956+166% | 78,682 | CT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +35,501 (+196%) · US 78,715 | 53,627#25 of 50 | 18,126#8 of 50 | +35,501+196% | 78,715 | RI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,545 · US -33 | -5,674#40 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | -5,545 | -33 | RI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 · US +0.4 | -1.5#41 of 50 | -0.1#29 of 50 | -1.4 | +0.4 | RI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$28,227 (+34%) · US $77,690 | $110,822#2 of 50 | $82,595#15 of 50 | +$28,227+34% | $77,690 | CT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$27,740 (+35%) · US $77,024 | $107,674#2 of 50 | $79,934#16 of 50 | +$27,740+35% | $77,024 | CT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 · US +1.1 | -1.6#40 of 50 | -1.4#39 of 50 | -0.2 | +1.1 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,730 · US -$11,758 | -$31,415#40 of 50 | -$34,145#42 of 50 | +$2,730 | -$11,758 | CT |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,216 · US +$31,418 | +$24,682#40 of 50 | +$23,466#43 of 50 | +$1,216 | +$31,418 | CT |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,633 · US +$35,970 | +$28,046#40 of 50 | +$26,413#42 of 50 | +$1,633 | +$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 Rhode Island numbers say when read together.
Connecticut ranks higher overall
Connecticut leads 3 of the 11 categories to Rhode Island's 4, with 4 even; Rhode Island is ahead on environment and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Connecticut is ahead on 21 and Rhode Island on 13.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 103.6 in Connecticut and 102.3 in Rhode Island, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $450,873 and $511,233. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$31,415 a year after typical costs in Connecticut and -$34,145 in Rhode Island.
Tax burdens are close
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); Rhode Island collects 10.08% (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Connecticut pays more and is safer
Median household income is $96,049 in Connecticut and $83,504 in Rhode Island, with unemployment at 4% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 110 per 100,000 residents in Connecticut and 144 in Rhode Island.
Moves between the two run about even
2,786 people moved from Connecticut to Rhode Island and 2,143 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Connecticut for families, Rhode Island for retirees
For families, Connecticut ranks #8 of 50 and Rhode Island #16; for retirees, Connecticut ranks #24 and Rhode Island #14.
Connecticut vs Rhode Island: frequently asked questions
Is Connecticut or Rhode Island better to live in?
Connecticut ranks #16 of 50 overall and Rhode Island #19 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.6 vs 102.3); Connecticut collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 24% lower violent crime rate. Connecticut scores higher overall, leading 3 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Connecticut cheaper than Rhode Island?
Connecticut and Rhode Island cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 103.6 vs 102.3 (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 -$34,145 in Rhode Island. The typical home value is $450,873 in Connecticut and $511,233 in Rhode Island.
Which has lower taxes, Connecticut or Rhode Island?
Connecticut and Rhode Island have similar tax burdens: 9.9% vs 10.08% of income in state and local taxes. Connecticut's top income tax rate is 6.99%, its effective property tax rate 1.79% and its combined sales tax 6.35%; Rhode Island's are 5.99%, 1.39% and 7%.
Is Connecticut safer than Rhode Island?
Connecticut is safer: 110 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 144 in Rhode Island, per the FBI. Connecticut ranks #2 of 50 for violent crime and Rhode Island #4. Property crime is 1,146 per 100,000 in Connecticut and 911 in Rhode Island. The safest tracked cities are Shelton, CT, and Westerly, RI.
Are homes more expensive in Connecticut or Rhode Island?
Homes are 13% more expensive in Rhode Island: the typical home value is $450,873 in Connecticut and $511,233 in Rhode Island. Buying the typical home takes about $131,866 of household income in Connecticut and $139,686 in Rhode Island, against median incomes of $96,049 and $83,504.
Do people earn more in Connecticut or Rhode Island?
Connecticut pays more: median household income is $96,049 vs $83,504 in Rhode Island, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Connecticut and 4.5% in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island's in 0.
Are more people moving from Connecticut to Rhode Island or from Rhode Island to Connecticut?
1,494 households moved from Connecticut to Rhode Island and 1,769 moved from Rhode Island to Connecticut in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 275 households for Connecticut. Movers to Rhode Island reported an average income of $91,695; movers to Connecticut reported $70,588. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,786 people (±768) moving from Connecticut to Rhode Island and 2,143 (±790) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Connecticut or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is the better fit for retirees: #14 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; Rhode Island has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$28,046 left after typical costs in Connecticut and +$26,413 in Rhode Island.
Which is better for families, Connecticut or Rhode Island?
Connecticut is the better fit for families: #8 of 50 on the families index vs #16 for Rhode Island. Center-based infant care costs $18,616 a year in Connecticut and $18,972 in Rhode Island. High school graduation rates are 88.9% and 83.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$31,415 after typical costs in Connecticut and -$34,145 in Rhode Island.
Is Rhode Island better than Connecticut?
No: Connecticut ranks higher than Rhode Island overall, #16 of 50 vs #19, with a composite score of 66.9 to 62. Connecticut leads 3 of 11 categories and Rhode Island leads 4, including environment and outdoor access. 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 Connecticut vs Rhode Island.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.