Florida vs New York: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and New York #29 as of the latest release. Florida is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 107.9), has no income tax, and has a 25% lower violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Total tax burden is 52% lower in Florida (6.49% vs. 13.56% in New York).
- Residential electricity price is 42% lower in Florida (15.24¢/kWh vs. 26.39¢/kWh in New York).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 32% lower in Florida ($14,230 vs. $20,978 in New York).
| Measure | FloridaFL | New YorkNY | GapFL−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +5 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | +5 pts | — | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.5 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 107.9#47 of 50 | -4.5 pts-4% | 100 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$32,742 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | +$32,742 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$151,244 (-29%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $526,714#43 of 50 | -$151,244-29% | $368,697 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -7.07 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 13.56%#49 of 50 | -7.07 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -93 (-25%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 368#35 of 50 | -93-25% | 328 | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$8,085 (-9%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $85,820#15 of 50 | -$8,085-9% | $80,903 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86.7%#24 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.5#4 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +127,336 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +127,336 | -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 York better to live in?
Florida scores higher overall: 59.9 to 54.9 out of 100, #21 of 50 against #29. Florida leads 5 of 11 categories, New York leads 4, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | New YorkNY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -1.3 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 46.3#25 · B | -1.3 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +10.1 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 63.0#34 · C+ | +10.1 pts | FL |
| Health12% of scoregap -19.2 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 79.7#3 · A+ | -19.2 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap +4.5 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 56.6#30 · C+ | +4.5 pts | FL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +24.7 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 37.2#47 · D | +24.7 pts | FL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +25.7 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 44.5#42 · C | +25.7 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +30.9 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 14.0#48 · D | +30.9 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -9 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 52.6#20 · B | -9 pts | NY |
| Livability7% of scoregap -22.5 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 49.4#5 · A+ | -22.5 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -2.4 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 30.2#23 · B | -2.4 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -24.4 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 58.4#7 · A | -24.4 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 Florida cheaper than New York?
Florida is cheaper: cost of living index 103.4 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $32,742 more a year in Florida after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New YorkNY | GapFL−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.5 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 107.9#47 of 50 | -4.5 pts-4% | 100 | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -9.2 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 107.3#49 of 50 | -9.2 pts-9% | 100 | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -11.15¢ (-42%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | -11.15¢-42% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.90 (+45%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | +$7.90+45% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.09 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | -$0.09-3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,748 (-32%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $20,978#43 of 50 | -$6,748-32% | $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 YorkNY | GapFL−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$13,113 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$13,113 | FL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$15,945 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$15,945 | FL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$32,742 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | +$32,742 | FL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$14,351 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$14,351 | 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 YorkNY | GapFL−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$14,736 | $25,862 | $40,598 | -$14,736 | FL |
| ChildcareGap -$13,496 | $28,460 | $41,956 | -$13,496 | FL |
| UtilitiesGap -$216 | $4,963 | $5,179 | -$216 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$1,036 | $11,049 | $12,085 | -$1,036 | FL |
| TransportationGap -$283 | $9,680 | $9,963 | -$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,976 | $5,472 | $8,448 | -$2,976 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or New York?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 13.56%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; New York has high across the board.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New YorkNY | GapFL−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -7.07 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 13.56%#49 of 50 | -7.07 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -14.78 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 14.78%#50 of 50 | -14.78 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.82 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.64%#45 of 50 | -0.82 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.56 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 8.54%#41 of 50 | -1.56 pts | 6.66% | FL |
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 York?
Homes cost 40% more in New York: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $526,714 in New York. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $140,709 in New York; the median household earns $77,735 and $85,820.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New YorkNY | GapFL−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$151,244 (-29%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $526,714#43 of 50 | -$151,244-29% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -7.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +5.6%#2 of 50 | -7.1 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$949 (-26%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $3,615#50 of 50 | -$949-26% | $1,948 | FL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$32,429 (-23%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $140,709#45 of 50 | -$32,429-23% | $100,006 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.3x (-21%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 6.1x#46 of 50 | -1.3x-21% | 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 | NY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $2,710 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +64% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +29.5% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Miami | New York |
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 York?
New York pays more: median household income $85,820 vs $77,735, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 4.3% in New York. 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 New York's in 20.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New YorkNY | GapFL−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$8,085 (-9%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $85,820#15 of 50 | -$8,085-9% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.3%#34 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$41,372 (-41%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $102,027#1 of 50 | -$41,372-41% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.84 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.84 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 | NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $231,909$250,462 in New York | NY |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $191,445$206,761 in New York | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $267,162$288,535 in New York | NY |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $95,830$103,496 in New York | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $106,981$115,540 in New York | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $110,483$119,322 in New York | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $103,379$111,649 in New York | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $122,114$131,883 in New York | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $49,203$53,139 in New York | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $117,051$126,415 in New York | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $65,845$71,113 in New York | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $64,892$70,083 in New York | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $75,227$81,245 in New York | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $65,024$70,226 in New York | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $76,636$82,767 in New York | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $90,791$98,054 in New York | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $75,414$81,447 in New York | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $65,430$70,664 in New York | NY |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $47,986$51,825 in New York | NY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $54,384$58,735 in New York | NY |
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 New York?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,575 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 YorkNY | GapFL−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -93 (-25%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 368#35 of 50 | -93-25% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -173 (-11%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,575#31 of 50 | -173-11% | 1,535 | FL |
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
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or New York?
Florida scores higher for education (#23 of 50 vs #30), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 86.7%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #19); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 79.5 in New York.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New YorkNY | GapFL−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 271#27 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 257#27 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86.7%#24 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.5#4 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.1 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 29.5%#7 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.9 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 5%#6 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+14%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 36#14 of 50 | +5 pts+14% | 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).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
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 York #30. Health: Florida #19, New York #3.
Are more people moving from Florida to New York, or from New York to Florida?
22,011 households moved from Florida to New York and 43,187 moved from New York to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 21,176 households for Florida. Movers to New York reported an average income of $89,835; movers to Florida reported $133,218. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 28,080 people (±4,963) moving from Florida to New York and 50,661 (±6,714) the other way, a net gain of about 22,581 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 YorkNY | GapFL−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +161,872 (+84%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 192,240#4 of 50 | +161,872+84% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +34,536 (+13%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 264,227#48 of 50 | +34,536+13% | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +127,336 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +127,336 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.0 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +6.0 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$28,337 (+30%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $94,202#6 of 50 | +$28,337+30% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$29,849 (-28%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $105,983#4 of 50 | -$29,849-28% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.9 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +7.9 | 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 York?
Florida is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; New York is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | New YorkNY | GapFL−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -5 places | #24score 65.4 | #29score 62.6 | -5 places | FL |
| RetireesGap -7 places | #18score 66.2 | #25score 62 | -7 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap -17 places | #27score 51.6 | #44score 41.4 | -17 places | FL |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -16 places | #24score 53.9 | #40score 42.8 | -16 places | FL |
| Small BusinessGap -25 places | #19score 62.4 | #44score 37.5 | -25 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +5 places | #26score 44.3 | #21score 50.9 | +5 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesFlorida (#24 vs #29)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #25)
- Remote WorkersFlorida (#27 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsFlorida (#24 vs #40)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #26)
Which cities stand out in Florida and New York?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and New York has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and New York. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | New YorkNY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | New York8,483,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Levittownscore 74.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | White Plains115 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Uticacost index 92.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Uticacounty median AQI 27 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Levittown94.2% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Levittownmedian income $146,068 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Yonkers+0.5% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and New York compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and New York AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | New YorkNY | GapFL−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -20 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 30%#22 of 50 | -20 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.7 (+492%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 3.8#4 of 50 | +18.7+492% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +11.2 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 15.1%#16 of 50 | +11.2 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap -4.3 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | -4.3 min | 25.2 min | FL |
| Commuters using public transitGap -22.9 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 24.2%#1 of 50 | -22.9 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.7 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 11.8%#28 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 93.1%#20 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 92.67% | FL |
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 YorkNY | GapFL−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 90#32 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 3.8%#48 of 50 | +7.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap -8 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 90%#7 of 50 | -8 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap -$6,170 (-76%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $8,130#47 of 50 | -$6,170-76% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +6.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +6.3 pts | +4.66% | FL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, New York 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 New York: 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 32 of 51, New York on 12, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | New YorkNY | GapFL−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,460,091 (+17%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 20 million#4 of 50 | +3,460,091+17% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$8,085 (-9%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $85,820#15 of 50 | -$8,085-9% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.3%#34 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.84 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.84 pts | +0.51% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$41,372 (-41%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $102,027#1 of 50 | -$41,372-41% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -93 (-25%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 368#35 of 50 | -93-25% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -173 (-11%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,575#31 of 50 | -173-11% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86.7%#24 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 234#38 of 50 | +9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 271#27 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 215#26 of 50 | +4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 257#27 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.5#4 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.1 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 29.5%#7 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.9 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 5%#6 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$151,244 (-29%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $526,714#43 of 50 | -$151,244-29% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -7.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +5.6%#2 of 50 | -7.1 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$949 (-26%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $3,615#50 of 50 | -$949-26% | $1,948 | FL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$32,429 (-23%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $140,709#45 of 50 | -$32,429-23% | $100,006 | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.5 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 107.9#47 of 50 | -4.5 pts-4% | 100 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.3x (-21%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 6.1x#46 of 50 | -1.3x-21% | 4.6x | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -11.15¢ (-42%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | -11.15¢-42% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.90 (+45%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | +$7.90+45% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.09 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | -$0.09-3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -9.2 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 107.3#49 of 50 | -9.2 pts-9% | 100 | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,748 (-32%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $20,978#43 of 50 | -$6,748-32% | $15,633 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -7.07 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 13.56%#49 of 50 | -7.07 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -14.78 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 14.78%#50 of 50 | -14.78 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.82 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.64%#45 of 50 | -0.82 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.56 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 8.54%#41 of 50 | -1.56 pts | 6.66% | FL |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 90#32 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 3.8%#48 of 50 | +7.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap -8 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 90%#7 of 50 | -8 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap -$6,170 (-76%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $8,130#47 of 50 | -$6,170-76% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +6.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +6.3 pts | +4.66% | FL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+14%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 36#14 of 50 | +5 pts+14% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -20 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 30%#22 of 50 | -20 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.7 (+492%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 3.8#4 of 50 | +18.7+492% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +11.2 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 15.1%#16 of 50 | +11.2 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap -4.3 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | -4.3 min | 25.2 min | FL |
| Commuters using public transitGap -22.9 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 24.2%#1 of 50 | -22.9 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.7 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 11.8%#28 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 93.1%#20 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +161,872 (+84%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 192,240#4 of 50 | +161,872+84% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +34,536 (+13%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 264,227#48 of 50 | +34,536+13% | 78,715 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +127,336 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +127,336 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.0 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +6.0 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$28,337 (+30%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $94,202#6 of 50 | +$28,337+30% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$29,849 (-28%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $105,983#4 of 50 | -$29,849-28% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.9 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +7.9 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$32,742 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | +$32,742 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$13,113 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$13,113 | +$31,418 | FL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$14,351 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$14,351 | +$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 York numbers say when read together.
Florida ranks higher overall
Florida leads 5 of the 11 categories to New York's 4, with 2 even; New York is ahead on environment and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 32 and New York on 12.
Florida is cheaper day to day
Florida's cost of living index is 103.4 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $526,714 in New York. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$43,228 in New York.
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 York collects 13.56% (high across the board).
New York pays more
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $85,820 in New York, with unemployment at 3.9% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 368 in New York.
People move to Florida on net
50,661 people moved to Florida from New York in the latest Census release, against 28,080 going the other way.
Florida fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and New York #29; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and New York #25.
Florida vs New York: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or New York better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and New York #29 as of the latest release. Florida is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 107.9), has no income tax, and has a 25% lower violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Florida cheaper than New York?
Florida is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 103.4 vs 107.9 (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 -$43,228 in New York. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $526,714 in New York.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or New York?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; New York's are 14.78%, 1.64% and 8.54%.
Is Florida safer than New York?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and New York #35. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,575 in New York. 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 White Plains, NY.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or New York?
Homes are 40% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $526,714 in New York. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $140,709 in New York, against median incomes of $77,735 and $85,820.
Do people earn more in Florida or New York?
New York pays more: median household income is $85,820 vs $77,735 in Florida, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 4.3% in New York. 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 New York's in 20.
Are more people moving from Florida to New York or from New York to Florida?
22,011 households moved from Florida to New York and 43,187 moved from New York to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 21,176 households for Florida. Movers to New York reported an average income of $89,835; movers to Florida reported $133,218. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 28,080 people (±4,963) moving from Florida to New York and 50,661 (±6,714) the other way, a net gain of about 22,581 people for Florida beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or New York?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #25 for New York. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; New York has high across the board. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$22,648 in New York.
Which is better for families, Florida or New York?
Florida is the better fit for families: #24 of 50 on the families index vs #29 for New York. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $20,978 in New York. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 86.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$43,228 in New York.
Is New York better than Florida?
No: Florida ranks higher than New York overall, #21 of 50 vs #29, with a composite score of 59.9 to 54.9. Florida leads 5 of 11 categories and New York leads 4, including environment and livability. 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 York.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (43,187 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).