New York vs Delaware: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Delaware #30 as of the latest release. Delaware is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 99.8 vs 107.9), has a 7-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 1.3 points apart, too close to call: New York leads 7 of 11 categories, Delaware leads 3.
- Total tax burden is 52% lower in Delaware (6.52% vs. 13.56% in New York).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 45% lower in Delaware ($1,977 vs. $3,615 in New York).
- Residential electricity price is 35% lower in Delaware (17.13¢/kWh vs. 26.39¢/kWh in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +1.3 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 53.6#30 of 50 · C+ | +1.3 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | +8.1 pts+8% | 100 | DE |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$22,878 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$20,350#31 of 50 | -$22,878 | -$11,758 | DE |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$120,640 (+30%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | +$120,640+30% | $368,697 | DE |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +7.04 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | +7.04 pts | 8.74% | DE |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +22 (+6%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | +22+6% | 328 | DE |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,714 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | -$1,714-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| Life expectancyGap +3.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +3.0 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -76,041 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | -76,041 | -33 | DE |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is New York or Delaware better to live in?
New York scores 54.9 and Delaware scores 53.6 out of 100, a 1.3-point gap this site treats as even. New York leads 7 of 11 categories, Delaware leads 3, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +5.7 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 40.6#36 · C | +5.7 pts | NY |
| Safety12% of scoregap -2 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 65.0#29 · C+ | -2 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +29.8 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 49.9#30 · C+ | +29.8 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap +11.4 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 45.2#42 · C | +11.4 pts | NY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -24.9 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 62.1#30 · C+ | -24.9 pts | DE |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -22.7 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 67.2#13 · B+ | -22.7 pts | DE |
| Growth7% of scoregap -35.9 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 49.9#13 · B+ | -35.9 pts | DE |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.8 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 47.8#30 · C+ | +4.8 pts | NY |
| Livability7% of scoregap +3 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 46.4#10 · A | +3 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +6.3 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 23.9#26 · B | +6.3 pts | NY |
| Environment4% of scoregap +24.9 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 33.5#37 · C | +24.9 pts | NY |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is New York cheaper than Delaware?
Delaware is cheaper: cost of living index 99.8 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $22,878 more a year in Delaware after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | +8.1 pts+8% | 100 | DE |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +11.1 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 96.2#19 of 50 | +11.1 pts+12% | 100 | DE |
| Residential electricity priceGap +9.26¢ (+54%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 17.13¢/kWh#34 of 50 | +9.26¢+54% | 17.84¢/kWh | DE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.61 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $15.97/Mcf#27 of 50 | +$1.61+10% | $15.83/Mcf | DE |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.14 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.31/gal#32 of 50 | -$0.14-4% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,726 (+22%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $17,252#32 of 50 | +$3,726+22% | $15,633 | DE |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$9,004 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$29,275costs $45,726 | -$9,004 | DE |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$11,982 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$20,096costs $54,904 | -$11,982 | DE |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$22,878 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$20,350costs $95,350 | -$22,878 | DE |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$10,579 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$33,227costs $41,774 | -$10,579 | DE |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$13,725 | $40,598 | $26,873 | +$13,725 | DE |
| ChildcareGap +$7,452 | $41,956 | $34,504 | +$7,452 | DE |
| UtilitiesGap +$389 | $5,179 | $4,790 | +$389 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$1,250 | $12,085 | $10,835 | +$1,250 | DE |
| TransportationGap -$440 | $9,963 | $10,403 | -$440 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$503 | $8,448 | $7,945 | +$503 | DE |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Delaware?
Delaware collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.52% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; Delaware has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +7.04 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | +7.04 pts | 8.74% | DE |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.93 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 7.85%#41 of 50 | +6.93 pts | 5.46% | DE |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.09 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.55%#7 of 50 | +1.09 pts | 1.02% | DE |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +8.54 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 0%#3 of 50 | +8.54 pts | 6.66% | DE |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Delaware?
Homes cost 30% more in New York: a typical home value of $526,714 in New York vs $406,074 in Delaware. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $98,191 in Delaware; the median household earns $85,820 and $87,534.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$120,640 (+30%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | +$120,640+30% | $368,697 | DE |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +1.3%#34 of 50 | +4.3 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,638 (+83%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,977#36 of 50 | +$1,638+83% | $1,948 | DE |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$42,518 (+43%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $98,191#27 of 50 | +$42,518+43% | $100,006 | DE |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+33%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.6x#29 of 50 | +1.5x+33% | 4.6x | DE |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| NY | DE | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $2,089 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +12% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +21.4% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | New York | Salisbury |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in New York or Delaware?
Median household income is about the same, $85,820 in New York and $87,534 in Delaware, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.8%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Delaware's in 0.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$1,714 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | -$1,714-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4.8%#45 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | NY |
| GDP per capitaGap +$28,497 (+39%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $73,530#11 of 50 | +$28,497+39% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.1%#20 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.93 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.94%#6 of 50 | -0.93 pts | +0.51% | DE |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | NY | DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $147,702$146,225 in Wilmington | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $134,120$132,779 in Wilmington | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $66,565$65,899 in Wilmington | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $77,884$77,105 in Wilmington | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $247,783$245,305 in Wilmington | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $36,704$36,337 in Wilmington | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $55,029$54,479 in Wilmington | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $108,782$107,694 in Wilmington | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $56,814$56,246 in Wilmington | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $95,415$94,461 in Wilmington | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $114,241$113,099 in Wilmington | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $67,749$67,072 in Wilmington | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $58,443$57,859 in Wilmington | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $84,476$83,631 in Wilmington | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $69,335$68,642 in Wilmington | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $104,980$103,930 in Wilmington | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $71,461$70,746 in Wilmington | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $61,025$60,415 in Wilmington | NY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $52,236$51,714 in Wilmington | NY |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $47,258$46,785 in Wilmington | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is New York safer than Delaware?
Delaware is safer: 347 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 1,559 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +22 (+6%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | +22+6% | 328 | DE |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +16 (+1%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,559#30 of 50 | +16+1% | 1,535 | Even |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
- Elsmere, DE144 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or Delaware?
New York scores higher for education (#30 of 50 vs #42), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 87.8%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #30); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 76.5 in Delaware.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 263#47 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 250#46 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| Life expectancyGap +3.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +3.0 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.1 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 36.6%#35 of 50 | -7.1 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 6.9%#23 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-12%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 41#32 of 50 | -5 pts-12% | 38.8 | NY |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- Middletown, DEeducation score 95.3
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: New York #30, Delaware #42. Health: New York #3, Delaware #30.
Are more people moving from New York to Delaware, or from Delaware to New York?
1,874 households moved from New York to Delaware and 914 moved from Delaware to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 960 households for Delaware. Movers to Delaware reported an average income of $88,766; movers to New York reported $70,910. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,684 people (±1,027) moving from New York to Delaware and 603 (±400) the other way, a net gain of about 2,081 people for Delaware beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +170,960 (+803%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 21,280#42 of 50 | +170,960+803% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +247,001 (+1,434%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 17,226#7 of 50 | +247,001+1,434% | DE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -76,041 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | -76,041 | DE |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +3.8#2 of 50 | -7.4 | DE |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,767 (+7%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $88,435#10 of 50 | +$5,767+7% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$29,481 (+39%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $76,502#19 of 50 | +$29,481+39% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -13.4 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +6.5#4 of 50 | -13.4 | DE |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, New York or Delaware?
New York is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; Delaware is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -8 places | #29score 62.6 | #37score 56.9 | -8 places | NY |
| RetireesGap +2 places | #25score 62 | #23score 62.7 | +2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +20 places | #44score 41.4 | #24score 52.5 | +20 places | DE |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +19 places | #40score 42.8 | #21score 56.2 | +19 places | DE |
| Small BusinessGap +23 places | #44score 37.5 | #21score 59.5 | +23 places | DE |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -9 places | #21score 50.9 | #30score 39.3 | -9 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew York (#29 vs #37)
- RetireesEven (#25 vs #23)
- Remote WorkersDelaware (#24 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsDelaware (#21 vs #40)
- Small BusinessDelaware (#21 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #30)
Which cities stand out in New York and Delaware?
New York has 20 tracked cities and Delaware has 20; the largest are New York and Wilmington. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | DelawareDE |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Wilmington71,727 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | North Starscore 72.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Elsmere144 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Dovercost index 97.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Seafordwalkability 15 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Milfordcounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | Middletown95.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Hockessinmedian income $171,204 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Milford+4.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and Delaware compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and Delaware AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +24 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 6%#46 of 50 | +24 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.1 (-81%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 19.9#17 of 50 | -16.1-81% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +12.4 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 2.7%#41 of 50 | +12.4 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.4 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 26.8 min#36 of 50 | +6.4 min | 25.2 min | DE |
| Commuters using public transitGap +21.9 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 2.3%#14 of 50 | +21.9 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 12.9%#21 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 12.28% | DE |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 94.3%#10 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | DE |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 100#13 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | DE |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -6.4 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 10.2%#25 of 50 | -6.4 pts | 12.39% | DE |
| Pension funded ratioGap +3 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 87%#10 of 50 | +3 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,500 (+76%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $4,630#42 of 50 | +$3,500+76% | $3,506 | DE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.7 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +4.2%#31 of 50 | -5.7 pts | +4.66% | DE |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, Delaware AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
New York vs Delaware: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New York is ahead on 15 of 51, Delaware on 29, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | DelawareDE | GapNY−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +18,942,475 (+1,787%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 1.1 million#45 of 50 | +18,942,475+1,787% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,714 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | -$1,714-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4.8%#45 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | NY |
| Population growthGap -0.93 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.94%#6 of 50 | -0.93 pts | +0.51% | DE |
| GDP per capitaGap +$28,497 (+39%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $73,530#11 of 50 | +$28,497+39% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.1%#20 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +22 (+6%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | +22+6% | 328 | DE |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +16 (+1%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,559#30 of 50 | +16+1% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 233#40 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 263#47 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 210#43 of 50 | +5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 250#46 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +3.0 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.1 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 36.6%#35 of 50 | -7.1 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 6.9%#23 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$120,640 (+30%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | +$120,640+30% | $368,697 | DE |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +1.3%#34 of 50 | +4.3 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,638 (+83%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,977#36 of 50 | +$1,638+83% | $1,948 | DE |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$42,518 (+43%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $98,191#27 of 50 | +$42,518+43% | $100,006 | DE |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | +8.1 pts+8% | 100 | DE |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+33%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.6x#29 of 50 | +1.5x+33% | 4.6x | DE |
| Residential electricity priceGap +9.26¢ (+54%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 17.13¢/kWh#34 of 50 | +9.26¢+54% | 17.84¢/kWh | DE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.61 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $15.97/Mcf#27 of 50 | +$1.61+10% | $15.83/Mcf | DE |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.14 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.31/gal#32 of 50 | -$0.14-4% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +11.1 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 96.2#19 of 50 | +11.1 pts+12% | 100 | DE |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,726 (+22%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $17,252#32 of 50 | +$3,726+22% | $15,633 | DE |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +7.04 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | +7.04 pts | 8.74% | DE |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.93 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 7.85%#41 of 50 | +6.93 pts | 5.46% | DE |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.09 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.55%#7 of 50 | +1.09 pts | 1.02% | DE |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +8.54 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 0%#3 of 50 | +8.54 pts | 6.66% | DE |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 100#13 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | DE |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -6.4 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 10.2%#25 of 50 | -6.4 pts | 12.39% | DE |
| Pension funded ratioGap +3 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 87%#10 of 50 | +3 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,500 (+76%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $4,630#42 of 50 | +$3,500+76% | $3,506 | DE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.7 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +4.2%#31 of 50 | -5.7 pts | +4.66% | DE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-12%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 41#32 of 50 | -5 pts-12% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +24 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 6%#46 of 50 | +24 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.1 (-81%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 19.9#17 of 50 | -16.1-81% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +12.4 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 2.7%#41 of 50 | +12.4 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.4 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 26.8 min#36 of 50 | +6.4 min | 25.2 min | DE |
| Commuters using public transitGap +21.9 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 2.3%#14 of 50 | +21.9 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 12.9%#21 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 12.28% | DE |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 94.3%#10 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | DE |
| Households moving inIRSGap +170,960 (+803%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 21,280#42 of 50 | +170,960+803% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +247,001 (+1,434%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 17,226#7 of 50 | +247,001+1,434% | 78,715 | DE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -76,041 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | -76,041 | -33 | DE |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.4 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +3.8#2 of 50 | -7.4 | +0.4 | DE |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,767 (+7%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $88,435#10 of 50 | +$5,767+7% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$29,481 (+39%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $76,502#19 of 50 | +$29,481+39% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -13.4 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +6.5#4 of 50 | -13.4 | +1.1 | DE |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$22,878 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$20,350#31 of 50 | -$22,878 | -$11,758 | DE |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$9,004 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$29,275#31 of 50 | -$9,004 | +$31,418 | DE |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$10,579 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$33,227#31 of 50 | -$10,579 | +$35,970 | DE |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the New York and Delaware numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
New York (54.9, #29) and Delaware (53.6, #30) are within 2 composite points. New York leads 7 categories, Delaware leads 3, and 1 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Delaware is cheaper day to day
Delaware's cost of living index is 99.8 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $406,074 in Delaware. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$20,350 in Delaware.
Delaware takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); Delaware collects 6.52% (high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Delaware is safer
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $87,534 in Delaware, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.8%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 347 in Delaware.
People move to Delaware on net
2,684 people moved to Delaware from New York in the latest Census release, against 603 going the other way.
New York is the better fit for families
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and Delaware #37; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and Delaware #23.
New York vs Delaware: frequently asked questions
Is New York or Delaware better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Delaware #30 as of the latest release. Delaware is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 99.8 vs 107.9), has a 7-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 1.3 points apart, too close to call: New York leads 7 of 11 categories, Delaware leads 3.
Is New York cheaper than Delaware?
Delaware is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 99.8 vs 107.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$43,228 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New York, and -$20,350 in Delaware. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $406,074 in Delaware.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Delaware?
Delaware has the lower tax burden: 6.52% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. New York's top income tax rate is 14.78%, its effective property tax rate 1.64% and its combined sales tax 8.54%; Delaware's are 7.85%, 0.55% and 0%.
Is New York safer than Delaware?
Delaware is safer: 347 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and Delaware #32. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 1,559 in Delaware. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Elsmere, DE.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Delaware?
Homes are 30% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $406,074 in Delaware. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $98,191 in Delaware, against median incomes of $85,820 and $87,534.
Do people earn more in New York or Delaware?
New York and Delaware pay about the same: median household income is $85,820 vs $87,534, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 4.8% in Delaware. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Delaware's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from New York to Delaware or from Delaware to New York?
1,874 households moved from New York to Delaware and 914 moved from Delaware to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 960 households for Delaware. Movers to Delaware reported an average income of $88,766; movers to New York reported $70,910. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,684 people (±1,027) moving from New York to Delaware and 603 (±400) the other way, a net gain of about 2,081 people for Delaware beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, New York or Delaware?
New York and Delaware are close for retirees: #25 and #23 of 50 on the retiree index. New York has high across the board; Delaware has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$33,227 in Delaware.
Which is better for families, New York or Delaware?
New York is the better fit for families: #29 of 50 on the families index vs #37 for Delaware. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $17,252 in Delaware. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 87.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$20,350 in Delaware.
Which has better schools, New York or Delaware?
New York scores higher for education: #30 of 50 vs #42 for Delaware. Eighth graders average 271 in NAEP math in New York and 263 in Delaware. High school graduation rates are 86.7% in New York and 87.8% in Delaware, and the education category scores are 56.6 and 45.2 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Levittown and Middletown have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside New York vs Delaware.