Maryland vs New Hampshire: Which Is Better to Live In?
Maryland ranks #31 of 50 overall and New Hampshire #1 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 105 vs 104.2); Maryland carries a 4.1-point higher tax burden and has a 67% higher violent crime rate. New Hampshire scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 0.
- Violent crime rate is 67% lower in New Hampshire (118 vs. 358 in Maryland).
- Property crime rate is 55% lower in New Hampshire (818 vs. 1,820 in Maryland).
- Total tax burden is 41% lower in New Hampshire (5.94% vs. 10.04% in Maryland).
| Measure | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -29.8 pts | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | 83.4#1 of 50 · A+ | -29.8 pts | — | NH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.8 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | +0.8 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$472 · US -$11,758 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | -$30,212#38 of 50 | -$472 | -$11,758 | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$87,998 (-17%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | -$87,998-17% | $368,697 | MD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.1 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +240 (+204%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | +240+204% | 328 | NH |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,123 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | +$3,123+3% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 85.62% | NH |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | NH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,796 · US -33 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -15,796 | -33 | NH |
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 Maryland or New Hampshire better to live in?
New Hampshire scores higher overall: 83.4 to 53.6 out of 100, #1 of 50 against #31. Maryland leads 0 of 11 categories, New Hampshire leads 9, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -8.7 | 15% | 65.3#6 · A | 74.0#2 · A+ | -8.7 pts | NH |
| Safety12% of scoregap -34 | 12% | 60.3#37 · C | 94.3#2 · A+ | -34 pts | NH |
| Health12% of scoregap -10.3 | 12% | 63.6#15 · B+ | 73.9#11 · B+ | -10.3 pts | NH |
| Education12% of scoregap -22 | 12% | 55.5#31 · C+ | 77.5#2 · A+ | -22 pts | NH |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +1.4 | 10% | 50.3#39 · C | 48.9#40 · C | +1.4 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -8.1 | 8% | 55.0#35 · C | 63.1#19 · B | -8.1 pts | NH |
| Growth7% of scoregap -20.1 | 7% | 29.8#37 · C | 49.9#12 · B+ | -20.1 pts | NH |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -5.2 | 7% | 40.9#45 · D | 46.1#33 · C+ | -5.2 pts | NH |
| Livability7% of scoregap -28.4 | 7% | 21.7#46 · D | 50.1#4 · A+ | -28.4 pts | NH |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -31.2 | 6% | 11.8#40 · C | 43.0#11 · B+ | -31.2 pts | NH |
| Environment4% of scoregap +0.9 | 4% | 46.1#19 · B | 45.2#21 · B | +0.9 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 Maryland cheaper than New Hampshire?
Maryland and New Hampshire cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 105 vs 104.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 ends up in about the same place in both after typical costs.
| Measure | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.8 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | +0.8 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.9 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 102.5#42 of 50 | 98.6#35 of 50 | +3.9 pts+4% | 100 | NH |
| Residential electricity priceGap -5.08¢ (-21%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | 24.56¢/kWh#42 of 50 | -5.08¢-21% | 17.84¢/kWh | MD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.47 (-13%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | $18.61/Mcf#41 of 50 | -$2.47-13% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.07 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | $3.25/gal#28 of 50 | +$0.07+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,662 (+22%) · US $15,633 | $20,124#40 of 50 | $16,462#31 of 50 | +$3,662+22% | $15,633 | NH |
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 | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,654 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | +$24,216costs $50,785 | +$2,654 | MD |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$4,717 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | +$11,819costs $63,182 | +$4,717 | MD |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$472 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | -$30,212costs $105,213 | -$472 | Even |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$3,769 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | +$26,342costs $48,658 | +$3,769 | MD |
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 | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$10,729 | $30,358 | $41,087 | -$10,729 | MD |
| ChildcareGap +$7,324 | $40,248 | $32,924 | +$7,324 | NH |
| UtilitiesGap +$38 | $5,040 | $5,002 | +$38 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$440 | $11,545 | $11,105 | +$440 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$220 | $10,434 | $10,214 | +$220 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$3,178 | $8,059 | $4,881 | +$3,178 | NH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Maryland or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 5.94% vs 10.04%. Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; New Hampshire has no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.1 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.95 pts · US 5.46% | 8.95%#43 of 50 | none#1 of 50 | +8.95 pts | 5.46% | NH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.87 pts · US 1.02% | 1.02%#30 of 50 | 1.89%#48 of 50 | -0.87 pts | 1.02% | MD |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#11 of 50 | 0%#1 of 50 | +6 pts | 6.66% | NH |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Maryland or New Hampshire?
Homes cost 21% more in New Hampshire: a typical home value of $428,308 in Maryland vs $516,306 in New Hampshire. Buying the typical home takes about $116,485 of income in Maryland and $127,122 in New Hampshire; the median household earns $102,905 and $99,782.
| Measure | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$87,998 (-17%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | -$87,998-17% | $368,697 | MD |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.9 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#41 of 50 | +2.9%#18 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +1.2% | NH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$230 (-11%) · US $1,948 | $1,948#35 of 50 | $2,178#39 of 50 | -$230-11% | $1,948 | MD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$10,637 (-8%) · US $100,006 | $116,485#36 of 50 | $127,122#39 of 50 | -$10,637-8% | $100,006 | MD |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1x (-19%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#22 of 50 | 5.2x#36 of 50 | -1x-19% | 4.6x | MD |
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.
| MD | NH | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,204 | $2,656 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +27% |
| Five-year change | +13.5% | +35.6% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Baltimore | Manchester |
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 Maryland or New Hampshire?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $99,782, with unemployment at 4% in Maryland and 3.2% in New Hampshire. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maryland's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 12 after adjusting for local costs and New Hampshire's in 0.
| Measure | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$3,123 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | +$3,123+3% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#27 of 50 | 3.2%#7 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | NH |
| GDP per capitaGap -$459 (-1%) · US $64,333 | $68,357#16 of 50 | $68,816#15 of 50 | -$459-1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +2.3%#16 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.16 pts · US +0.51% | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.48%#24 of 50 | -0.16 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 | MD | NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,537$244,958 in Baltimore | $212,609$223,239 in Manchester | MD |
| Lawyers | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | $139,498$146,473 in Manchester | MD |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | $99,507$104,482 in Manchester | MD |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | $64,704$67,939 in Manchester | MD |
| Civil Engineers | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | $90,612$95,143 in Manchester | MD |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,061$87,423 in Baltimore | $79,559$83,537 in Manchester | MD |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | $55,812$58,603 in Manchester | MD |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | $45,985$48,284 in Manchester | MD |
| Electricians | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | $59,120$62,076 in Manchester | MD |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | $74,064$77,767 in Manchester | MD |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | $52,401$55,021 in Manchester | MD |
| General & Operations Managers | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | $95,385$100,154 in Manchester | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | $82,400$86,520 in Manchester | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | $61,830$64,922 in Manchester | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | $54,262$56,975 in Manchester | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | $32,347$33,964 in Manchester | MD |
| Construction Laborers | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | $42,305$44,420 in Manchester | Even |
| Software Developers | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | $130,790$137,330 in Manchester | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | $56,480$59,304 in Manchester | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | $66,601$69,931 in Manchester | 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 Maryland safer than New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is safer: 118 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland (FBI). Property crime runs 1,820 and 818 per 100,000.
| Measure | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +240 (+204%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | +240+204% | 328 | NH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1,002 (+122%) · US 1,535 | 1,820#43 of 50 | 818#2 of 50 | +1,002+122% | 1,535 | NH |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
- Hanover, NH17 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Maryland or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire scores higher for education (#2 of 50 vs #31), with high school graduation rates of 86.3% and 87.7%. New Hampshire scores higher for health (#11 vs #15); life expectancy is 77.8 years in Maryland and 78.7 in New Hampshire.
| Measure | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -12 · US 273 | 268#38 of 50 | 280#9 of 50 | -12 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 258#21 of 50 | 264#4 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 85.62% | NH |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | NH |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.6 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#19 of 50 | 31.1%#11 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 34.03% | NH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.3%#18 of 50 | 4.5%#4 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 7.6% | NH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#25 of 50 | 37#15 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | NH |
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).
- Waldorf, MDeducation score 94
- Durham, NHeducation score 98
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: Maryland #31, New Hampshire #2. Health: Maryland #15, New Hampshire #11.
Are more people moving from Maryland to New Hampshire, or from New Hampshire to Maryland?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 0 people (±0) moving from Maryland to New Hampshire and 600 (±470) the other way, a net gain of about 600 people for Maryland 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 | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +56,705 (+213%) | 83,281#18 of 50 | 26,576#38 of 50 | +56,705+213% | MD |
| Households moving outIRSGap +72,501 (+297%) | 96,909#35 of 50 | 24,408#12 of 50 | +72,501+297% | NH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,796 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -15,796 | NH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.7 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +1.5#15 of 50 | -3.7 | NH |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$28,497 (-26%) | $80,821#20 of 50 | $109,318#3 of 50 | -$28,497-26% | NH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$208 (0%) | $88,251#10 of 50 | $88,043#11 of 50 | +$2080% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.5 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +4.6#9 of 50 | -6.5 | NH |
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, Maryland or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire 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 | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +37 places | #38score 56.3 | #1score 89.6 | +37 places | NH |
| RetireesGap +30 places | #36score 55.8 | #6score 78.7 | +30 places | NH |
| Remote WorkersGap +32 places | #40score 43.6 | #8score 67.7 | +32 places | NH |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +30 places | #34score 49.1 | #4score 74.9 | +30 places | NH |
| Small BusinessGap +27 places | #31score 52 | #4score 78.3 | +27 places | NH |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +29 places | #36score 33.6 | #7score 68.8 | +29 places | NH |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew Hampshire (#1 vs #38)
- RetireesNew Hampshire (#6 vs #36)
- Remote WorkersNew Hampshire (#8 vs #40)
- Young ProfessionalsNew Hampshire (#4 vs #34)
- Small BusinessNew Hampshire (#4 vs #31)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew Hampshire (#7 vs #36)
Which cities stand out in Maryland and New Hampshire?
Maryland has 20 tracked cities and New Hampshire has 20; the largest are Baltimore and Manchester. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Baltimore573,243 people | Manchester115,643 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethesdascore 76.7 | Hanoverscore 80.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Rockville108 violent per 100K | Hanover17 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Baltimorecost index 104.5 | Concordcost index 100.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 | Hanoverwalkability 14.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 | Laconiacounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Waldorf94% graduation rate | Durham98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Potomacmedian income $236,675 | Hanovermedian income $153,281 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Frederick+3% growth | Dover+2.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Maryland and New Hampshire compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Maryland carries AAA credit rating and New Hampshire AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#36 of 50 | 14%#29 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | NH |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.6 (-100%) · US 29.6 | 0.0#1 of 50 | 15.6#11 of 50 | -15.6-100% | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap -5.6 pts · US 17.16% | 7.9%#24 of 50 | 13.5%#17 of 50 | -5.6 pts | 17.16% | NH |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.8 min · US 25.2 min | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | 27.5 min#40 of 50 | +4.8 min | 25.2 min | NH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +4.4 pts · US 2.29% | 5%#5 of 50 | 0.6%#34 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.4 pts · US 12.28% | 15.6%#9 of 50 | 16%#5 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#8 of 50 | 95.3%#1 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 92.67% | NH |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#14 of 50 | 95#17 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | MD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US 12.39% | 7.5%#39 of 50 | 10.1%#26 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.39% | NH |
| Pension funded ratioGap +10 pts · US 74.3% | 75%#25 of 50 | 65%#39 of 50 | +10 pts | 74.3% | MD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,140 (+36%) · US $3,506 | $4,350#40 of 50 | $3,210#32 of 50 | +$1,140+36% | $3,506 | NH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5 pts · US +4.66% | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +6.8%#11 of 50 | -5 pts | +4.66% | NH |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Maryland AAA, New Hampshire 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).
Maryland vs New Hampshire: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Maryland is ahead on 14 of 51, New Hampshire on 25, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MarylandMD | New HampshireNH | GapMD−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,850,005 (+343%) · US 6.8 million | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | 1.4 million#41 of 50 | +4,850,005+343% | 6.8 million | MD |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,123 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | +$3,123+3% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#27 of 50 | 3.2%#7 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | NH |
| Population growthGap -0.16 pts · US +0.51% | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.48%#24 of 50 | -0.16 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$459 (-1%) · US $64,333 | $68,357#16 of 50 | $68,816#15 of 50 | -$459-1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +2.3%#16 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +240 (+204%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | +240+204% | 328 | NH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1,002 (+122%) · US 1,535 | 1,820#43 of 50 | 818#2 of 50 | +1,002+122% | 1,535 | NH |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 85.62% | NH |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -8 · US 237 | 234#39 of 50 | 242#4 of 50 | -8 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -12 · US 273 | 268#38 of 50 | 280#9 of 50 | -12 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 216#20 of 50 | 222#4 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 258#21 of 50 | 264#4 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | NH |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.6 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#19 of 50 | 31.1%#11 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 34.03% | NH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.3%#18 of 50 | 4.5%#4 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 7.6% | NH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$87,998 (-17%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | -$87,998-17% | $368,697 | MD |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.9 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#41 of 50 | +2.9%#18 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +1.2% | NH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$230 (-11%) · US $1,948 | $1,948#35 of 50 | $2,178#39 of 50 | -$230-11% | $1,948 | MD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$10,637 (-8%) · US $100,006 | $116,485#36 of 50 | $127,122#39 of 50 | -$10,637-8% | $100,006 | MD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.8 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | +0.8 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1x (-19%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#22 of 50 | 5.2x#36 of 50 | -1x-19% | 4.6x | MD |
| Residential electricity priceGap -5.08¢ (-21%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | 24.56¢/kWh#42 of 50 | -5.08¢-21% | 17.84¢/kWh | MD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.47 (-13%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | $18.61/Mcf#41 of 50 | -$2.47-13% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.07 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | $3.25/gal#28 of 50 | +$0.07+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.9 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 102.5#42 of 50 | 98.6#35 of 50 | +3.9 pts+4% | 100 | NH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,662 (+22%) · US $15,633 | $20,124#40 of 50 | $16,462#31 of 50 | +$3,662+22% | $15,633 | NH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.1 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.95 pts · US 5.46% | 8.95%#43 of 50 | none#1 of 50 | +8.95 pts | 5.46% | NH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.87 pts · US 1.02% | 1.02%#30 of 50 | 1.89%#48 of 50 | -0.87 pts | 1.02% | MD |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#11 of 50 | 0%#1 of 50 | +6 pts | 6.66% | NH |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#14 of 50 | 95#17 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | MD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US 12.39% | 7.5%#39 of 50 | 10.1%#26 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.39% | NH |
| Pension funded ratioGap +10 pts · US 74.3% | 75%#25 of 50 | 65%#39 of 50 | +10 pts | 74.3% | MD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,140 (+36%) · US $3,506 | $4,350#40 of 50 | $3,210#32 of 50 | +$1,140+36% | $3,506 | NH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5 pts · US +4.66% | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +6.8%#11 of 50 | -5 pts | +4.66% | NH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#25 of 50 | 37#15 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | NH |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#36 of 50 | 14%#29 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | NH |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.6 (-100%) · US 29.6 | 0.0#1 of 50 | 15.6#11 of 50 | -15.6-100% | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap -5.6 pts · US 17.16% | 7.9%#24 of 50 | 13.5%#17 of 50 | -5.6 pts | 17.16% | NH |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.8 min · US 25.2 min | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | 27.5 min#40 of 50 | +4.8 min | 25.2 min | NH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +4.4 pts · US 2.29% | 5%#5 of 50 | 0.6%#34 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.4 pts · US 12.28% | 15.6%#9 of 50 | 16%#5 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#8 of 50 | 95.3%#1 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 92.67% | NH |
| Households moving inIRSGap +56,705 (+213%) · US 78,682 | 83,281#18 of 50 | 26,576#38 of 50 | +56,705+213% | 78,682 | MD |
| Households moving outIRSGap +72,501 (+297%) · US 78,715 | 96,909#35 of 50 | 24,408#12 of 50 | +72,501+297% | 78,715 | NH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,796 · US -33 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -15,796 | -33 | NH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.7 · US +0.4 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +1.5#15 of 50 | -3.7 | +0.4 | NH |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$28,497 (-26%) · US $77,690 | $80,821#20 of 50 | $109,318#3 of 50 | -$28,497-26% | $77,690 | NH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$208 (0%) · US $77,024 | $88,251#10 of 50 | $88,043#11 of 50 | +$2080% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.5 · US +1.1 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +4.6#9 of 50 | -6.5 | +1.1 | NH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$472 · US -$11,758 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | -$30,212#38 of 50 | -$472 | -$11,758 | Even |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,654 · US +$31,418 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | +$24,216#41 of 50 | +$2,654 | +$31,418 | MD |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$3,769 · US +$35,970 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | +$26,342#43 of 50 | +$3,769 | +$35,970 | MD |
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 Maryland and New Hampshire numbers say when read together.
New Hampshire ranks higher overall
New Hampshire leads 9 of the 11 categories to Maryland's 0, with 2 even. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Maryland is ahead on 14 and New Hampshire on 25.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 105 in Maryland and 104.2 in New Hampshire, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $428,308 and $516,306. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$30,684 a year after typical costs in Maryland and -$30,212 in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire takes a smaller share in taxes
Maryland collects 10.04% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); New Hampshire collects 5.94% (no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax).
Maryland pays more
Median household income is $102,905 in Maryland and $99,782 in New Hampshire, with unemployment at 4% and 3.2%. Violent crime runs 358 per 100,000 residents in Maryland and 118 in New Hampshire.
People move to Maryland on net
600 people moved to Maryland from New Hampshire in the latest Census release, against 0 going the other way.
New Hampshire fits families and retirees better
For families, Maryland ranks #38 of 50 and New Hampshire #1; for retirees, Maryland ranks #36 and New Hampshire #6.
Maryland vs New Hampshire: frequently asked questions
Is Maryland or New Hampshire better to live in?
Maryland ranks #31 of 50 overall and New Hampshire #1 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 105 vs 104.2); Maryland carries a 4.1-point higher tax burden and has a 67% higher violent crime rate. New Hampshire scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 0.
Is Maryland cheaper than New Hampshire?
Maryland and New Hampshire cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 105 vs 104.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$30,684 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Maryland, and -$30,212 in New Hampshire. The typical home value is $428,308 in Maryland and $516,306 in New Hampshire.
Which has lower taxes, Maryland or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has the lower tax burden: 5.94% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.04% in Maryland. Maryland's top income tax rate is 8.95%, its effective property tax rate 1.02% and its combined sales tax 6%; New Hampshire's are zero, 1.89% and 0%.
Is Maryland safer than New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is safer: 118 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland, per the FBI. Maryland ranks #34 of 50 for violent crime and New Hampshire #3. Property crime is 1,820 per 100,000 in Maryland and 818 in New Hampshire. The safest tracked cities are Rockville, MD, and Hanover, NH.
Are homes more expensive in Maryland or New Hampshire?
Homes are 21% more expensive in New Hampshire: the typical home value is $428,308 in Maryland and $516,306 in New Hampshire. Buying the typical home takes about $116,485 of household income in Maryland and $127,122 in New Hampshire, against median incomes of $102,905 and $99,782.
Do people earn more in Maryland or New Hampshire?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $99,782 in New Hampshire, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Maryland and 3.2% in New Hampshire. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maryland's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 12 after adjusting for local costs and New Hampshire's in 0, with 8 even.
Are more people moving from Maryland to New Hampshire or from New Hampshire to Maryland?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 0 people (±0) moving from Maryland to New Hampshire and 600 (±470) the other way, a net gain of about 600 people for Maryland beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Maryland or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is the better fit for retirees: #6 of 50 on the retiree index vs #36 for Maryland. Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; New Hampshire has no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$30,111 left after typical costs in Maryland and +$26,342 in New Hampshire.
Which is better for families, Maryland or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is the better fit for families: #1 of 50 on the families index vs #38 for Maryland. Center-based infant care costs $20,124 a year in Maryland and $16,462 in New Hampshire. High school graduation rates are 86.3% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$30,684 after typical costs in Maryland and -$30,212 in New Hampshire.
Is New Hampshire better than Maryland?
Yes: New Hampshire ranks higher than Maryland overall, #1 of 50 vs #31, with a composite score of 83.4 to 53.6. New Hampshire leads 9 of 11 categories and Maryland leads 0. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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