New York vs Indiana: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 107.9), has a 4.5-point lower tax burden, and has a 31% lower violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 6.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 57% lower in Indiana ($1,552 vs. $3,615 in New York).
- Typical home value is 51% lower in Indiana ($260,095 vs. $526,714 in New York).
- Residential electricity price is 38% lower in Indiana (16.23¢/kWh vs. 26.39¢/kWh in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4.3 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 59.2#22 of 50 · B | -4.3 pts | — | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.6 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +14.6 pts+16% | 100 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$33,053 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | -$33,053 | -$11,758 | IN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$266,619 (+103%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$266,619+103% | $368,697 | IN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.47 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | +4.47 pts | 8.74% | IN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +114 (+45%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +114+45% | 328 | IN |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,861 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$13,861+19% | $80,903 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap -1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -1 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +4.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +4.1 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -70,719 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -70,719 | -33 | IN |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is New York or Indiana better to live in?
Indiana scores higher overall: 59.2 to 54.9 out of 100, #22 of 50 against #29. New York leads 6 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 5, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +3.4 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 42.9#30 · C+ | +3.4 pts | NY |
| Safety12% of scoregap -16.9 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 79.9#11 · B+ | -16.9 pts | IN |
| Health12% of scoregap +39.4 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 40.3#39 · C | +39.4 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap -16.9 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 73.5#7 · A | -16.9 pts | IN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -38.5 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 75.7#19 · B | -38.5 pts | IN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -20.8 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 65.3#16 · B+ | -20.8 pts | IN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -28.7 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 42.7#21 · B | -28.7 pts | IN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +10.5 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 42.1#44 · D | +10.5 pts | NY |
| Livability7% of scoregap +19.4 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 30.0#30 · C+ | +19.4 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +20.4 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 9.8#44 · D | +20.4 pts | NY |
| Environment4% of scoregap +20 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 38.4#28 · C+ | +20 pts | NY |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is New York cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper: cost of living index 93.3 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $33,053 more a year in Indiana after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.6 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +14.6 pts+16% | 100 | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +11.8 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +11.8 pts+12% | 100 | IN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +10.16¢ (+63%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | +10.16¢+63% | 17.84¢/kWh | IN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.09 (+53%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$6.09+53% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | IN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,517 (+20%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | +$3,517+20% | $15,633 | IN |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$16,178 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$36,449costs $38,552 | -$16,178 | IN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$20,821 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$28,935costs $46,065 | -$20,821 | IN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$33,053 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$10,175costs $85,175 | -$33,053 | IN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$18,384 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$41,032costs $33,968 | -$18,384 | IN |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$22,813 | $40,598 | $17,785 | +$22,813 | IN |
| ChildcareGap +$7,034 | $41,956 | $34,922 | +$7,034 | IN |
| UtilitiesGap +$701 | $5,179 | $4,478 | +$701 | IN |
| GroceriesGap +$1,329 | $12,085 | $10,756 | +$1,329 | IN |
| TransportationGap +$314 | $9,963 | $9,649 | +$314 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$863 | $8,448 | $7,585 | +$863 | IN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Indiana?
Indiana collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.09% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.47 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | +4.47 pts | 8.74% | IN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +9.76 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | +9.76 pts | 5.46% | IN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.87 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.87 pts | 1.02% | IN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.54 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | +1.54 pts | 6.66% | IN |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Indiana?
Homes cost 103% more in New York: a typical home value of $526,714 in New York vs $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $70,704 in Indiana; the median household earns $85,820 and $71,959.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$266,619 (+103%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$266,619+103% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | +2.6 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$2,063 (+133%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$2,063+133% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$70,005 (+99%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$70,005+99% | $100,006 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.5x (+69%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +2.5x+69% | 4.6x | IN |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| NY | IN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $1,338 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +28.9% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | New York | Indianapolis |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in New York or Indiana?
New York pays more: median household income $85,820 vs $71,959, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$13,861 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$13,861+19% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | IN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$42,809 (+72%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$42,809+72% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | NY |
| Population growthGap -0.55 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | -0.55 pts | +0.51% | IN |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | NY | IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $144,667$133,094 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $133,348$122,680 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $233,118$214,469 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $66,653$61,321 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $80,465$74,028 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $33,860$31,151 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $95,698$88,042 in Indianapolis | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $102,621$94,411 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $90,771$83,509 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $109,830$101,044 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $79,365$73,016 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $54,926$50,532 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $56,825$52,279 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $67,846$62,418 in Indianapolis | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $59,445$54,689 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $70,046$64,442 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $59,879$55,089 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $50,742$46,683 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $74,259$68,318 in Indianapolis | NY |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $45,954$42,278 in Indianapolis | 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 New York safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 1,052 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +114 (+45%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +114+45% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +523 (+50%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +523+50% | 1,535 | IN |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
- Carmel, IN51 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or Indiana?
Indiana scores higher for education (#7 of 50 vs #30), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 87.7%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #39); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 75.4 in Indiana.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -1 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +4.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +4.1 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -8.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -8.9 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.5 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-12%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | -5 pts-12% | 38.8 | NY |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- Fishers, INeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: New York #30, Indiana #7. Health: New York #3, Indiana #39.
Are more people moving from New York to Indiana, or from Indiana to New York?
2,033 households moved from New York to Indiana in the latest IRS release (average income $55,112); the flow from Indiana to New York is too small to appear among New York's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,091 people (±1,419) moving from New York to Indiana and 1,716 (±741) 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 | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +122,868 (+177%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +122,868+177% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +193,587 (+274%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +193,587+274% | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -70,719 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -70,719 | IN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | -3.4 | IN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$29,853 (+46%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$29,853+46% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$38,169 (+56%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$38,169+56% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.7 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -8.7 | IN |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, New York or Indiana?
New York is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Indiana is the better fit for families, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +11 places | #29score 62.6 | #18score 71.9 | +11 places | IN |
| RetireesGap +3 places | #25score 62 | #22score 62.8 | +3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +22 places | #44score 41.4 | #22score 53.9 | +22 places | IN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +17 places | #40score 42.8 | #23score 54.1 | +17 places | IN |
| Small BusinessGap +26 places | #44score 37.5 | #18score 63 | +26 places | IN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -12 places | #21score 50.9 | #33score 34.9 | -12 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIndiana (#18 vs #29)
- RetireesEven (#25 vs #22)
- Remote WorkersIndiana (#22 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsIndiana (#23 vs #40)
- Small BusinessIndiana (#18 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #33)
Which cities stand out in New York and Indiana?
New York has 20 tracked cities and Indiana has 21; the largest are New York and Indianapolis. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | IndianaIN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Indianapolis885,860 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Carmelscore 73.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Carmel51 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Terre Hautecost index 87.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Bloomingtonwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Bloomingtoncounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | Fishers98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Carmelmedian income $141,505 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Westfield+5.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and Indiana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and Indiana AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +15 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | +15 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -13.1 (-78%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | -13.1-78% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +13 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +13 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +8.6 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +8.6 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.6 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +23.6 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.2 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 12.28% | NY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 92.67% | NY |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | IN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8.7 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -8.7 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,790 (+247%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | +$5,790+247% | $3,506 | IN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.3 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -7.3 pts | +4.66% | IN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, Indiana AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
New York vs Indiana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New York is ahead on 17 of 51, Indiana on 30, and 4 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | IndianaIN | GapNY−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +13,029,094 (+187%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 7 million#17 of 50 | +13,029,094+187% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,861 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$13,861+19% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | IN |
| Population growthGap -0.55 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | -0.55 pts | +0.51% | IN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$42,809 (+72%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$42,809+72% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | NY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +114 (+45%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +114+45% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +523 (+50%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +523+50% | 1,535 | IN |
| High school graduation rateGap -1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -1 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 240#9 of 50 | -6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 220#6 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +4.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +4.1 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -8.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -8.9 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.5 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$266,619 (+103%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$266,619+103% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | +2.6 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$2,063 (+133%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$2,063+133% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$70,005 (+99%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$70,005+99% | $100,006 | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.6 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +14.6 pts+16% | 100 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.5x (+69%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +2.5x+69% | 4.6x | IN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +10.16¢ (+63%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | +10.16¢+63% | 17.84¢/kWh | IN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.09 (+53%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$6.09+53% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +11.8 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +11.8 pts+12% | 100 | IN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,517 (+20%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | +$3,517+20% | $15,633 | IN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.47 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | +4.47 pts | 8.74% | IN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +9.76 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | +9.76 pts | 5.46% | IN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.87 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.87 pts | 1.02% | IN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.54 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | +1.54 pts | 6.66% | IN |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | IN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8.7 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -8.7 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,790 (+247%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | +$5,790+247% | $3,506 | IN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.3 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -7.3 pts | +4.66% | IN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-12%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | -5 pts-12% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +15 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | +15 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -13.1 (-78%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | -13.1-78% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +13 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +13 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +8.6 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +8.6 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.6 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +23.6 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.2 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 12.28% | NY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 92.67% | NY |
| Households moving inIRSGap +122,868 (+177%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +122,868+177% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +193,587 (+274%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +193,587+274% | 78,715 | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -70,719 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -70,719 | -33 | IN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.4 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | -3.4 | +0.4 | IN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$29,853 (+46%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$29,853+46% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$38,169 (+56%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$38,169+56% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.7 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -8.7 | +1.1 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$33,053 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | -$33,053 | -$11,758 | IN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$16,178 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$36,449#10 of 50 | -$16,178 | +$31,418 | IN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$18,384 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$41,032#9 of 50 | -$18,384 | +$35,970 | IN |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the New York and Indiana numbers say when read together.
Indiana ranks higher overall
Indiana leads 5 of the 11 categories to New York's 6, with 0 even; New York is ahead on health and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New York is ahead on 17 and Indiana on 30.
Indiana is cheaper day to day
Indiana's cost of living index is 93.3 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $260,095 in Indiana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Indiana takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); Indiana collects 9.09% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
New York pays more
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 254 in Indiana.
Moves between the two run about even
3,091 people moved from New York to Indiana and 1,716 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Indiana is the better fit for families
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and Indiana #18; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and Indiana #22.
New York vs Indiana: frequently asked questions
Is New York or Indiana better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 107.9), has a 4.5-point lower tax burden, and has a 31% lower violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 6.
Is New York cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 93.3 vs 107.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$43,228 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New York, and -$10,175 in Indiana. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $260,095 in Indiana.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Indiana?
Indiana has the lower tax burden: 9.09% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. New York's top income tax rate is 14.78%, its effective property tax rate 1.64% and its combined sales tax 8.54%; Indiana's are 5.02%, 0.77% and 7%.
Is New York safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and Indiana #21. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 1,052 in Indiana. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Carmel, IN.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Indiana?
Homes are 103% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $70,704 in Indiana, against median incomes of $85,820 and $71,959.
Do people earn more in New York or Indiana?
New York pays more: median household income is $85,820 vs $71,959 in Indiana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0.
Are more people moving from New York to Indiana or from Indiana to New York?
2,033 households moved from New York to Indiana in the latest IRS release (average income $55,112); the flow from Indiana to New York is too small to appear among New York's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,091 people (±1,419) moving from New York to Indiana and 1,716 (±741) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, New York or Indiana?
New York and Indiana are close for retirees: #25 and #22 of 50 on the retiree index. New York has high across the board; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$41,032 in Indiana.
Which is better for families, New York or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for families: #18 of 50 on the families index vs #29 for New York. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $17,461 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Is Indiana better than New York?
Yes: Indiana ranks higher than New York overall, #22 of 50 vs #29, with a composite score of 59.2 to 54.9. Indiana leads 5 of 11 categories and New York leads 6, including health and outdoor access. 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 New York vs Indiana.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,033 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).