New York vs New Hampshire: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and New Hampshire #1 as of the latest release. New Hampshire is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 104.2 vs 107.9), has no income tax, and has a 68% lower violent crime rate. New Hampshire scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 68% lower in New Hampshire (118 vs. 368 in New York).
- Total tax burden is 56% lower in New Hampshire (5.94% vs. 13.56% in New York).
- Property crime rate is 48% lower in New Hampshire (818 vs. 1,575 in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -28.5 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 83.4#1 of 50 · A+ | -28.5 pts | — | NH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.7 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | +3.7 pts+4% | 100 | NH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$13,016 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$30,212#38 of 50 | -$13,016 | -$11,758 | NH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$10,408 (+2%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | +$10,408+2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +7.62 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +7.62 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +251 (+213%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | +251+213% | 328 | NH |
| Median household incomeGap -$13,962 (-14%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | -$13,962-14% | $80,903 | NH |
| High school graduation rateGap -1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | -1 pts | 85.62% | NH |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -74,155 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -74,155 | -33 | NH |
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 New York or New Hampshire better to live in?
New Hampshire scores higher overall: 83.4 to 54.9 out of 100, #1 of 50 against #29. New York leads 3 of 11 categories, New Hampshire leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -27.7 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 74.0#2 · A+ | -27.7 pts | NH |
| Safety12% of scoregap -31.3 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 94.3#2 · A+ | -31.3 pts | NH |
| Health12% of scoregap +5.8 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 73.9#11 · B+ | +5.8 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap -20.9 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 77.5#2 · A+ | -20.9 pts | NH |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -11.7 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 48.9#40 · C | -11.7 pts | NH |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -18.6 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 63.1#19 · B | -18.6 pts | NH |
| Growth7% of scoregap -35.9 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 49.9#12 · B+ | -35.9 pts | NH |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +6.5 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 46.1#33 · C+ | +6.5 pts | NY |
| Livability7% of scoregap -0.7 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 50.1#4 · A+ | -0.7 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -12.8 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 43.0#11 · B+ | -12.8 pts | NH |
| Environment4% of scoregap +13.2 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 45.2#21 · B | +13.2 pts | NY |
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 New York cheaper than New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is cheaper: cost of living index 104.2 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $13,016 more a year in New Hampshire after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.7 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | +3.7 pts+4% | 100 | NH |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.7 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 98.6#35 of 50 | +8.7 pts+9% | 100 | NH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.83¢ (+7%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 24.56¢/kWh#42 of 50 | +1.83¢+7% | 17.84¢/kWh | NH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.03 (-6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $18.61/Mcf#41 of 50 | -$1.03-6% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.08 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.25/gal#28 of 50 | -$0.08-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,516 (+27%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $16,462#31 of 50 | +$4,516+27% | $15,633 | NH |
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 | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,945 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$24,216costs $50,785 | -$3,945 | NH |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$3,705 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$11,819costs $63,182 | -$3,705 | NH |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$13,016 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$30,212costs $105,213 | -$13,016 | NH |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,694 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$26,342costs $48,658 | -$3,694 | NH |
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 | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$489 | $40,598 | $41,087 | -$489 | Even |
| ChildcareGap +$9,032 | $41,956 | $32,924 | +$9,032 | NH |
| UtilitiesGap +$177 | $5,179 | $5,002 | +$177 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$980 | $12,085 | $11,105 | +$980 | NH |
| TransportationGap -$251 | $9,963 | $10,214 | -$251 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$3,567 | $8,448 | $4,881 | +$3,567 | NH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 5.94% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; New Hampshire has no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +7.62 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +7.62 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +14.78 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | none#1 of 50 | +14.78 pts | 5.46% | NH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.25 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 1.89%#48 of 50 | -0.25 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +8.54 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 0%#1 of 50 | +8.54 pts | 6.66% | NH |
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 New York or New Hampshire?
Typical home values are about the same: $526,714 in New York and $516,306 in New Hampshire. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $127,122 in New Hampshire; the median household earns $85,820 and $99,782.
| Measure | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$10,408 (+2%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | +$10,408+2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.7 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +2.9%#18 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,437 (+66%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $2,178#39 of 50 | +$1,437+66% | $1,948 | NH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$13,587 (+11%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $127,122#39 of 50 | +$13,587+11% | $100,006 | NH |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+17%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 5.2x#36 of 50 | +0.9x+17% | 4.6x | NH |
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.
| NY | NH | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $2,656 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +27% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +35.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | New York | Manchester |
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 New York or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire pays more: median household income $99,782 vs $85,820, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 3.2% in New Hampshire. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and New Hampshire's in 0.
| Measure | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$13,962 (-14%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | -$13,962-14% | $80,903 | NH |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 3.2%#7 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | NH |
| GDP per capitaGap +$33,211 (+48%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $68,816#15 of 50 | +$33,211+48% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.3%#16 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.47 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.48%#24 of 50 | -0.47 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | NY | NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $139,498$146,473 in Manchester | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $130,790$137,330 in Manchester | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $212,609$223,239 in Manchester | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $59,120$62,076 in Manchester | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $74,064$77,767 in Manchester | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $99,507$104,482 in Manchester | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $95,385$100,154 in Manchester | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $82,400$86,520 in Manchester | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $90,612$95,143 in Manchester | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $32,347$33,964 in Manchester | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $52,401$55,021 in Manchester | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $61,830$64,922 in Manchester | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $64,704$67,939 in Manchester | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $79,559$83,537 in Manchester | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $54,262$56,975 in Manchester | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $55,812$58,603 in Manchester | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $66,601$69,931 in Manchester | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $56,480$59,304 in Manchester | NY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $45,985$48,284 in Manchester | NY |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $42,305$44,420 in Manchester | NY |
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 New York safer than New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is safer: 118 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 818 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +251 (+213%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | +251+213% | 328 | NH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +757 (+92%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 818#2 of 50 | +757+92% | 1,535 | NH |
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.
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
- Hanover, NH17 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire scores higher for education (#2 of 50 vs #30), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 87.7%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #11); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 78.7 in New Hampshire.
| Measure | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 280#9 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 264#4 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | -1 pts | 85.62% | NH |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.6 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 31.1%#11 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 4.5%#4 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 7.6% | NH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 37#15 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 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).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- Durham, NHeducation score 98
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: New York #30, New Hampshire #2. Health: New York #3, New Hampshire #11.
Are more people moving from New York to New Hampshire, or from New Hampshire to New York?
1,464 households moved from New York to New Hampshire and 1,238 moved from New Hampshire to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 226 households for New Hampshire. Movers to New Hampshire reported an average income of $107,564; movers to New York reported $78,013. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,115 people (±876) moving from New York to New Hampshire and 3,689 (±1,175) the other way, a net gain of about 1,574 people for New York 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 | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +165,664 (+623%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 26,576#38 of 50 | +165,664+623% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +239,819 (+983%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 24,408#12 of 50 | +239,819+983% | NH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -74,155 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -74,155 | NH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.1 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +1.5#15 of 50 | -5.1 | NH |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$15,116 (-14%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $109,318#3 of 50 | -$15,116-14% | NH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$17,940 (+20%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $88,043#11 of 50 | +$17,940+20% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.5 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +4.6#9 of 50 | -11.5 | NH |
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, New York or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is the better fit for families, 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 | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +28 places | #29score 62.6 | #1score 89.6 | +28 places | NH |
| RetireesGap +19 places | #25score 62 | #6score 78.7 | +19 places | NH |
| Remote WorkersGap +36 places | #44score 41.4 | #8score 67.7 | +36 places | NH |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +36 places | #40score 42.8 | #4score 74.9 | +36 places | NH |
| Small BusinessGap +40 places | #44score 37.5 | #4score 78.3 | +40 places | NH |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +14 places | #21score 50.9 | #7score 68.8 | +14 places | NH |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew Hampshire (#1 vs #29)
- RetireesNew Hampshire (#6 vs #25)
- Remote WorkersNew Hampshire (#8 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsNew Hampshire (#4 vs #40)
- Small BusinessNew Hampshire (#4 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew Hampshire (#7 vs #21)
Which cities stand out in New York and New Hampshire?
New York has 20 tracked cities and New Hampshire has 20; the largest are New York and Manchester. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Manchester115,643 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Hanoverscore 80.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Hanover17 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Concordcost index 100.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Hanoverwalkability 14.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Laconiacounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | Durham98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Hanovermedian income $153,281 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Dover+2.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and New Hampshire compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and New Hampshire AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +16 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 14%#29 of 50 | +16 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -11.8 (-76%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 15.6#11 of 50 | -11.8-76% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +1.6 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 13.5%#17 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.7 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 27.5 min#40 of 50 | +5.7 min | 25.2 min | NH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.6 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 0.6%#34 of 50 | +23.6 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -4.2 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 16%#5 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 12.28% | NH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 95.3%#1 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 92.67% | NH |
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 | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 95#17 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | NH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -6.3 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 10.1%#26 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 12.39% | NH |
| Pension funded ratioGap +25 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 65%#39 of 50 | +25 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$4,920 (+153%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $3,210#32 of 50 | +$4,920+153% | $3,506 | NH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.3 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +6.8%#11 of 50 | -8.3 pts | +4.66% | NH |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, New Hampshire 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).
New York vs New Hampshire: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New York is ahead on 11 of 51, New Hampshire on 30, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | New HampshireNH | GapNY−NH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +18,587,085 (+1,313%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 1.4 million#41 of 50 | +18,587,085+1,313% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap -$13,962 (-14%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $99,782#6 of 50 | -$13,962-14% | $80,903 | NH |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 3.2%#7 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | NH |
| Population growthGap -0.47 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.48%#24 of 50 | -0.47 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$33,211 (+48%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $68,816#15 of 50 | +$33,211+48% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.3%#16 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +251 (+213%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 118#3 of 50 | +251+213% | 328 | NH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +757 (+92%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 818#2 of 50 | +757+92% | 1,535 | NH |
| High school graduation rateGap -1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.7%#17 of 50 | -1 pts | 85.62% | NH |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 242#4 of 50 | -7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 280#9 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 222#4 of 50 | -7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 264#4 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 78.7#10 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.6 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 31.1%#11 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 4.5%#4 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 7.6% | NH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$10,408 (+2%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $516,306#42 of 50 | +$10,408+2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.7 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +2.9%#18 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,437 (+66%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $2,178#39 of 50 | +$1,437+66% | $1,948 | NH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$13,587 (+11%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $127,122#39 of 50 | +$13,587+11% | $100,006 | NH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.7 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 104.2#43 of 50 | +3.7 pts+4% | 100 | NH |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+17%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 5.2x#36 of 50 | +0.9x+17% | 4.6x | NH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.83¢ (+7%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 24.56¢/kWh#42 of 50 | +1.83¢+7% | 17.84¢/kWh | NH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.03 (-6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $18.61/Mcf#41 of 50 | -$1.03-6% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.08 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.25/gal#28 of 50 | -$0.08-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.7 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 98.6#35 of 50 | +8.7 pts+9% | 100 | NH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,516 (+27%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $16,462#31 of 50 | +$4,516+27% | $15,633 | NH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +7.62 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 5.94%#3 of 50 | +7.62 pts | 8.74% | NH |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +14.78 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | none#1 of 50 | +14.78 pts | 5.46% | NH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.25 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 1.89%#48 of 50 | -0.25 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +8.54 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 0%#1 of 50 | +8.54 pts | 6.66% | NH |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 95#17 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | NH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -6.3 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 10.1%#26 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 12.39% | NH |
| Pension funded ratioGap +25 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 65%#39 of 50 | +25 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$4,920 (+153%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $3,210#32 of 50 | +$4,920+153% | $3,506 | NH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.3 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +6.8%#11 of 50 | -8.3 pts | +4.66% | NH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 37#15 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +16 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 14%#29 of 50 | +16 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -11.8 (-76%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 15.6#11 of 50 | -11.8-76% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +1.6 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 13.5%#17 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.7 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 27.5 min#40 of 50 | +5.7 min | 25.2 min | NH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.6 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 0.6%#34 of 50 | +23.6 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -4.2 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 16%#5 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 12.28% | NH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 95.3%#1 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 92.67% | NH |
| Households moving inIRSGap +165,664 (+623%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 26,576#38 of 50 | +165,664+623% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +239,819 (+983%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 24,408#12 of 50 | +239,819+983% | 78,715 | NH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -74,155 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +2,168#20 of 50 | -74,155 | -33 | NH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.1 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +1.5#15 of 50 | -5.1 | +0.4 | NH |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$15,116 (-14%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $109,318#3 of 50 | -$15,116-14% | $77,690 | NH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$17,940 (+20%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $88,043#11 of 50 | +$17,940+20% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.5 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +4.6#9 of 50 | -11.5 | +1.1 | NH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$13,016 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$30,212#38 of 50 | -$13,016 | -$11,758 | NH |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,945 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$24,216#41 of 50 | -$3,945 | +$31,418 | NH |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,694 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$26,342#43 of 50 | -$3,694 | +$35,970 | NH |
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 New York and New Hampshire numbers say when read together.
New Hampshire ranks higher overall
New Hampshire leads 7 of the 11 categories to New York's 3, with 1 even; New York is ahead on environment and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New York is ahead on 11 and New Hampshire on 30.
New Hampshire is cheaper day to day
New Hampshire's cost of living index is 104.2 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $516,306 in New Hampshire. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$30,212 in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); New Hampshire collects 5.94% (no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax).
New Hampshire pays more and is safer
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $99,782 in New Hampshire, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.2%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 118 in New Hampshire.
People move to New York on net
3,689 people moved to New York from New Hampshire in the latest Census release, against 2,115 going the other way.
New Hampshire fits families and retirees better
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and New Hampshire #1; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and New Hampshire #6.
New York vs New Hampshire: frequently asked questions
Is New York or New Hampshire better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and New Hampshire #1 as of the latest release. New Hampshire is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 104.2 vs 107.9), has no income tax, and has a 68% lower violent crime rate. New Hampshire scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is New York cheaper than New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 104.2 vs 107.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$43,228 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New York, and -$30,212 in New Hampshire. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $516,306 in New Hampshire.
Which has lower taxes, New York or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has the lower tax burden: 5.94% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. New York's top income tax rate is 14.78%, its effective property tax rate 1.64% and its combined sales tax 8.54%; New Hampshire's are zero, 1.89% and 0%.
Is New York safer than New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is safer: 118 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and New Hampshire #3. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 818 in New Hampshire. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Hanover, NH.
Are homes more expensive in New York or New Hampshire?
Typical home values are about the same: $526,714 in New York and $516,306 in New Hampshire. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $127,122 in New Hampshire, against median incomes of $85,820 and $99,782.
Do people earn more in New York or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire pays more: median household income is $99,782 vs $85,820 in New York, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 3.2% in New Hampshire. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and New Hampshire's in 0.
Are more people moving from New York to New Hampshire or from New Hampshire to New York?
1,464 households moved from New York to New Hampshire and 1,238 moved from New Hampshire to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 226 households for New Hampshire. Movers to New Hampshire reported an average income of $107,564; movers to New York reported $78,013. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,115 people (±876) moving from New York to New Hampshire and 3,689 (±1,175) the other way, a net gain of about 1,574 people for New York beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, New York or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is the better fit for retirees: #6 of 50 on the retiree index vs #25 for New York. New York has high across the board; New Hampshire has no income tax, high property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$26,342 in New Hampshire.
Which is better for families, New York or New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is the better fit for families: #1 of 50 on the families index vs #29 for New York. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $16,462 in New Hampshire. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$30,212 in New Hampshire.
Is New Hampshire better than New York?
Yes: New Hampshire ranks higher than New York overall, #1 of 50 vs #29, with a composite score of 83.4 to 54.9. New Hampshire leads 7 of 11 categories and New York leads 3, including environment and transportation. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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