New Hampshire vs Maine: Which Is Better to Live In?
New Hampshire ranks #1 of 50 overall and Maine #9 as of the latest release. Maine is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 104.2), carries a 4.7-point higher tax burden, and has a 21% lower violent crime rate. New Hampshire scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
- Total tax burden is 44% lower in New Hampshire (5.94% vs. 10.64% in Maine).
- Median household income is 31% higher in New Hampshire ($99,782 vs. $76,442 in Maine).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 23% lower in Maine ($98,297 vs. $127,122 in New Hampshire).
| Measure | New HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +11.8 pts | 83.4#1 of 50 · A+ | 71.6#9 of 50 · A | +11.8 pts | — | NH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.1 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 104.2#43 of 50 | 97.1#26 of 50 | +7.1 pts+7% | 100 | ME |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$9,942 · US -$11,758 | -$30,212#38 of 50 | -$20,270#30 of 50 | -$9,942 | -$11,758 | ME |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$100,754 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $516,306#42 of 50 | $415,552#33 of 50 | +$100,754+24% | $368,697 | ME |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -4.7 pts · US 8.74% | 5.94%#3 of 50 | 10.64%#46 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +24 (+26%) · US 328 | 118#3 of 50 | 93#1 of 50 | +24+26% | 328 | ME |
| Median household incomeGap +$23,340 (+31%) · US $80,903 | $99,782#6 of 50 | $76,442#30 of 50 | +$23,340+31% | $80,903 | NH |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.7%#17 of 50 | 86.1%#28 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 85.62% | NH |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.7#10 of 50 | 76.6#31 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | NH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,503 · US -33 | +2,168#20 of 50 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -1,503 | -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 New Hampshire or Maine better to live in?
New Hampshire scores higher overall: 83.4 to 71.6 out of 100, #1 of 50 against #9. New Hampshire leads 4 of 11 categories, Maine leads 4, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New HampshireNH | MaineME | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +22.9 | 15% | 74.0#2 · A+ | 51.1#18 · B+ | +22.9 pts | NH |
| Safety12% of scoregap -0.2 | 12% | 94.3#2 · A+ | 94.5#1 · A+ | -0.2 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +16.3 | 12% | 73.9#11 · B+ | 57.6#26 · B | +16.3 pts | NH |
| Education12% of scoregap +25.7 | 12% | 77.5#2 · A+ | 51.8#36 · C | +25.7 pts | NH |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -8 | 10% | 48.9#40 · C | 56.9#36 · C | -8 pts | ME |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +6.1 | 8% | 63.1#19 · B | 57.0#29 · C+ | +6.1 pts | NH |
| Growth7% of scoregap +0.7 | 7% | 49.9#12 · B+ | 49.2#14 · B+ | +0.7 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -5 | 7% | 46.1#33 · C+ | 51.1#26 · B | -5 pts | ME |
| Livability7% of scoregap -4.9 | 7% | 50.1#4 · A+ | 55.0#2 · A+ | -4.9 pts | ME |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -2 | 6% | 43.0#11 · B+ | 45.0#8 · A | -2 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -31.9 | 4% | 45.2#21 · B | 77.1#1 · A+ | -31.9 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 New Hampshire cheaper than Maine?
Maine is cheaper: cost of living index 97.1 vs 104.2 in New Hampshire (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $9,942 more a year in Maine after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.1 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 104.2#43 of 50 | 97.1#26 of 50 | +7.1 pts+7% | 100 | ME |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.4 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 98.6#35 of 50 | 97.2#29 of 50 | +1.4 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -3.22¢ (-12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 24.56¢/kWh#42 of 50 | 27.78¢/kWh#45 of 50 | -3.22¢-12% | 17.84¢/kWh | NH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.34 (-2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.61/Mcf#41 of 50 | $18.95/Mcf#42 of 50 | -$0.34-2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.10 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#28 of 50 | $3.35/gal#40 of 50 | -$0.10-3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$318 (+2%) · US $15,633 | $16,462#31 of 50 | $16,144#29 of 50 | +$318+2% | $15,633 | Even |
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 HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,050 | +$24,216costs $50,785 | +$27,266costs $47,734 | -$3,050 | ME |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$6,543 | +$11,819costs $63,182 | +$18,362costs $56,638 | -$6,543 | ME |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$9,942 | -$30,212costs $105,213 | -$20,270costs $95,271 | -$9,942 | ME |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$5,551 | +$26,342costs $48,658 | +$31,893costs $43,107 | -$5,551 | 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 | New HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$11,010 | $41,087 | $30,077 | +$11,010 | ME |
| ChildcareGap +$636 | $32,924 | $32,288 | +$636 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap +$341 | $5,002 | $4,661 | +$341 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$157 | $11,105 | $10,948 | +$157 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$315 | $10,214 | $10,529 | -$315 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,887 | $4,881 | $6,768 | -$1,887 | NH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New Hampshire or Maine?
New Hampshire collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 5.94% vs 10.64%. New Hampshire has no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax; Maine has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | New HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -4.7 pts · US 8.74% | 5.94%#3 of 50 | 10.64%#46 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -7.15 pts · US 5.46% | none#1 of 50 | 7.15%#39 of 50 | -7.15 pts | 5.46% | NH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.72 pts · US 1.02% | 1.89%#48 of 50 | 1.17%#35 of 50 | +0.72 pts | 1.02% | ME |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -5.5 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#1 of 50 | 5.5%#7 of 50 | -5.5 pts | 6.66% | NH |
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 Hampshire or Maine?
Homes cost 24% more in New Hampshire: a typical home value of $516,306 in New Hampshire vs $415,552 in Maine. Buying the typical home takes about $127,122 of income in New Hampshire and $98,297 in Maine; the median household earns $99,782 and $76,442.
| Measure | New HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$100,754 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $516,306#42 of 50 | $415,552#33 of 50 | +$100,754+24% | $368,697 | ME |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.3 pts · US +1.2% | +2.9%#18 of 50 | +1.6%#31 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.2% | NH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$164 (-7%) · US $1,948 | $2,178#39 of 50 | $2,342#43 of 50 | -$164-7% | $1,948 | NH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$28,825 (+29%) · US $100,006 | $127,122#39 of 50 | $98,297#28 of 50 | +$28,825+29% | $100,006 | ME |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.2x (-4%) · US 4.6x | 5.2x#36 of 50 | 5.4x#37 of 50 | -0.2x-4% | 4.6x | NH |
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.
| NH | ME | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,656 | $2,138 |
| Income needed vs. median | +27% | +29% |
| Five-year change | +35.6% | +27.5% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Manchester | 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 New Hampshire or Maine?
New Hampshire pays more: median household income $99,782 vs $76,442, with unemployment at 3.2% in New Hampshire and 3.4% in Maine. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New Hampshire's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Maine's in 0.
| Measure | New HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$23,340 (+31%) · US $80,903 | $99,782#6 of 50 | $76,442#30 of 50 | +$23,340+31% | $80,903 | NH |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.2%#7 of 50 | 3.4%#11 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$14,186 (+26%) · US $64,333 | $68,816#15 of 50 | $54,630#41 of 50 | +$14,186+26% | $64,333 | NH |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#16 of 50 | +1.7%#31 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.91% | NH |
| Population growthGap +0.02 pts · US +0.51% | +0.48%#24 of 50 | +0.46%#25 of 50 | +0.02 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 | NH | ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $139,498$146,473 in Manchester | $132,928$128,940 in Portland | NH |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $74,064$77,767 in Manchester | $68,073$66,031 in Portland | NH |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $66,601$69,931 in Manchester | $61,324$59,484 in Portland | NH |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,480$59,304 in Manchester | $52,692$51,111 in Portland | NH |
| Electricians | $59,120$62,076 in Manchester | $55,502$53,837 in Portland | NH |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $99,507$104,482 in Manchester | $96,400$93,508 in Portland | NH |
| Software Developers | $130,790$137,330 in Manchester | $127,747$123,915 in Portland | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $212,609$223,239 in Manchester | $210,939$204,611 in Portland | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $79,559$83,537 in Manchester | $77,925$75,587 in Portland | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $90,612$95,143 in Manchester | $92,197$89,431 in Portland | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,985$48,284 in Manchester | $44,434$43,101 in Portland | NH |
| Mental Health Counselors | $54,262$56,975 in Manchester | $52,984$51,394 in Portland | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,812$58,603 in Manchester | $54,655$53,015 in Portland | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $61,830$64,922 in Manchester | $60,723$58,901 in Portland | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $42,305$44,420 in Manchester | $41,603$40,355 in Portland | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $95,385$100,154 in Manchester | $95,859$92,983 in Portland | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,347$33,964 in Manchester | $32,778$31,795 in Portland | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $64,704$67,939 in Manchester | $65,100$63,147 in Portland | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $82,400$86,520 in Manchester | $82,563$80,086 in Portland | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $52,401$55,021 in Manchester | $52,468$50,894 in Portland | 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 New Hampshire safer than Maine?
Maine is safer: 93 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 118 in New Hampshire (FBI). Property crime runs 818 and 939 per 100,000.
| Measure | New HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +24 (+26%) · US 328 | 118#3 of 50 | 93#1 of 50 | +24+26% | 328 | ME |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -121 (-13%) · US 1,535 | 818#2 of 50 | 939#4 of 50 | -121-13% | 1,535 | NH |
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.
- Hanover, NH17 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, New Hampshire or Maine?
New Hampshire scores higher for education (#2 of 50 vs #36), with high school graduation rates of 87.7% and 86.1%. New Hampshire scores higher for health (#11 vs #26); life expectancy is 78.7 years in New Hampshire and 76.6 in Maine.
| Measure | New HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 280#9 of 50 | 273#26 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 264#4 of 50 | 255#34 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.7%#17 of 50 | 86.1%#28 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 85.62% | NH |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.7#10 of 50 | 76.6#31 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | NH |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.1 pts · US 34.03% | 31.1%#11 of 50 | 33.2%#20 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 34.03% | NH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1 pts · US 7.6% | 4.5%#4 of 50 | 5.5%#12 of 50 | -1 pts | 7.6% | NH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+9%) · US 38.8 | 37#15 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).
- Durham, NHeducation score 98
- 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: New Hampshire #2, Maine #36. Health: New Hampshire #11, Maine #26.
Are more people moving from New Hampshire to Maine, or from Maine to New Hampshire?
2,595 households moved from New Hampshire to Maine and 1,972 moved from Maine to New Hampshire in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 623 households for Maine. Movers to Maine reported an average income of $74,021; movers to New Hampshire reported $65,675. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,373 people (±1,699) moving from New Hampshire to Maine and 3,115 (±965) 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 HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +6,281 (+31%) | 26,576#38 of 50 | 20,295#44 of 50 | +6,281+31% | NH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +7,784 (+47%) | 24,408#12 of 50 | 16,624#6 of 50 | +7,784+47% | ME |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,503 | +2,168#20 of 50 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -1,503 | ME |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.1 | +1.5#15 of 50 | +2.6#8 of 50 | -1.1 | ME |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$23,872 (+28%) | $109,318#3 of 50 | $85,446#13 of 50 | +$23,872+28% | NH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,940 (+19%) | $88,043#11 of 50 | $74,103#26 of 50 | +$13,940+19% | NH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.6 | +4.6#9 of 50 | +5.2#7 of 50 | -0.6 | 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, New Hampshire or Maine?
New Hampshire is the better fit for families, young professionals, and small business; 3 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 HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -13 places | #1score 89.6 | #14score 78.6 | -13 places | NH |
| RetireesGap -3 places | #6score 78.7 | #9score 77.5 | -3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #8score 67.7 | #6score 71.9 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -5 places | #4score 74.9 | #9score 66.4 | -5 places | NH |
| Small BusinessGap -12 places | #4score 78.3 | #16score 63.8 | -12 places | NH |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +2 places | #7score 68.8 | #5score 75.7 | +2 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew Hampshire (#1 vs #14)
- RetireesEven (#6 vs #9)
- Remote WorkersEven (#8 vs #6)
- Young ProfessionalsNew Hampshire (#4 vs #9)
- Small BusinessNew Hampshire (#4 vs #16)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#7 vs #5)
Which cities stand out in New Hampshire and Maine?
New Hampshire has 20 tracked cities and Maine has 20; the largest are Manchester and Portland. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New HampshireNH | MaineME |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Manchester115,643 people | Portland68,854 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Hanoverscore 80.8 | South Portlandscore 69.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Hanover17 violent per 100K | Old Town0 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Concordcost index 100.5 | Augustacost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hanoverwalkability 14.1 of 20 | Portlandwalkability 14.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Laconiacounty median AQI 32 | Presque Islecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Durham98% graduation rate | Saco92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Hanovermedian income $153,281 | Sacomedian income $92,241 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Dover+2.1% growth | Old Town+1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New Hampshire and Maine compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New Hampshire carries AA+ credit rating and Maine AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -64 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#29 of 50 | 78%#3 of 50 | -64 pts | 29.34% | ME |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +2.9 (+23%) · US 29.6 | 15.6#11 of 50 | 12.7#8 of 50 | +2.9+23% | 29.6 | ME |
| Public land shareGap +7.7 pts · US 17.16% | 13.5%#17 of 50 | 5.8%#31 of 50 | +7.7 pts | 17.16% | NH |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#40 of 50 | 25.6 min#23 of 50 | +1.9 min | 25.2 min | ME |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#34 of 50 | 0.6%#35 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.3 pts · US 12.28% | 16%#5 of 50 | 14.7%#14 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 12.28% | NH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.9 pts · US 92.67% | 95.3%#1 of 50 | 92.4%#31 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 92.67% | NH |
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 HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#17 of 50 | 90#29 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | NH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.5 pts · US 12.39% | 10.1%#26 of 50 | 14.6%#10 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 12.39% | ME |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 65%#39 of 50 | 79%#17 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | ME |
| State debt per capitaGap +$340 (+12%) · US $3,506 | $3,210#32 of 50 | $2,870#26 of 50 | +$340+12% | $3,506 | ME |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US +4.66% | +6.8%#11 of 50 | +5.4%#20 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +4.66% | NH |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New Hampshire 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).
New Hampshire vs Maine: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New Hampshire is ahead on 23 of 51, Maine on 18, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New HampshireNH | MaineME | GapNH−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +468 (0%) · US 6.8 million | 1.4 million#41 of 50 | 1.4 million#42 of 50 | +4680% | 6.8 million | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$23,340 (+31%) · US $80,903 | $99,782#6 of 50 | $76,442#30 of 50 | +$23,340+31% | $80,903 | NH |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.2%#7 of 50 | 3.4%#11 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.02 pts · US +0.51% | +0.48%#24 of 50 | +0.46%#25 of 50 | +0.02 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$14,186 (+26%) · US $64,333 | $68,816#15 of 50 | $54,630#41 of 50 | +$14,186+26% | $64,333 | NH |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#16 of 50 | +1.7%#31 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.91% | NH |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +24 (+26%) · US 328 | 118#3 of 50 | 93#1 of 50 | +24+26% | 328 | ME |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -121 (-13%) · US 1,535 | 818#2 of 50 | 939#4 of 50 | -121-13% | 1,535 | NH |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.7%#17 of 50 | 86.1%#28 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 85.62% | NH |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 237 | 242#4 of 50 | 233#42 of 50 | +9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 280#9 of 50 | 273#26 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +12 · US 214 | 222#4 of 50 | 210#42 of 50 | +12 | 214 | NH |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 264#4 of 50 | 255#34 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.7#10 of 50 | 76.6#31 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | NH |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.1 pts · US 34.03% | 31.1%#11 of 50 | 33.2%#20 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 34.03% | NH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1 pts · US 7.6% | 4.5%#4 of 50 | 5.5%#12 of 50 | -1 pts | 7.6% | NH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$100,754 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $516,306#42 of 50 | $415,552#33 of 50 | +$100,754+24% | $368,697 | ME |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.3 pts · US +1.2% | +2.9%#18 of 50 | +1.6%#31 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.2% | NH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$164 (-7%) · US $1,948 | $2,178#39 of 50 | $2,342#43 of 50 | -$164-7% | $1,948 | NH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$28,825 (+29%) · US $100,006 | $127,122#39 of 50 | $98,297#28 of 50 | +$28,825+29% | $100,006 | ME |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.1 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 104.2#43 of 50 | 97.1#26 of 50 | +7.1 pts+7% | 100 | ME |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.2x (-4%) · US 4.6x | 5.2x#36 of 50 | 5.4x#37 of 50 | -0.2x-4% | 4.6x | NH |
| Residential electricity priceGap -3.22¢ (-12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 24.56¢/kWh#42 of 50 | 27.78¢/kWh#45 of 50 | -3.22¢-12% | 17.84¢/kWh | NH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.34 (-2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.61/Mcf#41 of 50 | $18.95/Mcf#42 of 50 | -$0.34-2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.10 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#28 of 50 | $3.35/gal#40 of 50 | -$0.10-3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.4 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 98.6#35 of 50 | 97.2#29 of 50 | +1.4 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$318 (+2%) · US $15,633 | $16,462#31 of 50 | $16,144#29 of 50 | +$318+2% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -4.7 pts · US 8.74% | 5.94%#3 of 50 | 10.64%#46 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -7.15 pts · US 5.46% | none#1 of 50 | 7.15%#39 of 50 | -7.15 pts | 5.46% | NH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.72 pts · US 1.02% | 1.89%#48 of 50 | 1.17%#35 of 50 | +0.72 pts | 1.02% | ME |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -5.5 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#1 of 50 | 5.5%#7 of 50 | -5.5 pts | 6.66% | NH |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#17 of 50 | 90#29 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | NH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.5 pts · US 12.39% | 10.1%#26 of 50 | 14.6%#10 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 12.39% | ME |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 65%#39 of 50 | 79%#17 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | ME |
| State debt per capitaGap +$340 (+12%) · US $3,506 | $3,210#32 of 50 | $2,870#26 of 50 | +$340+12% | $3,506 | ME |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US +4.66% | +6.8%#11 of 50 | +5.4%#20 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +4.66% | NH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+9%) · US 38.8 | 37#15 of 50 | 34#8 of 50 | +3 pts+9% | 38.8 | ME |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -64 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#29 of 50 | 78%#3 of 50 | -64 pts | 29.34% | ME |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +2.9 (+23%) · US 29.6 | 15.6#11 of 50 | 12.7#8 of 50 | +2.9+23% | 29.6 | ME |
| Public land shareGap +7.7 pts · US 17.16% | 13.5%#17 of 50 | 5.8%#31 of 50 | +7.7 pts | 17.16% | NH |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#40 of 50 | 25.6 min#23 of 50 | +1.9 min | 25.2 min | ME |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#34 of 50 | 0.6%#35 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.3 pts · US 12.28% | 16%#5 of 50 | 14.7%#14 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 12.28% | NH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.9 pts · US 92.67% | 95.3%#1 of 50 | 92.4%#31 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 92.67% | NH |
| Households moving inIRSGap +6,281 (+31%) · US 78,682 | 26,576#38 of 50 | 20,295#44 of 50 | +6,281+31% | 78,682 | NH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +7,784 (+47%) · US 78,715 | 24,408#12 of 50 | 16,624#6 of 50 | +7,784+47% | 78,715 | ME |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,503 · US -33 | +2,168#20 of 50 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -1,503 | -33 | ME |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.1 · US +0.4 | +1.5#15 of 50 | +2.6#8 of 50 | -1.1 | +0.4 | ME |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$23,872 (+28%) · US $77,690 | $109,318#3 of 50 | $85,446#13 of 50 | +$23,872+28% | $77,690 | NH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,940 (+19%) · US $77,024 | $88,043#11 of 50 | $74,103#26 of 50 | +$13,940+19% | $77,024 | NH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.6 · US +1.1 | +4.6#9 of 50 | +5.2#7 of 50 | -0.6 | +1.1 | ME |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$9,942 · US -$11,758 | -$30,212#38 of 50 | -$20,270#30 of 50 | -$9,942 | -$11,758 | ME |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,050 · US +$31,418 | +$24,216#41 of 50 | +$27,266#35 of 50 | -$3,050 | +$31,418 | ME |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$5,551 · US +$35,970 | +$26,342#43 of 50 | +$31,893#33 of 50 | -$5,551 | +$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 New Hampshire and Maine numbers say when read together.
New Hampshire ranks higher overall
New Hampshire leads 4 of the 11 categories to Maine's 4, with 3 even; Maine is ahead on environment and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New Hampshire is ahead on 23 and Maine on 18.
Maine is cheaper day to day
Maine's cost of living index is 97.1 against 104.2 in New Hampshire (US = 100). The typical home costs $516,306 in New Hampshire and $415,552 in Maine. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$30,212 a year after typical costs in New Hampshire and -$20,270 in Maine.
New Hampshire takes a smaller share in taxes
New Hampshire collects 5.94% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax); Maine collects 10.64% (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
New Hampshire pays more
Median household income is $99,782 in New Hampshire and $76,442 in Maine, with unemployment at 3.2% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 118 per 100,000 residents in New Hampshire and 93 in Maine.
Moves between the two run about even
4,373 people moved from New Hampshire to Maine and 3,115 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
New Hampshire is the better fit for families
For families, New Hampshire ranks #1 of 50 and Maine #14; for retirees, New Hampshire ranks #6 and Maine #9.
New Hampshire vs Maine: frequently asked questions
Is New Hampshire or Maine better to live in?
New Hampshire ranks #1 of 50 overall and Maine #9 as of the latest release. Maine is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 104.2), carries a 4.7-point higher tax burden, and has a 21% lower violent crime rate. New Hampshire scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
Is New Hampshire cheaper than Maine?
Maine is cheaper than New Hampshire: cost of living index 97.1 vs 104.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$30,212 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New Hampshire, and -$20,270 in Maine. The typical home value is $516,306 in New Hampshire and $415,552 in Maine.
Which has lower taxes, New Hampshire or Maine?
New Hampshire has the lower tax burden: 5.94% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.64% in Maine. New Hampshire's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.89% and its combined sales tax 0%; Maine's are 7.15%, 1.17% and 5.5%.
Is New Hampshire safer than Maine?
Maine is safer: 93 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 118 in New Hampshire, per the FBI. New Hampshire ranks #3 of 50 for violent crime and Maine #1. Property crime is 818 per 100,000 in New Hampshire and 939 in Maine. The safest tracked cities are Hanover, NH, and Old Town, ME.
Are homes more expensive in New Hampshire or Maine?
Homes are 24% more expensive in New Hampshire: the typical home value is $516,306 in New Hampshire and $415,552 in Maine. Buying the typical home takes about $127,122 of household income in New Hampshire and $98,297 in Maine, against median incomes of $99,782 and $76,442.
Do people earn more in New Hampshire or Maine?
New Hampshire pays more: median household income is $99,782 vs $76,442 in Maine, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.2% in New Hampshire and 3.4% in Maine. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New Hampshire's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Maine's in 0, with 13 even.
Are more people moving from New Hampshire to Maine or from Maine to New Hampshire?
2,595 households moved from New Hampshire to Maine and 1,972 moved from Maine to New Hampshire in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 623 households for Maine. Movers to Maine reported an average income of $74,021; movers to New Hampshire reported $65,675. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,373 people (±1,699) moving from New Hampshire to Maine and 3,115 (±965) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, New Hampshire or Maine?
New Hampshire and Maine are close for retirees: #6 and #9 of 50 on the retiree index. New Hampshire has no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax; 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 +$26,342 left after typical costs in New Hampshire and +$31,893 in Maine.
Which is better for families, New Hampshire or Maine?
New Hampshire is the better fit for families: #1 of 50 on the families index vs #14 for Maine. Center-based infant care costs $16,462 a year in New Hampshire and $16,144 in Maine. High school graduation rates are 87.7% and 86.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$30,212 after typical costs in New Hampshire and -$20,270 in Maine.
Is Maine better than New Hampshire?
No: New Hampshire ranks higher than Maine overall, #1 of 50 vs #9, with a composite score of 83.4 to 71.6. New Hampshire leads 4 of 11 categories and Maine leads 4, including environment and affordability. 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 Hampshire vs Maine.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,595 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).