Maine vs Vermont: Which Is Better to Live In?
Maine ranks #9 of 50 overall and Vermont #8 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 98); Maine has a 0.9-point lower tax burden and has a 57% lower violent crime rate. Vermont scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 57% lower in Maine (93 vs. 214 in Vermont).
- Property crime rate is 34% lower in Maine (939 vs. 1,419 in Vermont).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 26% lower in Maine ($16,144 vs. $21,670 in Vermont).
| Measure | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -2.4 pts | 71.6#9 of 50 · A | 74.0#8 of 50 · A | -2.4 pts | — | VT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.9 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 97.1#26 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | -0.9 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$12,375 · US -$11,758 | -$20,270#30 of 50 | -$32,645#41 of 50 | +$12,375 | -$11,758 | ME |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$16,499 (+4%) · US $368,697 | $415,552#33 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | +$16,499+4% | $368,697 | VT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.89 pts · US 8.74% | 10.64%#46 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -0.89 pts | 8.74% | ME |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -121 (-57%) · US 328 | 93#1 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | -121-57% | 328 | ME |
| Median household incomeGap -$6,288 (-8%) · US $80,903 | $76,442#30 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | -$6,288-8% | $80,903 | VT |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.3 pts · US 85.62% | 86.1%#28 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 85.62% | ME |
| Life expectancyGap -1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.6#31 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | -1.7 yrs | 76.9 | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,970 · US -33 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | +3,970 | -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 Vermont better to live in?
Vermont scores higher overall: 74 to 71.6 out of 100, #8 of 50 against #9. Maine leads 4 of 11 categories, Vermont leads 4, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MaineME | VermontVT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -15.4 | 15% | 51.1#18 · B+ | 66.5#4 · A+ | -15.4 pts | VT |
| Safety12% of scoregap +16.8 | 12% | 94.5#1 · A+ | 77.7#17 · B+ | +16.8 pts | ME |
| Health12% of scoregap -17.5 | 12% | 57.6#26 · B | 75.1#8 · A | -17.5 pts | VT |
| Education12% of scoregap -0.6 | 12% | 51.8#36 · C | 52.4#35 · C | -0.6 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +1.2 | 10% | 56.9#36 · C | 55.7#37 · C | +1.2 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +5.9 | 8% | 57.0#29 · C+ | 51.1#38 · C | +5.9 pts | ME |
| Growth7% of scoregap +19.3 | 7% | 49.2#14 · B+ | 29.9#36 · C | +19.3 pts | ME |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -8.1 | 7% | 51.1#26 · B | 59.2#6 · A | -8.1 pts | VT |
| Livability7% of scoregap +6.5 | 7% | 55.0#2 · A+ | 48.5#6 · A | +6.5 pts | ME |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -10.6 | 6% | 45.0#8 · A | 55.6#4 · A+ | -10.6 pts | VT |
| Environment4% of scoregap +0.8 | 4% | 77.1#1 · A+ | 76.3#2 · A+ | +0.8 pts | Even |
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 Vermont?
Maine and Vermont cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 97.1 vs 98 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $12,375 more a year in Maine after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.9 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 97.1#26 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | -0.9 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 97.2#29 of 50 | 97.3#31 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.86¢ (+21%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 27.78¢/kWh#45 of 50 | 22.92¢/kWh#41 of 50 | +4.86¢+21% | 17.84¢/kWh | VT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.95 (+5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.95/Mcf#42 of 50 | $18.00/Mcf#39 of 50 | +$0.95+5% | $15.83/Mcf | VT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.35/gal#40 of 50 | $3.36/gal#41 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$5,526 (-26%) · US $15,633 | $16,144#29 of 50 | $21,670#44 of 50 | -$5,526-26% | $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 | VermontVT | GapME−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$50 | +$27,266costs $47,734 | +$27,316costs $47,684 | -$50 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$777 | +$18,362costs $56,638 | +$17,585costs $57,415 | +$777 | ME |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$12,375 | -$20,270costs $95,271 | -$32,645costs $107,645 | +$12,375 | ME |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$636 | +$31,893costs $43,107 | +$31,257costs $43,743 | +$636 | Even |
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 | VermontVT | GapME−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$1,240 | $30,077 | $31,317 | -$1,240 | ME |
| ChildcareGap -$11,052 | $32,288 | $43,340 | -$11,052 | ME |
| UtilitiesGap -$43 | $4,661 | $4,704 | -$43 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$11 | $10,948 | $10,959 | -$11 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$31 | $10,529 | $10,560 | -$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$3 | $6,768 | $6,765 | +$3 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Maine or Vermont?
Maine collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 10.64% vs 11.53%. Maine has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Vermont has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.89 pts · US 8.74% | 10.64%#46 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -0.89 pts | 8.74% | ME |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.6 pts · US 5.46% | 7.15%#39 of 50 | 8.75%#42 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 5.46% | ME |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.61 pts · US 1.02% | 1.17%#35 of 50 | 1.78%#46 of 50 | -0.61 pts | 1.02% | ME |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.89 pts · US 6.66% | 5.5%#7 of 50 | 6.39%#19 of 50 | -0.89 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 Vermont?
Homes cost 4% more in Maine: a typical home value of $415,552 in Maine vs $399,053 in Vermont. Buying the typical home takes about $98,297 of income in Maine and $114,846 in Vermont; the median household earns $76,442 and $82,730.
| Measure | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$16,499 (+4%) · US $368,697 | $415,552#33 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | +$16,499+4% | $368,697 | VT |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +1.6%#31 of 50 | +1%#36 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.2% | ME |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$27 (+1%) · US $1,948 | $2,342#43 of 50 | $2,315#42 of 50 | +$27+1% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$16,549 (-14%) · US $100,006 | $98,297#28 of 50 | $114,846#35 of 50 | -$16,549-14% | $100,006 | ME |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+13%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#37 of 50 | 4.8x#32 of 50 | +0.6x+13% | 4.6x | VT |
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 | VT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,138 | $2,053 |
| Income needed vs. median | +29% | +39% |
| Five-year change | +27.5% | +18.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Portland | Burlington |
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 Vermont?
Vermont pays more: median household income $82,730 vs $76,442, with unemployment at 3.4% in Maine and 2.7% in Vermont. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maine's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Vermont's in 11.
| Measure | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$6,288 (-8%) · US $80,903 | $76,442#30 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | -$6,288-8% | $80,903 | VT |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#11 of 50 | 2.7%#4 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 3.95% | VT |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,527 (-3%) · US $64,333 | $54,630#41 of 50 | $56,157#38 of 50 | -$1,527-3% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.7%#31 of 50 | +1.5%#35 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.75 pts · US +0.51% | +0.46%#25 of 50 | -0.29%#50 of 50 | +0.75 pts | +0.51% | ME |
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 | VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $132,928$128,940 in Portland | $149,081$144,609 in Burlington | VT |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $210,939$204,611 in Portland | $222,619$215,940 in Burlington | VT |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $96,400$93,508 in Portland | $104,421$101,288 in Burlington | VT |
| Electricians | $55,502$53,837 in Portland | $60,122$58,318 in Burlington | VT |
| Registered Nurses | $82,563$80,086 in Portland | $86,787$84,183 in Burlington | VT |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $52,692$51,111 in Portland | $56,852$55,146 in Burlington | VT |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,324$59,484 in Portland | $65,330$63,370 in Burlington | VT |
| Accountants & Auditors | $77,925$75,587 in Portland | $74,581$72,344 in Burlington | ME |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $44,434$43,101 in Portland | $47,763$46,330 in Burlington | VT |
| Software Developers | $127,747$123,915 in Portland | $124,500$120,765 in Burlington | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $65,100$63,147 in Portland | $68,154$66,109 in Burlington | VT |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $68,073$66,031 in Portland | $71,124$68,990 in Burlington | VT |
| Civil Engineers | $92,197$89,431 in Portland | $94,861$92,015 in Burlington | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $95,859$92,983 in Portland | $98,267$95,319 in Burlington | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $41,603$40,355 in Portland | $43,605$42,297 in Burlington | VT |
| Secondary School Teachers | $60,723$58,901 in Portland | $62,471$60,597 in Burlington | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $52,984$51,394 in Portland | $51,323$49,783 in Burlington | ME |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,778$31,795 in Portland | $31,977$31,018 in Burlington | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $52,468$50,894 in Portland | $52,637$51,058 in Burlington | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $54,655$53,015 in Portland | $54,488$52,853 in Burlington | 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 Maine safer than Vermont?
Maine is safer: 93 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 214 in Vermont (FBI). Property crime runs 939 and 1,419 per 100,000.
| Measure | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -121 (-57%) · US 328 | 93#1 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | -121-57% | 328 | ME |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -480 (-34%) · US 1,535 | 939#4 of 50 | 1,419#24 of 50 | -480-34% | 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.
- Old Town, ME0 violent per 100K
- Middlebury, VT54 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Maine or Vermont?
Maine and Vermont are close on education (#36 and #35 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 86.1% and 82.8%. Vermont scores higher for health (#8 vs #26); life expectancy is 76.6 years in Maine and 78.3 in Vermont.
| Measure | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 273#26 of 50 | 276#21 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 255#34 of 50 | 257#25 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.3 pts · US 85.62% | 86.1%#28 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 85.62% | ME |
| Life expectancyGap -1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.6#31 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | -1.7 yrs | 76.9 | VT |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.2 pts · US 34.03% | 33.2%#20 of 50 | 29%#5 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 34.03% | VT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.5%#12 of 50 | 4.2%#3 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 7.6% | VT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 34#8 of 50 | 34#7 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 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
- No city school data
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, Vermont #35. Health: Maine #26, Vermont #8.
Are more people moving from Maine to Vermont, or from Vermont to Maine?
357 households moved from Maine to Vermont and 503 moved from Vermont to Maine in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 146 households for Maine. Movers to Vermont reported an average income of $60,866; movers to Maine reported $67,119. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 726 people (±476) moving from Maine to Vermont and 466 (±380) 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 | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +9,018 (+80%) | 20,295#44 of 50 | 11,277#50 of 50 | +9,018+80% | ME |
| Households moving outIRSGap +5,048 (+44%) | 16,624#6 of 50 | 11,576#1 of 50 | +5,048+44% | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,970 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | +3,970 | ME |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.1 | +2.6#8 of 50 | -0.5#32 of 50 | +3.1 | ME |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$3,347 (+4%) | $85,446#13 of 50 | $82,099#18 of 50 | +$3,347+4% | ME |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,167 (+3%) | $74,103#26 of 50 | $71,936#28 of 50 | +$2,167+3% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.3 | +5.2#7 of 50 | -1.1#37 of 50 | +6.3 | 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 Vermont?
Maine is the better fit for small business; Vermont is the better fit for retirees; 4 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 | VermontVT | GapME−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +1 places | #14score 78.6 | #13score 78.7 | +1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +4 places | #9score 77.5 | #5score 78.9 | +4 places | VT |
| Remote WorkersGap -1 places | #6score 71.9 | #7score 70.3 | -1 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -1 places | #9score 66.4 | #10score 65.8 | -1 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -6 places | #16score 63.8 | #22score 59.3 | -6 places | ME |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +2 places | #5score 75.7 | #3score 81.1 | +2 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#14 vs #13)
- RetireesVermont (#5 vs #9)
- Remote WorkersEven (#6 vs #7)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#9 vs #10)
- Small BusinessMaine (#16 vs #22)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#5 vs #3)
Which cities stand out in Maine and Vermont?
Maine has 20 tracked cities and Vermont has 20; the largest are Portland and Burlington. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MaineME | VermontVT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Portland68,854 people | Burlington44,675 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | South Portlandscore 69.1 | Middleburyscore 76.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Old Town0 violent per 100K | Middlebury54 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Augustacost index 91.6 | Rutlandcost index 96.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Portlandwalkability 14.7 of 20 | Benningtonwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Presque Islecounty median AQI 32 | Brattleborocounty median AQI 15 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Saco92% graduation rate | — |
| Richest citymedian household income | Sacomedian income $92,241 | Shelburnemedian income $109,583 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Old Town+1% growth | Essex Junction+2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Maine and Vermont compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Maine carries AA credit rating and Vermont AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -21 pts · US 29.34% | 78%#3 of 50 | 99%#1 of 50 | -21 pts | 29.34% | VT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.7 (-23%) · US 29.6 | 12.7#8 of 50 | 16.4#13 of 50 | -3.7-23% | 29.6 | ME |
| Public land shareGap -12.1 pts · US 17.16% | 5.8%#31 of 50 | 17.9%#14 of 50 | -12.1 pts | 17.16% | VT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 25.6 min#23 of 50 | 23.9 min#17 of 50 | +1.7 min | 25.2 min | VT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#35 of 50 | 1.4%#19 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 2.29% | VT |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.3 pts · US 12.28% | 14.7%#14 of 50 | 16%#6 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 12.28% | VT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.4%#31 of 50 | 92.7%#28 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 | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#29 of 50 | 95#21 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | VT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.1 pts · US 12.39% | 14.6%#10 of 50 | 13.5%#12 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 12.39% | ME |
| Pension funded ratioGap +11 pts · US 74.3% | 79%#17 of 50 | 68%#34 of 50 | +11 pts | 74.3% | ME |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,510 (-34%) · US $3,506 | $2,870#26 of 50 | $4,380#41 of 50 | -$1,510-34% | $3,506 | ME |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.2 pts · US +4.66% | +5.4%#20 of 50 | +4.2%#30 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +4.66% | ME |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Maine AA, Vermont 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 Vermont: 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 21 of 51, Vermont on 15, and 15 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MaineME | VermontVT | GapME−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +770,211 (+119%) · US 6.8 million | 1.4 million#42 of 50 | 644,663#49 of 50 | +770,211+119% | 6.8 million | ME |
| Median household incomeGap -$6,288 (-8%) · US $80,903 | $76,442#30 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | -$6,288-8% | $80,903 | VT |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#11 of 50 | 2.7%#4 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 3.95% | VT |
| Population growthGap +0.75 pts · US +0.51% | +0.46%#25 of 50 | -0.29%#50 of 50 | +0.75 pts | +0.51% | ME |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,527 (-3%) · US $64,333 | $54,630#41 of 50 | $56,157#38 of 50 | -$1,527-3% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.7%#31 of 50 | +1.5%#35 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -121 (-57%) · US 328 | 93#1 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | -121-57% | 328 | ME |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -480 (-34%) · US 1,535 | 939#4 of 50 | 1,419#24 of 50 | -480-34% | 1,535 | ME |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.3 pts · US 85.62% | 86.1%#28 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 85.62% | ME |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 233#42 of 50 | 235#36 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 273#26 of 50 | 276#21 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 210#42 of 50 | 213#36 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 255#34 of 50 | 257#25 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.6#31 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | -1.7 yrs | 76.9 | VT |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.2 pts · US 34.03% | 33.2%#20 of 50 | 29%#5 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 34.03% | VT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.5%#12 of 50 | 4.2%#3 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 7.6% | VT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$16,499 (+4%) · US $368,697 | $415,552#33 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | +$16,499+4% | $368,697 | VT |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +1.6%#31 of 50 | +1%#36 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.2% | ME |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$27 (+1%) · US $1,948 | $2,342#43 of 50 | $2,315#42 of 50 | +$27+1% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$16,549 (-14%) · US $100,006 | $98,297#28 of 50 | $114,846#35 of 50 | -$16,549-14% | $100,006 | ME |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.9 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 97.1#26 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | -0.9 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+13%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#37 of 50 | 4.8x#32 of 50 | +0.6x+13% | 4.6x | VT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.86¢ (+21%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 27.78¢/kWh#45 of 50 | 22.92¢/kWh#41 of 50 | +4.86¢+21% | 17.84¢/kWh | VT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.95 (+5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.95/Mcf#42 of 50 | $18.00/Mcf#39 of 50 | +$0.95+5% | $15.83/Mcf | VT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.35/gal#40 of 50 | $3.36/gal#41 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 97.2#29 of 50 | 97.3#31 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$5,526 (-26%) · US $15,633 | $16,144#29 of 50 | $21,670#44 of 50 | -$5,526-26% | $15,633 | ME |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.89 pts · US 8.74% | 10.64%#46 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -0.89 pts | 8.74% | ME |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.6 pts · US 5.46% | 7.15%#39 of 50 | 8.75%#42 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 5.46% | ME |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.61 pts · US 1.02% | 1.17%#35 of 50 | 1.78%#46 of 50 | -0.61 pts | 1.02% | ME |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.89 pts · US 6.66% | 5.5%#7 of 50 | 6.39%#19 of 50 | -0.89 pts | 6.66% | ME |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#29 of 50 | 95#21 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | VT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.1 pts · US 12.39% | 14.6%#10 of 50 | 13.5%#12 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 12.39% | ME |
| Pension funded ratioGap +11 pts · US 74.3% | 79%#17 of 50 | 68%#34 of 50 | +11 pts | 74.3% | ME |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,510 (-34%) · US $3,506 | $2,870#26 of 50 | $4,380#41 of 50 | -$1,510-34% | $3,506 | ME |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.2 pts · US +4.66% | +5.4%#20 of 50 | +4.2%#30 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +4.66% | ME |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 34#8 of 50 | 34#7 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -21 pts · US 29.34% | 78%#3 of 50 | 99%#1 of 50 | -21 pts | 29.34% | VT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.7 (-23%) · US 29.6 | 12.7#8 of 50 | 16.4#13 of 50 | -3.7-23% | 29.6 | ME |
| Public land shareGap -12.1 pts · US 17.16% | 5.8%#31 of 50 | 17.9%#14 of 50 | -12.1 pts | 17.16% | VT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 25.6 min#23 of 50 | 23.9 min#17 of 50 | +1.7 min | 25.2 min | VT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#35 of 50 | 1.4%#19 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 2.29% | VT |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.3 pts · US 12.28% | 14.7%#14 of 50 | 16%#6 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 12.28% | VT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.4%#31 of 50 | 92.7%#28 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +9,018 (+80%) · US 78,682 | 20,295#44 of 50 | 11,277#50 of 50 | +9,018+80% | 78,682 | ME |
| Households moving outIRSGap +5,048 (+44%) · US 78,715 | 16,624#6 of 50 | 11,576#1 of 50 | +5,048+44% | 78,715 | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,970 · US -33 | +3,671#16 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | +3,970 | -33 | ME |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.1 · US +0.4 | +2.6#8 of 50 | -0.5#32 of 50 | +3.1 | +0.4 | ME |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$3,347 (+4%) · US $77,690 | $85,446#13 of 50 | $82,099#18 of 50 | +$3,347+4% | $77,690 | ME |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,167 (+3%) · US $77,024 | $74,103#26 of 50 | $71,936#28 of 50 | +$2,167+3% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.3 · US +1.1 | +5.2#7 of 50 | -1.1#37 of 50 | +6.3 | +1.1 | ME |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$12,375 · US -$11,758 | -$20,270#30 of 50 | -$32,645#41 of 50 | +$12,375 | -$11,758 | ME |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$50 · US +$31,418 | +$27,266#35 of 50 | +$27,316#34 of 50 | -$50 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$636 · US +$35,970 | +$31,893#33 of 50 | +$31,257#35 of 50 | +$636 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Vermont numbers say when read together.
Vermont ranks higher overall
Vermont leads 4 of the 11 categories to Maine's 4, with 3 even; Maine is ahead on growth and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Maine is ahead on 21 and Vermont on 15.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 97.1 in Maine and 98 in Vermont, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $415,552 and $399,053. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$20,270 a year after typical costs in Maine and -$32,645 in Vermont.
Maine 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); Vermont collects 11.53% (high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
Vermont pays more
Median household income is $76,442 in Maine and $82,730 in Vermont, with unemployment at 3.4% and 2.7%. Violent crime runs 93 per 100,000 residents in Maine and 214 in Vermont.
Moves between the two run about even
726 people moved from Maine to Vermont and 466 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Vermont is the better fit for retirees
For families, Maine ranks #14 of 50 and Vermont #13; for retirees, Maine ranks #9 and Vermont #5.
Maine vs Vermont: frequently asked questions
Is Maine or Vermont better to live in?
Maine ranks #9 of 50 overall and Vermont #8 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 98); Maine has a 0.9-point lower tax burden and has a 57% lower violent crime rate. Vermont scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Maine cheaper than Vermont?
Maine and Vermont cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 97.1 vs 98 (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 -$32,645 in Vermont. The typical home value is $415,552 in Maine and $399,053 in Vermont.
Which has lower taxes, Maine or Vermont?
Maine has the lower tax burden: 10.64% of income in state and local taxes vs 11.53% in Vermont. Maine's top income tax rate is 7.15%, its effective property tax rate 1.17% and its combined sales tax 5.5%; Vermont's are 8.75%, 1.78% and 6.39%.
Is Maine safer than Vermont?
Maine is safer: 93 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 214 in Vermont, per the FBI. Maine ranks #1 of 50 for violent crime and Vermont #10. Property crime is 939 per 100,000 in Maine and 1,419 in Vermont. The safest tracked cities are Old Town, ME, and Middlebury, VT.
Are homes more expensive in Maine or Vermont?
Homes are 4% more expensive in Maine: the typical home value is $415,552 in Maine and $399,053 in Vermont. Buying the typical home takes about $98,297 of household income in Maine and $114,846 in Vermont, against median incomes of $76,442 and $82,730.
Do people earn more in Maine or Vermont?
Vermont pays more: median household income is $82,730 vs $76,442 in Maine, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Maine and 2.7% in Vermont. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maine's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Vermont's in 11, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Maine to Vermont or from Vermont to Maine?
357 households moved from Maine to Vermont and 503 moved from Vermont to Maine in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 146 households for Maine. Movers to Vermont reported an average income of $60,866; movers to Maine reported $67,119. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 726 people (±476) moving from Maine to Vermont and 466 (±380) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Maine or Vermont?
Vermont is the better fit for retirees: #5 of 50 on the retiree index vs #9 for Maine. Maine has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Vermont has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$31,893 left after typical costs in Maine and +$31,257 in Vermont.
Which is better for families, Maine or Vermont?
Maine and Vermont are close for families: #14 and #13 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $16,144 a year in Maine and $21,670 in Vermont. High school graduation rates are 86.1% and 82.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$20,270 after typical costs in Maine and -$32,645 in Vermont.
Is Vermont better than Maine?
Yes: Vermont ranks higher than Maine overall, #8 of 50 vs #9, with a composite score of 74 to 71.6. Vermont leads 4 of 11 categories and Maine leads 4, including growth and safety. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
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