Massachusetts vs New Hampshire: Which Is Better to Live In?
Massachusetts ranks #13 of 50 overall and New Hampshire #1 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 105.8 vs 104.2); Massachusetts carries a 3.6-point higher tax burden and has a 61% higher violent crime rate. New Hampshire scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 61% lower in New Hampshire (118 vs. 303 in Massachusetts).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 39% lower in New Hampshire ($16,462 vs. $27,067 in Massachusetts).
- Total tax burden is 38% lower in New Hampshire (5.94% vs. 9.57% in Massachusetts).
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -13.4 pts | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | 83.4#1 of 50 · A+ | -13.4 pts | — | NH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.6 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | +1.6 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$32,009 · US -$11,758 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | -$30,212#38 of 50 | -$32,009 | -$11,758 | NH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$145,590 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | +$145,590+28% | $368,697 | NH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.63 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +3.63 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +185 (+157%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | +185+157% | 328 | NH |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,046 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | +$5,046+5% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -17,546 · US -33 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -17,546 | -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 Massachusetts or New Hampshire better to live in?
New Hampshire scores higher overall: 83.4 to 70 out of 100, #1 of 50 against #13. Massachusetts leads 4 of 11 categories, New Hampshire leads 7, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -14.2 | 15% | 59.8#10 · A | 74.0#2 · A+ | -14.2 pts | NH |
| Safety12% of scoregap -17.9 | 12% | 76.4#19 · B | 94.3#2 · A+ | -17.9 pts | NH |
| Health12% of scoregap +14.7 | 12% | 88.6#1 · A+ | 73.9#11 · B+ | +14.7 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap +14.5 | 12% | 92.0#1 · A+ | 77.5#2 · A+ | +14.5 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -19.6 | 10% | 29.3#48 · D | 48.9#40 · C | -19.6 pts | NH |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -13 | 8% | 50.1#39 · C | 63.1#19 · B | -13 pts | NH |
| Growth7% of scoregap -30.5 | 7% | 19.4#47 · D | 49.9#12 · B+ | -30.5 pts | NH |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +5.6 | 7% | 51.7#24 · B | 46.1#33 · C+ | +5.6 pts | MA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -15.8 | 7% | 34.3#23 · B | 50.1#4 · A+ | -15.8 pts | NH |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -11 | 6% | 32.0#20 · B | 43.0#11 · B+ | -11 pts | NH |
| Environment4% of scoregap +9.2 | 4% | 54.4#9 · A | 45.2#21 · B | +9.2 pts | MA |
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 Massachusetts cheaper than New Hampshire?
Massachusetts and New Hampshire cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 105.8 vs 104.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $32,009 more a year in New Hampshire after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.6 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | +1.6 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 98.8#37 of 50 | 98.6#35 of 50 | +0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +5.92¢ (+24%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | 24.56¢/kWh#42 of 50 | +5.92¢+24% | 17.84¢/kWh | NH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.45 (+35%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | $18.61/Mcf#41 of 50 | +$6.45+35% | $15.83/Mcf | NH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.08 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | $3.25/gal#28 of 50 | +$0.08+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,605 (+64%) · US $15,633 | $27,067#49 of 50 | $16,462#31 of 50 | +$10,605+64% | $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 | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$7,986 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$24,216costs $50,785 | -$7,986 | NH |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$9,356 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$11,819costs $63,182 | -$9,356 | NH |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$32,009 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | -$30,212costs $105,213 | -$32,009 | NH |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$8,563 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$26,342costs $48,658 | -$8,563 | NH |
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 | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$6,688 | $47,775 | $41,087 | +$6,688 | NH |
| ChildcareGap +$21,210 | $54,134 | $32,924 | +$21,210 | NH |
| UtilitiesGap +$76 | $5,078 | $5,002 | +$76 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$23 | $11,128 | $11,105 | +$23 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$252 | $10,466 | $10,214 | +$252 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$3,760 | $8,641 | $4,881 | +$3,760 | NH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Massachusetts or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 5.94% vs 9.57%. Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; New Hampshire has no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.63 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +3.63 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +9 pts · US 5.46% | 9%#44 of 50 | none#1 of 50 | +9 pts | 5.46% | NH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.74 pts · US 1.02% | 1.15%#33 of 50 | 1.89%#48 of 50 | -0.74 pts | 1.02% | MA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.25 pts · US 6.66% | 6.25%#16 of 50 | 0%#1 of 50 | +6.25 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 Massachusetts or New Hampshire?
Homes cost 28% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $661,896 in Massachusetts vs $516,306 in New Hampshire. Buying the typical home takes about $177,190 of income in Massachusetts and $127,122 in New Hampshire; the median household earns $104,828 and $99,782.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$145,590 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | +$145,590+28% | $368,697 | NH |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +2.9%#18 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.2% | NH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$896 (+41%) · US $1,948 | $3,074#49 of 50 | $2,178#39 of 50 | +$896+41% | $1,948 | NH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$50,068 (+39%) · US $100,006 | $177,190#48 of 50 | $127,122#39 of 50 | +$50,068+39% | $100,006 | NH |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.1x (+21%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#48 of 50 | 5.2x#36 of 50 | +1.1x+21% | 4.6x | NH |
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.
| MA | NH | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,405 | $2,656 |
| Income needed vs. median | +69% | +27% |
| Five-year change | +25.3% | +35.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Boston | 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 Massachusetts or New Hampshire?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $99,782, with unemployment at 4.5% in Massachusetts and 3.2% in New Hampshire. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Massachusetts's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and New Hampshire's in 0.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,046 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | +$5,046+5% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#37 of 50 | 3.2%#7 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 3.95% | NH |
| GDP per capitaGap +$30,458 (+44%) · US $64,333 | $99,274#2 of 50 | $68,816#15 of 50 | +$30,458+44% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +2.3%#16 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.26 pts · US +0.51% | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.48%#24 of 50 | -0.26 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 | MA | NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | $139,498$146,473 in Manchester | MA |
| Software Developers | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | $130,790$137,330 in Manchester | MA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | $212,609$223,239 in Manchester | MA |
| General & Operations Managers | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | $95,385$100,154 in Manchester | MA |
| Civil Engineers | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | $90,612$95,143 in Manchester | MA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | $79,559$83,537 in Manchester | MA |
| Registered Nurses | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | $82,400$86,520 in Manchester | MA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | $64,704$67,939 in Manchester | MA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | $74,064$77,767 in Manchester | MA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | $99,507$104,482 in Manchester | MA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | $52,401$55,021 in Manchester | MA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | $45,985$48,284 in Manchester | MA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,999$75,599 in Boston | $61,830$64,922 in Manchester | MA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,980$69,098 in Boston | $55,812$58,603 in Manchester | MA |
| Electricians | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | $59,120$62,076 in Manchester | MA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,407$41,480 in Boston | $32,347$33,964 in Manchester | MA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | $56,480$59,304 in Manchester | MA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | $66,601$69,931 in Manchester | MA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | $42,305$44,420 in Manchester | MA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | $54,262$56,975 in Manchester | MA |
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 Massachusetts safer than New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is safer: 118 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts (FBI). Property crime runs 1,031 and 818 per 100,000.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +185 (+157%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | +185+157% | 328 | NH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +213 (+26%) · US 1,535 | 1,031#6 of 50 | 818#2 of 50 | +213+26% | 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.
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
- Hanover, NH17 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Massachusetts or New Hampshire?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #2), with high school graduation rates of 90.1% and 87.7%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #11); life expectancy is 79.8 years in Massachusetts and 78.7 in New Hampshire.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 284#1 of 50 | 280#9 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 268#1 of 50 | 264#4 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.1 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#2 of 50 | 31.1%#11 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 2.8%#1 of 50 | 4.5%#4 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 37#17 of 50 | 37#15 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).
- Newton, MAeducation score 96
- 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: Massachusetts #1, New Hampshire #2. Health: Massachusetts #1, New Hampshire #11.
Are more people moving from Massachusetts to New Hampshire, or from New Hampshire to Massachusetts?
10,603 households moved from Massachusetts to New Hampshire and 6,594 moved from New Hampshire to Massachusetts in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 4,009 households for New Hampshire. Movers to New Hampshire reported an average income of $134,698; movers to Massachusetts reported $84,561. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 20,310 people (±3,696) moving from Massachusetts to New Hampshire and 11,286 (±2,887) the other way, a net gain of about 9,024 people for New Hampshire 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 | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +56,720 (+213%) | 83,296#17 of 50 | 26,576#38 of 50 | +56,720+213% | MA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +74,266 (+304%) | 98,674#36 of 50 | 24,408#12 of 50 | +74,266+304% | NH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -17,546 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -17,546 | NH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.6 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +1.5#15 of 50 | -3.6 | NH |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$19,428 (-18%) | $89,890#7 of 50 | $109,318#3 of 50 | -$19,428-18% | NH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$28,566 (+32%) | $116,609#1 of 50 | $88,043#11 of 50 | +$28,566+32% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -9.3 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +4.6#9 of 50 | -9.3 | 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, Massachusetts 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 | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +8 places | #9score 79.8 | #1score 89.6 | +8 places | NH |
| RetireesGap +13 places | #19score 65.5 | #6score 78.7 | +13 places | NH |
| Remote WorkersGap +34 places | #42score 42.9 | #8score 67.7 | +34 places | NH |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +31 places | #35score 48.4 | #4score 74.9 | +31 places | NH |
| Small BusinessGap +25 places | #29score 52.7 | #4score 78.3 | +25 places | NH |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +9 places | #16score 55.3 | #7score 68.8 | +9 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 #9)
- RetireesNew Hampshire (#6 vs #19)
- Remote WorkersNew Hampshire (#8 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsNew Hampshire (#4 vs #35)
- Small BusinessNew Hampshire (#4 vs #29)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew Hampshire (#7 vs #16)
Which cities stand out in Massachusetts and New Hampshire?
Massachusetts has 25 tracked cities and New Hampshire has 20; the largest are Boston and Manchester. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Boston666,442 people | Manchester115,643 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Brooklinescore 79.5 | Hanoverscore 80.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Newton56 violent per 100K | Hanover17 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Springfieldcost index 96.1 | Concordcost index 100.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 | Hanoverwalkability 14.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 | Laconiacounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Newton96% graduation rate | Durham98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Newtonmedian income $190,304 | Hanovermedian income $153,281 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Worcester+0.9% growth | Dover+2.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Massachusetts and New Hampshire compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Massachusetts carries AA+ credit rating and New Hampshire AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +10 pts · US 29.34% | 24%#23 of 50 | 14%#29 of 50 | +10 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.0 (-77%) · US 29.6 | 3.6#3 of 50 | 15.6#11 of 50 | -12.0-77% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -5.8 pts · US 17.16% | 7.7%#25 of 50 | 13.5%#17 of 50 | -5.8 pts | 17.16% | NH |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.1 min · US 25.2 min | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | 27.5 min#40 of 50 | +3.1 min | 25.2 min | NH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +7.2 pts · US 2.29% | 7.8%#3 of 50 | 0.6%#34 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.8%#13 of 50 | 16%#5 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 12.28% | NH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#7 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 | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#22 of 50 | 95#17 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2.7 pts · US 12.39% | 12.8%#17 of 50 | 10.1%#26 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -2 pts · US 74.3% | 63%#41 of 50 | 65%#39 of 50 | -2 pts | 74.3% | NH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$6,470 (+202%) · US $3,506 | $9,680#49 of 50 | $3,210#32 of 50 | +$6,470+202% | $3,506 | NH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.6 pts · US +4.66% | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +6.8%#11 of 50 | -5.6 pts | +4.66% | NH |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Massachusetts AA+, 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).
Massachusetts 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. Massachusetts is ahead on 12 of 51, New Hampshire on 28, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | New HampshireNH | GapMA−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,738,742 (+405%) · US 6.8 million | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | 1.4 million#41 of 50 | +5,738,742+405% | 6.8 million | MA |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,046 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | +$5,046+5% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#37 of 50 | 3.2%#7 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 3.95% | NH |
| Population growthGap -0.26 pts · US +0.51% | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.48%#24 of 50 | -0.26 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$30,458 (+44%) · US $64,333 | $99,274#2 of 50 | $68,816#15 of 50 | +$30,458+44% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +2.3%#16 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +185 (+157%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | +185+157% | 328 | NH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +213 (+26%) · US 1,535 | 1,031#6 of 50 | 818#2 of 50 | +213+26% | 1,535 | NH |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 237 | 247#1 of 50 | 242#4 of 50 | +5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 284#1 of 50 | 280#9 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 225#1 of 50 | 222#4 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 268#1 of 50 | 264#4 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.1 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#2 of 50 | 31.1%#11 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 2.8%#1 of 50 | 4.5%#4 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$145,590 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | +$145,590+28% | $368,697 | NH |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +2.9%#18 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.2% | NH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$896 (+41%) · US $1,948 | $3,074#49 of 50 | $2,178#39 of 50 | +$896+41% | $1,948 | NH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$50,068 (+39%) · US $100,006 | $177,190#48 of 50 | $127,122#39 of 50 | +$50,068+39% | $100,006 | NH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.6 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | +1.6 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.1x (+21%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#48 of 50 | 5.2x#36 of 50 | +1.1x+21% | 4.6x | NH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +5.92¢ (+24%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | 24.56¢/kWh#42 of 50 | +5.92¢+24% | 17.84¢/kWh | NH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.45 (+35%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | $18.61/Mcf#41 of 50 | +$6.45+35% | $15.83/Mcf | NH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.08 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | $3.25/gal#28 of 50 | +$0.08+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 98.8#37 of 50 | 98.6#35 of 50 | +0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,605 (+64%) · US $15,633 | $27,067#49 of 50 | $16,462#31 of 50 | +$10,605+64% | $15,633 | NH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.63 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +3.63 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +9 pts · US 5.46% | 9%#44 of 50 | none#1 of 50 | +9 pts | 5.46% | NH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.74 pts · US 1.02% | 1.15%#33 of 50 | 1.89%#48 of 50 | -0.74 pts | 1.02% | MA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.25 pts · US 6.66% | 6.25%#16 of 50 | 0%#1 of 50 | +6.25 pts | 6.66% | NH |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#22 of 50 | 95#17 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2.7 pts · US 12.39% | 12.8%#17 of 50 | 10.1%#26 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -2 pts · US 74.3% | 63%#41 of 50 | 65%#39 of 50 | -2 pts | 74.3% | NH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$6,470 (+202%) · US $3,506 | $9,680#49 of 50 | $3,210#32 of 50 | +$6,470+202% | $3,506 | NH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.6 pts · US +4.66% | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +6.8%#11 of 50 | -5.6 pts | +4.66% | NH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 37#17 of 50 | 37#15 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +10 pts · US 29.34% | 24%#23 of 50 | 14%#29 of 50 | +10 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.0 (-77%) · US 29.6 | 3.6#3 of 50 | 15.6#11 of 50 | -12.0-77% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -5.8 pts · US 17.16% | 7.7%#25 of 50 | 13.5%#17 of 50 | -5.8 pts | 17.16% | NH |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.1 min · US 25.2 min | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | 27.5 min#40 of 50 | +3.1 min | 25.2 min | NH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +7.2 pts · US 2.29% | 7.8%#3 of 50 | 0.6%#34 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.8%#13 of 50 | 16%#5 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 12.28% | NH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#7 of 50 | 95.3%#1 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 92.67% | NH |
| Households moving inIRSGap +56,720 (+213%) · US 78,682 | 83,296#17 of 50 | 26,576#38 of 50 | +56,720+213% | 78,682 | MA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +74,266 (+304%) · US 78,715 | 98,674#36 of 50 | 24,408#12 of 50 | +74,266+304% | 78,715 | NH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -17,546 · US -33 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -17,546 | -33 | NH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.6 · US +0.4 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +1.5#15 of 50 | -3.6 | +0.4 | NH |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$19,428 (-18%) · US $77,690 | $89,890#7 of 50 | $109,318#3 of 50 | -$19,428-18% | $77,690 | NH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$28,566 (+32%) · US $77,024 | $116,609#1 of 50 | $88,043#11 of 50 | +$28,566+32% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -9.3 · US +1.1 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +4.6#9 of 50 | -9.3 | +1.1 | NH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$32,009 · US -$11,758 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | -$30,212#38 of 50 | -$32,009 | -$11,758 | NH |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$7,986 · US +$31,418 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$24,216#41 of 50 | -$7,986 | +$31,418 | NH |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$8,563 · US +$35,970 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$26,342#43 of 50 | -$8,563 | +$35,970 | NH |
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 Massachusetts and New Hampshire numbers say when read together.
New Hampshire ranks higher overall
New Hampshire leads 7 of the 11 categories to Massachusetts's 4, with 0 even; Massachusetts is ahead on health and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Massachusetts is ahead on 12 and New Hampshire on 28.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 105.8 in Massachusetts and 104.2 in New Hampshire, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $661,896 and $516,306. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$62,221 a year after typical costs in Massachusetts and -$30,212 in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire takes a smaller share in taxes
Massachusetts collects 9.57% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); New Hampshire collects 5.94% (no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax).
Massachusetts pays more
Median household income is $104,828 in Massachusetts and $99,782 in New Hampshire, with unemployment at 4.5% and 3.2%. Violent crime runs 303 per 100,000 residents in Massachusetts and 118 in New Hampshire.
People move to New Hampshire on net
20,310 people moved to New Hampshire from Massachusetts in the latest Census release, against 11,286 going the other way.
New Hampshire fits families and retirees better
For families, Massachusetts ranks #9 of 50 and New Hampshire #1; for retirees, Massachusetts ranks #19 and New Hampshire #6.
Massachusetts vs New Hampshire: frequently asked questions
Is Massachusetts or New Hampshire better to live in?
Massachusetts ranks #13 of 50 overall and New Hampshire #1 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 105.8 vs 104.2); Massachusetts carries a 3.6-point higher tax burden and has a 61% higher violent crime rate. New Hampshire scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Massachusetts cheaper than New Hampshire?
Massachusetts and New Hampshire cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 105.8 vs 104.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$62,221 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Massachusetts, and -$30,212 in New Hampshire. The typical home value is $661,896 in Massachusetts and $516,306 in New Hampshire.
Which has lower taxes, Massachusetts or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has the lower tax burden: 5.94% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.57% in Massachusetts. Massachusetts's top income tax rate is 9%, its effective property tax rate 1.15% and its combined sales tax 6.25%; New Hampshire's are zero, 1.89% and 0%.
Is Massachusetts safer than New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is safer: 118 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts, per the FBI. Massachusetts ranks #27 of 50 for violent crime and New Hampshire #3. Property crime is 1,031 per 100,000 in Massachusetts and 818 in New Hampshire. The safest tracked cities are Newton, MA, and Hanover, NH.
Are homes more expensive in Massachusetts or New Hampshire?
Homes are 28% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $661,896 in Massachusetts and $516,306 in New Hampshire. Buying the typical home takes about $177,190 of household income in Massachusetts and $127,122 in New Hampshire, against median incomes of $104,828 and $99,782.
Do people earn more in Massachusetts or New Hampshire?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $99,782 in New Hampshire, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.5% in Massachusetts and 3.2% in New Hampshire. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Massachusetts's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and New Hampshire's in 0.
Are more people moving from Massachusetts to New Hampshire or from New Hampshire to Massachusetts?
10,603 households moved from Massachusetts to New Hampshire and 6,594 moved from New Hampshire to Massachusetts in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 4,009 households for New Hampshire. Movers to New Hampshire reported an average income of $134,698; movers to Massachusetts reported $84,561. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 20,310 people (±3,696) moving from Massachusetts to New Hampshire and 11,286 (±2,887) the other way, a net gain of about 9,024 people for New Hampshire beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Massachusetts or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is the better fit for retirees: #6 of 50 on the retiree index vs #19 for Massachusetts. Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes 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 +$17,779 left after typical costs in Massachusetts and +$26,342 in New Hampshire.
Which is better for families, Massachusetts or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is the better fit for families: #1 of 50 on the families index vs #9 for Massachusetts. Center-based infant care costs $27,067 a year in Massachusetts and $16,462 in New Hampshire. High school graduation rates are 90.1% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$62,221 after typical costs in Massachusetts and -$30,212 in New Hampshire.
Is New Hampshire better than Massachusetts?
Yes: New Hampshire ranks higher than Massachusetts overall, #1 of 50 vs #13, with a composite score of 83.4 to 70. New Hampshire leads 7 of 11 categories and Massachusetts leads 4, including health and education. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Massachusetts vs New Hampshire.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (10,603 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).