New York vs Maryland: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. Maryland is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 105 vs 107.9), has a 3.5-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 1.3 points apart, too close to call: New York leads 5 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 4.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 46% lower in Maryland ($1,948 vs. $3,615 in New York).
- Residential electricity price is 26% lower in Maryland (19.48¢/kWh vs. 26.39¢/kWh in New York).
- Total tax burden is 26% lower in Maryland (10.04% vs. 13.56% in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +1.3 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | +1.3 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.9 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | +2.9 pts+3% | 100 | MD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$12,544 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | -$12,544 | -$11,758 | MD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$98,406 (+23%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | +$98,406+23% | $368,697 | MD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.52 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | +3.52 pts | 8.74% | MD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +10 (+3%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | +10+3% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap -$17,085 (-17%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$17,085-17% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -58,359 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | -58,359 | -33 | MD |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is New York or Maryland better to live in?
New York scores 54.9 and Maryland scores 53.6 out of 100, a 1.3-point gap this site treats as even. New York leads 5 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 4, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -19 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 65.3#6 · A | -19 pts | MD |
| Safety12% of scoregap +2.7 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 60.3#37 · C | +2.7 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +16.1 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 63.6#15 · B+ | +16.1 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap +1.1 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 55.5#31 · C+ | +1.1 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -13.1 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 50.3#39 · C | -13.1 pts | MD |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -10.5 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 55.0#35 · C | -10.5 pts | MD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -15.8 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 29.8#37 · C | -15.8 pts | MD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +11.7 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 40.9#45 · D | +11.7 pts | NY |
| Livability7% of scoregap +27.7 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 21.7#46 · D | +27.7 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +18.4 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 11.8#40 · C | +18.4 pts | NY |
| Environment4% of scoregap +12.3 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 46.1#19 · B | +12.3 pts | NY |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is New York cheaper than Maryland?
Maryland is cheaper: cost of living index 105 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $12,544 more a year in Maryland after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.9 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | +2.9 pts+3% | 100 | MD |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.8 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | +4.8 pts+5% | 100 | MD |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.91¢ (+35%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | +6.91¢+35% | 17.84¢/kWh | MD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.44 (+9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | +$1.44+9% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.15 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.15-5% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$854 (+4%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | +$854+4% | $15,633 | MD |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$6,599 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | -$6,599 | MD |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,422 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | -$8,422 | MD |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$12,544 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | -$12,544 | MD |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,463 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | -$7,463 | 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 | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$10,240 | $40,598 | $30,358 | +$10,240 | MD |
| ChildcareGap +$1,708 | $41,956 | $40,248 | +$1,708 | MD |
| UtilitiesGap +$139 | $5,179 | $5,040 | +$139 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$540 | $12,085 | $11,545 | +$540 | MD |
| TransportationGap -$471 | $9,963 | $10,434 | -$471 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$389 | $8,448 | $8,059 | +$389 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Maryland?
Maryland collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 10.04% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.52 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | +3.52 pts | 8.74% | MD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.83 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | +5.83 pts | 5.46% | MD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.62 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | +0.62 pts | 1.02% | MD |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.54 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +2.54 pts | 6.66% | MD |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Maryland?
Homes cost 23% more in New York: a typical home value of $526,714 in New York vs $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $116,485 in Maryland; the median household earns $85,820 and $102,905.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$98,406 (+23%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | +$98,406+23% | $368,697 | MD |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | +5.6 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,667 (+86%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | +$1,667+86% | $1,948 | MD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,224 (+21%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | +$24,224+21% | $100,006 | MD |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.9x (+45%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | +1.9x+45% | 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.
| NY | MD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $2,204 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +13% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +13.5% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | New York | Baltimore |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in New York or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $85,820, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$17,085 (-17%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$17,085-17% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$33,670 (+49%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | +$33,670+49% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.31 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | -0.31 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 | NY | MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $235,537$244,958 in Baltimore | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $84,061$87,423 in Baltimore | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | NY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | NY |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | NY |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is New York safer than Maryland?
Violent crime is about the same: 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 358 in Maryland (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 1,820 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +10 (+3%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | +10+3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -245 (-13%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -245-13% | 1,535 | NY |
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.
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or Maryland?
New York and Maryland are close on education (#30 and #31 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 86.3%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #15); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 77.8 in Maryland.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.2 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-10%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | -4 pts-10% | 38.8 | NY |
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).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- Waldorf, MDeducation score 94
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: New York #30, Maryland #31. Health: New York #3, Maryland #15.
Are more people moving from New York to Maryland, or from Maryland to New York?
5,840 households moved from New York to Maryland and 4,990 moved from Maryland to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 850 households for Maryland. Movers to Maryland reported an average income of $74,130; movers to New York reported $78,068. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 12,198 people (±3,420) moving from New York to Maryland and 8,400 (±2,298) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +108,959 (+131%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +108,959+131% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +167,318 (+173%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +167,318+173% | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -58,359 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | -58,359 | MD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | -1.4 | MD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$13,381 (+17%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | +$13,381+17% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$17,732 (+20%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | +$17,732+20% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.0 | -6.9#50 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | -5.0 | MD |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, New York or Maryland?
New York is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts; Maryland is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -9 places | #29score 62.6 | #38score 56.3 | -9 places | NY |
| RetireesGap -11 places | #25score 62 | #36score 55.8 | -11 places | NY |
| Remote WorkersGap +4 places | #44score 41.4 | #40score 43.6 | +4 places | MD |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +6 places | #40score 42.8 | #34score 49.1 | +6 places | MD |
| Small BusinessGap +13 places | #44score 37.5 | #31score 52 | +13 places | MD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -15 places | #21score 50.9 | #36score 33.6 | -15 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew York (#29 vs #38)
- RetireesNew York (#25 vs #36)
- Remote WorkersMaryland (#40 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsMaryland (#34 vs #40)
- Small BusinessMaryland (#31 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #36)
Which cities stand out in New York and Maryland?
New York has 20 tracked cities and Maryland has 20; the largest are New York and Baltimore. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | MarylandMD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Baltimore573,243 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Bethesdascore 76.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Rockville108 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Baltimorecost index 104.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | Waldorf94% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Potomacmedian income $236,675 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Frederick+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and Maryland compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and Maryland AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +18 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | +18 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +3.8 · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +3.8 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +7.2 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.9 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | +0.9 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +19.2 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | +19.2 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.8 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | MD |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | MD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 12.39% | MD |
| Pension funded ratioGap +15 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +15 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,780 (+87%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | +$3,780+87% | $3,506 | MD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.3 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | -3.3 pts | +4.66% | MD |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, Maryland AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
New York vs Maryland: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New York is ahead on 14 of 51, Maryland on 27, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | MarylandMD | GapNY−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +13,737,080 (+219%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | +13,737,080+219% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap -$17,085 (-17%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$17,085-17% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.31 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | -0.31 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$33,670 (+49%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | +$33,670+49% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +10 (+3%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | +10+3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -245 (-13%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -245-13% | 1,535 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 234#39 of 50 | +0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 216#20 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.2 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$98,406 (+23%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | +$98,406+23% | $368,697 | MD |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | +5.6 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,667 (+86%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | +$1,667+86% | $1,948 | MD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,224 (+21%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | +$24,224+21% | $100,006 | MD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.9 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | +2.9 pts+3% | 100 | MD |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.9x (+45%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | +1.9x+45% | 4.6x | MD |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.91¢ (+35%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | +6.91¢+35% | 17.84¢/kWh | MD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.44 (+9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | +$1.44+9% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.15 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.15-5% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.8 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | +4.8 pts+5% | 100 | MD |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$854 (+4%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | +$854+4% | $15,633 | MD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.52 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | +3.52 pts | 8.74% | MD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.83 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | +5.83 pts | 5.46% | MD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.62 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | +0.62 pts | 1.02% | MD |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.54 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +2.54 pts | 6.66% | MD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | MD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 12.39% | MD |
| Pension funded ratioGap +15 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +15 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,780 (+87%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | +$3,780+87% | $3,506 | MD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.3 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | -3.3 pts | +4.66% | MD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-10%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | -4 pts-10% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +18 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | +18 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +3.8 · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +3.8 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +7.2 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.9 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | +0.9 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +19.2 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | +19.2 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.8 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | MD |
| Households moving inIRSGap +108,959 (+131%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +108,959+131% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +167,318 (+173%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +167,318+173% | 78,715 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -58,359 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | -58,359 | -33 | MD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | -1.4 | +0.4 | MD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$13,381 (+17%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | +$13,381+17% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$17,732 (+20%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | +$17,732+20% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.0 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | -5.0 | +1.1 | MD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$12,544 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | -$12,544 | -$11,758 | MD |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$6,599 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | -$6,599 | +$31,418 | MD |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,463 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | -$7,463 | +$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 New York and Maryland numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
New York (54.9, #29) and Maryland (53.6, #31) are within 2 composite points. New York leads 5 categories, Maryland leads 4, and 2 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Maryland is cheaper day to day
Maryland's cost of living index is 105 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $428,308 in Maryland. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Maryland takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); Maryland collects 10.04% (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Maryland pays more
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $102,905 in Maryland, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 358 in Maryland.
Moves between the two run about even
12,198 people moved from New York to Maryland and 8,400 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
New York fits families and retirees better
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and Maryland #38; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and Maryland #36.
New York vs Maryland: frequently asked questions
Is New York or Maryland better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. Maryland is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 105 vs 107.9), has a 3.5-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 1.3 points apart, too close to call: New York leads 5 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 4.
Is New York cheaper than Maryland?
Maryland is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 105 vs 107.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$43,228 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New York, and -$30,684 in Maryland. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $428,308 in Maryland.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Maryland?
Maryland has the lower tax burden: 10.04% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. New York's top income tax rate is 14.78%, its effective property tax rate 1.64% and its combined sales tax 8.54%; Maryland's are 8.95%, 1.02% and 6%.
Is New York safer than Maryland?
New York and Maryland have similar violent crime rates: 368 vs 358 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and Maryland #34. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 1,820 in Maryland. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Rockville, MD.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Maryland?
Homes are 23% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $116,485 in Maryland, against median incomes of $85,820 and $102,905.
Do people earn more in New York or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $85,820 in New York, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0.
Are more people moving from New York to Maryland or from Maryland to New York?
5,840 households moved from New York to Maryland and 4,990 moved from Maryland to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 850 households for Maryland. Movers to Maryland reported an average income of $74,130; movers to New York reported $78,068. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 12,198 people (±3,420) moving from New York to Maryland and 8,400 (±2,298) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, New York or Maryland?
New York is the better fit for retirees: #25 of 50 on the retiree index vs #36 for Maryland. New York has high across the board; Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$30,111 in Maryland.
Which is better for families, New York or Maryland?
New York is the better fit for families: #29 of 50 on the families index vs #38 for Maryland. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $20,124 in Maryland. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 86.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Which has better schools, New York or Maryland?
New York and Maryland are close on education: #30 and #31 of 50 in the education category. Eighth graders average 271 in NAEP math in New York and 268 in Maryland. High school graduation rates are 86.7% in New York and 86.3% in Maryland, and the education category scores are 56.6 and 55.5 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Levittown and Waldorf have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside New York vs Maryland.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (5,840 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).