Texas vs Massachusetts: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Texas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 105.8), has no income tax, and has a 12% higher violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 60% lower in Texas ($10,894 vs. $27,067 in Massachusetts).
- Typical home value is 55% lower in Texas ($299,367 vs. $661,896 in Massachusetts).
- Residential electricity price is 49% lower in Texas (15.47¢/kWh vs. 30.48¢/kWh in Massachusetts).
| Measure | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -17.8 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | -17.8 pts | — | MA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.7 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -8.7 pts-8% | 100 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$62,077 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$62,077 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$362,529 (-55%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$362,529-55% | $368,697 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.8 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +42 (+14%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | +42+14% | 328 | MA |
| Median household incomeGap -$25,107 (-24%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$25,107-24% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -2.7 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +71,851 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +71,851 | -33 | TX |
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 Texas or Massachusetts better to live in?
Massachusetts scores higher overall: 70 to 52.2 out of 100, #13 of 50 against #32. Texas leads 3 of 11 categories, Massachusetts leads 8, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -17.3 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 59.8#10 · A | -17.3 pts | MA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -14.6 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 76.4#19 · B | -14.6 pts | MA |
| Health12% of scoregap -50.9 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 88.6#1 · A+ | -50.9 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap -31.3 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 92.0#1 · A+ | -31.3 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +45.1 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 29.3#48 · D | +45.1 pts | TX |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +22.1 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 50.1#39 · C | +22.1 pts | TX |
| Growth7% of scoregap +32.3 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 19.4#47 · D | +32.3 pts | TX |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -8 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 51.7#24 · B | -8 pts | MA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -10.7 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 34.3#23 · B | -10.7 pts | MA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -27.3 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 32.0#20 · B | -27.3 pts | MA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -13.6 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 54.4#9 · A | -13.6 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 Texas cheaper than Massachusetts?
Texas is cheaper: cost of living index 97.1 vs 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $62,077 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.7 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -8.7 pts-8% | 100 | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -15.01¢ (-49%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -15.01¢-49% | 17.84¢/kWh | TX |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.64 (-23%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$5.64-23% | $15.83/Mcf | TX |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.45 (-14%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.45-14% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$16,173 (-60%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$16,173-60% | $15,633 | TX |
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 | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$19,311 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$19,311 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$24,531 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$24,531 | TX |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$62,077 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | +$62,077 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$21,727 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$21,727 | TX |
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 | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$24,730 | $23,045 | $47,775 | -$24,730 | TX |
| ChildcareGap -$32,346 | $21,788 | $54,134 | -$32,346 | TX |
| UtilitiesGap -$417 | $4,661 | $5,078 | -$417 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$79 | $11,049 | $11,128 | -$79 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$1,415 | $9,051 | $10,466 | -$1,415 | TX |
| State and local taxesGap -$3,090 | $5,551 | $8,641 | -$3,090 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Massachusetts?
Texas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 9.57%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.8 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -9 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | -9 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.48 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | +0.48 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.95 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +1.95 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 Texas or Massachusetts?
Homes cost 121% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $177,190 in Massachusetts; the median household earns $79,721 and $104,828.
| Measure | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$362,529 (-55%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$362,529-55% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.9 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | -3.9 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,415 (-46%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$1,415-46% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$89,129 (-50%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$89,129-50% | $100,006 | TX |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.5x (-40%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -2.5x-40% | 4.6x | TX |
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.
| TX | MA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $3,405 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +69% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +25.3% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Dallas | 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 Texas or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $79,721, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 3.
| Measure | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$25,107 (-24%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$25,107-24% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$30,454 (-31%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$30,454-31% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +1.03 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +1.03 pts | +0.51% | TX |
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 | TX | MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | MA |
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | MA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $69,999$75,599 in Boston | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | TX |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | TX |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | TX |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | MA |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | TX |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | TX |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | TX |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | TX |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $38,407$41,480 in Boston | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $63,980$69,098 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 Texas safer than Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is safer: 303 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,031 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +42 (+14%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | +42+14% | 328 | MA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +755 (+73%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +755+73% | 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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 violent per 100K
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Texas or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #24), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 90.1%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 79.8 in Massachusetts.
| Measure | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -14 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -14 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -16 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -16 | 257 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -2.7 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap +8.6 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +8.6 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +13.9 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +13.9 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+16%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +6 pts+16% | 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).
- No city school data
- 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: Texas #24, Massachusetts #1. Health: Texas #41, Massachusetts #1.
Are more people moving from Texas to Massachusetts, or from Massachusetts to Texas?
3,394 households moved from Texas to Massachusetts and 4,218 moved from Massachusetts to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 824 households for Texas. Movers to Massachusetts reported an average income of $95,067; movers to Texas reported $110,422. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,191 people (±1,928) moving from Texas to Massachusetts and 9,454 (±2,933) 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 | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +223,944 (+269%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +223,944+269% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +152,093 (+154%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +152,093+154% | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +71,851 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +71,851 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.9 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +3.9 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$6,258 (-7%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | -$6,258-7% | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$36,250 (-31%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$36,250-31% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.8 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +6.8 | TX |
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, Texas or Massachusetts?
Texas is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Massachusetts is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +26 places | #35score 57.5 | #9score 79.8 | +26 places | MA |
| RetireesGap +14 places | #33score 58.8 | #19score 65.5 | +14 places | MA |
| Remote WorkersGap -17 places | #25score 52 | #42score 42.9 | -17 places | TX |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -7 places | #28score 53 | #35score 48.4 | -7 places | TX |
| Small BusinessGap -14 places | #15score 64.3 | #29score 52.7 | -14 places | TX |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +29 places | #45score 26.6 | #16score 55.3 | +29 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 #35)
- RetireesMassachusetts (#19 vs #33)
- Remote WorkersTexas (#25 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsTexas (#28 vs #35)
- Small BusinessTexas (#15 vs #29)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMassachusetts (#16 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and Massachusetts?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and Massachusetts has 25; the largest are Houston and Boston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Boston666,442 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Brooklinescore 79.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Newton56 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Springfieldcost index 96.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Newton96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Newtonmedian income $190,304 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | Worcester+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and Massachusetts compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and Massachusetts AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +13 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | +13 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +20.4 (+567%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +20.4+567% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -5.9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.1 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | -3.1 min | 25.2 min | TX |
| Commuters using public transitGap -6.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | -6.8 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -0.7 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 | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$7,830 (-81%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$7,830-81% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +4 pts | +4.66% | TX |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, 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).
Texas vs Massachusetts: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Texas is ahead on 26 of 51, Massachusetts on 19, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | MassachusettsMA | GapTX−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +24,555,737 (+343%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | +24,555,737+343% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap -$25,107 (-24%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$25,107-24% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +1.03 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +1.03 pts | +0.51% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap -$30,454 (-31%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$30,454-31% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +42 (+14%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | +42+14% | 328 | MA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +755 (+73%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +755+73% | 1,535 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 247#1 of 50 | -6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -14 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -14 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -13 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 225#1 of 50 | -13 | 214 | MA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -16 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -16 | 257 | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -2.7 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap +8.6 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +8.6 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +13.9 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +13.9 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$362,529 (-55%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$362,529-55% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.9 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | -3.9 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,415 (-46%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$1,415-46% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$89,129 (-50%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$89,129-50% | $100,006 | TX |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.7 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -8.7 pts-8% | 100 | TX |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.5x (-40%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -2.5x-40% | 4.6x | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap -15.01¢ (-49%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -15.01¢-49% | 17.84¢/kWh | TX |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.64 (-23%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$5.64-23% | $15.83/Mcf | TX |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.45 (-14%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.45-14% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$16,173 (-60%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$16,173-60% | $15,633 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.8 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -9 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | -9 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.48 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | +0.48 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.95 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +1.95 pts | 6.66% | MA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$7,830 (-81%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$7,830-81% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +4 pts | +4.66% | TX |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+16%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +6 pts+16% | 38.8 | MA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +13 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | +13 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +20.4 (+567%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +20.4+567% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -5.9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 17.16% | MA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.1 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | -3.1 min | 25.2 min | TX |
| Commuters using public transitGap -6.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | -6.8 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 12.28% | MA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 92.67% | MA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +223,944 (+269%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +223,944+269% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +152,093 (+154%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +152,093+154% | 78,715 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +71,851 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +71,851 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.9 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +3.9 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$6,258 (-7%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | -$6,258-7% | $77,690 | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$36,250 (-31%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$36,250-31% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.8 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +6.8 | +1.1 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$62,077 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$62,077 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$19,311 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$19,311 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$21,727 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$21,727 | +$35,970 | TX |
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 Texas and Massachusetts numbers say when read together.
Massachusetts ranks higher overall
Massachusetts leads 8 of the 11 categories to Texas's 3, with 0 even; Texas is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 26 and Massachusetts on 19.
Texas is cheaper day to day
Texas's cost of living index is 97.1 against 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $661,896 in Massachusetts. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Texas takes a smaller share in taxes
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); Massachusetts collects 9.57% (high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Massachusetts pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $104,828 in Massachusetts, with unemployment at 4.2% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 303 in Massachusetts.
Moves between the two run about even
6,191 people moved from Texas to Massachusetts and 9,454 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Massachusetts fits families and retirees better
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and Massachusetts #9; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and Massachusetts #19.
Texas vs Massachusetts: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or Massachusetts better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. Texas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 105.8), has no income tax, and has a 12% higher violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Texas cheaper than Massachusetts?
Texas is cheaper than Massachusetts: cost of living index 97.1 vs 105.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and -$62,221 in Massachusetts. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $661,896 in Massachusetts.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Massachusetts?
Texas has the lower tax burden: 7.77% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.57% in Massachusetts. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; Massachusetts's are 9%, 1.15% and 6.25%.
Is Texas safer than Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is safer: 303 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and Massachusetts #27. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,031 in Massachusetts. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Newton, MA.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or Massachusetts?
Homes are 121% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $177,190 in Massachusetts, against median incomes of $79,721 and $104,828.
Do people earn more in Texas or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $79,721 in Texas, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 3, with 8 even.
Are more people moving from Texas to Massachusetts or from Massachusetts to Texas?
3,394 households moved from Texas to Massachusetts and 4,218 moved from Massachusetts to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 824 households for Texas. Movers to Massachusetts reported an average income of $95,067; movers to Texas reported $110,422. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,191 people (±1,928) moving from Texas to Massachusetts and 9,454 (±2,933) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for retirees: #19 of 50 on the retiree index vs #33 for Texas. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$17,779 in Massachusetts.
Which is better for families, Texas or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families: #9 of 50 on the families index vs #35 for Texas. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $27,067 in Massachusetts. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Is Massachusetts better than Texas?
Yes: Massachusetts ranks higher than Texas overall, #13 of 50 vs #32, with a composite score of 70 to 52.2. Massachusetts leads 8 of 11 categories and Texas 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 Texas vs Massachusetts.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (4,218 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).