Michigan vs New Jersey: Which Is Better to Live In?
Michigan ranks #45 of 50 overall and New Jersey #28 as of the latest release. Michigan is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.2 vs 108.8), has a 2.1-point lower tax burden, and has a 53% higher violent crime rate. New Jersey scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 6.
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 56% lower in Michigan ($73,945 vs. $167,639 in New Jersey).
- Violent crime rate is 53% lower in New Jersey (194 vs. 416 in Michigan).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 39% lower in Michigan ($1,524 vs. $2,513 in New Jersey).
| Measure | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -12.3 pts | 42.7#45 of 50 · D | 55.0#28 of 50 · C+ | -12.3 pts | — | NJ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -12.6 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 108.8#48 of 50 | -12.6 pts-12% | 100 | MI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$38,170 · US -$11,758 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$43,804#46 of 50 | +$38,170 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$314,061 (-54%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $580,353#46 of 50 | -$314,061-54% | $368,697 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.05 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 10.3%#45 of 50 | -2.05 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +222 (+115%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 194#6 of 50 | +222+115% | 328 | NJ |
| Median household incomeGap -$31,905 (-31%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $104,294#2 of 50 | -$31,905-31% | $80,903 | NJ |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.2 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 85.2%#31 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 85.62% | NJ |
| Life expectancyGap -2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 79.6#3 of 50 | -2.8 yrs | 76.9 | NJ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +10,600 · US -33 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -19,370#47 of 50 | +10,600 | -33 | MI |
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 Michigan or New Jersey better to live in?
New Jersey scores higher overall: 55 to 42.7 out of 100, #28 of 50 against #45. Michigan leads 6 of 11 categories, New Jersey leads 4, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -27.5 | 15% | 21.9#50 · F | 49.4#22 · B | -27.5 pts | NJ |
| Safety12% of scoregap -17.9 | 12% | 63.9#31 · C+ | 81.8#7 · A | -17.9 pts | NJ |
| Health12% of scoregap -22.7 | 12% | 55.4#27 · C+ | 78.1#4 · A+ | -22.7 pts | NJ |
| Education12% of scoregap -32.6 | 12% | 42.2#44 · D | 74.8#5 · A+ | -32.6 pts | NJ |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +33.7 | 10% | 73.3#22 · B | 39.6#45 · D | +33.7 pts | MI |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +23 | 8% | 56.2#32 · C+ | 33.2#49 · F | +23 pts | MI |
| Growth7% of scoregap +4.6 | 7% | 24.3#41 · C | 19.7#46 · D | +4.6 pts | MI |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +3.5 | 7% | 49.4#27 · C+ | 45.9#36 · C | +3.5 pts | MI |
| Livability7% of scoregap -1 | 7% | 24.7#41 · C | 25.7#39 · C | -1 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +11.3 | 6% | 17.8#32 · C+ | 6.5#48 · D | +11.3 pts | MI |
| Environment4% of scoregap +4.6 | 4% | 42.0#23 · B | 37.4#31 · C+ | +4.6 pts | MI |
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 Michigan cheaper than New Jersey?
Michigan is cheaper: cost of living index 96.2 vs 108.8 in New Jersey (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $38,170 more a year in Michigan after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -12.6 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 108.8#48 of 50 | -12.6 pts-12% | 100 | MI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -11.1 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 96#16 of 50 | 107.1#48 of 50 | -11.1 pts-10% | 100 | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.62¢ (-12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | 22.63¢/kWh#40 of 50 | -2.62¢-12% | 17.84¢/kWh | MI |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.29 (-23%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | $14.21/Mcf#22 of 50 | -$3.29-23% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.10 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | $3.20/gal#25 of 50 | -$0.10-3% | $3.32/gal | MI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,913 (-22%) · US $15,633 | $14,064#21 of 50 | $17,977#35 of 50 | -$3,913-22% | $15,633 | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$18,100 | +$34,427costs $40,573 | +$16,327costs $58,674 | +$18,100 | MI |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$23,545 | +$26,692costs $48,308 | +$3,147costs $71,854 | +$23,545 | MI |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$38,170 | -$5,634costs $80,634 | -$43,804costs $118,804 | +$38,170 | MI |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$20,506 | +$39,007costs $35,994 | +$18,501costs $56,499 | +$20,506 | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$28,984 | $19,753 | $48,737 | -$28,984 | MI |
| ChildcareGap -$7,826 | $28,128 | $35,954 | -$7,826 | MI |
| UtilitiesGap -$604 | $4,618 | $5,222 | -$604 | MI |
| GroceriesGap -$1,251 | $10,812 | $12,063 | -$1,251 | MI |
| TransportationGap -$314 | $9,743 | $10,057 | -$314 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$809 | $7,580 | $6,771 | +$809 | NJ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Michigan or New Jersey?
Michigan collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.25% vs 10.3%. Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; New Jersey has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.05 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 10.3%#45 of 50 | -2.05 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.1 pts · US 5.46% | 6.65%#36 of 50 | 11.75%#47 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 5.46% | MI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.98 pts · US 1.02% | 1.35%#37 of 50 | 2.33%#50 of 50 | -0.98 pts | 1.02% | MI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.6 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#13 of 50 | 6.6%#21 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 6.66% | MI |
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 Michigan or New Jersey?
Homes cost 118% more in New Jersey: a typical home value of $266,292 in Michigan vs $580,353 in New Jersey. Buying the typical home takes about $73,945 of income in Michigan and $167,639 in New Jersey; the median household earns $72,389 and $104,294.
| Measure | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$314,061 (-54%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $580,353#46 of 50 | -$314,061-54% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.1 pts · US +1.2% | +4%#7 of 50 | +3.9%#8 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$989 (-39%) · US $1,948 | $1,524#16 of 50 | $2,513#45 of 50 | -$989-39% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$93,694 (-56%) · US $100,006 | $73,945#12 of 50 | $167,639#47 of 50 | -$93,694-56% | $100,006 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.9x (-34%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#15 of 50 | 5.6x#41 of 50 | -1.9x-34% | 4.6x | MI |
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.
| MI | NJ | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,370 | $2,986 |
| Income needed vs. median | +2% | +61% |
| Five-year change | +24.1% | +35.4% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Detroit | Trenton |
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 Michigan or New Jersey?
New Jersey pays more: median household income $104,294 vs $72,389, with unemployment at 5.2% in Michigan and 5.2% in New Jersey.
| Measure | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$31,905 (-31%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $104,294#2 of 50 | -$31,905-31% | $80,903 | NJ |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#48 of 50 | 5.2%#46 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$18,494 (-25%) · US $64,333 | $55,326#40 of 50 | $73,820#9 of 50 | -$18,494-25% | $64,333 | NJ |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +2%#24 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.16 pts · US +0.51% | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.44%#26 of 50 | -0.16 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.
Is Michigan safer than New Jersey?
New Jersey is safer: 194 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan (FBI). Property crime runs 1,259 and 1,250 per 100,000.
| Measure | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +222 (+115%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 194#6 of 50 | +222+115% | 328 | NJ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +9 (+1%) · US 1,535 | 1,259#13 of 50 | 1,250#12 of 50 | +9+1% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- Rochester Hills, MI62 violent per 100K
- Clifton, NJ166 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Michigan or New Jersey?
New Jersey scores higher for education (#5 of 50 vs #44), with high school graduation rates of 81% and 85.2%. New Jersey scores higher for health (#4 vs #27); life expectancy is 76.8 years in Michigan and 79.6 in New Jersey.
| Measure | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -12 · US 273 | 270#31 of 50 | 282#5 of 50 | -12 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -11 · US 257 | 255#33 of 50 | 266#2 of 50 | -11 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.2 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 85.2%#31 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 85.62% | NJ |
| Life expectancyGap -2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 79.6#3 of 50 | -2.8 yrs | 76.9 | NJ |
| Adults with obesityGap +8.4 pts · US 34.03% | 36.1%#33 of 50 | 27.7%#4 of 50 | +8.4 pts | 34.03% | NJ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.6 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#8 of 50 | 7.7%#27 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#27 of 50 | 40#24 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Farmington Hills, MIeducation score 94.2
- Hoboken, NJeducation score 95.5
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: Michigan #44, New Jersey #5. Health: Michigan #27, New Jersey #4.
Are more people moving from Michigan to New Jersey, or from New Jersey to Michigan?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 1,831 people (±810) moving from Michigan to New Jersey and 2,646 (±1,670) 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 | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -35,853 (-33%) | 71,800#20 of 50 | 107,653#14 of 50 | -35,853-33% | NJ |
| Households moving outIRSGap -46,453 (-37%) | 80,570#33 of 50 | 127,023#41 of 50 | -46,453-37% | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +10,600 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -19,370#47 of 50 | +10,600 | MI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 | -0.9#38 of 50 | -2.0#44 of 50 | +1.1 | MI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$28,045 (-27%) | $74,145#30 of 50 | $102,190#4 of 50 | -$28,045-27% | NJ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$28,784 (-27%) | $77,943#18 of 50 | $106,727#3 of 50 | -$28,784-27% | NJ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.1 | +0.2#31 of 50 | -3.9#45 of 50 | +4.1 | MI |
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, Michigan or New Jersey?
Michigan is the better fit for retirees and remote workers; New Jersey is the better fit for families and young professionals; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +21 places | #41score 53.5 | #20score 69.6 | +21 places | NJ |
| RetireesGap -13 places | #30score 59.7 | #43score 52.6 | -13 places | MI |
| Remote WorkersGap -6 places | #43score 41.5 | #49score 29.7 | -6 places | MI |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +4 places | #47score 37.5 | #43score 41.3 | +4 places | NJ |
| Small BusinessGap -1 places | #45score 36.9 | #46score 36.8 | -1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -3 places | #32score 36.1 | #35score 34.3 | -3 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew Jersey (#20 vs #41)
- RetireesMichigan (#30 vs #43)
- Remote WorkersMichigan (#43 vs #49)
- Young ProfessionalsNew Jersey (#43 vs #47)
- Small BusinessEven (#45 vs #46)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#32 vs #35)
Which cities stand out in Michigan and New Jersey?
Michigan has 24 tracked cities and New Jersey has 20; the largest are Detroit and Newark. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Detroit638,530 people | Newark310,178 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Troyscore 69.5 | Hobokenscore 74.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Rochester Hills62 violent per 100K | Clifton166 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Battle Creekcost index 90.5 | Vinelandcost index 96 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ann Arborwalkability 13.5 of 20 | Union Citywalkability 15.5 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lansingcounty median AQI 38 | New Brunswickcounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Farmington Hills94.2% graduation rate | Hoboken95.5% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Rochester Hillsmedian income $120,694 | Hobokenmedian income $180,579 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Rapids+0.9% growth | Newark+1.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Michigan and New Jersey compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Michigan carries AA credit rating and New Jersey A+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +5 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#33 of 50 | 8%#42 of 50 | +5 pts | 29.34% | MI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -6.1 (-37%) · US 29.6 | 10.5#7 of 50 | 16.6#14 of 50 | -6.1-37% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap +6.1 pts · US 17.16% | 13.4%#18 of 50 | 7.3%#26 of 50 | +6.1 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap -7.6 min · US 25.2 min | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | 31.9 min#48 of 50 | -7.6 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -8.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#28 of 50 | 9.7%#2 of 50 | -8.7 pts | 2.29% | NJ |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.3 pts · US 12.28% | 11.2%#33 of 50 | 13.5%#19 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 12.28% | NJ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#27 of 50 | 94.8%#6 of 50 | -2 pts | 92.67% | NJ |
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 | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#39 of 50 | 80#48 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | MI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +8.3 pts · US 12.39% | 13.5%#13 of 50 | 5.2%#45 of 50 | +8.3 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 68%#35 of 50 | 55%#47 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | MI |
| State debt per capitaGap -$5,160 (-62%) · US $3,506 | $3,180#31 of 50 | $8,340#48 of 50 | -$5,160-62% | $3,506 | MI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.5 pts · US +4.66% | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +0.8%#47 of 50 | +3.5 pts | +4.66% | MI |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Michigan AA, New Jersey A+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Michigan vs New Jersey: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Michigan is ahead on 30 of 51, New Jersey on 12, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MichiganMI | New JerseyNJ | GapMI−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +579,669 (+6%) · US 6.8 million | 10.1 million#10 of 50 | 9.5 million#11 of 50 | +579,669+6% | 6.8 million | MI |
| Median household incomeGap -$31,905 (-31%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $104,294#2 of 50 | -$31,905-31% | $80,903 | NJ |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#48 of 50 | 5.2%#46 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.16 pts · US +0.51% | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.44%#26 of 50 | -0.16 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$18,494 (-25%) · US $64,333 | $55,326#40 of 50 | $73,820#9 of 50 | -$18,494-25% | $64,333 | NJ |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +2%#24 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +222 (+115%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 194#6 of 50 | +222+115% | 328 | NJ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +9 (+1%) · US 1,535 | 1,259#13 of 50 | 1,250#12 of 50 | +9+1% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.2 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 85.2%#31 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 85.62% | NJ |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 235#34 of 50 | 240#10 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -12 · US 273 | 270#31 of 50 | 282#5 of 50 | -12 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -13 · US 214 | 209#44 of 50 | 222#3 of 50 | -13 | 214 | NJ |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -11 · US 257 | 255#33 of 50 | 266#2 of 50 | -11 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 79.6#3 of 50 | -2.8 yrs | 76.9 | NJ |
| Adults with obesityGap +8.4 pts · US 34.03% | 36.1%#33 of 50 | 27.7%#4 of 50 | +8.4 pts | 34.03% | NJ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.6 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#8 of 50 | 7.7%#27 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$314,061 (-54%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $580,353#46 of 50 | -$314,061-54% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.1 pts · US +1.2% | +4%#7 of 50 | +3.9%#8 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$989 (-39%) · US $1,948 | $1,524#16 of 50 | $2,513#45 of 50 | -$989-39% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$93,694 (-56%) · US $100,006 | $73,945#12 of 50 | $167,639#47 of 50 | -$93,694-56% | $100,006 | MI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -12.6 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 108.8#48 of 50 | -12.6 pts-12% | 100 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.9x (-34%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#15 of 50 | 5.6x#41 of 50 | -1.9x-34% | 4.6x | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.62¢ (-12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | 22.63¢/kWh#40 of 50 | -2.62¢-12% | 17.84¢/kWh | MI |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.29 (-23%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | $14.21/Mcf#22 of 50 | -$3.29-23% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.10 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | $3.20/gal#25 of 50 | -$0.10-3% | $3.32/gal | MI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -11.1 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 96#16 of 50 | 107.1#48 of 50 | -11.1 pts-10% | 100 | MI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,913 (-22%) · US $15,633 | $14,064#21 of 50 | $17,977#35 of 50 | -$3,913-22% | $15,633 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.05 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 10.3%#45 of 50 | -2.05 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.1 pts · US 5.46% | 6.65%#36 of 50 | 11.75%#47 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 5.46% | MI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.98 pts · US 1.02% | 1.35%#37 of 50 | 2.33%#50 of 50 | -0.98 pts | 1.02% | MI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.6 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#13 of 50 | 6.6%#21 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 6.66% | MI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#39 of 50 | 80#48 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | MI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +8.3 pts · US 12.39% | 13.5%#13 of 50 | 5.2%#45 of 50 | +8.3 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 68%#35 of 50 | 55%#47 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | MI |
| State debt per capitaGap -$5,160 (-62%) · US $3,506 | $3,180#31 of 50 | $8,340#48 of 50 | -$5,160-62% | $3,506 | MI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.5 pts · US +4.66% | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +0.8%#47 of 50 | +3.5 pts | +4.66% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#27 of 50 | 40#24 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +5 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#33 of 50 | 8%#42 of 50 | +5 pts | 29.34% | MI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -6.1 (-37%) · US 29.6 | 10.5#7 of 50 | 16.6#14 of 50 | -6.1-37% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap +6.1 pts · US 17.16% | 13.4%#18 of 50 | 7.3%#26 of 50 | +6.1 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap -7.6 min · US 25.2 min | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | 31.9 min#48 of 50 | -7.6 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -8.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#28 of 50 | 9.7%#2 of 50 | -8.7 pts | 2.29% | NJ |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.3 pts · US 12.28% | 11.2%#33 of 50 | 13.5%#19 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 12.28% | NJ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#27 of 50 | 94.8%#6 of 50 | -2 pts | 92.67% | NJ |
| Households moving inIRSGap -35,853 (-33%) · US 78,682 | 71,800#20 of 50 | 107,653#14 of 50 | -35,853-33% | 78,682 | NJ |
| Households moving outIRSGap -46,453 (-37%) · US 78,715 | 80,570#33 of 50 | 127,023#41 of 50 | -46,453-37% | 78,715 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +10,600 · US -33 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -19,370#47 of 50 | +10,600 | -33 | MI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 · US +0.4 | -0.9#38 of 50 | -2.0#44 of 50 | +1.1 | +0.4 | MI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$28,045 (-27%) · US $77,690 | $74,145#30 of 50 | $102,190#4 of 50 | -$28,045-27% | $77,690 | NJ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$28,784 (-27%) · US $77,024 | $77,943#18 of 50 | $106,727#3 of 50 | -$28,784-27% | $77,024 | NJ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.1 · US +1.1 | +0.2#31 of 50 | -3.9#45 of 50 | +4.1 | +1.1 | MI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$38,170 · US -$11,758 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$43,804#46 of 50 | +$38,170 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$18,100 · US +$31,418 | +$34,427#18 of 50 | +$16,327#47 of 50 | +$18,100 | +$31,418 | MI |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$20,506 · US +$35,970 | +$39,007#19 of 50 | +$18,501#47 of 50 | +$20,506 | +$35,970 | MI |
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 Michigan and New Jersey numbers say when read together.
New Jersey ranks higher overall
New Jersey leads 4 of the 11 categories to Michigan's 6, with 1 even; Michigan is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Michigan is ahead on 30 and New Jersey on 12.
Michigan is cheaper day to day
Michigan's cost of living index is 96.2 against 108.8 in New Jersey (US = 100). The typical home costs $266,292 in Michigan and $580,353 in New Jersey. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,634 a year after typical costs in Michigan and -$43,804 in New Jersey.
Michigan takes a smaller share in taxes
Michigan collects 8.25% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); New Jersey collects 10.3% (high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
New Jersey pays more and is safer
Median household income is $72,389 in Michigan and $104,294 in New Jersey, with unemployment at 5.2% and 5.2%. Violent crime runs 416 per 100,000 residents in Michigan and 194 in New Jersey.
Moves between the two run about even
1,831 people moved from Michigan to New Jersey and 2,646 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
New Jersey for families, Michigan for retirees
For families, Michigan ranks #41 of 50 and New Jersey #20; for retirees, Michigan ranks #30 and New Jersey #43.
Michigan vs New Jersey: frequently asked questions
Is Michigan or New Jersey better to live in?
Michigan ranks #45 of 50 overall and New Jersey #28 as of the latest release. Michigan is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.2 vs 108.8), has a 2.1-point lower tax burden, and has a 53% higher violent crime rate. New Jersey scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 6.
Is Michigan cheaper than New Jersey?
Michigan is cheaper than New Jersey: cost of living index 96.2 vs 108.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,634 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Michigan, and -$43,804 in New Jersey. The typical home value is $266,292 in Michigan and $580,353 in New Jersey.
Which has lower taxes, Michigan or New Jersey?
Michigan has the lower tax burden: 8.25% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.3% in New Jersey. Michigan's top income tax rate is 6.65%, its effective property tax rate 1.35% and its combined sales tax 6%; New Jersey's are 11.75%, 2.33% and 6.6%.
Is Michigan safer than New Jersey?
New Jersey is safer: 194 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan, per the FBI. Michigan ranks #40 of 50 for violent crime and New Jersey #6. Property crime is 1,259 per 100,000 in Michigan and 1,250 in New Jersey. The safest tracked cities are Rochester Hills, MI, and Clifton, NJ.
Are homes more expensive in Michigan or New Jersey?
Homes are 118% more expensive in New Jersey: the typical home value is $266,292 in Michigan and $580,353 in New Jersey. Buying the typical home takes about $73,945 of household income in Michigan and $167,639 in New Jersey, against median incomes of $72,389 and $104,294.
Do people earn more in Michigan or New Jersey?
New Jersey pays more: median household income is $104,294 vs $72,389 in Michigan, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.2% in Michigan and 5.2% in New Jersey.
Are more people moving from Michigan to New Jersey or from New Jersey to Michigan?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 1,831 people (±810) moving from Michigan to New Jersey and 2,646 (±1,670) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Michigan or New Jersey?
Michigan is the better fit for retirees: #30 of 50 on the retiree index vs #43 for New Jersey. Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; New Jersey has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,007 left after typical costs in Michigan and +$18,501 in New Jersey.
Which is better for families, Michigan or New Jersey?
New Jersey is the better fit for families: #20 of 50 on the families index vs #41 for Michigan. Center-based infant care costs $14,064 a year in Michigan and $17,977 in New Jersey. High school graduation rates are 81% and 85.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,634 after typical costs in Michigan and -$43,804 in New Jersey.
Is New Jersey better than Michigan?
Yes: New Jersey ranks higher than Michigan overall, #28 of 50 vs #45, with a composite score of 55 to 42.7. New Jersey leads 4 of 11 categories and Michigan leads 6, including affordability and fiscal health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: most-searched matchup.