Massachusetts vs Vermont: Which Is Better to Live In?
Massachusetts ranks #13 of 50 overall and Vermont #8 as of the latest release. Vermont is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 98 vs 105.8), carries a 2-point higher tax burden, and has a 29% lower violent crime rate. Vermont scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 2.
- Typical home value is 40% lower in Vermont ($399,053 vs. $661,896 in Massachusetts).
- Violent crime rate is 29% lower in Vermont (214 vs. 303 in Massachusetts).
- Property crime rate is 27% lower in Massachusetts (1,031 vs. 1,419 in Vermont).
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4 pts | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | 74.0#8 of 50 · A | -4 pts | — | VT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.8 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | +7.8 pts+8% | 100 | VT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$29,576 · US -$11,758 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | -$32,645#41 of 50 | -$29,576 | -$11,758 | VT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$262,843 (+66%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | +$262,843+66% | $368,697 | VT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.96 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -1.96 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +88 (+41%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +88+41% | 328 | VT |
| Median household incomeGap +$22,098 (+27%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | +$22,098+27% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.3 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +7.3 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | +1.5 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,079 · US -33 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | -15,079 | -33 | VT |
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 Vermont better to live in?
Vermont scores higher overall: 74 to 70 out of 100, #8 of 50 against #13. Massachusetts leads 2 of 11 categories, Vermont leads 7, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -6.7 | 15% | 59.8#10 · A | 66.5#4 · A+ | -6.7 pts | VT |
| Safety12% of scoregap -1.3 | 12% | 76.4#19 · B | 77.7#17 · B+ | -1.3 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +13.5 | 12% | 88.6#1 · A+ | 75.1#8 · A | +13.5 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap +39.6 | 12% | 92.0#1 · A+ | 52.4#35 · C | +39.6 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -26.4 | 10% | 29.3#48 · D | 55.7#37 · C | -26.4 pts | VT |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -1 | 8% | 50.1#39 · C | 51.1#38 · C | -1 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap -10.5 | 7% | 19.4#47 · D | 29.9#36 · C | -10.5 pts | VT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -7.5 | 7% | 51.7#24 · B | 59.2#6 · A | -7.5 pts | VT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -14.2 | 7% | 34.3#23 · B | 48.5#6 · A | -14.2 pts | VT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -23.6 | 6% | 32.0#20 · B | 55.6#4 · A+ | -23.6 pts | VT |
| Environment4% of scoregap -21.9 | 4% | 54.4#9 · A | 76.3#2 · A+ | -21.9 pts | VT |
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 Vermont?
Vermont is cheaper: cost of living index 98 vs 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $29,576 more a year in Vermont after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.8 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | +7.8 pts+8% | 100 | VT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.8#37 of 50 | 97.3#31 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +7.56¢ (+33%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | 22.92¢/kWh#41 of 50 | +7.56¢+33% | 17.84¢/kWh | VT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.06 (+39%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | $18.00/Mcf#39 of 50 | +$7.06+39% | $15.83/Mcf | VT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.03 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | $3.36/gal#41 of 50 | -$0.03-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,397 (+25%) · US $15,633 | $27,067#49 of 50 | $21,670#44 of 50 | +$5,397+25% | $15,633 | VT |
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 | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$11,086 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$27,316costs $47,684 | -$11,086 | VT |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$15,122 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$17,585costs $57,415 | -$15,122 | VT |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$29,576 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | -$32,645costs $107,645 | -$29,576 | VT |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$13,478 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$31,257costs $43,743 | -$13,478 | VT |
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 | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$16,458 | $47,775 | $31,317 | +$16,458 | VT |
| ChildcareGap +$10,794 | $54,134 | $43,340 | +$10,794 | VT |
| UtilitiesGap +$374 | $5,078 | $4,704 | +$374 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$169 | $11,128 | $10,959 | +$169 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$94 | $10,466 | $10,560 | -$94 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,876 | $8,641 | $6,765 | +$1,876 | VT |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Massachusetts or Vermont?
Massachusetts collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.57% vs 11.53%. Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Vermont has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.96 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -1.96 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.25 pts · US 5.46% | 9%#44 of 50 | 8.75%#42 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.63 pts · US 1.02% | 1.15%#33 of 50 | 1.78%#46 of 50 | -0.63 pts | 1.02% | MA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.14 pts · US 6.66% | 6.25%#16 of 50 | 6.39%#19 of 50 | -0.14 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 Massachusetts or Vermont?
Homes cost 66% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $661,896 in Massachusetts vs $399,053 in Vermont. Buying the typical home takes about $177,190 of income in Massachusetts and $114,846 in Vermont; the median household earns $104,828 and $82,730.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$262,843 (+66%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | +$262,843+66% | $368,697 | VT |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.3 pts · US +1.2% | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +1%#36 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$759 (+33%) · US $1,948 | $3,074#49 of 50 | $2,315#42 of 50 | +$759+33% | $1,948 | VT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$62,344 (+54%) · US $100,006 | $177,190#48 of 50 | $114,846#35 of 50 | +$62,344+54% | $100,006 | VT |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+31%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#48 of 50 | 4.8x#32 of 50 | +1.5x+31% | 4.6x | VT |
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 | VT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,405 | $2,053 |
| Income needed vs. median | +69% | +39% |
| Five-year change | +25.3% | +18.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Boston | Burlington |
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 Vermont?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $82,730, with unemployment at 4.5% in Massachusetts and 2.7% in Vermont. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Massachusetts's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Vermont's in 0.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$22,098 (+27%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | +$22,098+27% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#37 of 50 | 2.7%#4 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 3.95% | VT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$43,117 (+77%) · US $64,333 | $99,274#2 of 50 | $56,157#38 of 50 | +$43,117+77% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.5%#35 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | MA |
| Population growthGap +0.51 pts · US +0.51% | +0.22%#38 of 50 | -0.29%#50 of 50 | +0.51 pts | +0.51% | MA |
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 | VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | $124,500$120,765 in Burlington | MA |
| Lawyers | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | $149,081$144,609 in Burlington | MA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | $222,619$215,940 in Burlington | MA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | $74,581$72,344 in Burlington | MA |
| General & Operations Managers | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | $98,267$95,319 in Burlington | MA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | $71,124$68,990 in Burlington | MA |
| Civil Engineers | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | $94,861$92,015 in Burlington | MA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | $52,637$51,058 in Burlington | MA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,980$69,098 in Boston | $54,488$52,853 in Burlington | MA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | $68,154$66,109 in Burlington | MA |
| Registered Nurses | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | $86,787$84,183 in Burlington | MA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | $47,763$46,330 in Burlington | MA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,999$75,599 in Boston | $62,471$60,597 in Burlington | MA |
| Electricians | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | $60,122$58,318 in Burlington | MA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,407$41,480 in Boston | $31,977$31,018 in Burlington | MA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | $51,323$49,783 in Burlington | MA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | $104,421$101,288 in Burlington | MA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | $65,330$63,370 in Burlington | MA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | $56,852$55,146 in Burlington | MA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | $43,605$42,297 in Burlington | MA |
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 Vermont?
Vermont is safer: 214 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts (FBI). Property crime runs 1,031 and 1,419 per 100,000.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +88 (+41%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +88+41% | 328 | VT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -388 (-27%) · US 1,535 | 1,031#6 of 50 | 1,419#24 of 50 | -388-27% | 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.
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
- Middlebury, VT54 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Massachusetts or Vermont?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #35), with high school graduation rates of 90.1% and 82.8%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #8); life expectancy is 79.8 years in Massachusetts and 78.3 in Vermont.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 284#1 of 50 | 276#21 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +11 · US 257 | 268#1 of 50 | 257#25 of 50 | +11 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.3 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +7.3 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | +1.5 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#2 of 50 | 29%#5 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.4 pts · US 7.6% | 2.8%#1 of 50 | 4.2%#3 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+9%) · US 38.8 | 37#17 of 50 | 34#7 of 50 | +3 pts+9% | 38.8 | VT |
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
- No city school data
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, Vermont #35. Health: Massachusetts #1, Vermont #8.
Are more people moving from Massachusetts to Vermont, or from Vermont to Massachusetts?
1,540 households moved from Massachusetts to Vermont and 1,339 moved from Vermont to Massachusetts in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 201 households for Vermont. Movers to Vermont reported an average income of $111,887; movers to Massachusetts reported $71,745. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,274 people (±1,447) moving from Massachusetts to Vermont and 1,734 (±600) the other way, a net gain of about 2,540 people for Vermont beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +72,019 (+639%) | 83,296#17 of 50 | 11,277#50 of 50 | +72,019+639% | MA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +87,098 (+752%) | 98,674#36 of 50 | 11,576#1 of 50 | +87,098+752% | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,079 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | -15,079 | VT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.6 | -2.1#45 of 50 | -0.5#32 of 50 | -1.6 | VT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,791 (+9%) | $89,890#7 of 50 | $82,099#18 of 50 | +$7,791+9% | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$44,673 (+62%) | $116,609#1 of 50 | $71,936#28 of 50 | +$44,673+62% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.6 | -4.7#46 of 50 | -1.1#37 of 50 | -3.6 | VT |
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 Vermont?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families; Vermont is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -4 places | #9score 79.8 | #13score 78.7 | -4 places | MA |
| RetireesGap +14 places | #19score 65.5 | #5score 78.9 | +14 places | VT |
| Remote WorkersGap +35 places | #42score 42.9 | #7score 70.3 | +35 places | VT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +25 places | #35score 48.4 | #10score 65.8 | +25 places | VT |
| Small BusinessGap +7 places | #29score 52.7 | #22score 59.3 | +7 places | VT |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +13 places | #16score 55.3 | #3score 81.1 | +13 places | VT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMassachusetts (#9 vs #13)
- RetireesVermont (#5 vs #19)
- Remote WorkersVermont (#7 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsVermont (#10 vs #35)
- Small BusinessVermont (#22 vs #29)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVermont (#3 vs #16)
Which cities stand out in Massachusetts and Vermont?
Massachusetts has 25 tracked cities and Vermont has 20; the largest are Boston and Burlington. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Boston666,442 people | Burlington44,675 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Brooklinescore 79.5 | Middleburyscore 76.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Newton56 violent per 100K | Middlebury54 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Springfieldcost index 96.1 | Rutlandcost index 96.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 | Benningtonwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 | Brattleborocounty median AQI 15 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Newton96% graduation rate | — |
| Richest citymedian household income | Newtonmedian income $190,304 | Shelburnemedian income $109,583 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Worcester+0.9% growth | Essex Junction+2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Massachusetts and Vermont compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Massachusetts carries AA+ credit rating and Vermont AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -75 pts · US 29.34% | 24%#23 of 50 | 99%#1 of 50 | -75 pts | 29.34% | VT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.8 (-78%) · US 29.6 | 3.6#3 of 50 | 16.4#13 of 50 | -12.8-78% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -10.2 pts · US 17.16% | 7.7%#25 of 50 | 17.9%#14 of 50 | -10.2 pts | 17.16% | VT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.7 min · US 25.2 min | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | 23.9 min#17 of 50 | +6.7 min | 25.2 min | VT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.4 pts · US 2.29% | 7.8%#3 of 50 | 1.4%#19 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.8%#13 of 50 | 16%#6 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 12.28% | VT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.7 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#7 of 50 | 92.7%#28 of 50 | +1.7 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 | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#22 of 50 | 95#21 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.7 pts · US 12.39% | 12.8%#17 of 50 | 13.5%#12 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 12.39% | VT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 63%#41 of 50 | 68%#34 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | VT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,300 (+121%) · US $3,506 | $9,680#49 of 50 | $4,380#41 of 50 | +$5,300+121% | $3,506 | VT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3 pts · US +4.66% | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +4.2%#30 of 50 | -3 pts | +4.66% | VT |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Massachusetts AA+, Vermont 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 Vermont: 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 18 of 51, Vermont on 25, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MassachusettsMA | VermontVT | GapMA−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,509,421 (+1,010%) · US 6.8 million | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | 644,663#49 of 50 | +6,509,421+1,010% | 6.8 million | MA |
| Median household incomeGap +$22,098 (+27%) · US $80,903 | $104,828#1 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | +$22,098+27% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#37 of 50 | 2.7%#4 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 3.95% | VT |
| Population growthGap +0.51 pts · US +0.51% | +0.22%#38 of 50 | -0.29%#50 of 50 | +0.51 pts | +0.51% | MA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$43,117 (+77%) · US $64,333 | $99,274#2 of 50 | $56,157#38 of 50 | +$43,117+77% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +1.5%#35 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | MA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +88 (+41%) · US 328 | 303#27 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +88+41% | 328 | VT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -388 (-27%) · US 1,535 | 1,031#6 of 50 | 1,419#24 of 50 | -388-27% | 1,535 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.3 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#4 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +7.3 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +12 · US 237 | 247#1 of 50 | 235#36 of 50 | +12 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 284#1 of 50 | 276#21 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +12 · US 214 | 225#1 of 50 | 213#36 of 50 | +12 | 214 | MA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +11 · US 257 | 268#1 of 50 | 257#25 of 50 | +11 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.8#2 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | +1.5 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#2 of 50 | 29%#5 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.4 pts · US 7.6% | 2.8%#1 of 50 | 4.2%#3 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$262,843 (+66%) · US $368,697 | $661,896#48 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | +$262,843+66% | $368,697 | VT |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.3 pts · US +1.2% | +2.3%#23 of 50 | +1%#36 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$759 (+33%) · US $1,948 | $3,074#49 of 50 | $2,315#42 of 50 | +$759+33% | $1,948 | VT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$62,344 (+54%) · US $100,006 | $177,190#48 of 50 | $114,846#35 of 50 | +$62,344+54% | $100,006 | VT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.8 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 105.8#45 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | +7.8 pts+8% | 100 | VT |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+31%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#48 of 50 | 4.8x#32 of 50 | +1.5x+31% | 4.6x | VT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +7.56¢ (+33%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | 22.92¢/kWh#41 of 50 | +7.56¢+33% | 17.84¢/kWh | VT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.06 (+39%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | $18.00/Mcf#39 of 50 | +$7.06+39% | $15.83/Mcf | VT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.03 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | $3.36/gal#41 of 50 | -$0.03-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.8#37 of 50 | 97.3#31 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,397 (+25%) · US $15,633 | $27,067#49 of 50 | $21,670#44 of 50 | +$5,397+25% | $15,633 | VT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.96 pts · US 8.74% | 9.57%#38 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -1.96 pts | 8.74% | MA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.25 pts · US 5.46% | 9%#44 of 50 | 8.75%#42 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.63 pts · US 1.02% | 1.15%#33 of 50 | 1.78%#46 of 50 | -0.63 pts | 1.02% | MA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.14 pts · US 6.66% | 6.25%#16 of 50 | 6.39%#19 of 50 | -0.14 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#22 of 50 | 95#21 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.7 pts · US 12.39% | 12.8%#17 of 50 | 13.5%#12 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 12.39% | VT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 63%#41 of 50 | 68%#34 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | VT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,300 (+121%) · US $3,506 | $9,680#49 of 50 | $4,380#41 of 50 | +$5,300+121% | $3,506 | VT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3 pts · US +4.66% | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +4.2%#30 of 50 | -3 pts | +4.66% | VT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+9%) · US 38.8 | 37#17 of 50 | 34#7 of 50 | +3 pts+9% | 38.8 | VT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -75 pts · US 29.34% | 24%#23 of 50 | 99%#1 of 50 | -75 pts | 29.34% | VT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.8 (-78%) · US 29.6 | 3.6#3 of 50 | 16.4#13 of 50 | -12.8-78% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap -10.2 pts · US 17.16% | 7.7%#25 of 50 | 17.9%#14 of 50 | -10.2 pts | 17.16% | VT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.7 min · US 25.2 min | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | 23.9 min#17 of 50 | +6.7 min | 25.2 min | VT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.4 pts · US 2.29% | 7.8%#3 of 50 | 1.4%#19 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.8%#13 of 50 | 16%#6 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 12.28% | VT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.7 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#7 of 50 | 92.7%#28 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 92.67% | MA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +72,019 (+639%) · US 78,682 | 83,296#17 of 50 | 11,277#50 of 50 | +72,019+639% | 78,682 | MA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +87,098 (+752%) · US 78,715 | 98,674#36 of 50 | 11,576#1 of 50 | +87,098+752% | 78,715 | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,079 · US -33 | -15,378#46 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | -15,079 | -33 | VT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.6 · US +0.4 | -2.1#45 of 50 | -0.5#32 of 50 | -1.6 | +0.4 | VT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,791 (+9%) · US $77,690 | $89,890#7 of 50 | $82,099#18 of 50 | +$7,791+9% | $77,690 | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$44,673 (+62%) · US $77,024 | $116,609#1 of 50 | $71,936#28 of 50 | +$44,673+62% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.6 · US +1.1 | -4.7#46 of 50 | -1.1#37 of 50 | -3.6 | +1.1 | VT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$29,576 · US -$11,758 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | -$32,645#41 of 50 | -$29,576 | -$11,758 | VT |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$11,086 · US +$31,418 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$27,316#34 of 50 | -$11,086 | +$31,418 | VT |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$13,478 · US +$35,970 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$31,257#35 of 50 | -$13,478 | +$35,970 | VT |
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 Vermont numbers say when read together.
Vermont ranks higher overall
Vermont leads 7 of the 11 categories to Massachusetts's 2, with 2 even; Massachusetts is ahead on education and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Massachusetts is ahead on 18 and Vermont on 25.
Vermont is cheaper day to day
Vermont's cost of living index is 98 against 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). The typical home costs $661,896 in Massachusetts and $399,053 in Vermont. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$62,221 a year after typical costs in Massachusetts and -$32,645 in Vermont.
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); Vermont collects 11.53% (high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
Massachusetts pays more
Median household income is $104,828 in Massachusetts and $82,730 in Vermont, with unemployment at 4.5% and 2.7%. Violent crime runs 303 per 100,000 residents in Massachusetts and 214 in Vermont.
People move to Vermont on net
4,274 people moved to Vermont from Massachusetts in the latest Census release, against 1,734 going the other way.
Massachusetts for families, Vermont for retirees
For families, Massachusetts ranks #9 of 50 and Vermont #13; for retirees, Massachusetts ranks #19 and Vermont #5.
Massachusetts vs Vermont: frequently asked questions
Is Massachusetts or Vermont better to live in?
Massachusetts ranks #13 of 50 overall and Vermont #8 as of the latest release. Vermont is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 98 vs 105.8), carries a 2-point higher tax burden, and has a 29% lower violent crime rate. Vermont scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Massachusetts cheaper than Vermont?
Vermont is cheaper than Massachusetts: cost of living index 98 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 -$32,645 in Vermont. The typical home value is $661,896 in Massachusetts and $399,053 in Vermont.
Which has lower taxes, Massachusetts or Vermont?
Massachusetts has the lower tax burden: 9.57% of income in state and local taxes vs 11.53% in Vermont. Massachusetts's top income tax rate is 9%, its effective property tax rate 1.15% and its combined sales tax 6.25%; Vermont's are 8.75%, 1.78% and 6.39%.
Is Massachusetts safer than Vermont?
Vermont is safer: 214 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 303 in Massachusetts, per the FBI. Massachusetts ranks #27 of 50 for violent crime and Vermont #10. Property crime is 1,031 per 100,000 in Massachusetts and 1,419 in Vermont. The safest tracked cities are Newton, MA, and Middlebury, VT.
Are homes more expensive in Massachusetts or Vermont?
Homes are 66% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $661,896 in Massachusetts and $399,053 in Vermont. Buying the typical home takes about $177,190 of household income in Massachusetts and $114,846 in Vermont, against median incomes of $104,828 and $82,730.
Do people earn more in Massachusetts or Vermont?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $82,730 in Vermont, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.5% in Massachusetts and 2.7% in Vermont. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Massachusetts's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Vermont's in 0.
Are more people moving from Massachusetts to Vermont or from Vermont to Massachusetts?
1,540 households moved from Massachusetts to Vermont and 1,339 moved from Vermont to Massachusetts in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 201 households for Vermont. Movers to Vermont reported an average income of $111,887; movers to Massachusetts reported $71,745. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,274 people (±1,447) moving from Massachusetts to Vermont and 1,734 (±600) the other way, a net gain of about 2,540 people for Vermont beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Massachusetts or Vermont?
Vermont is the better fit for retirees: #5 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; Vermont has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$17,779 left after typical costs in Massachusetts and +$31,257 in Vermont.
Which is better for families, Massachusetts or Vermont?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families: #9 of 50 on the families index vs #13 for Vermont. Center-based infant care costs $27,067 a year in Massachusetts and $21,670 in Vermont. High school graduation rates are 90.1% and 82.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$62,221 after typical costs in Massachusetts and -$32,645 in Vermont.
Is Vermont better than Massachusetts?
Yes: Vermont ranks higher than Massachusetts overall, #8 of 50 vs #13, with a composite score of 74 to 70. Vermont leads 7 of 11 categories and Massachusetts leads 2, including education and health. 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 Vermont.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.