Pennsylvania vs New Jersey: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and New Jersey #28 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 108.8), has a 1.7-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 1.9 points apart, too close to call: Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories, New Jersey leads 4.
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 51% lower in Pennsylvania ($82,894 vs. $167,639 in New Jersey).
- Median household income is 34% higher in New Jersey ($104,294 vs. $77,545 in Pennsylvania).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 24% lower in Pennsylvania ($1,911 vs. $2,513 in New Jersey).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +1.9 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 55.0#28 of 50 · C+ | +1.9 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -11.2 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 108.8#48 of 50 | -11.2 pts-10% | 100 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$32,179 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$43,804#46 of 50 | +$32,179 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$289,952 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $580,353#46 of 50 | -$289,952-50% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.72 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.3%#45 of 50 | -1.72 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +33 (+17%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 194#6 of 50 | +33+17% | 328 | NJ |
| Median household incomeGap -$26,749 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $104,294#2 of 50 | -$26,749-26% | $80,903 | NJ |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 85.2%#31 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap -2.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 79.6#3 of 50 | -2.3 yrs | 76.9 | NJ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +7,275 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -19,370#47 of 50 | +7,275 | -33 | PA |
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 Pennsylvania or New Jersey better to live in?
Pennsylvania scores 56.9 and New Jersey scores 55 out of 100, a 1.9-point gap this site treats as even. Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories, New Jersey leads 4, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -10.2 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 49.4#22 · B | -10.2 pts | NJ |
| Safety12% of scoregap -3.7 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 81.8#7 · A | -3.7 pts | NJ |
| Health12% of scoregap -18.5 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 78.1#4 · A+ | -18.5 pts | NJ |
| Education12% of scoregap -9.4 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 74.8#5 · A+ | -9.4 pts | NJ |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +27.1 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 39.6#45 · D | +27.1 pts | PA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +12.4 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 33.2#49 · F | +12.4 pts | PA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +7.1 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 19.7#46 · D | +7.1 pts | PA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +10 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 45.9#36 · C | +10 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +8.7 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 25.7#39 · C | +8.7 pts | PA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +13.3 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 6.5#48 · D | +13.3 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +0.6 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 37.4#31 · C+ | +0.6 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than New Jersey?
Pennsylvania is cheaper: cost of living index 97.6 vs 108.8 in New Jersey (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $32,179 more a year in Pennsylvania after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -11.2 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 108.8#48 of 50 | -11.2 pts-10% | 100 | PA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -7.7 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 107.1#48 of 50 | -7.7 pts-7% | 100 | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -3.33¢ (-15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 22.63¢/kWh#40 of 50 | -3.33¢-15% | 17.84¢/kWh | PA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.83 (+6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $14.21/Mcf#22 of 50 | +$0.83+6% | $15.83/Mcf | NJ |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.20 (+6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.20/gal#25 of 50 | +$0.20+6% | $3.32/gal | NJ |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,675 (-15%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $17,977#35 of 50 | -$2,675-15% | $15,633 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$16,875 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$16,327costs $58,674 | +$16,875 | PA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$21,234 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$3,147costs $71,854 | +$21,234 | PA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$32,179 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$43,804costs $118,804 | +$32,179 | PA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$18,628 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$18,501costs $56,499 | +$18,628 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$27,021 | $21,716 | $48,737 | -$27,021 | PA |
| ChildcareGap -$5,350 | $30,604 | $35,954 | -$5,350 | PA |
| UtilitiesGap -$537 | $4,685 | $5,222 | -$537 | PA |
| GroceriesGap -$868 | $11,195 | $12,063 | -$868 | PA |
| TransportationGap +$629 | $10,686 | $10,057 | +$629 | NJ |
| State and local taxesGap +$968 | $7,739 | $6,771 | +$968 | NJ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
Pennsylvania collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 10.3%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.72 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.3%#45 of 50 | -1.72 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.89 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 11.75%#47 of 50 | -4.89 pts | 5.46% | PA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.92 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 2.33%#50 of 50 | -0.92 pts | 1.02% | PA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.26 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 6.6%#21 of 50 | -0.26 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 Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
Homes cost 100% more in New Jersey: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $580,353 in New Jersey. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $167,639 in New Jersey; the median household earns $77,545 and $104,294.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$289,952 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $580,353#46 of 50 | -$289,952-50% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +3.9%#8 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | NJ |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$602 (-24%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $2,513#45 of 50 | -$602-24% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$84,745 (-51%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $167,639#47 of 50 | -$84,745-51% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.9x (-34%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 5.6x#41 of 50 | -1.9x-34% | 4.6x | PA |
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.
| PA | NJ | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $2,986 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +61% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +35.4% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | 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 Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
New Jersey pays more: median household income $104,294 vs $77,545, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 5.2% in New Jersey.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$26,749 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $104,294#2 of 50 | -$26,749-26% | $80,903 | NJ |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 5.2%#46 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | PA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$9,035 (-12%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $73,820#9 of 50 | -$9,035-12% | $64,333 | NJ |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2%#24 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.34 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.44%#26 of 50 | -0.34 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 Pennsylvania safer than New Jersey?
New Jersey is safer: 194 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 227 in Pennsylvania (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,250 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +33 (+17%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 194#6 of 50 | +33+17% | 328 | NJ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +74 (+6%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,250#12 of 50 | +74+6% | 1,535 | NJ |
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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Clifton, NJ166 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
New Jersey scores higher for education (#5 of 50 vs #15), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 85.2%. New Jersey scores higher for health (#4 vs #21); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 79.6 in New Jersey.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 282#5 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 266#2 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 85.2%#31 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap -2.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 79.6#3 of 50 | -2.3 yrs | 76.9 | NJ |
| Adults with obesityGap +6.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 27.7%#4 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 34.03% | NJ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 7.7%#27 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 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).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- 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: Pennsylvania #15, New Jersey #5. Health: Pennsylvania #21, New Jersey #4.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to New Jersey, or from New Jersey to Pennsylvania?
16,075 households moved from Pennsylvania to New Jersey and 18,767 moved from New Jersey to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,692 households for Pennsylvania. Movers to New Jersey reported an average income of $86,597; movers to Pennsylvania reported $83,155. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 25,902 people (±3,756) moving from Pennsylvania to New Jersey and 38,467 (±4,874) the other way, a net gain of about 12,565 people for Pennsylvania 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +15,972 (+15%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 107,653#14 of 50 | +15,972+15% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +8,697 (+7%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 127,023#41 of 50 | +8,697+7% | NJ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +7,275 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -19,370#47 of 50 | +7,275 | PA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -2.0#44 of 50 | +1.1 | PA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$25,824 (-25%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $102,190#4 of 50 | -$25,824-25% | NJ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$21,085 (-20%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $106,727#3 of 50 | -$21,085-20% | NJ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.7 | -0.2#33 of 50 | -3.9#45 of 50 | +3.7 | PA |
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, Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -1 places | #19score 71.8 | #20score 69.6 | -1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -17 places | #26score 61.5 | #43score 52.6 | -17 places | PA |
| Remote WorkersGap -11 places | #38score 46 | #49score 29.7 | -11 places | PA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -10 places | #33score 49.4 | #43score 41.3 | -10 places | PA |
| Small BusinessGap -8 places | #38score 46.1 | #46score 36.8 | -8 places | PA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -8 places | #27score 43.3 | #35score 34.3 | -8 places | PA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#19 vs #20)
- RetireesPennsylvania (#26 vs #43)
- Remote WorkersPennsylvania (#38 vs #49)
- Young ProfessionalsPennsylvania (#33 vs #43)
- Small BusinessPennsylvania (#38 vs #46)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #35)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and New Jersey?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and New Jersey has 20; the largest are Philadelphia and Newark. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Newark310,178 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Hobokenscore 74.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Clifton166 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Vinelandcost index 96 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Union Citywalkability 15.5 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | New Brunswickcounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Hoboken95.5% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Hobokenmedian income $180,579 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Newark+1.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and New Jersey compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and New Jersey A+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 8%#42 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | NJ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.2 (-19%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 16.6#14 of 50 | -3.2-19% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -1.7 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 7.3%#26 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 17.16% | NJ |
| Mean travel time to workGap -4.8 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 31.9 min#48 of 50 | -4.8 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -5.5 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 9.7%#2 of 50 | -5.5 pts | 2.29% | NJ |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.3 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 13.5%#19 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 94.8%#6 of 50 | -2.7 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 80#48 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | PA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.7 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 5.2%#45 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 12.39% | NJ |
| Pension funded ratioGap +7 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 55%#47 of 50 | +7 pts | 74.3% | PA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$4,220 (-51%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $8,340#48 of 50 | -$4,220-51% | $3,506 | PA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +0.8%#47 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +4.66% | PA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania 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).
Pennsylvania 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. Pennsylvania is ahead on 26 of 51, New Jersey on 16, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | New JerseyNJ | GapPA−NJ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,511,217 (+37%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 9.5 million#11 of 50 | +3,511,217+37% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$26,749 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $104,294#2 of 50 | -$26,749-26% | $80,903 | NJ |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 5.2%#46 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | PA |
| Population growthGap -0.34 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.44%#26 of 50 | -0.34 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$9,035 (-12%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $73,820#9 of 50 | -$9,035-12% | $64,333 | NJ |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2%#24 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +33 (+17%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 194#6 of 50 | +33+17% | 328 | NJ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +74 (+6%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,250#12 of 50 | +74+6% | 1,535 | NJ |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 85.2%#31 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 240#10 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 282#5 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 222#3 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 266#2 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 79.6#3 of 50 | -2.3 yrs | 76.9 | NJ |
| Adults with obesityGap +6.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 27.7%#4 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 34.03% | NJ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 7.7%#27 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$289,952 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $580,353#46 of 50 | -$289,952-50% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +3.9%#8 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | NJ |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$602 (-24%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $2,513#45 of 50 | -$602-24% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$84,745 (-51%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $167,639#47 of 50 | -$84,745-51% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -11.2 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 108.8#48 of 50 | -11.2 pts-10% | 100 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.9x (-34%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 5.6x#41 of 50 | -1.9x-34% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -3.33¢ (-15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 22.63¢/kWh#40 of 50 | -3.33¢-15% | 17.84¢/kWh | PA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.83 (+6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $14.21/Mcf#22 of 50 | +$0.83+6% | $15.83/Mcf | NJ |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.20 (+6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.20/gal#25 of 50 | +$0.20+6% | $3.32/gal | NJ |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -7.7 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 107.1#48 of 50 | -7.7 pts-7% | 100 | PA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,675 (-15%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $17,977#35 of 50 | -$2,675-15% | $15,633 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.72 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.3%#45 of 50 | -1.72 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.89 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 11.75%#47 of 50 | -4.89 pts | 5.46% | PA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.92 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 2.33%#50 of 50 | -0.92 pts | 1.02% | PA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.26 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 6.6%#21 of 50 | -0.26 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 80#48 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | PA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.7 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 5.2%#45 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 12.39% | NJ |
| Pension funded ratioGap +7 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 55%#47 of 50 | +7 pts | 74.3% | PA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$4,220 (-51%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $8,340#48 of 50 | -$4,220-51% | $3,506 | PA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +0.8%#47 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +4.66% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 40#24 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 8%#42 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | NJ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.2 (-19%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 16.6#14 of 50 | -3.2-19% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -1.7 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 7.3%#26 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 17.16% | NJ |
| Mean travel time to workGap -4.8 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 31.9 min#48 of 50 | -4.8 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -5.5 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 9.7%#2 of 50 | -5.5 pts | 2.29% | NJ |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.3 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 13.5%#19 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 94.8%#6 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 92.67% | NJ |
| Households moving inIRSGap +15,972 (+15%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 107,653#14 of 50 | +15,972+15% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +8,697 (+7%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 127,023#41 of 50 | +8,697+7% | 78,715 | NJ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +7,275 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -19,370#47 of 50 | +7,275 | -33 | PA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -2.0#44 of 50 | +1.1 | +0.4 | PA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$25,824 (-25%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $102,190#4 of 50 | -$25,824-25% | $77,690 | NJ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$21,085 (-20%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $106,727#3 of 50 | -$21,085-20% | $77,024 | NJ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.7 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | -3.9#45 of 50 | +3.7 | +1.1 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$32,179 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$43,804#46 of 50 | +$32,179 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$16,875 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$16,327#47 of 50 | +$16,875 | +$31,418 | PA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$18,628 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$18,501#47 of 50 | +$18,628 | +$35,970 | PA |
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 Pennsylvania and New Jersey numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Pennsylvania (56.9, #25) and New Jersey (55, #28) are within 2 composite points. Pennsylvania leads 6 categories, New Jersey leads 4, and 1 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Pennsylvania is cheaper day to day
Pennsylvania's cost of living index is 97.6 against 108.8 in New Jersey (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $580,353 in New Jersey. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$43,804 in New Jersey.
Pennsylvania takes a smaller share in taxes
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales 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 $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $104,294 in New Jersey, with unemployment at 4.3% and 5.2%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 194 in New Jersey.
People move to Pennsylvania on net
38,467 people moved to Pennsylvania from New Jersey in the latest Census release, against 25,902 going the other way.
Pennsylvania is the better fit for retirees
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and New Jersey #20; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and New Jersey #43.
Pennsylvania vs New Jersey: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or New Jersey better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and New Jersey #28 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 108.8), has a 1.7-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 1.9 points apart, too close to call: Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories, New Jersey leads 4.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than New Jersey?
Pennsylvania is cheaper than New Jersey: cost of living index 97.6 vs 108.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$43,804 in New Jersey. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $580,353 in New Jersey.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
Pennsylvania has the lower tax burden: 8.58% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.3% in New Jersey. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; New Jersey's are 11.75%, 2.33% and 6.6%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than New Jersey?
New Jersey is safer: 194 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 227 in Pennsylvania, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and New Jersey #6. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,250 in New Jersey. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Clifton, NJ.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
Homes are 100% more expensive in New Jersey: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $580,353 in New Jersey. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $167,639 in New Jersey, against median incomes of $77,545 and $104,294.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
New Jersey pays more: median household income is $104,294 vs $77,545 in Pennsylvania, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 5.2% in New Jersey.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to New Jersey or from New Jersey to Pennsylvania?
16,075 households moved from Pennsylvania to New Jersey and 18,767 moved from New Jersey to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,692 households for Pennsylvania. Movers to New Jersey reported an average income of $86,597; movers to Pennsylvania reported $83,155. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 25,902 people (±3,756) moving from Pennsylvania to New Jersey and 38,467 (±4,874) the other way, a net gain of about 12,565 people for Pennsylvania beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for retirees: #26 of 50 on the retiree index vs #43 for New Jersey. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales 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 +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$18,501 in New Jersey.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
Pennsylvania and New Jersey are close for families: #19 and #20 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $17,977 in New Jersey. High school graduation rates are 87% and 85.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$43,804 in New Jersey.
Which has better schools, Pennsylvania or New Jersey?
New Jersey scores higher for education: #5 of 50 vs #15 for Pennsylvania. Eighth graders average 276 in NAEP math in Pennsylvania and 282 in New Jersey. High school graduation rates are 87% in Pennsylvania and 85.2% in New Jersey, and the education category scores are 65.4 and 74.8 out of 100. Among tracked cities, State College and Hoboken have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Pennsylvania vs New Jersey.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (18,767 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).