Florida vs Massachusetts: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Florida is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 105.8), has no income tax, and has a 9% lower violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Residential electricity price is 50% lower in Florida (15.24¢/kWh vs. 30.48¢/kWh in Massachusetts).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 47% lower in Florida ($14,230 vs. $27,067 in Massachusetts).
- Typical home value is 43% lower in Florida ($375,470 vs. $661,896 in Massachusetts).
| Measure | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -10.1 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | -10.1 pts | — | MA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$51,735 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$51,735 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$286,426 (-43%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$286,426-43% | $368,697 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.08 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -3.08 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -28 (-9%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -28-9% | 328 | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$27,093 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$27,093-26% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +70,727 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +70,727 | -33 | FL |
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 Florida or Massachusetts better to live in?
Massachusetts scores higher overall: 70 to 59.9 out of 100, #13 of 50 against #21. Florida leads 3 of 11 categories, Massachusetts leads 8, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -14.8 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 59.8#10 · A | -14.8 pts | MA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -3.3 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 76.4#19 · B | -3.3 pts | MA |
| Health12% of scoregap -28.1 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 88.6#1 · A+ | -28.1 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap -30.9 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 92.0#1 · A+ | -30.9 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +32.6 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 29.3#48 · D | +32.6 pts | FL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +20.1 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 50.1#39 · C | +20.1 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +25.5 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 19.4#47 · D | +25.5 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -8.1 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 51.7#24 · B | -8.1 pts | MA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -7.4 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 34.3#23 · B | -7.4 pts | MA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -4.2 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 32.0#20 · B | -4.2 pts | MA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -20.4 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 54.4#9 · A | -20.4 pts | MA |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Florida cheaper than Massachusetts?
Florida is cheaper: cost of living index 103.4 vs 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $51,735 more a year in Florida after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -15.24¢ (-50%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -15.24¢-50% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.42 (+2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | +$0.42+2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.25 (-8%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.25-8% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$12,837 (-47%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$12,837-47% | $15,633 | FL |
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 | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$17,154 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$17,154 | FL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$21,596 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$21,596 | FL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$51,735 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | +$51,735 | FL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$19,220 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$19,220 | FL |
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 | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$21,913 | $25,862 | $47,775 | -$21,913 | FL |
| ChildcareGap -$25,674 | $28,460 | $54,134 | -$25,674 | FL |
| UtilitiesGap -$115 | $4,963 | $5,078 | -$115 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$79 | $11,049 | $11,128 | -$79 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$786 | $9,680 | $10,466 | -$786 | FL |
| State and local taxesGap -$3,169 | $5,472 | $8,641 | -$3,169 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Massachusetts?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 9.57%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.08 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -3.08 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -9 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | -9 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.33 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.73 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +0.73 pts | 6.66% | MA |
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 Florida or Massachusetts?
Homes cost 76% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $177,190 in Massachusetts; the median household earns $77,735 and $104,828.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$286,426 (-43%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$286,426-43% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | -3.8 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$408 (-13%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$408-13% | $1,948 | FL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$68,910 (-39%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$68,910-39% | $100,006 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.5x (-24%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -1.5x-24% | 4.6x | FL |
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.
| FL | MA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $3,405 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +69% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +25.3% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Miami | Boston |
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 Florida or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $77,735, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 19.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$27,093 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$27,093-26% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$38,619 (-39%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$38,619-39% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.63 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.63 pts | +0.51% | FL |
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 | FL | MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | MA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | MA |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | MA |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | MA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | MA |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | MA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | MA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | MA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | MA |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | MA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | MA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | MA |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | MA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $63,980$69,098 in Boston | MA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $69,999$75,599 in Boston | MA |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | MA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | MA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $38,407$41,480 in Boston | MA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | MA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | 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 Florida safer than Massachusetts?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,031 per 100,000. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -28 (-9%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -28-9% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +371 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +371+36% | 1,535 | MA |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #23), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 90.1%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #19); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 79.8 in Massachusetts.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -16 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -16 | 273 | MA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -15 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -15 | 257 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.6 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +8.1 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +8.1 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+11%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +4 pts+11% | 38.8 | MA |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- Newton, MAeducation score 96
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: Florida #23, Massachusetts #1. Health: Florida #19, Massachusetts #1.
Are more people moving from Florida to Massachusetts, or from Massachusetts to Florida?
8,058 households moved from Florida to Massachusetts and 12,159 moved from Massachusetts to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 4,101 households for Florida. Movers to Massachusetts reported an average income of $82,662; movers to Florida reported $209,015. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 10,580 people (±2,788) moving from Florida to Massachusetts and 21,834 (±4,803) the other way, a net gain of about 11,254 people for Florida 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 | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +270,816 (+325%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +270,816+325% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +200,089 (+203%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +200,089+203% | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +70,727 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +70,727 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.5 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +4.5 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$32,649 (+36%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | +$32,649+36% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$40,475 (-35%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$40,475-35% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.7 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +5.7 | FL |
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, Florida or Massachusetts?
Florida is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Massachusetts is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; 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 | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +15 places | #24score 65.4 | #9score 79.8 | +15 places | MA |
| RetireesGap -1 places | #18score 66.2 | #19score 65.5 | -1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -15 places | #27score 51.6 | #42score 42.9 | -15 places | FL |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -11 places | #24score 53.9 | #35score 48.4 | -11 places | FL |
| Small BusinessGap -10 places | #19score 62.4 | #29score 52.7 | -10 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +10 places | #26score 44.3 | #16score 55.3 | +10 places | MA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMassachusetts (#9 vs #24)
- RetireesEven (#18 vs #19)
- Remote WorkersFlorida (#27 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsFlorida (#24 vs #35)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #29)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMassachusetts (#16 vs #26)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Massachusetts?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Massachusetts has 25; the largest are Jacksonville and Boston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Boston666,442 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Brooklinescore 79.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Newton56 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Springfieldcost index 96.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Newton96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Newtonmedian income $190,304 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Worcester+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Massachusetts compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Massachusetts AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -14 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | -14 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.9 (+525%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +18.9+525% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap +18.6 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | +18.6 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | -1.7 min | 25.2 min | FL |
| Commuters using public transitGap -6.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | -6.5 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.7 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.1 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +19 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | +19 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$7,720 (-80%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$7,720-80% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +3.6 pts | +4.66% | FL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Massachusetts 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).
Florida vs Massachusetts: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Florida is ahead on 28 of 51, Massachusetts on 17, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | MassachusettsMA | GapFL−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +16,308,434 (+228%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | +16,308,434+228% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$27,093 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$27,093-26% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.63 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.63 pts | +0.51% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$38,619 (-39%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$38,619-39% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -28 (-9%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -28-9% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +371 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +371+36% | 1,535 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 247#1 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -16 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -16 | 273 | MA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 225#1 of 50 | -7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -15 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -15 | 257 | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.6 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +8.1 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +8.1 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$286,426 (-43%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$286,426-43% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | -3.8 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$408 (-13%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$408-13% | $1,948 | FL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$68,910 (-39%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$68,910-39% | $100,006 | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.5x (-24%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -1.5x-24% | 4.6x | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -15.24¢ (-50%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -15.24¢-50% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.42 (+2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | +$0.42+2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.25 (-8%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.25-8% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$12,837 (-47%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$12,837-47% | $15,633 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.08 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -3.08 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -9 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | -9 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.33 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.73 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +0.73 pts | 6.66% | MA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.1 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +19 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | +19 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$7,720 (-80%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$7,720-80% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +3.6 pts | +4.66% | FL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+11%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +4 pts+11% | 38.8 | MA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -14 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | -14 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.9 (+525%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +18.9+525% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap +18.6 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | +18.6 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | -1.7 min | 25.2 min | FL |
| Commuters using public transitGap -6.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | -6.5 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.7 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +270,816 (+325%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +270,816+325% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +200,089 (+203%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +200,089+203% | 78,715 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +70,727 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +70,727 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.5 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +4.5 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$32,649 (+36%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | +$32,649+36% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$40,475 (-35%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$40,475-35% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.7 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +5.7 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$51,735 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$51,735 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$17,154 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$17,154 | +$31,418 | FL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$19,220 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$19,220 | +$35,970 | FL |
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 Florida and Massachusetts numbers say when read together.
Massachusetts ranks higher overall
Massachusetts leads 8 of the 11 categories to Florida's 3, with 0 even; Florida is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 28 and Massachusetts on 17.
Florida is cheaper day to day
Florida's cost of living index is 103.4 against 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $661,896 in Massachusetts. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Florida takes a smaller share in taxes
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Massachusetts collects 9.57% (high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Massachusetts pays more
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $104,828 in Massachusetts, with unemployment at 3.9% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 303 in Massachusetts.
People move to Florida on net
21,834 people moved to Florida from Massachusetts in the latest Census release, against 10,580 going the other way.
Massachusetts is the better fit for families
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Massachusetts #9; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Massachusetts #19.
Florida vs Massachusetts: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Massachusetts better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Florida is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 105.8), has no income tax, and has a 9% lower violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Florida cheaper than Massachusetts?
Florida is cheaper than Massachusetts: cost of living index 103.4 vs 105.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and -$62,221 in Massachusetts. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $661,896 in Massachusetts.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Massachusetts?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.57% in Massachusetts. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Massachusetts's are 9%, 1.15% and 6.25%.
Is Florida safer than Massachusetts?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Massachusetts #27. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,031 in Massachusetts. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Pembroke Pines, FL, and Newton, MA.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Massachusetts?
Homes are 76% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $177,190 in Massachusetts, against median incomes of $77,735 and $104,828.
Do people earn more in Florida or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $77,735 in Florida, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 19, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Massachusetts or from Massachusetts to Florida?
8,058 households moved from Florida to Massachusetts and 12,159 moved from Massachusetts to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 4,101 households for Florida. Movers to Massachusetts reported an average income of $82,662; movers to Florida reported $209,015. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 10,580 people (±2,788) moving from Florida to Massachusetts and 21,834 (±4,803) the other way, a net gain of about 11,254 people for Florida beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Massachusetts?
Florida and Massachusetts are close for retirees: #18 and #19 of 50 on the retiree index. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$17,779 in Massachusetts.
Which is better for families, Florida or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families: #9 of 50 on the families index vs #24 for Florida. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $27,067 in Massachusetts. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Is Massachusetts better than Florida?
Yes: Massachusetts ranks higher than Florida overall, #13 of 50 vs #21, with a composite score of 70 to 59.9. Massachusetts leads 8 of 11 categories and Florida leads 3, including affordability and growth. 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 Florida vs Massachusetts.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (12,159 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).