Massachusetts vs Rhode Island: Which Is Better to Live In?
Massachusetts ranks #13 of 50 overall and Rhode Island #19 as of the latest release. Rhode Island is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 102.3 vs 105.8), carries a 0.5-point higher tax burden, and has a 52% lower violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
- Violent crime rate is 52% lower in Rhode Island (144 vs. 303 in Massachusetts).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 30% lower in Rhode Island ($18,972 vs. $27,067 in Massachusetts).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 30% lower in Rhode Island ($2,167 vs. $3,074 in Massachusetts).
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +8 pts | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | 62.0#19 of 50 · B | +8 pts | — | MA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.5 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +3.5 pts+3% | 100 | RI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$28,076 · US -$11,758 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | -$34,145#42 of 50 | -$28,076 | -$11,758 | RI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$150,663 (+29%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | +$150,663+29% | $368,697 | RI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +159 (+110%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | +159+110% | 328 | RI |
| Median household incomeGap +$21,324 (+26%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | +$21,324+26% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,249 · US -33 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | -15,249 | -33 | RI |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Massachusetts or Rhode Island better to live in?
Massachusetts scores higher overall: 70 to 62 out of 100, #13 of 50 against #19. Massachusetts leads 4 of 11 categories, Rhode Island leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +18.4 | 15% | 59.8#10 · A | 41.4#35 · C | +18.4 pts | MA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -14.4 | 12% | 76.4#19 · B | 90.8#3 · A+ | -14.4 pts | RI |
| Health12% of scoregap +12.1 | 12% | 88.6#1 · A+ | 76.5#6 · A | +12.1 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap +38.5 | 12% | 92.0#1 · A+ | 53.5#33 · C+ | +38.5 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -16.1 | 10% | 29.3#48 · D | 45.4#43 · D | -16.1 pts | RI |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +7.1 | 8% | 50.1#39 · C | 43.0#45 · D | +7.1 pts | MA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -8.5 | 7% | 19.4#47 · D | 27.9#38 · C | -8.5 pts | RI |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -1.2 | 7% | 51.7#24 · B | 52.9#19 · B | -1.2 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -13.9 | 7% | 34.3#23 · B | 48.2#7 · A | -13.9 pts | RI |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -5.4 | 6% | 32.0#20 · B | 37.4#17 · B+ | -5.4 pts | RI |
| Environment4% of scoregap +1 | 4% | 54.4#9 · A | 53.4#10 · A | +1 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Massachusetts cheaper than Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is cheaper: cost of living index 102.3 vs 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $28,076 more a year in Rhode Island after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.5 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +3.5 pts+3% | 100 | RI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.6 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.8#37 of 50 | 97.2#30 of 50 | +1.6 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.02¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | 29.46¢/kWh#47 of 50 | +1.02¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | RI |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.40 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | $21.66/Mcf#46 of 50 | +$3.40+16% | $15.83/Mcf | RI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | $3.34/gal#38 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$8,095 (+43%) · US $15,633 | $27,067#49 of 50 | $18,972#38 of 50 | +$8,095+43% | $15,633 | RI |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$7,236 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$23,466costs $51,534 | -$7,236 | RI |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$9,596 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$12,059costs $62,941 | -$9,596 | RI |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$28,076 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | -$34,145costs $109,145 | -$28,076 | RI |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$8,634 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$26,413costs $48,588 | -$8,634 | RI |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$9,648 | $47,775 | $38,127 | +$9,648 | RI |
| ChildcareGap +$16,190 | $54,134 | $37,944 | +$16,190 | RI |
| UtilitiesGap +$168 | $5,078 | $4,910 | +$168 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$180 | $11,128 | $10,948 | +$180 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$31 | $10,466 | $10,497 | -$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,922 | $8,641 | $6,719 | +$1,922 | RI |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Massachusetts collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.57% vs 10.08%. Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Rhode Island has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +3.01 pts · US 5.46% | 9%#44 of 50 | 5.99%#32 of 50 | +3.01 pts | 5.46% | RI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.24 pts · US 1.02% | 1.15%#33 of 50 | 1.39%#38 of 50 | -0.24 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.75 pts · US 6.66% | 6.25%#16 of 50 | 7%#25 of 50 | -0.75 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 Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Homes cost 29% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $661,896 in Massachusetts vs $511,233 in Rhode Island. Buying the typical home takes about $177,190 of income in Massachusetts and $139,686 in Rhode Island; the median household earns $104,828 and $83,504.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$150,663 (+29%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | +$150,663+29% | $368,697 | RI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +3.4%#13 of 50 | -1.1 pts | +1.2% | RI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$907 (+42%) · US $1,948 | $3,074#49 of 50 | $2,167#38 of 50 | +$907+42% | $1,948 | RI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$37,504 (+27%) · US $100,006 | $177,190#48 of 50 | $139,686#44 of 50 | +$37,504+27% | $100,006 | RI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#48 of 50 | 6.1x#45 of 50 | +0.2x+3% | 4.6x | RI |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| MA | RI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,405 | $2,630 |
| Income needed vs. median | +69% | +67% |
| Five-year change | +25.3% | +33.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Boston | Providence |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $83,504, with unemployment at 4.5% in Massachusetts and 4.5% in Rhode Island. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Massachusetts's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Rhode Island's in 0.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$21,324 (+26%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | +$21,324+26% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#37 of 50 | 4.5%#38 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$36,907 (+59%) · US $64,333 | $99,274#2 of 50 | $62,367#24 of 50 | +$36,907+59% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.9%#26 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | MA |
| Population growthGap -0.15 pts · US +0.51% | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.37%#31 of 50 | -0.15 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | MA | RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | $133,650$134,986 in Providence | MA |
| Lawyers | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | $150,708$152,215 in Providence | MA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | $230,643$232,949 in Providence | MA |
| General & Operations Managers | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | $99,493$100,488 in Providence | MA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | $73,593$74,329 in Providence | MA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | $81,887$82,706 in Providence | MA |
| Registered Nurses | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | $84,974$85,824 in Providence | MA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | $46,438$46,902 in Providence | MA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | $102,402$103,426 in Providence | MA |
| Civil Engineers | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | $99,044$100,034 in Providence | MA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,980$69,098 in Boston | $57,200$57,772 in Providence | MA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | $56,064$56,625 in Providence | MA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | $71,962$72,682 in Providence | MA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,407$41,480 in Boston | $34,961$35,311 in Providence | MA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,999$75,599 in Boston | $67,652$68,329 in Providence | MA |
| Electricians | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | $64,685$65,332 in Providence | MA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | $69,039$69,729 in Providence | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | $59,125$59,716 in Providence | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | $56,037$56,597 in Providence | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | $45,732$46,189 in Providence | 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 Massachusetts safer than Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is safer: 144 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts (FBI). Property crime runs 1,031 and 911 per 100,000.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +159 (+110%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | +159+110% | 328 | RI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +121 (+13%) · US 1,535 | 1,031#6 of 50 | 911#3 of 50 | +121+13% | 1,535 | RI |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
- Westerly, RI26 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #33), with high school graduation rates of 90.1% and 83.3%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #6); life expectancy is 79.8 years in Massachusetts and 79.2 in Rhode Island.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 284#1 of 50 | 270#32 of 50 | +14 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 257 | 268#1 of 50 | 258#23 of 50 | +10 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.1 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#2 of 50 | 31.1%#12 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.8 pts · US 7.6% | 2.8%#1 of 50 | 4.6%#5 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+6%) · US 38.8 | 37#17 of 50 | 35#12 of 50 | +2 pts+6% | 38.8 | RI |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Newton, MAeducation score 96
- Westerly, RIeducation score 87
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Massachusetts #1, Rhode Island #33. Health: Massachusetts #1, Rhode Island #6.
Are more people moving from Massachusetts to Rhode Island, or from Rhode Island to Massachusetts?
6,510 households moved from Massachusetts to Rhode Island and 5,218 moved from Rhode Island to Massachusetts in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,292 households for Rhode Island. Movers to Rhode Island reported an average income of $87,849; movers to Massachusetts reported $74,105. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,568 people (±2,985) moving from Massachusetts to Rhode Island and 15,235 (±4,211) 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 | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +65,299 (+363%) | 83,296#17 of 50 | 17,997#45 of 50 | +65,299+363% | MA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +80,548 (+444%) | 98,674#36 of 50 | 18,126#8 of 50 | +80,548+444% | RI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,249 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | -15,249 | RI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.0 | -2.1#45 of 50 | -0.1#29 of 50 | -2.0 | RI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,295 (+9%) | $89,890#7 of 50 | $82,595#15 of 50 | +$7,295+9% | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$36,675 (+46%) | $116,609#1 of 50 | $79,934#16 of 50 | +$36,675+46% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.3 | -4.7#46 of 50 | -1.4#39 of 50 | -3.3 | RI |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families and small business; Rhode Island is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -7 places | #9score 79.8 | #16score 73.6 | -7 places | MA |
| RetireesGap +5 places | #19score 65.5 | #14score 68.6 | +5 places | RI |
| Remote WorkersGap +12 places | #42score 42.9 | #30score 49.3 | +12 places | RI |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +5 places | #35score 48.4 | #30score 51.4 | +5 places | RI |
| Small BusinessGap -11 places | #29score 52.7 | #40score 43.3 | -11 places | MA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #16score 55.3 | #10score 62.8 | +6 places | RI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMassachusetts (#9 vs #16)
- RetireesRhode Island (#14 vs #19)
- Remote WorkersRhode Island (#30 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsRhode Island (#30 vs #35)
- Small BusinessMassachusetts (#29 vs #40)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsRhode Island (#10 vs #16)
Which cities stand out in Massachusetts and Rhode Island?
Massachusetts has 25 tracked cities and Rhode Island has 20; the largest are Boston and Providence. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Boston666,442 people | Providence191,767 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Brooklinescore 79.5 | Westerlyscore 70.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Newton56 violent per 100K | Westerly26 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Springfieldcost index 96.1 | Providencecost index 101.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 | Providencewalkability 15.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 | Warwickcounty median AQI 31 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Newton96% graduation rate | Westerly87% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Newtonmedian income $190,304 | Cumberland Hillmedian income $130,506 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Worcester+0.9% growth | Warwick+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Massachusetts and Rhode Island compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Massachusetts carries AA+ credit rating and Rhode Island AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +12 pts · US 29.34% | 24%#23 of 50 | 12%#34 of 50 | +12 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +1.2 (+50%) · US 29.6 | 3.6#3 of 50 | 2.4#2 of 50 | +1.2+50% | 29.6 | RI |
| Public land shareGap +3.3 pts · US 17.16% | 7.7%#25 of 50 | 4.4%#37 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.3 min · US 25.2 min | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | 26.3 min#29 of 50 | +4.3 min | 25.2 min | RI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +5.7 pts · US 2.29% | 7.8%#3 of 50 | 2.1%#15 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.8%#13 of 50 | 11.6%#31 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#7 of 50 | 93.4%#17 of 50 | +1 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 | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#22 of 50 | 90#31 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.3 pts · US 12.39% | 12.8%#17 of 50 | 5.5%#44 of 50 | +7.3 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +5 pts · US 74.3% | 63%#41 of 50 | 58%#46 of 50 | +5 pts | 74.3% | MA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$4,440 (+85%) · US $3,506 | $9,680#49 of 50 | $5,240#44 of 50 | +$4,440+85% | $3,506 | RI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.9 pts · US +4.66% | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +3.1%#38 of 50 | -1.9 pts | +4.66% | RI |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Massachusetts AA+, Rhode Island AA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Massachusetts vs Rhode Island: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Massachusetts is ahead on 19 of 51, Rhode Island on 23, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | Rhode IslandRI | GapMA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,039,563 (+542%) · US 6.8 million | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | 1.1 million#44 of 50 | +6,039,563+542% | 6.8 million | MA |
| Median household incomeGap +$21,324 (+26%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | +$21,324+26% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#37 of 50 | 4.5%#38 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.15 pts · US +0.51% | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +0.37%#31 of 50 | -0.15 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$36,907 (+59%) · US $64,333 | $99,274#2 of 50 | $62,367#24 of 50 | +$36,907+59% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.9%#26 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | MA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +159 (+110%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | +159+110% | 328 | RI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +121 (+13%) · US 1,535 | 1,031#6 of 50 | 911#3 of 50 | +121+13% | 1,535 | RI |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 237 | 247#1 of 50 | 237#28 of 50 | +9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 284#1 of 50 | 270#32 of 50 | +14 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 214 | 225#1 of 50 | 216#13 of 50 | +9 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 257 | 268#1 of 50 | 258#23 of 50 | +10 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.1 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#2 of 50 | 31.1%#12 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.8 pts · US 7.6% | 2.8%#1 of 50 | 4.6%#5 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$150,663 (+29%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | +$150,663+29% | $368,697 | RI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +3.4%#13 of 50 | -1.1 pts | +1.2% | RI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$907 (+42%) · US $1,948 | $3,074#49 of 50 | $2,167#38 of 50 | +$907+42% | $1,948 | RI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$37,504 (+27%) · US $100,006 | $177,190#48 of 50 | $139,686#44 of 50 | +$37,504+27% | $100,006 | RI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.5 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +3.5 pts+3% | 100 | RI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#48 of 50 | 6.1x#45 of 50 | +0.2x+3% | 4.6x | RI |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.02¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | 29.46¢/kWh#47 of 50 | +1.02¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | RI |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.40 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | $21.66/Mcf#46 of 50 | +$3.40+16% | $15.83/Mcf | RI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | $3.34/gal#38 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.6 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.8#37 of 50 | 97.2#30 of 50 | +1.6 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$8,095 (+43%) · US $15,633 | $27,067#49 of 50 | $18,972#38 of 50 | +$8,095+43% | $15,633 | RI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +3.01 pts · US 5.46% | 9%#44 of 50 | 5.99%#32 of 50 | +3.01 pts | 5.46% | RI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.24 pts · US 1.02% | 1.15%#33 of 50 | 1.39%#38 of 50 | -0.24 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.75 pts · US 6.66% | 6.25%#16 of 50 | 7%#25 of 50 | -0.75 pts | 6.66% | MA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#22 of 50 | 90#31 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | MA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.3 pts · US 12.39% | 12.8%#17 of 50 | 5.5%#44 of 50 | +7.3 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +5 pts · US 74.3% | 63%#41 of 50 | 58%#46 of 50 | +5 pts | 74.3% | MA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$4,440 (+85%) · US $3,506 | $9,680#49 of 50 | $5,240#44 of 50 | +$4,440+85% | $3,506 | RI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.9 pts · US +4.66% | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +3.1%#38 of 50 | -1.9 pts | +4.66% | RI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+6%) · US 38.8 | 37#17 of 50 | 35#12 of 50 | +2 pts+6% | 38.8 | RI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +12 pts · US 29.34% | 24%#23 of 50 | 12%#34 of 50 | +12 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +1.2 (+50%) · US 29.6 | 3.6#3 of 50 | 2.4#2 of 50 | +1.2+50% | 29.6 | RI |
| Public land shareGap +3.3 pts · US 17.16% | 7.7%#25 of 50 | 4.4%#37 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.3 min · US 25.2 min | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | 26.3 min#29 of 50 | +4.3 min | 25.2 min | RI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +5.7 pts · US 2.29% | 7.8%#3 of 50 | 2.1%#15 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.8%#13 of 50 | 11.6%#31 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#7 of 50 | 93.4%#17 of 50 | +1 pts | 92.67% | MA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +65,299 (+363%) · US 78,682 | 83,296#17 of 50 | 17,997#45 of 50 | +65,299+363% | 78,682 | MA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +80,548 (+444%) · US 78,715 | 98,674#36 of 50 | 18,126#8 of 50 | +80,548+444% | 78,715 | RI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,249 · US -33 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | -15,249 | -33 | RI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.0 · US +0.4 | -2.1#45 of 50 | -0.1#29 of 50 | -2.0 | +0.4 | RI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,295 (+9%) · US $77,690 | $89,890#7 of 50 | $82,595#15 of 50 | +$7,295+9% | $77,690 | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$36,675 (+46%) · US $77,024 | $116,609#1 of 50 | $79,934#16 of 50 | +$36,675+46% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.3 · US +1.1 | -4.7#46 of 50 | -1.4#39 of 50 | -3.3 | +1.1 | RI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$28,076 · US -$11,758 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | -$34,145#42 of 50 | -$28,076 | -$11,758 | RI |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$7,236 · US +$31,418 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$23,466#43 of 50 | -$7,236 | +$31,418 | RI |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$8,634 · US +$35,970 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$26,413#42 of 50 | -$8,634 | +$35,970 | RI |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Massachusetts and Rhode Island numbers say when read together.
Massachusetts ranks higher overall
Massachusetts leads 4 of the 11 categories to Rhode Island's 5, with 2 even; Rhode Island is ahead on affordability and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Massachusetts is ahead on 19 and Rhode Island on 23.
Rhode Island is cheaper day to day
Rhode Island's cost of living index is 102.3 against 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). The typical home costs $661,896 in Massachusetts and $511,233 in Rhode Island. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$62,221 a year after typical costs in Massachusetts and -$34,145 in Rhode Island.
Massachusetts takes a smaller share in taxes
Massachusetts collects 9.57% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Rhode Island collects 10.08% (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Massachusetts pays more
Median household income is $104,828 in Massachusetts and $83,504 in Rhode Island, with unemployment at 4.5% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 303 per 100,000 residents in Massachusetts and 144 in Rhode Island.
Moves between the two run about even
11,568 people moved from Massachusetts to Rhode Island and 15,235 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Massachusetts for families, Rhode Island for retirees
For families, Massachusetts ranks #9 of 50 and Rhode Island #16; for retirees, Massachusetts ranks #19 and Rhode Island #14.
Massachusetts vs Rhode Island: frequently asked questions
Is Massachusetts or Rhode Island better to live in?
Massachusetts ranks #13 of 50 overall and Rhode Island #19 as of the latest release. Rhode Island is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 102.3 vs 105.8), carries a 0.5-point higher tax burden, and has a 52% lower violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Massachusetts cheaper than Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is cheaper than Massachusetts: cost of living index 102.3 vs 105.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$62,221 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Massachusetts, and -$34,145 in Rhode Island. The typical home value is $661,896 in Massachusetts and $511,233 in Rhode Island.
Which has lower taxes, Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Massachusetts has the lower tax burden: 9.57% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.08% in Rhode Island. Massachusetts's top income tax rate is 9%, its effective property tax rate 1.15% and its combined sales tax 6.25%; Rhode Island's are 5.99%, 1.39% and 7%.
Is Massachusetts safer than Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is safer: 144 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts, per the FBI. Massachusetts ranks #27 of 50 for violent crime and Rhode Island #4. Property crime is 1,031 per 100,000 in Massachusetts and 911 in Rhode Island. The safest tracked cities are Newton, MA, and Westerly, RI.
Are homes more expensive in Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Homes are 29% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $661,896 in Massachusetts and $511,233 in Rhode Island. Buying the typical home takes about $177,190 of household income in Massachusetts and $139,686 in Rhode Island, against median incomes of $104,828 and $83,504.
Do people earn more in Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $83,504 in Rhode Island, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.5% in Massachusetts and 4.5% in Rhode Island. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Massachusetts's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Rhode Island's in 0, with 4 even.
Are more people moving from Massachusetts to Rhode Island or from Rhode Island to Massachusetts?
6,510 households moved from Massachusetts to Rhode Island and 5,218 moved from Rhode Island to Massachusetts in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,292 households for Rhode Island. Movers to Rhode Island reported an average income of $87,849; movers to Massachusetts reported $74,105. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,568 people (±2,985) moving from Massachusetts to Rhode Island and 15,235 (±4,211) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is the better fit for retirees: #14 of 50 on the retiree index vs #19 for Massachusetts. Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Rhode Island has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$17,779 left after typical costs in Massachusetts and +$26,413 in Rhode Island.
Which is better for families, Massachusetts or Rhode Island?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families: #9 of 50 on the families index vs #16 for Rhode Island. Center-based infant care costs $27,067 a year in Massachusetts and $18,972 in Rhode Island. High school graduation rates are 90.1% and 83.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$62,221 after typical costs in Massachusetts and -$34,145 in Rhode Island.
Is Rhode Island better than Massachusetts?
No: Massachusetts ranks higher than Rhode Island overall, #13 of 50 vs #19, with a composite score of 70 to 62. Massachusetts leads 4 of 11 categories and Rhode Island leads 5, 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 Massachusetts vs Rhode Island.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (6,510 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).