Georgia vs Massachusetts: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Georgia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 105.8), has a 1.1-point lower tax burden. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 59% lower in Georgia ($11,066 vs. $27,067 in Massachusetts).
- Residential electricity price is 52% lower in Georgia (14.73¢/kWh vs. 30.48¢/kWh in Massachusetts).
- Typical home value is 50% lower in Georgia ($330,817 vs. $661,896 in Massachusetts).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -14.6 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | -14.6 pts | — | MA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -9.5 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -9.5 pts-9% | 100 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$59,421 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$59,421 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$331,079 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$331,079-50% | $368,697 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.1 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 8.74% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -6 (-2%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -6-2% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap -$24,837 (-24%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$24,837-24% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -6 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -6 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -3.9 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +30,049 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +30,049 | -33 | GA |
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 Georgia or Massachusetts better to live in?
Massachusetts scores higher overall: 70 to 55.4 out of 100, #13 of 50 against #26. Georgia leads 3 of 11 categories, Massachusetts leads 8, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -5.7 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 59.8#10 · A | -5.7 pts | MA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -5.2 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 76.4#19 · B | -5.2 pts | MA |
| Health12% of scoregap -49.1 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 88.6#1 · A+ | -49.1 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap -38.9 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 92.0#1 · A+ | -38.9 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +43.8 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 29.3#48 · D | +43.8 pts | GA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +19.6 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 50.1#39 · C | +19.6 pts | GA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +32.1 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 19.4#47 · D | +32.1 pts | GA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -13 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 51.7#24 · B | -13 pts | MA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -6.2 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 34.3#23 · B | -6.2 pts | MA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -24.4 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 32.0#20 · B | -24.4 pts | MA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -22.3 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 54.4#9 · A | -22.3 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 Georgia cheaper than Massachusetts?
Georgia is cheaper: cost of living index 96.3 vs 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $59,421 more a year in Georgia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -9.5 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -9.5 pts-9% | 100 | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -15.75¢ (-52%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -15.75¢-52% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$4.64 (-19%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$4.64-19% | $15.83/Mcf | GA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.38 (-11%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.38-11% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$16,001 (-59%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$16,001-59% | $15,633 | GA |
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 | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$15,955 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$15,955 | GA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$21,787 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$21,787 | GA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$59,421 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | +$59,421 | GA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$19,006 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$19,006 | GA |
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 | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$24,956 | $22,819 | $47,775 | -$24,956 | GA |
| ChildcareGap -$32,002 | $22,132 | $54,134 | -$32,002 | GA |
| UtilitiesGap -$456 | $4,622 | $5,078 | -$456 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$11 | $11,139 | $11,128 | +$11 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$1,195 | $9,271 | $10,466 | -$1,195 | GA |
| State and local taxesGap -$824 | $7,817 | $8,641 | -$824 | GA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Massachusetts?
Georgia collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.47% vs 9.57%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.1 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 8.74% | GA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.61 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | -3.61 pts | 5.46% | GA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.32 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | -0.32 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.24 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +1.24 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 Georgia or Massachusetts?
Homes cost 100% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $330,817 in Georgia vs $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $177,190 in Massachusetts; the median household earns $79,991 and $104,828.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$331,079 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$331,079-50% | $368,697 | GA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.8 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | -2.8 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,221 (-40%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$1,221-40% | $1,948 | GA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$86,695 (-49%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$86,695-49% | $100,006 | GA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.2x (-35%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -2.2x-35% | 4.6x | GA |
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.
| GA | MA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $3,405 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +69% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +25.3% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | 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 Georgia or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $79,991, with unemployment at 3.4% in Georgia and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 9.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$24,837 (-24%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$24,837-24% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$35,605 (-36%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$35,605-36% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Population growthGap +0.66 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.66 pts | +0.51% | GA |
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 | GA | MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | MA |
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | MA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | MA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | MA |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | MA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | MA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | MA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | GA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $38,407$41,480 in Boston | MA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | GA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | MA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | Even |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $63,980$69,098 in Boston | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $69,999$75,599 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 Georgia safer than Massachusetts?
Violent crime is about the same: 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 303 in Massachusetts (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,031 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -6 (-2%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -6-2% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +378 (+37%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +378+37% | 1,535 | MA |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Johns Creek, GA40 violent per 100K
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #34), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 90.1%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #40); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 79.8 in Massachusetts.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -15 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -15 | 273 | MA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -6 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -6 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -3.9 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap +8.4 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +8.4 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +9.2 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +9.2 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+22%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +8 pts+22% | 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).
- Valdosta, GAeducation score 92.3
- 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: Georgia #34, Massachusetts #1. Health: Georgia #40, Massachusetts #1.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Massachusetts, or from Massachusetts to Georgia?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,513 people (±1,568) moving from Georgia to Massachusetts and 4,877 (±2,140) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +64,948 (+78%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +64,948+78% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +34,899 (+35%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +34,899+35% | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +30,049 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +30,049 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +3.4 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$19,721 (-22%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | -$19,721-22% | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$44,321 (-38%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$44,321-38% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +7.1 | GA |
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, Georgia or Massachusetts?
Georgia is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Massachusetts is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +24 places | #33score 60.1 | #9score 79.8 | +24 places | MA |
| RetireesGap +8 places | #27score 60.4 | #19score 65.5 | +8 places | MA |
| Remote WorkersGap -22 places | #20score 54.6 | #42score 42.9 | -22 places | GA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -18 places | #17score 58.9 | #35score 48.4 | -18 places | GA |
| Small BusinessGap -16 places | #13score 66.7 | #29score 52.7 | -16 places | GA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +24 places | #40score 29.7 | #16score 55.3 | +24 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 #33)
- RetireesMassachusetts (#19 vs #27)
- Remote WorkersGeorgia (#20 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsGeorgia (#17 vs #35)
- Small BusinessGeorgia (#13 vs #29)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMassachusetts (#16 vs #40)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and Massachusetts?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and Massachusetts has 25; the largest are Atlanta and Boston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Boston666,442 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Brooklinescore 79.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Newton56 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Springfieldcost index 96.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Newton96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | Newtonmedian income $190,304 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Worcester+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and Massachusetts compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and Massachusetts AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -12 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | -12 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +9.8 (+272%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +9.8+272% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -1.6 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.2 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | -1.2 min | 25.2 min | GA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -6.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | -6.6 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.1 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -1 pts | 92.67% | MA |
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 | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.6 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$7,990 (-83%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$7,990-83% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4.4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +4.4 pts | +4.66% | GA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia 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).
Georgia vs Massachusetts: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Georgia is ahead on 26 of 51, Massachusetts on 18, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MassachusettsMA | GapGA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,148,664 (+58%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | +4,148,664+58% | 6.8 million | GA |
| Median household incomeGap -$24,837 (-24%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$24,837-24% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| Population growthGap +0.66 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.66 pts | +0.51% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$35,605 (-36%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$35,605-36% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -6 (-2%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -6-2% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +378 (+37%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +378+37% | 1,535 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -6 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -6 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -10 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 247#1 of 50 | -10 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -15 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -15 | 273 | MA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -10 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 225#1 of 50 | -10 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -3.9 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap +8.4 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +8.4 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +9.2 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +9.2 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$331,079 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$331,079-50% | $368,697 | GA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.8 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | -2.8 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,221 (-40%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$1,221-40% | $1,948 | GA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$86,695 (-49%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$86,695-49% | $100,006 | GA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -9.5 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -9.5 pts-9% | 100 | GA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.2x (-35%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -2.2x-35% | 4.6x | GA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -15.75¢ (-52%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -15.75¢-52% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$4.64 (-19%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$4.64-19% | $15.83/Mcf | GA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.38 (-11%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.38-11% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$16,001 (-59%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$16,001-59% | $15,633 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.1 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 8.74% | GA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.61 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | -3.61 pts | 5.46% | GA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.32 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | -0.32 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.24 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +1.24 pts | 6.66% | MA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.6 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$7,990 (-83%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$7,990-83% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4.4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +4.4 pts | +4.66% | GA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+22%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +8 pts+22% | 38.8 | MA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -12 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | -12 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +9.8 (+272%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +9.8+272% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -1.6 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.2 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | -1.2 min | 25.2 min | GA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -6.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | -6.6 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.1 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -1 pts | 92.67% | MA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +64,948 (+78%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +64,948+78% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +34,899 (+35%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +34,899+35% | 78,715 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +30,049 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +30,049 | -33 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.4 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +3.4 | +0.4 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$19,721 (-22%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | -$19,721-22% | $77,690 | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$44,321 (-38%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$44,321-38% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.1 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +7.1 | +1.1 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$59,421 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$59,421 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$15,955 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$15,955 | +$31,418 | GA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$19,006 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$19,006 | +$35,970 | GA |
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 Georgia and Massachusetts numbers say when read together.
Massachusetts ranks higher overall
Massachusetts leads 8 of the 11 categories to Georgia's 3, with 0 even; Georgia is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Georgia is ahead on 26 and Massachusetts on 18.
Georgia is cheaper day to day
Georgia's cost of living index is 96.3 against 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). The typical home costs $330,817 in Georgia and $661,896 in Massachusetts. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Georgia takes a smaller share in taxes
Georgia collects 8.47% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); 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 $79,991 in Georgia and $104,828 in Massachusetts, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 303 in Massachusetts.
Moves between the two run about even
3,513 people moved from Georgia to Massachusetts and 4,877 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Massachusetts fits families and retirees better
For families, Georgia ranks #33 of 50 and Massachusetts #9; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and Massachusetts #19.
Georgia vs Massachusetts: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or Massachusetts better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Georgia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 105.8), has a 1.1-point lower tax burden. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Georgia cheaper than Massachusetts?
Georgia is cheaper than Massachusetts: cost of living index 96.3 vs 105.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$2,800 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Georgia, and -$62,221 in Massachusetts. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $661,896 in Massachusetts.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Massachusetts?
Georgia has the lower tax burden: 8.47% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.57% in Massachusetts. Georgia's top income tax rate is 5.39%, its effective property tax rate 0.83% and its combined sales tax 7.49%; Massachusetts's are 9%, 1.15% and 6.25%.
Is Georgia safer than Massachusetts?
Georgia and Massachusetts have similar violent crime rates: 297 vs 303 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and Massachusetts #27. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,031 in Massachusetts. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Newton, MA.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or Massachusetts?
Homes are 100% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $177,190 in Massachusetts, against median incomes of $79,991 and $104,828.
Do people earn more in Georgia or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $79,991 in Georgia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 9, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Massachusetts or from Massachusetts to Georgia?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,513 people (±1,568) moving from Georgia to Massachusetts and 4,877 (±2,140) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for retirees: #19 of 50 on the retiree index vs #27 for Georgia. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$17,779 in Massachusetts.
Which is better for families, Georgia or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families: #9 of 50 on the families index vs #33 for Georgia. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $27,067 in Massachusetts. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Is Massachusetts better than Georgia?
Yes: Massachusetts ranks higher than Georgia overall, #13 of 50 vs #26, with a composite score of 70 to 55.4. Massachusetts leads 8 of 11 categories and Georgia leads 3, including affordability and growth. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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