Pennsylvania vs Massachusetts: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 105.8), has a 1-point lower tax burden, and has a 25% lower violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical home value is 56% lower in Pennsylvania ($290,401 vs. $661,896 in Massachusetts).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 43% lower in Pennsylvania ($15,302 vs. $27,067 in Massachusetts).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 38% lower in Pennsylvania ($1,911 vs. $3,074 in Massachusetts).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -13.1 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | -13.1 pts | — | MA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.2 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -8.2 pts-8% | 100 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$50,596 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$50,596 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$371,495 (-56%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$371,495-56% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.99 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -0.99 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -76 (-25%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -76-25% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$27,283 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$27,283-26% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,283 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +3,283 | -33 | PA |
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 Pennsylvania or Massachusetts better to live in?
Massachusetts scores higher overall: 70 to 56.9 out of 100, #13 of 50 against #25. Pennsylvania leads 3 of 11 categories, Massachusetts leads 6, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -20.6 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 59.8#10 · A | -20.6 pts | MA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +1.7 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 76.4#19 · B | +1.7 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -29 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 88.6#1 · A+ | -29 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap -26.6 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 92.0#1 · A+ | -26.6 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +37.4 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 29.3#48 · D | +37.4 pts | PA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -4.5 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 50.1#39 · C | -4.5 pts | MA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +7.4 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 19.4#47 · D | +7.4 pts | PA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.2 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 51.7#24 · B | +4.2 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.1 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 34.3#23 · B | +0.1 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -12.2 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 32.0#20 · B | -12.2 pts | MA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -16.4 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 54.4#9 · A | -16.4 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 Pennsylvania cheaper than Massachusetts?
Pennsylvania is cheaper: cost of living index 97.6 vs 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $50,596 more a year in Pennsylvania after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.2 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -8.2 pts-8% | 100 | PA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -11.18¢ (-37%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -11.18¢-37% | 17.84¢/kWh | PA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$10.02 (-40%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$10.02-40% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.07 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | +$0.07+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$11,765 (-43%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$11,765-43% | $15,633 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$16,972 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$16,972 | PA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$21,918 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$21,918 | PA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$50,596 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | +$50,596 | PA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$19,350 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$19,350 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$26,059 | $21,716 | $47,775 | -$26,059 | PA |
| ChildcareGap -$23,530 | $30,604 | $54,134 | -$23,530 | PA |
| UtilitiesGap -$393 | $4,685 | $5,078 | -$393 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$67 | $11,195 | $11,128 | +$67 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$220 | $10,686 | $10,466 | +$220 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$902 | $7,739 | $8,641 | -$902 | PA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Massachusetts?
Pennsylvania collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 9.57%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.99 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -0.99 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -2.14 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | -2.14 pts | 5.46% | PA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.26 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | +0.26 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.09 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +0.09 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 Pennsylvania or Massachusetts?
Homes cost 128% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $177,190 in Massachusetts; the median household earns $77,545 and $104,828.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$371,495 (-56%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$371,495-56% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,163 (-38%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$1,163-38% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$94,296 (-53%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$94,296-53% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.6x (-41%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -2.6x-41% | 4.6x | PA |
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.
| PA | MA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $3,405 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +69% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +25.3% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | 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 Pennsylvania or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $77,545, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 8.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$27,283 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$27,283-26% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$34,489 (-35%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$34,489-35% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | -0.12 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 | PA | MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | MA |
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | MA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | MA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | MA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | MA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | PA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | MA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $69,999$75,599 in Boston | PA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | PA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | MA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | MA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | PA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | PA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $63,980$69,098 in Boston | Even |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $38,407$41,480 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 Pennsylvania safer than Massachusetts?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,031 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -76 (-25%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -76-25% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +293 (+28%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +293+28% | 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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #15), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 90.1%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #21); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 79.8 in Massachusetts.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap +7.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +3 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 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).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- 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: Pennsylvania #15, Massachusetts #1. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Massachusetts #1.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Massachusetts, or from Massachusetts to Pennsylvania?
3,335 households moved from Pennsylvania to Massachusetts and 2,973 moved from Massachusetts to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 362 households for Massachusetts. Movers to Massachusetts reported an average income of $85,874; movers to Pennsylvania reported $90,427. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,490 people (±1,672) moving from Pennsylvania to Massachusetts and 5,948 (±1,807) 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +40,329 (+48%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +40,329+48% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +37,046 (+38%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +37,046+38% | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,283 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +3,283 | PA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +1.2 | PA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$13,524 (-15%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | -$13,524-15% | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$30,967 (-27%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$30,967-27% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.5 | -0.2#33 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +4.5 | PA |
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, Pennsylvania or Massachusetts?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for remote workers; Massachusetts is the better fit for families, retirees, 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +10 places | #19score 71.8 | #9score 79.8 | +10 places | MA |
| RetireesGap +7 places | #26score 61.5 | #19score 65.5 | +7 places | MA |
| Remote WorkersGap -4 places | #38score 46 | #42score 42.9 | -4 places | PA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -2 places | #33score 49.4 | #35score 48.4 | -2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +9 places | #38score 46.1 | #29score 52.7 | +9 places | MA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +11 places | #27score 43.3 | #16score 55.3 | +11 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 #19)
- RetireesMassachusetts (#19 vs #26)
- Remote WorkersPennsylvania (#38 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#33 vs #35)
- Small BusinessMassachusetts (#29 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMassachusetts (#16 vs #27)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Massachusetts has 25; the largest are Philadelphia and Boston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Boston666,442 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Brooklinescore 79.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Newton56 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Springfieldcost index 96.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Newton96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Newtonmedian income $190,304 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Worcester+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Massachusetts compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Massachusetts AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -18 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | -18 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +9.8 (+272%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +9.8+272% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -2.1 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | -3.5 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.6 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | -1 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -2.3 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8.3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | -8.3 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -1 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | -1 pts | 74.3% | MA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$5,560 (-57%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$5,560-57% | $3,506 | PA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +4.66% | PA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania 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).
Pennsylvania vs Massachusetts: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Pennsylvania is ahead on 20 of 51, Massachusetts on 19, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MassachusettsMA | GapPA−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,905,348 (+83%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | +5,905,348+83% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$27,283 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$27,283-26% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | -0.12 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$34,489 (-35%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$34,489-35% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -76 (-25%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | -76-25% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +293 (+28%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +293+28% | 1,535 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -8 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 247#1 of 50 | -8 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -9 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 225#1 of 50 | -9 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap +7.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +3 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$371,495 (-56%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$371,495-56% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,163 (-38%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$1,163-38% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$94,296 (-53%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$94,296-53% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.2 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -8.2 pts-8% | 100 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.6x (-41%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -2.6x-41% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -11.18¢ (-37%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -11.18¢-37% | 17.84¢/kWh | PA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$10.02 (-40%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$10.02-40% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.07 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | +$0.07+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$11,765 (-43%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$11,765-43% | $15,633 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.99 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -0.99 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -2.14 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | -2.14 pts | 5.46% | PA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.26 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | +0.26 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.09 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +0.09 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8.3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | -8.3 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -1 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | -1 pts | 74.3% | MA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$5,560 (-57%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$5,560-57% | $3,506 | PA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +4.66% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | MA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -18 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | -18 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +9.8 (+272%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +9.8+272% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -2.1 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | -3.5 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.6 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | -1 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 92.67% | MA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +40,329 (+48%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +40,329+48% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +37,046 (+38%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +37,046+38% | 78,715 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,283 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +3,283 | -33 | PA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +1.2 | +0.4 | PA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$13,524 (-15%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | -$13,524-15% | $77,690 | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$30,967 (-27%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$30,967-27% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.5 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +4.5 | +1.1 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$50,596 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$50,596 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$16,972 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$16,972 | +$31,418 | PA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$19,350 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$19,350 | +$35,970 | PA |
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 Pennsylvania and Massachusetts numbers say when read together.
Massachusetts ranks higher overall
Massachusetts leads 6 of the 11 categories to Pennsylvania's 3, with 2 even; Pennsylvania is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 20 and Massachusetts on 19.
Pennsylvania is cheaper day to day
Pennsylvania's cost of living index is 97.6 against 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $661,896 in Massachusetts. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Pennsylvania takes a smaller share in taxes
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Massachusetts collects 9.57% (high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Massachusetts pays more
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $104,828 in Massachusetts, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 303 in Massachusetts.
Moves between the two run about even
5,490 people moved from Pennsylvania to Massachusetts and 5,948 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Massachusetts fits families and retirees better
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Massachusetts #9; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Massachusetts #19.
Pennsylvania vs Massachusetts: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Massachusetts better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 105.8), has a 1-point lower tax burden, and has a 25% lower violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Massachusetts?
Pennsylvania is cheaper than Massachusetts: cost of living index 97.6 vs 105.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$62,221 in Massachusetts. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $661,896 in Massachusetts.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Massachusetts?
Pennsylvania has the lower tax burden: 8.58% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.57% in Massachusetts. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; Massachusetts's are 9%, 1.15% and 6.25%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Massachusetts?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Massachusetts #27. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,031 in Massachusetts. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Newton, MA.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Massachusetts?
Homes are 128% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $177,190 in Massachusetts, against median incomes of $77,545 and $104,828.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $77,545 in Pennsylvania, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 8, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Massachusetts or from Massachusetts to Pennsylvania?
3,335 households moved from Pennsylvania to Massachusetts and 2,973 moved from Massachusetts to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 362 households for Massachusetts. Movers to Massachusetts reported an average income of $85,874; movers to Pennsylvania reported $90,427. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,490 people (±1,672) moving from Pennsylvania to Massachusetts and 5,948 (±1,807) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for retirees: #19 of 50 on the retiree index vs #26 for Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes 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 +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$17,779 in Massachusetts.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families: #9 of 50 on the families index vs #19 for Pennsylvania. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $27,067 in Massachusetts. High school graduation rates are 87% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Is Massachusetts better than Pennsylvania?
Yes: Massachusetts ranks higher than Pennsylvania overall, #13 of 50 vs #25, with a composite score of 70 to 56.9. Massachusetts leads 6 of 11 categories and Pennsylvania leads 3, including affordability and growth. 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 Pennsylvania vs Massachusetts.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (3,335 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).