Maine vs Rhode Island: Which Is Better to Live In?
Maine ranks #9 of 50 overall and Rhode Island #19 as of the latest release. Maine is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 102.3), carries a 0.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 35% lower violent crime rate. Maine scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
- Violent crime rate is 35% lower in Maine (93 vs. 144 in Rhode Island).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 30% lower in Maine ($98,297 vs. $139,686 in Rhode Island).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 15% lower in Maine ($16,144 vs. $18,972 in Rhode Island).
| Measure | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +9.6 pts | 71.6#9 of 50 · A | 62.0#19 of 50 · B | +9.6 pts | — | ME |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -5.2 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 97.1#26 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | -5.2 pts-5% | 100 | ME |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$13,875 · US -$11,758 | -$20,270#30 of 50 | -$34,145#42 of 50 | +$13,875 | -$11,758 | ME |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$95,681 (-19%) · US $368,697 | $415,552#33 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | -$95,681-19% | $368,697 | ME |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.56 pts · US 8.74% | 10.64%#46 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | +0.56 pts | 8.74% | RI |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -51 (-35%) · US 328 | 93#1 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | -51-35% | 328 | ME |
| Median household incomeGap -$7,062 (-8%) · US $80,903 | $76,442#30 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | -$7,062-8% | $80,903 | RI |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 86.1%#28 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | ME |
| Life expectancyGap -2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.6#31 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | -2.6 yrs | 76.9 | RI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,800 · US -33 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | +3,800 | -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 Maine or Rhode Island better to live in?
Maine scores higher overall: 71.6 to 62 out of 100, #9 of 50 against #19. Maine leads 8 of 11 categories, Rhode Island leads 1, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +9.7 | 15% | 51.1#18 · B+ | 41.4#35 · C | +9.7 pts | ME |
| Safety12% of scoregap +3.7 | 12% | 94.5#1 · A+ | 90.8#3 · A+ | +3.7 pts | ME |
| Health12% of scoregap -18.9 | 12% | 57.6#26 · B | 76.5#6 · A | -18.9 pts | RI |
| Education12% of scoregap -1.7 | 12% | 51.8#36 · C | 53.5#33 · C+ | -1.7 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +11.5 | 10% | 56.9#36 · C | 45.4#43 · D | +11.5 pts | ME |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +14 | 8% | 57.0#29 · C+ | 43.0#45 · D | +14 pts | ME |
| Growth7% of scoregap +21.3 | 7% | 49.2#14 · B+ | 27.9#38 · C | +21.3 pts | ME |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -1.8 | 7% | 51.1#26 · B | 52.9#19 · B | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +6.8 | 7% | 55.0#2 · A+ | 48.2#7 · A | +6.8 pts | ME |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +7.6 | 6% | 45.0#8 · A | 37.4#17 · B+ | +7.6 pts | ME |
| Environment4% of scoregap +23.7 | 4% | 77.1#1 · A+ | 53.4#10 · A | +23.7 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 Maine cheaper than Rhode Island?
Maine is cheaper: cost of living index 97.1 vs 102.3 in Rhode Island (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $13,875 more a year in Maine after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -5.2 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 97.1#26 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | -5.2 pts-5% | 100 | ME |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap 0 pts (0%) · US 100 | 97.2#29 of 50 | 97.2#30 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.68¢ (-6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 27.78¢/kWh#45 of 50 | 29.46¢/kWh#47 of 50 | -1.68¢-6% | 17.84¢/kWh | ME |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.71 (-13%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.95/Mcf#42 of 50 | $21.66/Mcf#46 of 50 | -$2.71-13% | $15.83/Mcf | ME |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.35/gal#40 of 50 | $3.34/gal#38 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,828 (-15%) · US $15,633 | $16,144#29 of 50 | $18,972#38 of 50 | -$2,828-15% | $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 | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,800 | +$27,266costs $47,734 | +$23,466costs $51,534 | +$3,800 | ME |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$6,303 | +$18,362costs $56,638 | +$12,059costs $62,941 | +$6,303 | ME |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$13,875 | -$20,270costs $95,271 | -$34,145costs $109,145 | +$13,875 | ME |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$5,480 | +$31,893costs $43,107 | +$26,413costs $48,588 | +$5,480 | 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 | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$8,050 | $30,077 | $38,127 | -$8,050 | ME |
| ChildcareGap -$5,656 | $32,288 | $37,944 | -$5,656 | ME |
| UtilitiesGap -$249 | $4,661 | $4,910 | -$249 | Even |
| GroceriesGap $0 | $10,948 | $10,948 | $0 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$32 | $10,529 | $10,497 | +$32 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$49 | $6,768 | $6,719 | +$49 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Maine or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 10.08% vs 10.64%. Maine has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Rhode Island has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.56 pts · US 8.74% | 10.64%#46 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | +0.56 pts | 8.74% | RI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.16 pts · US 5.46% | 7.15%#39 of 50 | 5.99%#32 of 50 | +1.16 pts | 5.46% | RI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.22 pts · US 1.02% | 1.17%#35 of 50 | 1.39%#38 of 50 | -0.22 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.5 pts · US 6.66% | 5.5%#7 of 50 | 7%#25 of 50 | -1.5 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 Maine or Rhode Island?
Homes cost 23% more in Rhode Island: a typical home value of $415,552 in Maine vs $511,233 in Rhode Island. Buying the typical home takes about $98,297 of income in Maine and $139,686 in Rhode Island; the median household earns $76,442 and $83,504.
| Measure | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$95,681 (-19%) · US $368,697 | $415,552#33 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | -$95,681-19% | $368,697 | ME |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.8 pts · US +1.2% | +1.6%#31 of 50 | +3.4%#13 of 50 | -1.8 pts | +1.2% | RI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$175 (+8%) · US $1,948 | $2,342#43 of 50 | $2,167#38 of 50 | +$175+8% | $1,948 | RI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$41,389 (-30%) · US $100,006 | $98,297#28 of 50 | $139,686#44 of 50 | -$41,389-30% | $100,006 | ME |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-11%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#37 of 50 | 6.1x#45 of 50 | -0.7x-11% | 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.
| ME | RI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,138 | $2,630 |
| Income needed vs. median | +29% | +67% |
| Five-year change | +27.5% | +33.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Portland | Providence |
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 Maine or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island pays more: median household income $83,504 vs $76,442, with unemployment at 3.4% in Maine and 4.5% in Rhode Island. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maine's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Rhode Island's in 19.
| Measure | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$7,062 (-8%) · US $80,903 | $76,442#30 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | -$7,062-8% | $80,903 | RI |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#11 of 50 | 4.5%#38 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 3.95% | ME |
| GDP per capitaGap -$7,737 (-12%) · US $64,333 | $54,630#41 of 50 | $62,367#24 of 50 | -$7,737-12% | $64,333 | RI |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.7%#31 of 50 | +1.9%#26 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.09 pts · US +0.51% | +0.46%#25 of 50 | +0.37%#31 of 50 | +0.09 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 | ME | RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $210,939$204,611 in Portland | $230,643$232,949 in Providence | RI |
| Lawyers | $132,928$128,940 in Portland | $150,708$152,215 in Providence | RI |
| Electricians | $55,502$53,837 in Portland | $64,685$65,332 in Providence | RI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,324$59,484 in Portland | $69,039$69,729 in Providence | RI |
| Secondary School Teachers | $60,723$58,901 in Portland | $67,652$68,329 in Providence | RI |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $65,100$63,147 in Portland | $71,962$72,682 in Providence | RI |
| Civil Engineers | $92,197$89,431 in Portland | $99,044$100,034 in Providence | RI |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $52,692$51,111 in Portland | $59,125$59,716 in Providence | RI |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $96,400$93,508 in Portland | $102,402$103,426 in Providence | RI |
| Software Developers | $127,747$123,915 in Portland | $133,650$134,986 in Providence | RI |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $68,073$66,031 in Portland | $73,593$74,329 in Providence | RI |
| Construction Laborers | $41,603$40,355 in Portland | $45,732$46,189 in Providence | RI |
| Accountants & Auditors | $77,925$75,587 in Portland | $81,887$82,706 in Providence | RI |
| General & Operations Managers | $95,859$92,983 in Portland | $99,493$100,488 in Providence | RI |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $52,468$50,894 in Portland | $56,064$56,625 in Providence | RI |
| Mental Health Counselors | $52,984$51,394 in Portland | $56,037$56,597 in Providence | RI |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $54,655$53,015 in Portland | $57,200$57,772 in Providence | RI |
| Registered Nurses | $82,563$80,086 in Portland | $84,974$85,824 in Providence | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,778$31,795 in Portland | $34,961$35,311 in Providence | RI |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $44,434$43,101 in Portland | $46,438$46,902 in Providence | RI |
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 Maine safer than Rhode Island?
Maine is safer: 93 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 144 in Rhode Island (FBI). Property crime runs 939 and 911 per 100,000.
| Measure | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -51 (-35%) · US 328 | 93#1 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | -51-35% | 328 | ME |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +29 (+3%) · US 1,535 | 939#4 of 50 | 911#3 of 50 | +29+3% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- Old Town, ME0 violent per 100K
- Westerly, RI26 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Maine or Rhode Island?
Maine and Rhode Island are close on education (#36 and #33 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 86.1% and 83.3%. Rhode Island scores higher for health (#6 vs #26); life expectancy is 76.6 years in Maine and 79.2 in Rhode Island.
| Measure | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 273#26 of 50 | 270#32 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 255#34 of 50 | 258#23 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 86.1%#28 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | ME |
| Life expectancyGap -2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.6#31 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | -2.6 yrs | 76.9 | RI |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.1 pts · US 34.03% | 33.2%#20 of 50 | 31.1%#12 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 34.03% | RI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.5%#12 of 50 | 4.6%#5 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 7.6% | RI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 34#8 of 50 | 35#12 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 38.8 | Even |
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).
- Saco, MEeducation score 92
- Westerly, RIeducation score 87
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: Maine #36, Rhode Island #33. Health: Maine #26, Rhode Island #6.
Are more people moving from Maine to Rhode Island, or from Rhode Island to Maine?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 90 people (±108) moving from Maine to Rhode Island and 837 (±675) the other way, a net gain of about 747 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 | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +2,298 (+13%) | 20,295#44 of 50 | 17,997#45 of 50 | +2,298+13% | ME |
| Households moving outIRSGap -1,502 (-8%) | 16,624#6 of 50 | 18,126#8 of 50 | -1,502-8% | ME |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,800 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | +3,800 | ME |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.7 | +2.6#8 of 50 | -0.1#29 of 50 | +2.7 | ME |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,851 (+3%) | $85,446#13 of 50 | $82,595#15 of 50 | +$2,851+3% | ME |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$5,831 (-7%) | $74,103#26 of 50 | $79,934#16 of 50 | -$5,831-7% | RI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.6 | +5.2#7 of 50 | -1.4#39 of 50 | +6.6 | 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, Maine or Rhode Island?
Maine is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -2 places | #14score 78.6 | #16score 73.6 | -2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -5 places | #9score 77.5 | #14score 68.6 | -5 places | ME |
| Remote WorkersGap -24 places | #6score 71.9 | #30score 49.3 | -24 places | ME |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -21 places | #9score 66.4 | #30score 51.4 | -21 places | ME |
| Small BusinessGap -24 places | #16score 63.8 | #40score 43.3 | -24 places | ME |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -5 places | #5score 75.7 | #10score 62.8 | -5 places | ME |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#14 vs #16)
- RetireesMaine (#9 vs #14)
- Remote WorkersMaine (#6 vs #30)
- Young ProfessionalsMaine (#9 vs #30)
- Small BusinessMaine (#16 vs #40)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMaine (#5 vs #10)
Which cities stand out in Maine and Rhode Island?
Maine has 20 tracked cities and Rhode Island has 20; the largest are Portland and Providence. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Portland68,854 people | Providence191,767 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | South Portlandscore 69.1 | Westerlyscore 70.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Old Town0 violent per 100K | Westerly26 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Augustacost index 91.6 | Providencecost index 101.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Portlandwalkability 14.7 of 20 | Providencewalkability 15.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Presque Islecounty median AQI 32 | Warwickcounty median AQI 31 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Saco92% graduation rate | Westerly87% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Sacomedian income $92,241 | Cumberland Hillmedian income $130,506 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Old Town+1% growth | Warwick+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Maine and Rhode Island compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Maine carries AA credit rating and Rhode Island AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +66 pts · US 29.34% | 78%#3 of 50 | 12%#34 of 50 | +66 pts | 29.34% | ME |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +10.3 (+429%) · US 29.6 | 12.7#8 of 50 | 2.4#2 of 50 | +10.3+429% | 29.6 | RI |
| Public land shareGap +1.4 pts · US 17.16% | 5.8%#31 of 50 | 4.4%#37 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 17.16% | ME |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 25.6 min#23 of 50 | 26.3 min#29 of 50 | -0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.5 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#35 of 50 | 2.1%#15 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 2.29% | RI |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.1 pts · US 12.28% | 14.7%#14 of 50 | 11.6%#31 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.28% | ME |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.4%#31 of 50 | 93.4%#17 of 50 | -1 pts | 92.67% | RI |
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 | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#29 of 50 | 90#31 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +9.1 pts · US 12.39% | 14.6%#10 of 50 | 5.5%#44 of 50 | +9.1 pts | 12.39% | ME |
| Pension funded ratioGap +21 pts · US 74.3% | 79%#17 of 50 | 58%#46 of 50 | +21 pts | 74.3% | ME |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,370 (-45%) · US $3,506 | $2,870#26 of 50 | $5,240#44 of 50 | -$2,370-45% | $3,506 | ME |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +5.4%#20 of 50 | +3.1%#38 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +4.66% | ME |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Maine AA, Rhode Island 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).
Maine vs Rhode Island: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Maine is ahead on 25 of 51, Rhode Island on 13, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MaineME | Rhode IslandRI | GapME−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +300,353 (+27%) · US 6.8 million | 1.4 million#42 of 50 | 1.1 million#44 of 50 | +300,353+27% | 6.8 million | ME |
| Median household incomeGap -$7,062 (-8%) · US $80,903 | $76,442#30 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | -$7,062-8% | $80,903 | RI |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#11 of 50 | 4.5%#38 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 3.95% | ME |
| Population growthGap +0.09 pts · US +0.51% | +0.46%#25 of 50 | +0.37%#31 of 50 | +0.09 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$7,737 (-12%) · US $64,333 | $54,630#41 of 50 | $62,367#24 of 50 | -$7,737-12% | $64,333 | RI |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.7%#31 of 50 | +1.9%#26 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -51 (-35%) · US 328 | 93#1 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | -51-35% | 328 | ME |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +29 (+3%) · US 1,535 | 939#4 of 50 | 911#3 of 50 | +29+3% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 86.1%#28 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | ME |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 233#42 of 50 | 237#28 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 273#26 of 50 | 270#32 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 214 | 210#42 of 50 | 216#13 of 50 | -7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 255#34 of 50 | 258#23 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.6#31 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | -2.6 yrs | 76.9 | RI |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.1 pts · US 34.03% | 33.2%#20 of 50 | 31.1%#12 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 34.03% | RI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.5%#12 of 50 | 4.6%#5 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 7.6% | RI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$95,681 (-19%) · US $368,697 | $415,552#33 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | -$95,681-19% | $368,697 | ME |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.8 pts · US +1.2% | +1.6%#31 of 50 | +3.4%#13 of 50 | -1.8 pts | +1.2% | RI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$175 (+8%) · US $1,948 | $2,342#43 of 50 | $2,167#38 of 50 | +$175+8% | $1,948 | RI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$41,389 (-30%) · US $100,006 | $98,297#28 of 50 | $139,686#44 of 50 | -$41,389-30% | $100,006 | ME |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -5.2 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 97.1#26 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | -5.2 pts-5% | 100 | ME |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-11%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#37 of 50 | 6.1x#45 of 50 | -0.7x-11% | 4.6x | ME |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.68¢ (-6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 27.78¢/kWh#45 of 50 | 29.46¢/kWh#47 of 50 | -1.68¢-6% | 17.84¢/kWh | ME |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.71 (-13%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.95/Mcf#42 of 50 | $21.66/Mcf#46 of 50 | -$2.71-13% | $15.83/Mcf | ME |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.35/gal#40 of 50 | $3.34/gal#38 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap 0 pts (0%) · US 100 | 97.2#29 of 50 | 97.2#30 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,828 (-15%) · US $15,633 | $16,144#29 of 50 | $18,972#38 of 50 | -$2,828-15% | $15,633 | ME |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.56 pts · US 8.74% | 10.64%#46 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | +0.56 pts | 8.74% | RI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.16 pts · US 5.46% | 7.15%#39 of 50 | 5.99%#32 of 50 | +1.16 pts | 5.46% | RI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.22 pts · US 1.02% | 1.17%#35 of 50 | 1.39%#38 of 50 | -0.22 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.5 pts · US 6.66% | 5.5%#7 of 50 | 7%#25 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 6.66% | ME |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#29 of 50 | 90#31 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +9.1 pts · US 12.39% | 14.6%#10 of 50 | 5.5%#44 of 50 | +9.1 pts | 12.39% | ME |
| Pension funded ratioGap +21 pts · US 74.3% | 79%#17 of 50 | 58%#46 of 50 | +21 pts | 74.3% | ME |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,370 (-45%) · US $3,506 | $2,870#26 of 50 | $5,240#44 of 50 | -$2,370-45% | $3,506 | ME |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +5.4%#20 of 50 | +3.1%#38 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +4.66% | ME |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 34#8 of 50 | 35#12 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +66 pts · US 29.34% | 78%#3 of 50 | 12%#34 of 50 | +66 pts | 29.34% | ME |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +10.3 (+429%) · US 29.6 | 12.7#8 of 50 | 2.4#2 of 50 | +10.3+429% | 29.6 | RI |
| Public land shareGap +1.4 pts · US 17.16% | 5.8%#31 of 50 | 4.4%#37 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 17.16% | ME |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 25.6 min#23 of 50 | 26.3 min#29 of 50 | -0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.5 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#35 of 50 | 2.1%#15 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 2.29% | RI |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.1 pts · US 12.28% | 14.7%#14 of 50 | 11.6%#31 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.28% | ME |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.4%#31 of 50 | 93.4%#17 of 50 | -1 pts | 92.67% | RI |
| Households moving inIRSGap +2,298 (+13%) · US 78,682 | 20,295#44 of 50 | 17,997#45 of 50 | +2,298+13% | 78,682 | ME |
| Households moving outIRSGap -1,502 (-8%) · US 78,715 | 16,624#6 of 50 | 18,126#8 of 50 | -1,502-8% | 78,715 | ME |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,800 · US -33 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | +3,800 | -33 | ME |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.7 · US +0.4 | +2.6#8 of 50 | -0.1#29 of 50 | +2.7 | +0.4 | ME |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,851 (+3%) · US $77,690 | $85,446#13 of 50 | $82,595#15 of 50 | +$2,851+3% | $77,690 | ME |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$5,831 (-7%) · US $77,024 | $74,103#26 of 50 | $79,934#16 of 50 | -$5,831-7% | $77,024 | RI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.6 · US +1.1 | +5.2#7 of 50 | -1.4#39 of 50 | +6.6 | +1.1 | ME |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$13,875 · US -$11,758 | -$20,270#30 of 50 | -$34,145#42 of 50 | +$13,875 | -$11,758 | ME |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,800 · US +$31,418 | +$27,266#35 of 50 | +$23,466#43 of 50 | +$3,800 | +$31,418 | ME |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$5,480 · US +$35,970 | +$31,893#33 of 50 | +$26,413#42 of 50 | +$5,480 | +$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 Maine and Rhode Island numbers say when read together.
Maine ranks higher overall
Maine leads 8 of the 11 categories to Rhode Island's 1, with 2 even; Rhode Island is ahead on health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Maine is ahead on 25 and Rhode Island on 13.
Maine is cheaper day to day
Maine's cost of living index is 97.1 against 102.3 in Rhode Island (US = 100). The typical home costs $415,552 in Maine and $511,233 in Rhode Island. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$20,270 a year after typical costs in Maine and -$34,145 in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island takes a smaller share in taxes
Maine collects 10.64% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Rhode Island collects 10.08% (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Rhode Island pays more
Median household income is $76,442 in Maine and $83,504 in Rhode Island, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 93 per 100,000 residents in Maine and 144 in Rhode Island.
People move to Maine on net
837 people moved to Maine from Rhode Island in the latest Census release, against 90 going the other way.
Maine is the better fit for retirees
For families, Maine ranks #14 of 50 and Rhode Island #16; for retirees, Maine ranks #9 and Rhode Island #14.
Maine vs Rhode Island: frequently asked questions
Is Maine or Rhode Island better to live in?
Maine ranks #9 of 50 overall and Rhode Island #19 as of the latest release. Maine is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 102.3), carries a 0.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 35% lower violent crime rate. Maine scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Maine cheaper than Rhode Island?
Maine is cheaper than Rhode Island: cost of living index 97.1 vs 102.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$20,270 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Maine, and -$34,145 in Rhode Island. The typical home value is $415,552 in Maine and $511,233 in Rhode Island.
Which has lower taxes, Maine or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island has the lower tax burden: 10.08% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.64% in Maine. Maine's top income tax rate is 7.15%, its effective property tax rate 1.17% and its combined sales tax 5.5%; Rhode Island's are 5.99%, 1.39% and 7%.
Is Maine safer than Rhode Island?
Maine is safer: 93 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 144 in Rhode Island, per the FBI. Maine ranks #1 of 50 for violent crime and Rhode Island #4. Property crime is 939 per 100,000 in Maine and 911 in Rhode Island. The safest tracked cities are Old Town, ME, and Westerly, RI.
Are homes more expensive in Maine or Rhode Island?
Homes are 23% more expensive in Rhode Island: the typical home value is $415,552 in Maine and $511,233 in Rhode Island. Buying the typical home takes about $98,297 of household income in Maine and $139,686 in Rhode Island, against median incomes of $76,442 and $83,504.
Do people earn more in Maine or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island pays more: median household income is $83,504 vs $76,442 in Maine, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Maine and 4.5% in Rhode Island. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maine's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Rhode Island's in 19, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Maine to Rhode Island or from Rhode Island to Maine?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 90 people (±108) moving from Maine to Rhode Island and 837 (±675) the other way, a net gain of about 747 people for Maine beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Maine or Rhode Island?
Maine is the better fit for retirees: #9 of 50 on the retiree index vs #14 for Rhode Island. Maine has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Rhode Island has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$31,893 left after typical costs in Maine and +$26,413 in Rhode Island.
Which is better for families, Maine or Rhode Island?
Maine and Rhode Island are close for families: #14 and #16 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $16,144 a year in Maine and $18,972 in Rhode Island. High school graduation rates are 86.1% and 83.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$20,270 after typical costs in Maine and -$34,145 in Rhode Island.
Is Rhode Island better than Maine?
No: Maine ranks higher than Rhode Island overall, #9 of 50 vs #19, with a composite score of 71.6 to 62. Maine leads 8 of 11 categories and Rhode Island leads 1, including health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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