New Jersey vs Massachusetts: Which Is Better to Live In?
New Jersey ranks #28 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Massachusetts is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 105.8 vs 108.8), has a 0.7-point lower tax burden, and has a 36% higher violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 36% lower in New Jersey (194 vs. 303 in Massachusetts).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 34% lower in New Jersey ($17,977 vs. $27,067 in Massachusetts).
- Residential electricity price is 26% lower in New Jersey (22.63¢/kWh vs. 30.48¢/kWh in Massachusetts).
| Measure | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -15 pts | 55.0#28 of 50 · C+ | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | -15 pts | — | MA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 108.8#48 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | MA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$18,417 · US -$11,758 | -$43,804#46 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$18,417 | -$11,758 | NJ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$81,543 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $580,353#46 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$81,543-12% | $368,697 | NJ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.73 pts · US 8.74% | 10.3%#45 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | +0.73 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -109 (-36%) · US 328 | 194#6 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -109-36% | 328 | NJ |
| Median household incomeGap -$534 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $104,294#2 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$534-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.9 pts · US 85.62% | 85.2%#31 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.6#3 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,992 · US -33 | -19,370#47 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -3,992 | -33 | MA |
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 Jersey or Massachusetts better to live in?
Massachusetts scores higher overall: 70 to 55 out of 100, #13 of 50 against #28. New Jersey leads 2 of 11 categories, Massachusetts leads 8, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -10.4 | 15% | 49.4#22 · B | 59.8#10 · A | -10.4 pts | MA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +5.4 | 12% | 81.8#7 · A | 76.4#19 · B | +5.4 pts | NJ |
| Health12% of scoregap -10.5 | 12% | 78.1#4 · A+ | 88.6#1 · A+ | -10.5 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap -17.2 | 12% | 74.8#5 · A+ | 92.0#1 · A+ | -17.2 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +10.3 | 10% | 39.6#45 · D | 29.3#48 · D | +10.3 pts | NJ |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -16.9 | 8% | 33.2#49 · F | 50.1#39 · C | -16.9 pts | MA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +0.3 | 7% | 19.7#46 · D | 19.4#47 · D | +0.3 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -5.8 | 7% | 45.9#36 · C | 51.7#24 · B | -5.8 pts | MA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -8.6 | 7% | 25.7#39 · C | 34.3#23 · B | -8.6 pts | MA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -25.5 | 6% | 6.5#48 · D | 32.0#20 · B | -25.5 pts | MA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -17 | 4% | 37.4#31 · C+ | 54.4#9 · A | -17 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 New Jersey cheaper than Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is cheaper: cost of living index 105.8 vs 108.8 in New Jersey (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $18,417 more a year in New Jersey after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 108.8#48 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | MA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.3 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 107.1#48 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | +8.3 pts+8% | 100 | MA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -7.85¢ (-26%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 22.63¢/kWh#40 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -7.85¢-26% | 17.84¢/kWh | NJ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$10.85 (-43%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.21/Mcf#22 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$10.85-43% | $15.83/Mcf | NJ |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.13 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.20/gal#25 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.13-4% | $3.32/gal | NJ |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$9,090 (-34%) · US $15,633 | $17,977#35 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$9,090-34% | $15,633 | NJ |
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 JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$97 | +$16,327costs $58,674 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$97 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$684 | +$3,147costs $71,854 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$684 | NJ |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$18,417 | -$43,804costs $118,804 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | +$18,417 | NJ |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$722 | +$18,501costs $56,499 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$722 | NJ |
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 JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$962 | $48,737 | $47,775 | +$962 | Even |
| ChildcareGap -$18,180 | $35,954 | $54,134 | -$18,180 | NJ |
| UtilitiesGap +$144 | $5,222 | $5,078 | +$144 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$935 | $12,063 | $11,128 | +$935 | MA |
| TransportationGap -$409 | $10,057 | $10,466 | -$409 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,870 | $6,771 | $8,641 | -$1,870 | NJ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New Jersey or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.57% vs 10.3%. New Jersey has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.73 pts · US 8.74% | 10.3%#45 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | +0.73 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.75 pts · US 5.46% | 11.75%#47 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | +2.75 pts | 5.46% | MA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.18 pts · US 1.02% | 2.33%#50 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | +1.18 pts | 1.02% | MA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.35 pts · US 6.66% | 6.6%#21 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +0.35 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Jersey or Massachusetts?
Homes cost 14% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $580,353 in New Jersey vs $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $167,639 of income in New Jersey and $177,190 in Massachusetts; the median household earns $104,294 and $104,828.
| Measure | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$81,543 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $580,353#46 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$81,543-12% | $368,697 | NJ |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.6 pts · US +1.2% | +3.9%#8 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +1.2% | NJ |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$561 (-18%) · US $1,948 | $2,513#45 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$561-18% | $1,948 | NJ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$9,551 (-5%) · US $100,006 | $167,639#47 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$9,551-5% | $100,006 | NJ |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-11%) · US 4.6x | 5.6x#41 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -0.7x-11% | 4.6x | NJ |
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.
| NJ | MA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,986 | $3,405 |
| Income needed vs. median | +61% | +69% |
| Five-year change | +35.4% | +25.3% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Trenton | Boston |
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 Jersey or Massachusetts?
Median household income is about the same, $104,294 in New Jersey and $104,828 in Massachusetts, with unemployment at 5.2% and 4.5%.
| Measure | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$534 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $104,294#2 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$534-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#46 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 3.95% | MA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$25,454 (-26%) · US $64,333 | $73,820#9 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$25,454-26% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#24 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.44%#26 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.22 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.
Is New Jersey safer than Massachusetts?
New Jersey is safer: 194 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts (FBI). Property crime runs 1,250 and 1,031 per 100,000.
| Measure | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -109 (-36%) · US 328 | 194#6 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -109-36% | 328 | NJ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +218 (+21%) · US 1,535 | 1,250#12 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +218+21% | 1,535 | MA |
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.
- Clifton, NJ166 violent per 100K
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New Jersey or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #5), with high school graduation rates of 85.2% and 90.1%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #4); life expectancy is 79.6 years in New Jersey and 79.8 in Massachusetts.
| Measure | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 282#5 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 266#2 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.9 pts · US 85.62% | 85.2%#31 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.6#3 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 27.7%#4 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.9 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#27 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#24 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | MA |
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).
- Hoboken, NJeducation score 95.5
- Newton, MAeducation score 96
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 Jersey #5, Massachusetts #1. Health: New Jersey #4, Massachusetts #1.
Are more people moving from New Jersey to Massachusetts, or from Massachusetts to New Jersey?
3,596 households moved from New Jersey to Massachusetts and 2,740 moved from Massachusetts to New Jersey in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 856 households for Massachusetts. Movers to Massachusetts reported an average income of $96,283; movers to New Jersey reported $116,211. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,536 people (±1,517) moving from New Jersey to Massachusetts and 4,041 (±1,776) the other way, a net gain of about 2,495 people for Massachusetts 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 | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +24,357 (+29%) | 107,653#14 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +24,357+29% | NJ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +28,349 (+29%) | 127,023#41 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +28,349+29% | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,992 | -19,370#47 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -3,992 | MA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.1 | -2.0#44 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +0.1 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$12,300 (+14%) | $102,190#4 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | +$12,300+14% | NJ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$9,882 (-8%) | $106,727#3 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$9,882-8% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.8 | -3.9#45 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +0.8 | NJ |
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 Jersey or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts 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 | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +11 places | #20score 69.6 | #9score 79.8 | +11 places | MA |
| RetireesGap +24 places | #43score 52.6 | #19score 65.5 | +24 places | MA |
| Remote WorkersGap +7 places | #49score 29.7 | #42score 42.9 | +7 places | MA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +8 places | #43score 41.3 | #35score 48.4 | +8 places | MA |
| Small BusinessGap +17 places | #46score 36.8 | #29score 52.7 | +17 places | MA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +19 places | #35score 34.3 | #16score 55.3 | +19 places | MA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMassachusetts (#9 vs #20)
- RetireesMassachusetts (#19 vs #43)
- Remote WorkersMassachusetts (#42 vs #49)
- Young ProfessionalsMassachusetts (#35 vs #43)
- Small BusinessMassachusetts (#29 vs #46)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMassachusetts (#16 vs #35)
Which cities stand out in New Jersey and Massachusetts?
New Jersey has 20 tracked cities and Massachusetts has 25; the largest are Newark and Boston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Newark310,178 people | Boston666,442 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Hobokenscore 74.2 | Brooklinescore 79.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Clifton166 violent per 100K | Newton56 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Vinelandcost index 96 | Springfieldcost index 96.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Union Citywalkability 15.5 of 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | New Brunswickcounty median AQI 36 | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Hoboken95.5% graduation rate | Newton96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Hobokenmedian income $180,579 | Newtonmedian income $190,304 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Newark+1.1% growth | Worcester+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New Jersey and Massachusetts compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New Jersey carries A+ credit rating and Massachusetts AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -16 pts · US 29.34% | 8%#42 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | -16 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.0 (+361%) · US 29.6 | 16.6#14 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +13.0+361% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -0.4 pts · US 17.16% | 7.3%#26 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.3 min · US 25.2 min | 31.9 min#48 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | +1.3 min | 25.2 min | MA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.9 pts · US 2.29% | 9.7%#2 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 2.29% | NJ |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.3 pts · US 12.28% | 13.5%#19 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.8%#6 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 80#48 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7.6 pts · US 12.39% | 5.2%#45 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | -7.6 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -8 pts · US 74.3% | 55%#47 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | -8 pts | 74.3% | MA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,340 (-14%) · US $3,506 | $8,340#48 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$1,340-14% | $3,506 | NJ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +0.8%#47 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New Jersey A+, Massachusetts 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).
New Jersey vs Massachusetts: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New Jersey is ahead on 16 of 51, Massachusetts on 21, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New JerseyNJ | MassachusettsMA | GapNJ−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,394,131 (+33%) · US 6.8 million | 9.5 million#11 of 50 | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | +2,394,131+33% | 6.8 million | NJ |
| Median household incomeGap -$534 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $104,294#2 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$534-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#46 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 3.95% | MA |
| Population growthGap +0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.44%#26 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.22 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$25,454 (-26%) · US $64,333 | $73,820#9 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$25,454-26% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#24 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -109 (-36%) · US 328 | 194#6 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -109-36% | 328 | NJ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +218 (+21%) · US 1,535 | 1,250#12 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +218+21% | 1,535 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.9 pts · US 85.62% | 85.2%#31 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 237 | 240#10 of 50 | 247#1 of 50 | -6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 282#5 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 222#3 of 50 | 225#1 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 266#2 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.6#3 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 27.7%#4 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.9 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#27 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$81,543 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $580,353#46 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$81,543-12% | $368,697 | NJ |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.6 pts · US +1.2% | +3.9%#8 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +1.2% | NJ |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$561 (-18%) · US $1,948 | $2,513#45 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$561-18% | $1,948 | NJ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$9,551 (-5%) · US $100,006 | $167,639#47 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$9,551-5% | $100,006 | NJ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 108.8#48 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | MA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-11%) · US 4.6x | 5.6x#41 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -0.7x-11% | 4.6x | NJ |
| Residential electricity priceGap -7.85¢ (-26%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 22.63¢/kWh#40 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -7.85¢-26% | 17.84¢/kWh | NJ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$10.85 (-43%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.21/Mcf#22 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$10.85-43% | $15.83/Mcf | NJ |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.13 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.20/gal#25 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.13-4% | $3.32/gal | NJ |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.3 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 107.1#48 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | +8.3 pts+8% | 100 | MA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$9,090 (-34%) · US $15,633 | $17,977#35 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$9,090-34% | $15,633 | NJ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.73 pts · US 8.74% | 10.3%#45 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | +0.73 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.75 pts · US 5.46% | 11.75%#47 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | +2.75 pts | 5.46% | MA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.18 pts · US 1.02% | 2.33%#50 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | +1.18 pts | 1.02% | MA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.35 pts · US 6.66% | 6.6%#21 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +0.35 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 80#48 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7.6 pts · US 12.39% | 5.2%#45 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | -7.6 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -8 pts · US 74.3% | 55%#47 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | -8 pts | 74.3% | MA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,340 (-14%) · US $3,506 | $8,340#48 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$1,340-14% | $3,506 | NJ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +0.8%#47 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#24 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | MA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -16 pts · US 29.34% | 8%#42 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | -16 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.0 (+361%) · US 29.6 | 16.6#14 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +13.0+361% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -0.4 pts · US 17.16% | 7.3%#26 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.3 min · US 25.2 min | 31.9 min#48 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | +1.3 min | 25.2 min | MA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.9 pts · US 2.29% | 9.7%#2 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 2.29% | NJ |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.3 pts · US 12.28% | 13.5%#19 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.8%#6 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +24,357 (+29%) · US 78,682 | 107,653#14 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +24,357+29% | 78,682 | NJ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +28,349 (+29%) · US 78,715 | 127,023#41 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +28,349+29% | 78,715 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,992 · US -33 | -19,370#47 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -3,992 | -33 | MA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.1 · US +0.4 | -2.0#44 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +0.1 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$12,300 (+14%) · US $77,690 | $102,190#4 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | +$12,300+14% | $77,690 | NJ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$9,882 (-8%) · US $77,024 | $106,727#3 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$9,882-8% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.8 · US +1.1 | -3.9#45 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +0.8 | +1.1 | NJ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$18,417 · US -$11,758 | -$43,804#46 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$18,417 | -$11,758 | NJ |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$97 · US +$31,418 | +$16,327#47 of 50 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$97 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$722 · US +$35,970 | +$18,501#47 of 50 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$722 | +$35,970 | NJ |
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 Jersey and Massachusetts numbers say when read together.
Massachusetts ranks higher overall
Massachusetts leads 8 of the 11 categories to New Jersey's 2, with 1 even; New Jersey is ahead on affordability and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New Jersey is ahead on 16 and Massachusetts on 21.
Massachusetts is cheaper day to day
Massachusetts's cost of living index is 105.8 against 108.8 in New Jersey (US = 100). The typical home costs $580,353 in New Jersey and $661,896 in Massachusetts. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,804 a year after typical costs in New Jersey and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts takes a smaller share in taxes
New Jersey collects 10.3% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); Massachusetts collects 9.57% (high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
New Jersey is safer
Median household income is $104,294 in New Jersey and $104,828 in Massachusetts, with unemployment at 5.2% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 194 per 100,000 residents in New Jersey and 303 in Massachusetts.
People move to Massachusetts on net
6,536 people moved to Massachusetts from New Jersey in the latest Census release, against 4,041 going the other way.
Massachusetts fits families and retirees better
For families, New Jersey ranks #20 of 50 and Massachusetts #9; for retirees, New Jersey ranks #43 and Massachusetts #19.
New Jersey vs Massachusetts: frequently asked questions
Is New Jersey or Massachusetts better to live in?
New Jersey ranks #28 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Massachusetts is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 105.8 vs 108.8), has a 0.7-point lower tax burden, and has a 36% higher violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
Is New Jersey cheaper than Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is cheaper than New Jersey: cost of living index 105.8 vs 108.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$43,804 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New Jersey, and -$62,221 in Massachusetts. The typical home value is $580,353 in New Jersey and $661,896 in Massachusetts.
Which has lower taxes, New Jersey or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has the lower tax burden: 9.57% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.3% in New Jersey. New Jersey's top income tax rate is 11.75%, its effective property tax rate 2.33% and its combined sales tax 6.6%; Massachusetts's are 9%, 1.15% and 6.25%.
Is New Jersey safer than Massachusetts?
New Jersey is safer: 194 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts, per the FBI. New Jersey ranks #6 of 50 for violent crime and Massachusetts #27. Property crime is 1,250 per 100,000 in New Jersey and 1,031 in Massachusetts. The safest tracked cities are Clifton, NJ, and Newton, MA.
Are homes more expensive in New Jersey or Massachusetts?
Homes are 14% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $580,353 in New Jersey and $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $167,639 of household income in New Jersey and $177,190 in Massachusetts, against median incomes of $104,294 and $104,828.
Do people earn more in New Jersey or Massachusetts?
New Jersey and Massachusetts pay about the same: median household income is $104,294 vs $104,828, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.2% in New Jersey and 4.5% in Massachusetts.
Are more people moving from New Jersey to Massachusetts or from Massachusetts to New Jersey?
3,596 households moved from New Jersey to Massachusetts and 2,740 moved from Massachusetts to New Jersey in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 856 households for Massachusetts. Movers to Massachusetts reported an average income of $96,283; movers to New Jersey reported $116,211. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,536 people (±1,517) moving from New Jersey to Massachusetts and 4,041 (±1,776) the other way, a net gain of about 2,495 people for Massachusetts beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, New Jersey or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for retirees: #19 of 50 on the retiree index vs #43 for New Jersey. New Jersey has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$18,501 left after typical costs in New Jersey and +$17,779 in Massachusetts.
Which is better for families, New Jersey or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families: #9 of 50 on the families index vs #20 for New Jersey. Center-based infant care costs $17,977 a year in New Jersey and $27,067 in Massachusetts. High school graduation rates are 85.2% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,804 after typical costs in New Jersey and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Is Massachusetts better than New Jersey?
Yes: Massachusetts ranks higher than New Jersey overall, #13 of 50 vs #28, with a composite score of 70 to 55. Massachusetts leads 8 of 11 categories and New Jersey leads 2, including affordability and safety. 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 New Jersey vs Massachusetts.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (3,596 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).