Massachusetts vs Maine: Which Is Better to Live In?
Massachusetts ranks #13 of 50 overall and Maine #9 as of the latest release. Maine is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 105.8), carries a 1.1-point higher tax burden, and has a 69% lower violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.6 points apart, too close to call: Massachusetts leads 3 of 11 categories, Maine leads 7.
- Violent crime rate is 69% lower in Maine (93 vs. 303 in Massachusetts).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 45% lower in Maine ($98,297 vs. $177,190 in Massachusetts).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 40% lower in Maine ($16,144 vs. $27,067 in Massachusetts).
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -1.6 pts | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | 71.6#9 of 50 · A | -1.6 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.7 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 97.1#26 of 50 | +8.7 pts+9% | 100 | ME |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$41,951 · US -$11,758 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | -$20,270#30 of 50 | -$41,951 | -$11,758 | ME |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$246,344 (+59%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $415,552#33 of 50 | +$246,344+59% | $368,697 | ME |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.07 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 10.64%#46 of 50 | -1.07 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +210 (+225%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 93#1 of 50 | +210+225% | 328 | ME |
| Median household incomeGap +$28,386 (+37%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $76,442#30 of 50 | +$28,386+37% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap +4 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 86.1%#28 of 50 | +4 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap +3.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 76.6#31 of 50 | +3.2 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -19,049 · US -33 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -19,049 | -33 | ME |
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 Massachusetts or Maine better to live in?
Massachusetts scores 70 and Maine scores 71.6 out of 100, a 1.6-point gap this site treats as even. Massachusetts leads 3 of 11 categories, Maine leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +8.7 | 15% | 59.8#10 · A | 51.1#18 · B+ | +8.7 pts | MA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -18.1 | 12% | 76.4#19 · B | 94.5#1 · A+ | -18.1 pts | ME |
| Health12% of scoregap +31 | 12% | 88.6#1 · A+ | 57.6#26 · B | +31 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap +40.2 | 12% | 92.0#1 · A+ | 51.8#36 · C | +40.2 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -27.6 | 10% | 29.3#48 · D | 56.9#36 · C | -27.6 pts | ME |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -6.9 | 8% | 50.1#39 · C | 57.0#29 · C+ | -6.9 pts | ME |
| Growth7% of scoregap -29.8 | 7% | 19.4#47 · D | 49.2#14 · B+ | -29.8 pts | ME |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +0.6 | 7% | 51.7#24 · B | 51.1#26 · B | +0.6 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -20.7 | 7% | 34.3#23 · B | 55.0#2 · A+ | -20.7 pts | ME |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -13 | 6% | 32.0#20 · B | 45.0#8 · A | -13 pts | ME |
| Environment4% of scoregap -22.7 | 4% | 54.4#9 · A | 77.1#1 · A+ | -22.7 pts | ME |
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 Massachusetts cheaper than Maine?
Maine is cheaper: cost of living index 97.1 vs 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $41,951 more a year in Maine after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.7 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 97.1#26 of 50 | +8.7 pts+9% | 100 | ME |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.6 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.8#37 of 50 | 97.2#29 of 50 | +1.6 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.70¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | 27.78¢/kWh#45 of 50 | +2.70¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | ME |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.11 (+32%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | $18.95/Mcf#42 of 50 | +$6.11+32% | $15.83/Mcf | ME |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.02 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | $3.35/gal#40 of 50 | -$0.02-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,923 (+68%) · US $15,633 | $27,067#49 of 50 | $16,144#29 of 50 | +$10,923+68% | $15,633 | ME |
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 | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$11,036 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$27,266costs $47,734 | -$11,036 | ME |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$15,899 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$18,362costs $56,638 | -$15,899 | ME |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$41,951 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | -$20,270costs $95,271 | -$41,951 | ME |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$14,114 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$31,893costs $43,107 | -$14,114 | ME |
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 | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$17,698 | $47,775 | $30,077 | +$17,698 | ME |
| ChildcareGap +$21,846 | $54,134 | $32,288 | +$21,846 | ME |
| UtilitiesGap +$417 | $5,078 | $4,661 | +$417 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$180 | $11,128 | $10,948 | +$180 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$63 | $10,466 | $10,529 | -$63 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,873 | $8,641 | $6,768 | +$1,873 | ME |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Massachusetts or Maine?
Massachusetts collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.57% vs 10.64%. Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Maine has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.07 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 10.64%#46 of 50 | -1.07 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.85 pts · US 5.46% | 9%#44 of 50 | 7.15%#39 of 50 | +1.85 pts | 5.46% | ME |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.02 pts · US 1.02% | 1.15%#33 of 50 | 1.17%#35 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.75 pts · US 6.66% | 6.25%#16 of 50 | 5.5%#7 of 50 | +0.75 pts | 6.66% | ME |
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 Massachusetts or Maine?
Homes cost 59% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $661,896 in Massachusetts vs $415,552 in Maine. Buying the typical home takes about $177,190 of income in Massachusetts and $98,297 in Maine; the median household earns $104,828 and $76,442.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$246,344 (+59%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $415,552#33 of 50 | +$246,344+59% | $368,697 | ME |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +1.6%#31 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$732 (+31%) · US $1,948 | $3,074#49 of 50 | $2,342#43 of 50 | +$732+31% | $1,948 | ME |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$78,893 (+80%) · US $100,006 | $177,190#48 of 50 | $98,297#28 of 50 | +$78,893+80% | $100,006 | ME |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+17%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#48 of 50 | 5.4x#37 of 50 | +0.9x+17% | 4.6x | ME |
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.
| MA | ME | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,405 | $2,138 |
| Income needed vs. median | +69% | +29% |
| Five-year change | +25.3% | +27.5% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Boston | Portland |
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 Massachusetts or Maine?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $76,442, with unemployment at 4.5% in Massachusetts and 3.4% in Maine. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Massachusetts's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Maine's in 0.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$28,386 (+37%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $76,442#30 of 50 | +$28,386+37% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#37 of 50 | 3.4%#11 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | ME |
| GDP per capitaGap +$44,644 (+82%) · US $64,333 | $99,274#2 of 50 | $54,630#41 of 50 | +$44,644+82% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.7%#31 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | MA |
| Population growthGap -0.24 pts · US +0.51% | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.46%#25 of 50 | -0.24 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | MA | ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | $132,928$128,940 in Portland | MA |
| Software Developers | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | $127,747$123,915 in Portland | MA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | $210,939$204,611 in Portland | MA |
| General & Operations Managers | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | $95,859$92,983 in Portland | MA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | $68,073$66,031 in Portland | MA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | $77,925$75,587 in Portland | MA |
| Civil Engineers | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | $92,197$89,431 in Portland | MA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | $96,400$93,508 in Portland | MA |
| Registered Nurses | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | $82,563$80,086 in Portland | MA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | $65,100$63,147 in Portland | MA |
| Electricians | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | $55,502$53,837 in Portland | MA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | $44,434$43,101 in Portland | MA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | $52,468$50,894 in Portland | MA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | $61,324$59,484 in Portland | MA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,980$69,098 in Boston | $54,655$53,015 in Portland | MA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,999$75,599 in Boston | $60,723$58,901 in Portland | MA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | $52,692$51,111 in Portland | MA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,407$41,480 in Boston | $32,778$31,795 in Portland | MA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | $41,603$40,355 in Portland | MA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | $52,984$51,394 in Portland | MA |
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 Massachusetts safer than Maine?
Maine is safer: 93 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts (FBI). Property crime runs 1,031 and 939 per 100,000.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +210 (+225%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 93#1 of 50 | +210+225% | 328 | ME |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +92 (+10%) · US 1,535 | 1,031#6 of 50 | 939#4 of 50 | +92+10% | 1,535 | ME |
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.
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
- Old Town, ME0 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Massachusetts or Maine?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #36), with high school graduation rates of 90.1% and 86.1%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #26); life expectancy is 79.8 years in Massachusetts and 76.6 in Maine.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +11 · US 273 | 284#1 of 50 | 273#26 of 50 | +11 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 257 | 268#1 of 50 | 255#34 of 50 | +13 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +4 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 86.1%#28 of 50 | +4 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap +3.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 76.6#31 of 50 | +3.2 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap -6.2 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#2 of 50 | 33.2%#20 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 2.8%#1 of 50 | 5.5%#12 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+9%) · US 38.8 | 37#17 of 50 | 34#8 of 50 | +3 pts+9% | 38.8 | ME |
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).
- Newton, MAeducation score 96
- Saco, MEeducation score 92
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: Massachusetts #1, Maine #36. Health: Massachusetts #1, Maine #26.
Are more people moving from Massachusetts to Maine, or from Maine to Massachusetts?
3,330 households moved from Massachusetts to Maine and 2,229 moved from Maine to Massachusetts in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,101 households for Maine. Movers to Maine reported an average income of $113,531; movers to Massachusetts reported $77,751. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,723 people (±2,509) moving from Massachusetts to Maine and 6,746 (±2,201) 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 | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +63,001 (+310%) | 83,296#17 of 50 | 20,295#44 of 50 | +63,001+310% | MA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +82,050 (+494%) | 98,674#36 of 50 | 16,624#6 of 50 | +82,050+494% | ME |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -19,049 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -19,049 | ME |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +2.6#8 of 50 | -4.7 | ME |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,444 (+5%) | $89,890#7 of 50 | $85,446#13 of 50 | +$4,444+5% | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$42,506 (+57%) | $116,609#1 of 50 | $74,103#26 of 50 | +$42,506+57% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -9.9 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +5.2#7 of 50 | -9.9 | ME |
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, Massachusetts or Maine?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families; Maine is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -5 places | #9score 79.8 | #14score 78.6 | -5 places | MA |
| RetireesGap +10 places | #19score 65.5 | #9score 77.5 | +10 places | ME |
| Remote WorkersGap +36 places | #42score 42.9 | #6score 71.9 | +36 places | ME |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +26 places | #35score 48.4 | #9score 66.4 | +26 places | ME |
| Small BusinessGap +13 places | #29score 52.7 | #16score 63.8 | +13 places | ME |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +11 places | #16score 55.3 | #5score 75.7 | +11 places | ME |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMassachusetts (#9 vs #14)
- RetireesMaine (#9 vs #19)
- Remote WorkersMaine (#6 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsMaine (#9 vs #35)
- Small BusinessMaine (#16 vs #29)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMaine (#5 vs #16)
Which cities stand out in Massachusetts and Maine?
Massachusetts has 25 tracked cities and Maine has 20; the largest are Boston and Portland. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MassachusettsMA | MaineME |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Boston666,442 people | Portland68,854 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Brooklinescore 79.5 | South Portlandscore 69.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Newton56 violent per 100K | Old Town0 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Springfieldcost index 96.1 | Augustacost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 | Portlandwalkability 14.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 | Presque Islecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Newton96% graduation rate | Saco92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Newtonmedian income $190,304 | Sacomedian income $92,241 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Worcester+0.9% growth | Old Town+1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Massachusetts and Maine compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Massachusetts carries AA+ credit rating and Maine AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -54 pts · US 29.34% | 24%#23 of 50 | 78%#3 of 50 | -54 pts | 29.34% | ME |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -9.1 (-72%) · US 29.6 | 3.6#3 of 50 | 12.7#8 of 50 | -9.1-72% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap +1.9 pts · US 17.16% | 7.7%#25 of 50 | 5.8%#31 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5 min · US 25.2 min | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | 25.6 min#23 of 50 | +5 min | 25.2 min | ME |
| Commuters using public transitGap +7.2 pts · US 2.29% | 7.8%#3 of 50 | 0.6%#35 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.1 pts · US 12.28% | 14.8%#13 of 50 | 14.7%#14 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#7 of 50 | 92.4%#31 of 50 | +2 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 | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#22 of 50 | 90#29 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.8 pts · US 12.39% | 12.8%#17 of 50 | 14.6%#10 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 12.39% | ME |
| Pension funded ratioGap -16 pts · US 74.3% | 63%#41 of 50 | 79%#17 of 50 | -16 pts | 74.3% | ME |
| State debt per capitaGap +$6,810 (+237%) · US $3,506 | $9,680#49 of 50 | $2,870#26 of 50 | +$6,810+237% | $3,506 | ME |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.2 pts · US +4.66% | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +5.4%#20 of 50 | -4.2 pts | +4.66% | ME |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Massachusetts AA+, Maine 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).
Massachusetts vs Maine: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Massachusetts is ahead on 18 of 51, Maine on 26, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | MaineME | GapMA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,739,210 (+406%) · US 6.8 million | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | 1.4 million#42 of 50 | +5,739,210+406% | 6.8 million | MA |
| Median household incomeGap +$28,386 (+37%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $76,442#30 of 50 | +$28,386+37% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#37 of 50 | 3.4%#11 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | ME |
| Population growthGap -0.24 pts · US +0.51% | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.46%#25 of 50 | -0.24 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$44,644 (+82%) · US $64,333 | $99,274#2 of 50 | $54,630#41 of 50 | +$44,644+82% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.7%#31 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | MA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +210 (+225%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 93#1 of 50 | +210+225% | 328 | ME |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +92 (+10%) · US 1,535 | 1,031#6 of 50 | 939#4 of 50 | +92+10% | 1,535 | ME |
| High school graduation rateGap +4 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 86.1%#28 of 50 | +4 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +13 · US 237 | 247#1 of 50 | 233#42 of 50 | +13 | 237 | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +11 · US 273 | 284#1 of 50 | 273#26 of 50 | +11 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +15 · US 214 | 225#1 of 50 | 210#42 of 50 | +15 | 214 | MA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 257 | 268#1 of 50 | 255#34 of 50 | +13 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 76.6#31 of 50 | +3.2 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap -6.2 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#2 of 50 | 33.2%#20 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 2.8%#1 of 50 | 5.5%#12 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$246,344 (+59%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $415,552#33 of 50 | +$246,344+59% | $368,697 | ME |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +1.6%#31 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$732 (+31%) · US $1,948 | $3,074#49 of 50 | $2,342#43 of 50 | +$732+31% | $1,948 | ME |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$78,893 (+80%) · US $100,006 | $177,190#48 of 50 | $98,297#28 of 50 | +$78,893+80% | $100,006 | ME |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.7 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 97.1#26 of 50 | +8.7 pts+9% | 100 | ME |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+17%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#48 of 50 | 5.4x#37 of 50 | +0.9x+17% | 4.6x | ME |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.70¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | 27.78¢/kWh#45 of 50 | +2.70¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | ME |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.11 (+32%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | $18.95/Mcf#42 of 50 | +$6.11+32% | $15.83/Mcf | ME |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.02 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | $3.35/gal#40 of 50 | -$0.02-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.6 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.8#37 of 50 | 97.2#29 of 50 | +1.6 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,923 (+68%) · US $15,633 | $27,067#49 of 50 | $16,144#29 of 50 | +$10,923+68% | $15,633 | ME |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.07 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 10.64%#46 of 50 | -1.07 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.85 pts · US 5.46% | 9%#44 of 50 | 7.15%#39 of 50 | +1.85 pts | 5.46% | ME |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.02 pts · US 1.02% | 1.15%#33 of 50 | 1.17%#35 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.75 pts · US 6.66% | 6.25%#16 of 50 | 5.5%#7 of 50 | +0.75 pts | 6.66% | ME |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#22 of 50 | 90#29 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.8 pts · US 12.39% | 12.8%#17 of 50 | 14.6%#10 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 12.39% | ME |
| Pension funded ratioGap -16 pts · US 74.3% | 63%#41 of 50 | 79%#17 of 50 | -16 pts | 74.3% | ME |
| State debt per capitaGap +$6,810 (+237%) · US $3,506 | $9,680#49 of 50 | $2,870#26 of 50 | +$6,810+237% | $3,506 | ME |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.2 pts · US +4.66% | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +5.4%#20 of 50 | -4.2 pts | +4.66% | ME |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+9%) · US 38.8 | 37#17 of 50 | 34#8 of 50 | +3 pts+9% | 38.8 | ME |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -54 pts · US 29.34% | 24%#23 of 50 | 78%#3 of 50 | -54 pts | 29.34% | ME |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -9.1 (-72%) · US 29.6 | 3.6#3 of 50 | 12.7#8 of 50 | -9.1-72% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap +1.9 pts · US 17.16% | 7.7%#25 of 50 | 5.8%#31 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5 min · US 25.2 min | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | 25.6 min#23 of 50 | +5 min | 25.2 min | ME |
| Commuters using public transitGap +7.2 pts · US 2.29% | 7.8%#3 of 50 | 0.6%#35 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.1 pts · US 12.28% | 14.8%#13 of 50 | 14.7%#14 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#7 of 50 | 92.4%#31 of 50 | +2 pts | 92.67% | MA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +63,001 (+310%) · US 78,682 | 83,296#17 of 50 | 20,295#44 of 50 | +63,001+310% | 78,682 | MA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +82,050 (+494%) · US 78,715 | 98,674#36 of 50 | 16,624#6 of 50 | +82,050+494% | 78,715 | ME |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -19,049 · US -33 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -19,049 | -33 | ME |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 · US +0.4 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +2.6#8 of 50 | -4.7 | +0.4 | ME |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,444 (+5%) · US $77,690 | $89,890#7 of 50 | $85,446#13 of 50 | +$4,444+5% | $77,690 | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$42,506 (+57%) · US $77,024 | $116,609#1 of 50 | $74,103#26 of 50 | +$42,506+57% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -9.9 · US +1.1 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +5.2#7 of 50 | -9.9 | +1.1 | ME |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$41,951 · US -$11,758 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | -$20,270#30 of 50 | -$41,951 | -$11,758 | ME |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$11,036 · US +$31,418 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$27,266#35 of 50 | -$11,036 | +$31,418 | ME |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$14,114 · US +$35,970 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$31,893#33 of 50 | -$14,114 | +$35,970 | ME |
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 Massachusetts and Maine numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Massachusetts (70, #13) and Maine (71.6, #9) are within 2 composite points. Massachusetts leads 3 categories, Maine leads 7, and 1 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Maine is cheaper day to day
Maine's cost of living index is 97.1 against 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). The typical home costs $661,896 in Massachusetts and $415,552 in Maine. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$62,221 a year after typical costs in Massachusetts and -$20,270 in Maine.
Massachusetts takes a smaller share in taxes
Massachusetts collects 9.57% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Maine collects 10.64% (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Massachusetts pays more
Median household income is $104,828 in Massachusetts and $76,442 in Maine, with unemployment at 4.5% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 303 per 100,000 residents in Massachusetts and 93 in Maine.
Moves between the two run about even
6,723 people moved from Massachusetts to Maine and 6,746 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Massachusetts for families, Maine for retirees
For families, Massachusetts ranks #9 of 50 and Maine #14; for retirees, Massachusetts ranks #19 and Maine #9.
Massachusetts vs Maine: frequently asked questions
Is Massachusetts or Maine better to live in?
Massachusetts ranks #13 of 50 overall and Maine #9 as of the latest release. Maine is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 105.8), carries a 1.1-point higher tax burden, and has a 69% lower violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.6 points apart, too close to call: Massachusetts leads 3 of 11 categories, Maine leads 7.
Is Massachusetts cheaper than Maine?
Maine is cheaper than Massachusetts: cost of living index 97.1 vs 105.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$62,221 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Massachusetts, and -$20,270 in Maine. The typical home value is $661,896 in Massachusetts and $415,552 in Maine.
Which has lower taxes, Massachusetts or Maine?
Massachusetts has the lower tax burden: 9.57% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.64% in Maine. Massachusetts's top income tax rate is 9%, its effective property tax rate 1.15% and its combined sales tax 6.25%; Maine's are 7.15%, 1.17% and 5.5%.
Is Massachusetts safer than Maine?
Maine is safer: 93 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts, per the FBI. Massachusetts ranks #27 of 50 for violent crime and Maine #1. Property crime is 1,031 per 100,000 in Massachusetts and 939 in Maine. The safest tracked cities are Newton, MA, and Old Town, ME.
Are homes more expensive in Massachusetts or Maine?
Homes are 59% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $661,896 in Massachusetts and $415,552 in Maine. Buying the typical home takes about $177,190 of household income in Massachusetts and $98,297 in Maine, against median incomes of $104,828 and $76,442.
Do people earn more in Massachusetts or Maine?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $76,442 in Maine, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.5% in Massachusetts and 3.4% in Maine. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Massachusetts's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Maine's in 0.
Are more people moving from Massachusetts to Maine or from Maine to Massachusetts?
3,330 households moved from Massachusetts to Maine and 2,229 moved from Maine to Massachusetts in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,101 households for Maine. Movers to Maine reported an average income of $113,531; movers to Massachusetts reported $77,751. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,723 people (±2,509) moving from Massachusetts to Maine and 6,746 (±2,201) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Massachusetts or Maine?
Maine is the better fit for retirees: #9 of 50 on the retiree index vs #19 for Massachusetts. Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Maine has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$17,779 left after typical costs in Massachusetts and +$31,893 in Maine.
Which is better for families, Massachusetts or Maine?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families: #9 of 50 on the families index vs #14 for Maine. Center-based infant care costs $27,067 a year in Massachusetts and $16,144 in Maine. High school graduation rates are 90.1% and 86.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$62,221 after typical costs in Massachusetts and -$20,270 in Maine.
Which has better schools, Massachusetts or Maine?
Massachusetts scores higher for education: #1 of 50 vs #36 for Maine. Eighth graders average 284 in NAEP math in Massachusetts and 273 in Maine. High school graduation rates are 90.1% in Massachusetts and 86.1% in Maine, and the education category scores are 92 and 51.8 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Newton and Saco have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Massachusetts vs Maine.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (3,330 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).