Florida vs New Jersey: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and New Jersey #28 as of the latest release. Florida is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 108.8), has no income tax, and has a 30% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
- Total tax burden is 37% lower in Florida (6.49% vs. 10.3% in New Jersey).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 35% lower in Florida ($108,280 vs. $167,639 in New Jersey).
- Residential electricity price is 33% lower in Florida (15.24¢/kWh vs. 22.63¢/kWh in New Jersey).
| Measure | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +4.9 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 55.0#28 of 50 · C+ | +4.9 pts | — | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -5.4 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 108.8#48 of 50 | -5.4 pts-5% | 100 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$33,318 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$43,804#46 of 50 | +$33,318 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$204,883 (-35%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $580,353#46 of 50 | -$204,883-35% | $368,697 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.81 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 10.3%#45 of 50 | -3.81 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +81 (+42%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 194#6 of 50 | +81+42% | 328 | NJ |
| Median household incomeGap -$26,559 (-25%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $104,294#2 of 50 | -$26,559-25% | $80,903 | NJ |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 85.2%#31 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.6#3 of 50 | -1.7 yrs | 76.9 | NJ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +74,719 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -19,370#47 of 50 | +74,719 | -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 New Jersey better to live in?
Florida scores higher overall: 59.9 to 55 out of 100, #21 of 50 against #28. Florida leads 4 of 11 categories, New Jersey leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -4.4 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 49.4#22 · B | -4.4 pts | NJ |
| Safety12% of scoregap -8.7 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 81.8#7 · A | -8.7 pts | NJ |
| Health12% of scoregap -17.6 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 78.1#4 · A+ | -17.6 pts | NJ |
| Education12% of scoregap -13.7 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 74.8#5 · A+ | -13.7 pts | NJ |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +22.3 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 39.6#45 · D | +22.3 pts | FL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +37 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 33.2#49 · F | +37 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +25.2 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 19.7#46 · D | +25.2 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -2.3 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 45.9#36 · C | -2.3 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +1.2 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 25.7#39 · C | +1.2 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +21.3 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 6.5#48 · D | +21.3 pts | FL |
| Environment4% of scoregap -3.4 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 37.4#31 · C+ | -3.4 pts | NJ |
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 New Jersey?
Florida is cheaper: cost of living index 103.4 vs 108.8 in New Jersey (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $33,318 more a year in Florida after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -5.4 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 108.8#48 of 50 | -5.4 pts-5% | 100 | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -9 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 107.1#48 of 50 | -9 pts-8% | 100 | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -7.39¢ (-33%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 22.63¢/kWh#40 of 50 | -7.39¢-33% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$11.27 (+79%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $14.21/Mcf#22 of 50 | +$11.27+79% | $15.83/Mcf | NJ |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.12 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.20/gal#25 of 50 | -$0.12-4% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,747 (-21%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $17,977#35 of 50 | -$3,747-21% | $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 | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$17,057 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$16,327costs $58,674 | +$17,057 | FL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$20,912 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$3,147costs $71,854 | +$20,912 | FL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$33,318 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$43,804costs $118,804 | +$33,318 | FL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$18,498 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$18,501costs $56,499 | +$18,498 | 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 | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$22,875 | $25,862 | $48,737 | -$22,875 | FL |
| ChildcareGap -$7,494 | $28,460 | $35,954 | -$7,494 | FL |
| UtilitiesGap -$259 | $4,963 | $5,222 | -$259 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$1,014 | $11,049 | $12,063 | -$1,014 | FL |
| TransportationGap -$377 | $9,680 | $10,057 | -$377 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,299 | $5,472 | $6,771 | -$1,299 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or New Jersey?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 10.3%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; New Jersey has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.81 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 10.3%#45 of 50 | -3.81 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -11.75 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 11.75%#47 of 50 | -11.75 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -1.51 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 2.33%#50 of 50 | -1.51 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.38 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 6.6%#21 of 50 | +0.38 pts | 6.66% | Even |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or New Jersey?
Homes cost 55% more in New Jersey: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $580,353 in New Jersey. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $167,639 in New Jersey; the median household earns $77,735 and $104,294.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$204,883 (-35%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $580,353#46 of 50 | -$204,883-35% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.4 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.9%#8 of 50 | -5.4 pts | +1.2% | NJ |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$153 (+6%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $2,513#45 of 50 | +$153+6% | $1,948 | NJ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$59,359 (-35%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $167,639#47 of 50 | -$59,359-35% | $100,006 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-14%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 5.6x#41 of 50 | -0.8x-14% | 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 | NJ | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $2,986 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +61% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +35.4% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Miami | Trenton |
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 New Jersey?
New Jersey pays more: median household income $104,294 vs $77,735, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 5.2% in New Jersey.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$26,559 (-25%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $104,294#2 of 50 | -$26,559-25% | $80,903 | NJ |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 5.2%#46 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$13,165 (-18%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $73,820#9 of 50 | -$13,165-18% | $64,333 | NJ |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2%#24 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.41 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.44%#26 of 50 | +0.41 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.
Is Florida safer than New Jersey?
New Jersey is safer: 194 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,250 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 | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +81 (+42%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 194#6 of 50 | +81+42% | 328 | NJ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +152 (+12%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,250#12 of 50 | +152+12% | 1,535 | NJ |
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
- Clifton, NJ166 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or New Jersey?
New Jersey scores higher for education (#5 of 50 vs #23), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 85.2%. New Jersey scores higher for health (#4 vs #19); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 79.6 in New Jersey.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -15 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 282#5 of 50 | -15 | 273 | NJ |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 266#2 of 50 | -13 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 85.2%#31 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.6#3 of 50 | -1.7 yrs | 76.9 | NJ |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 27.7%#4 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 34.03% | NJ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.2 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 7.7%#27 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 7.6% | NJ |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 40#24 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
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
- Hoboken, NJeducation score 95.5
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, New Jersey #5. Health: Florida #19, New Jersey #4.
Are more people moving from Florida to New Jersey, or from New Jersey to Florida?
9,047 households moved from Florida to New Jersey and 20,113 moved from New Jersey to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 11,066 households for Florida. Movers to New Jersey reported an average income of $86,807; movers to Florida reported $147,067. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 12,121 people (±3,185) moving from Florida to New Jersey and 22,646 (±4,042) the other way, a net gain of about 10,525 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 | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +246,459 (+229%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 107,653#14 of 50 | +246,459+229% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +171,740 (+135%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 127,023#41 of 50 | +171,740+135% | NJ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +74,719 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -19,370#47 of 50 | +74,719 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -2.0#44 of 50 | +4.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$20,349 (+20%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $102,190#4 of 50 | +$20,349+20% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$30,593 (-29%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $106,727#3 of 50 | -$30,593-29% | NJ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.9 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -3.9#45 of 50 | +4.9 | 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 New Jersey?
Florida is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; New Jersey is the better fit for families. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +4 places | #24score 65.4 | #20score 69.6 | +4 places | NJ |
| RetireesGap -25 places | #18score 66.2 | #43score 52.6 | -25 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap -22 places | #27score 51.6 | #49score 29.7 | -22 places | FL |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -19 places | #24score 53.9 | #43score 41.3 | -19 places | FL |
| Small BusinessGap -27 places | #19score 62.4 | #46score 36.8 | -27 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -9 places | #26score 44.3 | #35score 34.3 | -9 places | FL |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew Jersey (#20 vs #24)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #43)
- Remote WorkersFlorida (#27 vs #49)
- Young ProfessionalsFlorida (#24 vs #43)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #46)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsFlorida (#26 vs #35)
Which cities stand out in Florida and New Jersey?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and New Jersey has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Newark. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Newark310,178 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Hobokenscore 74.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Clifton166 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Vinelandcost index 96 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Union Citywalkability 15.5 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | New Brunswickcounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Hoboken95.5% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Hobokenmedian income $180,579 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Newark+1.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and New Jersey compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and New Jersey A+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 8%#42 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | FL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +5.9 (+36%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 16.6#14 of 50 | +5.9+36% | 29.6 | NJ |
| Public land shareGap +19 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 7.3%#26 of 50 | +19 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 31.9 min#48 of 50 | -3 min | 25.2 min | FL |
| Commuters using public transitGap -8.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 9.7%#2 of 50 | -8.4 pts | 2.29% | NJ |
| Workers working from homeGap +2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 13.5%#19 of 50 | +2 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 94.8%#6 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 92.67% | NJ |
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 | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +20 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 80#48 of 50 | +20 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.5 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 5.2%#45 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +27 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 55%#47 of 50 | +27 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$6,380 (-76%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $8,340#48 of 50 | -$6,380-76% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +0.8%#47 of 50 | +4 pts | +4.66% | FL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, New Jersey A+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Florida vs New Jersey: 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 30 of 51, New Jersey on 15, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | New JerseyNJ | GapFL−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +13,914,303 (+146%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 9.5 million#11 of 50 | +13,914,303+146% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$26,559 (-25%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $104,294#2 of 50 | -$26,559-25% | $80,903 | NJ |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 5.2%#46 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.41 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.44%#26 of 50 | +0.41 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$13,165 (-18%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $73,820#9 of 50 | -$13,165-18% | $64,333 | NJ |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2%#24 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +81 (+42%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 194#6 of 50 | +81+42% | 328 | NJ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +152 (+12%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,250#12 of 50 | +152+12% | 1,535 | NJ |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 85.2%#31 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 240#10 of 50 | +3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -15 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 282#5 of 50 | -15 | 273 | NJ |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 222#3 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 266#2 of 50 | -13 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.6#3 of 50 | -1.7 yrs | 76.9 | NJ |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 27.7%#4 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 34.03% | NJ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.2 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 7.7%#27 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 7.6% | NJ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$204,883 (-35%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $580,353#46 of 50 | -$204,883-35% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.4 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.9%#8 of 50 | -5.4 pts | +1.2% | NJ |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$153 (+6%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $2,513#45 of 50 | +$153+6% | $1,948 | NJ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$59,359 (-35%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $167,639#47 of 50 | -$59,359-35% | $100,006 | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -5.4 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 108.8#48 of 50 | -5.4 pts-5% | 100 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-14%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 5.6x#41 of 50 | -0.8x-14% | 4.6x | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -7.39¢ (-33%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 22.63¢/kWh#40 of 50 | -7.39¢-33% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$11.27 (+79%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $14.21/Mcf#22 of 50 | +$11.27+79% | $15.83/Mcf | NJ |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.12 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.20/gal#25 of 50 | -$0.12-4% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -9 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 107.1#48 of 50 | -9 pts-8% | 100 | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,747 (-21%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $17,977#35 of 50 | -$3,747-21% | $15,633 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.81 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 10.3%#45 of 50 | -3.81 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -11.75 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 11.75%#47 of 50 | -11.75 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -1.51 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 2.33%#50 of 50 | -1.51 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.38 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 6.6%#21 of 50 | +0.38 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +20 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 80#48 of 50 | +20 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.5 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 5.2%#45 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +27 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 55%#47 of 50 | +27 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$6,380 (-76%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $8,340#48 of 50 | -$6,380-76% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +0.8%#47 of 50 | +4 pts | +4.66% | FL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 40#24 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 8%#42 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | FL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +5.9 (+36%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 16.6#14 of 50 | +5.9+36% | 29.6 | NJ |
| Public land shareGap +19 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 7.3%#26 of 50 | +19 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 31.9 min#48 of 50 | -3 min | 25.2 min | FL |
| Commuters using public transitGap -8.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 9.7%#2 of 50 | -8.4 pts | 2.29% | NJ |
| Workers working from homeGap +2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 13.5%#19 of 50 | +2 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 94.8%#6 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 92.67% | NJ |
| Households moving inIRSGap +246,459 (+229%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 107,653#14 of 50 | +246,459+229% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +171,740 (+135%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 127,023#41 of 50 | +171,740+135% | 78,715 | NJ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +74,719 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -19,370#47 of 50 | +74,719 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.4 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -2.0#44 of 50 | +4.4 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$20,349 (+20%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $102,190#4 of 50 | +$20,349+20% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$30,593 (-29%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $106,727#3 of 50 | -$30,593-29% | $77,024 | NJ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.9 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -3.9#45 of 50 | +4.9 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$33,318 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$43,804#46 of 50 | +$33,318 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$17,057 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$16,327#47 of 50 | +$17,057 | +$31,418 | FL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$18,498 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$18,501#47 of 50 | +$18,498 | +$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 New Jersey numbers say when read together.
Florida ranks higher overall
Florida leads 4 of the 11 categories to New Jersey's 5, with 2 even; New Jersey is ahead on health and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 30 and New Jersey on 15.
Florida is cheaper day to day
Florida's cost of living index is 103.4 against 108.8 in New Jersey (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $580,353 in New Jersey. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$43,804 in New Jersey.
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); New Jersey collects 10.3% (high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
New Jersey pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $104,294 in New Jersey, with unemployment at 3.9% and 5.2%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 194 in New Jersey.
People move to Florida on net
22,646 people moved to Florida from New Jersey in the latest Census release, against 12,121 going the other way.
New Jersey for families, Florida for retirees
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and New Jersey #20; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and New Jersey #43.
Florida vs New Jersey: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or New Jersey better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and New Jersey #28 as of the latest release. Florida is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 108.8), has no income tax, and has a 30% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Florida cheaper than New Jersey?
Florida is cheaper than New Jersey: cost of living index 103.4 vs 108.8 (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 -$43,804 in New Jersey. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $580,353 in New Jersey.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or New Jersey?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.3% in New Jersey. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; New Jersey's are 11.75%, 2.33% and 6.6%.
Is Florida safer than New Jersey?
New Jersey is safer: 194 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and New Jersey #6. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,250 in New Jersey. 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 Clifton, NJ.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or New Jersey?
Homes are 55% more expensive in New Jersey: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $580,353 in New Jersey. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $167,639 in New Jersey, against median incomes of $77,735 and $104,294.
Do people earn more in Florida or New Jersey?
New Jersey pays more: median household income is $104,294 vs $77,735 in Florida, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 5.2% in New Jersey.
Are more people moving from Florida to New Jersey or from New Jersey to Florida?
9,047 households moved from Florida to New Jersey and 20,113 moved from New Jersey to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 11,066 households for Florida. Movers to New Jersey reported an average income of $86,807; movers to Florida reported $147,067. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 12,121 people (±3,185) moving from Florida to New Jersey and 22,646 (±4,042) the other way, a net gain of about 10,525 people for Florida beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or New Jersey?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #43 for New Jersey. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; New Jersey has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$18,501 in New Jersey.
Which is better for families, Florida or New Jersey?
New Jersey is the better fit for families: #20 of 50 on the families index vs #24 for Florida. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $17,977 in New Jersey. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 85.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$43,804 in New Jersey.
Is New Jersey better than Florida?
No: Florida ranks higher than New Jersey overall, #21 of 50 vs #28, with a composite score of 59.9 to 55. Florida leads 4 of 11 categories and New Jersey leads 5, including health and education. 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 New Jersey.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (20,113 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).