Pennsylvania vs Maine: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Maine #9 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 97.1); Pennsylvania has a 2.1-point lower tax burden and has a 59% higher violent crime rate. Maine scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 59% lower in Maine (93 vs. 227 in Pennsylvania).
- Residential electricity price is 31% lower in Pennsylvania (19.30¢/kWh vs. 27.78¢/kWh in Maine).
- Typical home value is 30% lower in Pennsylvania ($290,401 vs. $415,552 in Maine).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -14.7 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 71.6#9 of 50 · A | -14.7 pts | — | ME |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.5 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 97.1#26 of 50 | +0.5 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$8,645 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$20,270#30 of 50 | +$8,645 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$125,151 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $415,552#33 of 50 | -$125,151-30% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.64%#46 of 50 | -2.06 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +134 (+143%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 93#1 of 50 | +134+143% | 328 | ME |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,103 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $76,442#30 of 50 | +$1,103+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.1%#28 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 76.6#31 of 50 | +0.7 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,766 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -15,766 | -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 Pennsylvania or Maine better to live in?
Maine scores higher overall: 71.6 to 56.9 out of 100, #9 of 50 against #25. Pennsylvania leads 3 of 11 categories, Maine leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -11.9 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 51.1#18 · B+ | -11.9 pts | ME |
| Safety12% of scoregap -16.4 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 94.5#1 · A+ | -16.4 pts | ME |
| Health12% of scoregap +2 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 57.6#26 · B | +2 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +13.6 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 51.8#36 · C | +13.6 pts | PA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +9.8 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 56.9#36 · C | +9.8 pts | PA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -11.4 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 57.0#29 · C+ | -11.4 pts | ME |
| Growth7% of scoregap -22.4 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 49.2#14 · B+ | -22.4 pts | ME |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.8 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 51.1#26 · B | +4.8 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -20.6 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 55.0#2 · A+ | -20.6 pts | ME |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -25.2 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 45.0#8 · A | -25.2 pts | ME |
| Environment4% of scoregap -39.1 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 77.1#1 · A+ | -39.1 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 Pennsylvania cheaper than Maine?
Pennsylvania and Maine cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 97.6 vs 97.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $8,645 more a year in Pennsylvania after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.5 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 97.1#26 of 50 | +0.5 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 97.2#29 of 50 | +2.2 pts+2% | 100 | ME |
| Residential electricity priceGap -8.48¢ (-31%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 27.78¢/kWh#45 of 50 | -8.48¢-31% | 17.84¢/kWh | PA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.91 (-21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $18.95/Mcf#42 of 50 | -$3.91-21% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.05 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.35/gal#40 of 50 | +$0.05+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$842 (-5%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $16,144#29 of 50 | -$842-5% | $15,633 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$5,936 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$27,266costs $47,734 | +$5,936 | PA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$6,019 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$18,362costs $56,638 | +$6,019 | PA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$8,645 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$20,270costs $95,271 | +$8,645 | PA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$5,236 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$31,893costs $43,107 | +$5,236 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$8,361 | $21,716 | $30,077 | -$8,361 | PA |
| ChildcareGap -$1,684 | $30,604 | $32,288 | -$1,684 | PA |
| UtilitiesGap +$24 | $4,685 | $4,661 | +$24 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$247 | $11,195 | $10,948 | +$247 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$157 | $10,686 | $10,529 | +$157 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$971 | $7,739 | $6,768 | +$971 | ME |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Maine?
Pennsylvania collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 10.64%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.64%#46 of 50 | -2.06 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.29 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 7.15%#39 of 50 | -0.29 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.24 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 1.17%#35 of 50 | +0.24 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.84 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 5.5%#7 of 50 | +0.84 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 Pennsylvania or Maine?
Homes cost 43% more in Maine: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $415,552 in Maine. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $98,297 in Maine; the median household earns $77,545 and $76,442.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$125,151 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $415,552#33 of 50 | -$125,151-30% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.8 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +1.6%#31 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$431 (-18%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $2,342#43 of 50 | -$431-18% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$15,403 (-16%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $98,297#28 of 50 | -$15,403-16% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.7x (-31%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 5.4x#37 of 50 | -1.7x-31% | 4.6x | PA |
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.
| PA | ME | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $2,138 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +29% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +27.5% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | 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 Pennsylvania or Maine?
Median household income is about the same, $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $76,442 in Maine, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.4%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Maine's in 0.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$1,103 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $76,442#30 of 50 | +$1,103+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.4%#11 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | ME |
| GDP per capitaGap +$10,155 (+19%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $54,630#41 of 50 | +$10,155+19% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +1.7%#31 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.36 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.46%#25 of 50 | -0.36 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 | PA | ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $132,928$128,940 in Portland | PA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $210,939$204,611 in Portland | PA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $96,400$93,508 in Portland | PA |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $92,197$89,431 in Portland | PA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $60,723$58,901 in Portland | PA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $61,324$59,484 in Portland | PA |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $127,747$123,915 in Portland | PA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $68,073$66,031 in Portland | PA |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $55,502$53,837 in Portland | PA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $95,859$92,983 in Portland | PA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $82,563$80,086 in Portland | PA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $65,100$63,147 in Portland | PA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $52,692$51,111 in Portland | PA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $54,655$53,015 in Portland | PA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $44,434$43,101 in Portland | PA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $41,603$40,355 in Portland | PA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $77,925$75,587 in Portland | PA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $52,468$50,894 in Portland | PA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $32,778$31,795 in Portland | PA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $52,984$51,394 in Portland | PA |
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 Pennsylvania safer than Maine?
Maine is safer: 93 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 227 in Pennsylvania (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 939 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +134 (+143%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 93#1 of 50 | +134+143% | 328 | ME |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +385 (+41%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 939#4 of 50 | +385+41% | 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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 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, Pennsylvania or Maine?
Pennsylvania scores higher for education (#15 of 50 vs #36), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 86.1%. They are close on health (#21 and #26); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 76.6 in Maine.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 273#26 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 255#34 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.1%#28 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 76.6#31 of 50 | +0.7 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap +1 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 33.2%#20 of 50 | +1 pts | 34.03% | ME |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 5.5%#12 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+18%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 34#8 of 50 | +6 pts+18% | 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).
- State College, PAeducation 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: Pennsylvania #15, Maine #36. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Maine #26.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Maine, or from Maine to Pennsylvania?
616 households moved from Pennsylvania to Maine and 470 moved from Maine to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 146 households for Maine. Movers to Maine reported an average income of $85,386; movers to Pennsylvania reported $62,464. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 834 people (±499) moving from Pennsylvania to Maine and 201 (±191) the other way, a net gain of about 633 people for Maine beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +103,330 (+509%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 20,295#44 of 50 | +103,330+509% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +119,096 (+716%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 16,624#6 of 50 | +119,096+716% | ME |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,766 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -15,766 | ME |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.5 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +2.6#8 of 50 | -3.5 | ME |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,080 (-11%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $85,446#13 of 50 | -$9,080-11% | ME |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,539 (+16%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $74,103#26 of 50 | +$11,539+16% | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.4 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +5.2#7 of 50 | -5.4 | 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, Pennsylvania or Maine?
Maine is the better fit for families, 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +5 places | #19score 71.8 | #14score 78.6 | +5 places | ME |
| RetireesGap +17 places | #26score 61.5 | #9score 77.5 | +17 places | ME |
| Remote WorkersGap +32 places | #38score 46 | #6score 71.9 | +32 places | ME |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +24 places | #33score 49.4 | #9score 66.4 | +24 places | ME |
| Small BusinessGap +22 places | #38score 46.1 | #16score 63.8 | +22 places | ME |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +22 places | #27score 43.3 | #5score 75.7 | +22 places | ME |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMaine (#14 vs #19)
- RetireesMaine (#9 vs #26)
- Remote WorkersMaine (#6 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsMaine (#9 vs #33)
- Small BusinessMaine (#16 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMaine (#5 vs #27)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Maine?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Maine has 20; the largest are Philadelphia and Portland. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Portland68,854 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | South Portlandscore 69.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Old Town0 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Augustacost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Portlandwalkability 14.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Presque Islecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Saco92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Sacomedian income $92,241 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Old Town+1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Maine compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Maine AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -72 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 78%#3 of 50 | -72 pts | 29.34% | ME |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +0.7 (+6%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 12.7#8 of 50 | +0.7+6% | 29.6 | ME |
| Public land shareGap -0.2 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 5.8%#31 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 25.6 min#23 of 50 | +1.5 min | 25.2 min | ME |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.6 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.6%#35 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 14.7%#14 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | ME |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.4%#31 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 90#29 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | ME |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -10.1 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 14.6%#10 of 50 | -10.1 pts | 12.39% | ME |
| Pension funded ratioGap -17 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 79%#17 of 50 | -17 pts | 74.3% | ME |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,250 (+44%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,870#26 of 50 | +$1,250+44% | $3,506 | ME |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.9 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +5.4%#20 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +4.66% | ME |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania 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).
Pennsylvania vs Maine: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Pennsylvania is ahead on 17 of 51, Maine on 20, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MaineME | GapPA−ME | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +11,644,558 (+823%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 1.4 million#42 of 50 | +11,644,558+823% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,103 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $76,442#30 of 50 | +$1,103+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.4%#11 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | ME |
| Population growthGap -0.36 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.46%#25 of 50 | -0.36 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$10,155 (+19%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $54,630#41 of 50 | +$10,155+19% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +1.7%#31 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +134 (+143%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 93#1 of 50 | +134+143% | 328 | ME |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +385 (+41%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 939#4 of 50 | +385+41% | 1,535 | ME |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.1%#28 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 233#42 of 50 | +5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 273#26 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 210#42 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 255#34 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 76.6#31 of 50 | +0.7 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap +1 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 33.2%#20 of 50 | +1 pts | 34.03% | ME |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 5.5%#12 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$125,151 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $415,552#33 of 50 | -$125,151-30% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.8 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +1.6%#31 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$431 (-18%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $2,342#43 of 50 | -$431-18% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$15,403 (-16%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $98,297#28 of 50 | -$15,403-16% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.5 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 97.1#26 of 50 | +0.5 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.7x (-31%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 5.4x#37 of 50 | -1.7x-31% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -8.48¢ (-31%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 27.78¢/kWh#45 of 50 | -8.48¢-31% | 17.84¢/kWh | PA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.91 (-21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $18.95/Mcf#42 of 50 | -$3.91-21% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.05 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.35/gal#40 of 50 | +$0.05+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 97.2#29 of 50 | +2.2 pts+2% | 100 | ME |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$842 (-5%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $16,144#29 of 50 | -$842-5% | $15,633 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.64%#46 of 50 | -2.06 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.29 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 7.15%#39 of 50 | -0.29 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.24 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 1.17%#35 of 50 | +0.24 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.84 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 5.5%#7 of 50 | +0.84 pts | 6.66% | ME |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 90#29 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | ME |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -10.1 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 14.6%#10 of 50 | -10.1 pts | 12.39% | ME |
| Pension funded ratioGap -17 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 79%#17 of 50 | -17 pts | 74.3% | ME |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,250 (+44%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,870#26 of 50 | +$1,250+44% | $3,506 | ME |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.9 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +5.4%#20 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +4.66% | ME |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+18%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 34#8 of 50 | +6 pts+18% | 38.8 | ME |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -72 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 78%#3 of 50 | -72 pts | 29.34% | ME |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +0.7 (+6%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 12.7#8 of 50 | +0.7+6% | 29.6 | ME |
| Public land shareGap -0.2 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 5.8%#31 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 25.6 min#23 of 50 | +1.5 min | 25.2 min | ME |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.6 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.6%#35 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 14.7%#14 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | ME |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.4%#31 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +103,330 (+509%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 20,295#44 of 50 | +103,330+509% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +119,096 (+716%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 16,624#6 of 50 | +119,096+716% | 78,715 | ME |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,766 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -15,766 | -33 | ME |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.5 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +2.6#8 of 50 | -3.5 | +0.4 | ME |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,080 (-11%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $85,446#13 of 50 | -$9,080-11% | $77,690 | ME |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,539 (+16%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $74,103#26 of 50 | +$11,539+16% | $77,024 | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.4 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +5.2#7 of 50 | -5.4 | +1.1 | ME |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$8,645 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$20,270#30 of 50 | +$8,645 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$5,936 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$27,266#35 of 50 | +$5,936 | +$31,418 | PA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$5,236 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$31,893#33 of 50 | +$5,236 | +$35,970 | PA |
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 Pennsylvania and Maine numbers say when read together.
Maine ranks higher overall
Maine leads 7 of the 11 categories to Pennsylvania's 3, with 1 even; Pennsylvania is ahead on education and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 17 and Maine on 20.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 97.6 in Pennsylvania and 97.1 in Maine, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $290,401 and $415,552. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$20,270 in Maine.
Pennsylvania takes a smaller share in taxes
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income 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).
Maine is safer
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $76,442 in Maine, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 93 in Maine.
People move to Maine on net
834 people moved to Maine from Pennsylvania in the latest Census release, against 201 going the other way.
Maine fits families and retirees better
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Maine #14; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Maine #9.
Pennsylvania vs Maine: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Maine better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Maine #9 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 97.1); Pennsylvania has a 2.1-point lower tax burden and has a 59% higher violent crime rate. Maine scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Maine?
Pennsylvania and Maine cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 97.6 vs 97.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$20,270 in Maine. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $415,552 in Maine.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Maine?
Pennsylvania has the lower tax burden: 8.58% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.64% in Maine. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; Maine's are 7.15%, 1.17% and 5.5%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Maine?
Maine is safer: 93 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 227 in Pennsylvania, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Maine #1. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 939 in Maine. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Old Town, ME.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Maine?
Homes are 43% more expensive in Maine: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $415,552 in Maine. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $98,297 in Maine, against median incomes of $77,545 and $76,442.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Maine?
Pennsylvania and Maine pay about the same: median household income is $77,545 vs $76,442, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.4% in Maine. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Maine's in 0.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Maine or from Maine to Pennsylvania?
616 households moved from Pennsylvania to Maine and 470 moved from Maine to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 146 households for Maine. Movers to Maine reported an average income of $85,386; movers to Pennsylvania reported $62,464. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 834 people (±499) moving from Pennsylvania to Maine and 201 (±191) the other way, a net gain of about 633 people for Maine beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Maine?
Maine is the better fit for retirees: #9 of 50 on the retiree index vs #26 for Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income 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 +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$31,893 in Maine.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Maine?
Maine is the better fit for families: #14 of 50 on the families index vs #19 for Pennsylvania. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $16,144 in Maine. High school graduation rates are 87% and 86.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$20,270 in Maine.
Is Maine better than Pennsylvania?
Yes: Maine ranks higher than Pennsylvania overall, #9 of 50 vs #25, with a composite score of 71.6 to 56.9. Maine leads 7 of 11 categories and Pennsylvania leads 3, including education 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 Pennsylvania vs Maine.