Texas vs New York: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and New York #29 as of the latest release. Texas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 107.9), has no income tax, and has a 6% lower violent crime rate. New York scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 54% lower in Texas ($1,659 vs. $3,615 in New York).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 48% lower in Texas ($10,894 vs. $20,978 in New York).
- Typical home value is 43% lower in Texas ($299,367 vs. $526,714 in New York).
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -2.7 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | -2.7 pts | — | NY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10.8 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 107.9#47 of 50 | -10.8 pts-10% | 100 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$43,084 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | +$43,084 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$227,347 (-43%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $526,714#43 of 50 | -$227,347-43% | $368,697 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.79 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 13.56%#49 of 50 | -5.79 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -24 (-6%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 368#35 of 50 | -24-6% | 328 | TX |
| Median household incomeGap -$6,099 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $85,820#15 of 50 | -$6,099-7% | $80,903 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 86.7%#24 of 50 | +3 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -2.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 79.5#4 of 50 | -2.4 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +128,460 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +128,460 | -33 | TX |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Texas or New York better to live in?
New York scores higher overall: 54.9 to 52.2 out of 100, #29 of 50 against #32. Texas leads 4 of 11 categories, New York leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | New YorkNY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -3.8 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 46.3#25 · B | -3.8 pts | NY |
| Safety12% of scoregap -1.2 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 63.0#34 · C+ | -1.2 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -42 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 79.7#3 · A+ | -42 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap +4.1 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 56.6#30 · C+ | +4.1 pts | TX |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +37.2 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 37.2#47 · D | +37.2 pts | TX |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +27.7 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 44.5#42 · C | +27.7 pts | TX |
| Growth7% of scoregap +37.7 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 14.0#48 · D | +37.7 pts | TX |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -8.9 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 52.6#20 · B | -8.9 pts | NY |
| Livability7% of scoregap -25.8 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 49.4#5 · A+ | -25.8 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -25.5 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 30.2#23 · B | -25.5 pts | NY |
| Environment4% of scoregap -17.6 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 58.4#7 · A | -17.6 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 Texas cheaper than New York?
Texas is cheaper: cost of living index 97.1 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $43,084 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10.8 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 107.9#47 of 50 | -10.8 pts-10% | 100 | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -9.2 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 107.3#49 of 50 | -9.2 pts-9% | 100 | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap -10.92¢ (-41%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | -10.92¢-41% | 17.84¢/kWh | TX |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.84 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | +$1.84+10% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.29 (-9%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | -$0.29-9% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$10,084 (-48%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $20,978#43 of 50 | -$10,084-48% | $15,633 | TX |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$15,270 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$15,270 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$18,880 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$18,880 | TX |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$43,084 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | +$43,084 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$16,858 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$16,858 | TX |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$17,553 | $23,045 | $40,598 | -$17,553 | TX |
| ChildcareGap -$20,168 | $21,788 | $41,956 | -$20,168 | TX |
| UtilitiesGap -$518 | $4,661 | $5,179 | -$518 | TX |
| GroceriesGap -$1,036 | $11,049 | $12,085 | -$1,036 | TX |
| TransportationGap -$912 | $9,051 | $9,963 | -$912 | TX |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,897 | $5,551 | $8,448 | -$2,897 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or New York?
Texas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 13.56%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; New York has high across the board.
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.79 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 13.56%#49 of 50 | -5.79 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -14.78 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 14.78%#50 of 50 | -14.78 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.01 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.64%#45 of 50 | -0.01 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.34 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 8.54%#41 of 50 | -0.34 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 Texas or New York?
Homes cost 76% more in New York: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $526,714 in New York. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $140,709 in New York; the median household earns $79,721 and $85,820.
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$227,347 (-43%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $526,714#43 of 50 | -$227,347-43% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -7.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +5.6%#2 of 50 | -7.2 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,956 (-54%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $3,615#50 of 50 | -$1,956-54% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$52,648 (-37%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $140,709#45 of 50 | -$52,648-37% | $100,006 | TX |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.3x (-38%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 6.1x#46 of 50 | -2.3x-38% | 4.6x | TX |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| TX | NY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $2,710 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +64% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +29.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Dallas | New York |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Texas or New York?
New York pays more: median household income $85,820 vs $79,721, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 4.3% in New York. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and New York's in 9.
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$6,099 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $85,820#15 of 50 | -$6,099-7% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.3%#34 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$33,207 (-33%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $102,027#1 of 50 | -$33,207-33% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +1.24 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +1.24 pts | +0.51% | TX |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | TX | NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $231,909$250,462 in New York | NY |
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $191,445$206,761 in New York | NY |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $95,830$103,496 in New York | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $106,981$115,540 in New York | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $267,162$288,535 in New York | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $49,203$53,139 in New York | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $122,114$131,883 in New York | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $64,892$70,083 in New York | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $103,379$111,649 in New York | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $76,636$82,767 in New York | TX |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $65,024$70,226 in New York | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $65,845$71,113 in New York | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $90,791$98,054 in New York | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $65,430$70,664 in New York | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $110,483$119,322 in New York | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $47,986$51,825 in New York | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $117,051$126,415 in New York | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $75,227$81,245 in New York | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $75,414$81,447 in New York | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $54,384$58,735 in New York | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Texas safer than New York?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,575 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -24 (-6%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 368#35 of 50 | -24-6% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +211 (+13%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,575#31 of 50 | +211+13% | 1,535 | NY |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Flower Mound, TX42 violent per 100K
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Texas or New York?
Texas scores higher for education (#24 of 50 vs #30), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 86.7%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 79.5 in New York.
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 271#27 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 257#27 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 86.7%#24 of 50 | +3 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -2.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 79.5#4 of 50 | -2.4 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap +6.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 29.5%#7 of 50 | +6.1 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +11.7 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 5%#6 of 50 | +11.7 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+19%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 36#14 of 50 | +7 pts+19% | 38.8 | NY |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- No city school data
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Texas #24, New York #30. Health: Texas #41, New York #3.
Are more people moving from Texas to New York, or from New York to Texas?
9,433 households moved from Texas to New York and 12,961 moved from New York to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 3,528 households for Texas. Movers to New York reported an average income of $98,627; movers to Texas reported $89,975. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 16,324 people (±3,888) moving from Texas to New York and 28,233 (±4,541) the other way, a net gain of about 11,909 people for Texas 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 | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +115,000 (+60%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 192,240#4 of 50 | +115,000+60% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap -13,460 (-5%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 264,227#48 of 50 | -13,460-5% | TX |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +128,460 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +128,460 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +5.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$10,570 (-11%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $94,202#6 of 50 | -$10,570-11% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$25,624 (-24%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $105,983#4 of 50 | -$25,624-24% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +9.0 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +9.0 | TX |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Texas or New York?
Texas is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; New York is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +6 places | #35score 57.5 | #29score 62.6 | +6 places | NY |
| RetireesGap +8 places | #33score 58.8 | #25score 62 | +8 places | NY |
| Remote WorkersGap -19 places | #25score 52 | #44score 41.4 | -19 places | TX |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -12 places | #28score 53 | #40score 42.8 | -12 places | TX |
| Small BusinessGap -29 places | #15score 64.3 | #44score 37.5 | -29 places | TX |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +24 places | #45score 26.6 | #21score 50.9 | +24 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew York (#29 vs #35)
- RetireesNew York (#25 vs #33)
- Remote WorkersTexas (#25 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsTexas (#28 vs #40)
- Small BusinessTexas (#15 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and New York?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and New York has 20; the largest are Houston and New York. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | New YorkNY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | New York8,483,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Levittownscore 74.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | White Plains115 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Uticacost index 92.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Uticacounty median AQI 27 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Levittown94.2% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Levittownmedian income $146,068 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | Yonkers+0.5% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and New York compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and New York AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 30%#22 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +20.2 (+532%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 3.8#4 of 50 | +20.2+532% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap -13.3 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 15.1%#16 of 50 | -13.3 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap -5.7 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | -5.7 min | 25.2 min | TX |
| Commuters using public transitGap -23.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 24.2%#1 of 50 | -23.2 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.1 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 11.8%#28 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 93.1%#20 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | TX |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 90#32 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +14 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 3.8%#48 of 50 | +14 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 90%#7 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap -$6,280 (-77%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $8,130#47 of 50 | -$6,280-77% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +6.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +6.7 pts | +4.66% | TX |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, New York AA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Texas vs New York: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Texas is ahead on 29 of 51, New York on 15, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | New YorkNY | GapTX−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +11,707,394 (+59%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 20 million#4 of 50 | +11,707,394+59% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap -$6,099 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $85,820#15 of 50 | -$6,099-7% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.3%#34 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +1.24 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +1.24 pts | +0.51% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap -$33,207 (-33%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $102,027#1 of 50 | -$33,207-33% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -24 (-6%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 368#35 of 50 | -24-6% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +211 (+13%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,575#31 of 50 | +211+13% | 1,535 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 86.7%#24 of 50 | +3 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 234#38 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 271#27 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 215#26 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 257#27 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 79.5#4 of 50 | -2.4 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap +6.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 29.5%#7 of 50 | +6.1 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +11.7 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 5%#6 of 50 | +11.7 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$227,347 (-43%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $526,714#43 of 50 | -$227,347-43% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -7.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +5.6%#2 of 50 | -7.2 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,956 (-54%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $3,615#50 of 50 | -$1,956-54% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$52,648 (-37%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $140,709#45 of 50 | -$52,648-37% | $100,006 | TX |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10.8 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 107.9#47 of 50 | -10.8 pts-10% | 100 | TX |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.3x (-38%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 6.1x#46 of 50 | -2.3x-38% | 4.6x | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap -10.92¢ (-41%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | -10.92¢-41% | 17.84¢/kWh | TX |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.84 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | +$1.84+10% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.29 (-9%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | -$0.29-9% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -9.2 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 107.3#49 of 50 | -9.2 pts-9% | 100 | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$10,084 (-48%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $20,978#43 of 50 | -$10,084-48% | $15,633 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.79 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 13.56%#49 of 50 | -5.79 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -14.78 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 14.78%#50 of 50 | -14.78 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.01 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.64%#45 of 50 | -0.01 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.34 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 8.54%#41 of 50 | -0.34 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 90#32 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +14 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 3.8%#48 of 50 | +14 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 90%#7 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap -$6,280 (-77%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $8,130#47 of 50 | -$6,280-77% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +6.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +6.7 pts | +4.66% | TX |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+19%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 36#14 of 50 | +7 pts+19% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 30%#22 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +20.2 (+532%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 3.8#4 of 50 | +20.2+532% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap -13.3 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 15.1%#16 of 50 | -13.3 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap -5.7 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | -5.7 min | 25.2 min | TX |
| Commuters using public transitGap -23.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 24.2%#1 of 50 | -23.2 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.1 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 11.8%#28 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 93.1%#20 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +115,000 (+60%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 192,240#4 of 50 | +115,000+60% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap -13,460 (-5%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 264,227#48 of 50 | -13,460-5% | 78,715 | TX |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +128,460 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +128,460 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.4 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +5.4 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$10,570 (-11%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $94,202#6 of 50 | -$10,570-11% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$25,624 (-24%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $105,983#4 of 50 | -$25,624-24% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +9.0 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +9.0 | +1.1 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$43,084 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | +$43,084 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$15,270 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$15,270 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$16,858 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$16,858 | +$35,970 | TX |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Texas and New York numbers say when read together.
New York ranks higher overall
New York leads 6 of the 11 categories to Texas's 4, with 1 even; Texas is ahead on growth and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 29 and New York on 15.
Texas is cheaper day to day
Texas's cost of living index is 97.1 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $526,714 in New York. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$43,228 in New York.
Texas takes a smaller share in taxes
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); New York collects 13.56% (high across the board).
New York pays more
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $85,820 in New York, with unemployment at 4.2% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 368 in New York.
People move to Texas on net
28,233 people moved to Texas from New York in the latest Census release, against 16,324 going the other way.
New York fits families and retirees better
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and New York #29; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and New York #25.
Texas vs New York: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or New York better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and New York #29 as of the latest release. Texas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 107.9), has no income tax, and has a 6% lower violent crime rate. New York scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Texas cheaper than New York?
Texas is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 97.1 vs 107.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and -$43,228 in New York. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $526,714 in New York.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or New York?
Texas has the lower tax burden: 7.77% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; New York's are 14.78%, 1.64% and 8.54%.
Is Texas safer than New York?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and New York #35. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,575 in New York. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and White Plains, NY.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or New York?
Homes are 76% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $526,714 in New York. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $140,709 in New York, against median incomes of $79,721 and $85,820.
Do people earn more in Texas or New York?
New York pays more: median household income is $85,820 vs $79,721 in Texas, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 4.3% in New York. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and New York's in 9, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Texas to New York or from New York to Texas?
9,433 households moved from Texas to New York and 12,961 moved from New York to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 3,528 households for Texas. Movers to New York reported an average income of $98,627; movers to Texas reported $89,975. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 16,324 people (±3,888) moving from Texas to New York and 28,233 (±4,541) the other way, a net gain of about 11,909 people for Texas beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or New York?
New York is the better fit for retirees: #25 of 50 on the retiree index vs #33 for Texas. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; New York has high across the board. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$22,648 in New York.
Which is better for families, Texas or New York?
New York is the better fit for families: #29 of 50 on the families index vs #35 for Texas. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $20,978 in New York. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 86.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$43,228 in New York.
Is New York better than Texas?
Yes: New York ranks higher than Texas overall, #29 of 50 vs #32, with a composite score of 54.9 to 52.2. New York leads 6 of 11 categories and Texas leads 4, including growth and affordability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Texas vs New York.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (12,961 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).