New York vs Massachusetts: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Massachusetts is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 105.8 vs 107.9), has a 4-point lower tax burden, and has a 18% lower violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Property crime rate is 35% lower in Massachusetts (1,031 vs. 1,575 in New York).
- Total tax burden is 29% lower in Massachusetts (9.57% vs. 13.56% in New York).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 22% lower in New York ($20,978 vs. $27,067 in Massachusetts).
| Measure | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -15.1 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | -15.1 pts | — | MA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.1 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | +2.1 pts+2% | 100 | MA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$18,993 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$18,993 | -$11,758 | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$135,182 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$135,182-20% | $368,697 | NY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.99 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | +3.99 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +66 (+22%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | +66+22% | 328 | MA |
| Median household incomeGap -$19,008 (-18%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$19,008-18% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -56,609 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -56,609 | -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 York or Massachusetts better to live in?
Massachusetts scores higher overall: 70 to 54.9 out of 100, #13 of 50 against #29. New York leads 3 of 11 categories, Massachusetts leads 6, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -13.5 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 59.8#10 · A | -13.5 pts | MA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -13.4 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 76.4#19 · B | -13.4 pts | MA |
| Health12% of scoregap -8.9 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 88.6#1 · A+ | -8.9 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap -35.4 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 92.0#1 · A+ | -35.4 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +7.9 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 29.3#48 · D | +7.9 pts | NY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -5.6 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 50.1#39 · C | -5.6 pts | MA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -5.4 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 19.4#47 · D | -5.4 pts | MA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +0.9 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 51.7#24 · B | +0.9 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +15.1 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 34.3#23 · B | +15.1 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -1.8 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 32.0#20 · B | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +4 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 54.4#9 · A | +4 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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is cheaper: cost of living index 105.8 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $18,993 more a year in New York after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.1 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | +2.1 pts+2% | 100 | MA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.5 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | +8.5 pts+9% | 100 | MA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.09¢ (-13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -4.09¢-13% | 17.84¢/kWh | NY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$7.48 (-30%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$7.48-30% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.16 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.16-5% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,089 (-22%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$6,089-22% | $15,633 | NY |
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 | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$4,041 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$4,041 | NY |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$5,651 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$5,651 | NY |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$18,993 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | +$18,993 | NY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$4,869 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$4,869 | NY |
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 | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$7,177 | $40,598 | $47,775 | -$7,177 | NY |
| ChildcareGap -$12,178 | $41,956 | $54,134 | -$12,178 | NY |
| UtilitiesGap +$101 | $5,179 | $5,078 | +$101 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$957 | $12,085 | $11,128 | +$957 | MA |
| TransportationGap -$503 | $9,963 | $10,466 | -$503 | NY |
| State and local taxesGap -$193 | $8,448 | $8,641 | -$193 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.57% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.99 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | +3.99 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.78 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | +5.78 pts | 5.46% | MA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.49 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.29 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +2.29 pts | 6.66% | MA |
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 Massachusetts?
Homes cost 26% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $526,714 in New York vs $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $177,190 in Massachusetts; the median household earns $85,820 and $104,828.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$135,182 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$135,182-20% | $368,697 | NY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$541 (+18%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | +$541+18% | $1,948 | MA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$36,481 (-21%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$36,481-21% | $100,006 | NY |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.2x (-3%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -0.2x-3% | 4.6x | NY |
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 | MA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $3,405 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +69% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +25.3% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | New York | 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 York or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $85,820, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 0.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$19,008 (-18%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$19,008-18% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,753 (+3%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | +$2,753+3% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.21 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | -0.21 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 | MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $38,407$41,480 in Boston | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $69,999$75,599 in Boston | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $63,980$69,098 in Boston | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is New York safer than Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is safer: 303 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 1,031 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +66 (+22%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | +66+22% | 328 | MA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +544 (+53%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +544+53% | 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.
- White Plains, NY115 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 York or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #30), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 90.1%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #3); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 79.8 in Massachusetts.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -11 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -11 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 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).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- 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 York #30, Massachusetts #1. Health: New York #3, Massachusetts #1.
Are more people moving from New York to Massachusetts, or from Massachusetts to New York?
10,479 households moved from New York to Massachusetts and 11,027 moved from Massachusetts to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 548 households for New York. Movers to Massachusetts reported an average income of $99,918; movers to New York reported $96,387. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 18,697 people (±3,077) moving from New York to Massachusetts and 17,862 (±2,974) 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 | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +108,944 (+131%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +108,944+131% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +165,553 (+168%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +165,553+168% | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -56,609 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -56,609 | MA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 | -3.6#50 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | -1.5 | MA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,312 (+5%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | +$4,312+5% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$10,626 (-9%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$10,626-9% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.2 | -6.9#50 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | -2.2 | MA |
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families, retirees, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +20 places | #29score 62.6 | #9score 79.8 | +20 places | MA |
| RetireesGap +6 places | #25score 62 | #19score 65.5 | +6 places | MA |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #44score 41.4 | #42score 42.9 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +5 places | #40score 42.8 | #35score 48.4 | +5 places | MA |
| Small BusinessGap +15 places | #44score 37.5 | #29score 52.7 | +15 places | MA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +5 places | #21score 50.9 | #16score 55.3 | +5 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 #29)
- RetireesMassachusetts (#19 vs #25)
- Remote WorkersEven (#44 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsMassachusetts (#35 vs #40)
- Small BusinessMassachusetts (#29 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMassachusetts (#16 vs #21)
Which cities stand out in New York and Massachusetts?
New York has 20 tracked cities and Massachusetts has 25; the largest are New York and Boston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Boston666,442 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Brooklinescore 79.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Newton56 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Springfieldcost index 96.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | Newton96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Newtonmedian income $190,304 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% 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 York and Massachusetts compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and Massachusetts AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +0.2 (+6%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +0.2+6% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap +7.4 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | +7.4 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | MA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +16.4 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | +16.4 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -3 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | -3 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | MA |
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 | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | -9 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +27 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | +27 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,550 (-16%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$1,550-16% | $3,506 | NY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.7 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +4.66% | MA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, 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 York 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 York is ahead on 17 of 51, Massachusetts on 23, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | MassachusettsMA | GapNY−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +12,848,343 (+180%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | +12,848,343+180% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap -$19,008 (-18%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$19,008-18% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.21 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | -0.21 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,753 (+3%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | +$2,753+3% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +66 (+22%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | +66+22% | 328 | MA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +544 (+53%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +544+53% | 1,535 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -12 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 247#1 of 50 | -12 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -10 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 225#1 of 50 | -10 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -11 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -11 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$135,182 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$135,182-20% | $368,697 | NY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$541 (+18%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | +$541+18% | $1,948 | MA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$36,481 (-21%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$36,481-21% | $100,006 | NY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.1 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | +2.1 pts+2% | 100 | MA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.2x (-3%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -0.2x-3% | 4.6x | NY |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.09¢ (-13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -4.09¢-13% | 17.84¢/kWh | NY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$7.48 (-30%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$7.48-30% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.16 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.16-5% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.5 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | +8.5 pts+9% | 100 | MA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,089 (-22%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$6,089-22% | $15,633 | NY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.99 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | +3.99 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.78 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | +5.78 pts | 5.46% | MA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.49 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.29 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +2.29 pts | 6.66% | MA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | -9 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +27 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | +27 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,550 (-16%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$1,550-16% | $3,506 | NY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.7 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +4.66% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +0.2 (+6%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +0.2+6% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap +7.4 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | +7.4 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | MA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +16.4 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | +16.4 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -3 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | -3 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | MA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +108,944 (+131%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +108,944+131% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +165,553 (+168%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +165,553+168% | 78,715 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -56,609 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -56,609 | -33 | MA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | -1.5 | +0.4 | MA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,312 (+5%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | +$4,312+5% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$10,626 (-9%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$10,626-9% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.2 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | -2.2 | +1.1 | MA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$18,993 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$18,993 | -$11,758 | NY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$4,041 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$4,041 | +$31,418 | NY |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$4,869 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$4,869 | +$35,970 | NY |
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 Massachusetts numbers say when read together.
Massachusetts ranks higher overall
Massachusetts leads 6 of the 11 categories to New York's 3, with 2 even; New York is ahead on livability and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New York is ahead on 17 and Massachusetts on 23.
Massachusetts is cheaper day to day
Massachusetts's cost of living index is 105.8 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $661,896 in Massachusetts. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); Massachusetts collects 9.57% (high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Massachusetts pays more and is safer
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $104,828 in Massachusetts, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 303 in Massachusetts.
Moves between the two run about even
18,697 people moved from New York to Massachusetts and 17,862 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Massachusetts fits families and retirees better
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and Massachusetts #9; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and Massachusetts #19.
New York vs Massachusetts: frequently asked questions
Is New York or Massachusetts better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Massachusetts is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 105.8 vs 107.9), has a 4-point lower tax burden, and has a 18% lower violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is New York cheaper than Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 105.8 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 -$62,221 in Massachusetts. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $661,896 in Massachusetts.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has the lower tax burden: 9.57% 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%; Massachusetts's are 9%, 1.15% and 6.25%.
Is New York safer than Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is safer: 303 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and Massachusetts #27. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 1,031 in Massachusetts. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Newton, MA.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Massachusetts?
Homes are 26% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $177,190 in Massachusetts, against median incomes of $85,820 and $104,828.
Do people earn more in New York or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $85,820 in New York, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 0, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from New York to Massachusetts or from Massachusetts to New York?
10,479 households moved from New York to Massachusetts and 11,027 moved from Massachusetts to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 548 households for New York. Movers to Massachusetts reported an average income of $99,918; movers to New York reported $96,387. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 18,697 people (±3,077) moving from New York to Massachusetts and 17,862 (±2,974) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, New York or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for retirees: #19 of 50 on the retiree index vs #25 for New York. New York has high across the board; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$17,779 in Massachusetts.
Which is better for families, New York or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families: #9 of 50 on the families index vs #29 for New York. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $27,067 in Massachusetts. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Is Massachusetts better than New York?
Yes: Massachusetts ranks higher than New York overall, #13 of 50 vs #29, with a composite score of 70 to 54.9. Massachusetts leads 6 of 11 categories and New York leads 3, including livability and affordability. 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 York vs Massachusetts.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (11,027 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).