New York vs Vermont: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Vermont #8 as of the latest release. Vermont is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 98 vs 107.9), has a 2-point lower tax burden, and has a 42% lower violent crime rate. Vermont scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 42% lower in Vermont (214 vs. 368 in New York).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 36% lower in Vermont ($2,315 vs. $3,615 in New York).
- Typical home value is 24% lower in Vermont ($399,053 vs. $526,714 in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -19.1 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 74.0#8 of 50 · A | -19.1 pts | — | VT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.9 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | +9.9 pts+10% | 100 | VT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$10,583 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$32,645#41 of 50 | -$10,583 | -$11,758 | VT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$127,661 (+32%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | +$127,661+32% | $368,697 | VT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.03 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | +2.03 pts | 8.74% | VT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +154 (+72%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +154+72% | 328 | VT |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,090 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | +$3,090+4% | $80,903 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -71,688 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | -71,688 | -33 | VT |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is New York or Vermont better to live in?
Vermont scores higher overall: 74 to 54.9 out of 100, #8 of 50 against #29. New York leads 2 of 11 categories, Vermont leads 8, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | VermontVT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -20.2 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 66.5#4 · A+ | -20.2 pts | VT |
| Safety12% of scoregap -14.7 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 77.7#17 · B+ | -14.7 pts | VT |
| Health12% of scoregap +4.6 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 75.1#8 · A | +4.6 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap +4.2 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 52.4#35 · C | +4.2 pts | NY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -18.5 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 55.7#37 · C | -18.5 pts | VT |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -6.6 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 51.1#38 · C | -6.6 pts | VT |
| Growth7% of scoregap -15.9 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 29.9#36 · C | -15.9 pts | VT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -6.6 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 59.2#6 · A | -6.6 pts | VT |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.9 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 48.5#6 · A | +0.9 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -25.4 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 55.6#4 · A+ | -25.4 pts | VT |
| Environment4% of scoregap -17.9 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 76.3#2 · A+ | -17.9 pts | VT |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is New York cheaper than Vermont?
Vermont is cheaper: cost of living index 98 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $10,583 more a year in Vermont after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.9 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | +9.9 pts+10% | 100 | VT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 97.3#31 of 50 | +10 pts+10% | 100 | VT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.47¢ (+15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 22.92¢/kWh#41 of 50 | +3.47¢+15% | 17.84¢/kWh | VT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.42 (-2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $18.00/Mcf#39 of 50 | -$0.42-2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.19 (-6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.36/gal#41 of 50 | -$0.19-6% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$692 (-3%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $21,670#44 of 50 | -$692-3% | $15,633 | NY |
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 | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$7,045 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$27,316costs $47,684 | -$7,045 | VT |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$9,471 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$17,585costs $57,415 | -$9,471 | VT |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$10,583 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$32,645costs $107,645 | -$10,583 | VT |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$8,609 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$31,257costs $43,743 | -$8,609 | VT |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$9,281 | $40,598 | $31,317 | +$9,281 | VT |
| ChildcareGap -$1,384 | $41,956 | $43,340 | -$1,384 | NY |
| UtilitiesGap +$475 | $5,179 | $4,704 | +$475 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$1,126 | $12,085 | $10,959 | +$1,126 | VT |
| TransportationGap -$597 | $9,963 | $10,560 | -$597 | NY |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,683 | $8,448 | $6,765 | +$1,683 | VT |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Vermont?
Vermont collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 11.53% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; Vermont has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.03 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | +2.03 pts | 8.74% | VT |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.03 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 8.75%#42 of 50 | +6.03 pts | 5.46% | VT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.14 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 1.78%#46 of 50 | -0.14 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.15 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 6.39%#19 of 50 | +2.15 pts | 6.66% | VT |
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 Vermont?
Homes cost 32% more in New York: a typical home value of $526,714 in New York vs $399,053 in Vermont. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $114,846 in Vermont; the median household earns $85,820 and $82,730.
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$127,661 (+32%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | +$127,661+32% | $368,697 | VT |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +1%#36 of 50 | +4.6 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,300 (+56%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $2,315#42 of 50 | +$1,300+56% | $1,948 | VT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$25,863 (+23%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $114,846#35 of 50 | +$25,863+23% | $100,006 | VT |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.3x (+27%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.8x#32 of 50 | +1.3x+27% | 4.6x | VT |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| NY | VT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $2,053 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +39% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +18.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | New York | Burlington |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in New York or Vermont?
New York pays more: median household income $85,820 vs $82,730, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 2.7% in Vermont. 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 Vermont's in 0.
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$3,090 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | +$3,090+4% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 2.7%#4 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 3.95% | VT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$45,870 (+82%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $56,157#38 of 50 | +$45,870+82% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +1.5%#35 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | NY |
| Population growthGap +0.3 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | -0.29%#50 of 50 | +0.3 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 | VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $149,081$144,609 in Burlington | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $124,500$120,765 in Burlington | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $222,619$215,940 in Burlington | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $71,124$68,990 in Burlington | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $60,122$58,318 in Burlington | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $98,267$95,319 in Burlington | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $104,421$101,288 in Burlington | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $31,977$31,018 in Burlington | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $86,787$84,183 in Burlington | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $74,581$72,344 in Burlington | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $94,861$92,015 in Burlington | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $51,323$49,783 in Burlington | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $52,637$51,058 in Burlington | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $62,471$60,597 in Burlington | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $54,488$52,853 in Burlington | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $65,330$63,370 in Burlington | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $68,154$66,109 in Burlington | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $56,852$55,146 in Burlington | NY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $47,763$46,330 in Burlington | NY |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $43,605$42,297 in Burlington | 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 Vermont?
Vermont is safer: 214 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 1,419 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +154 (+72%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +154+72% | 328 | VT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +156 (+11%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,419#24 of 50 | +156+11% | 1,535 | VT |
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
- Middlebury, VT54 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or Vermont?
New York scores higher for education (#30 of 50 vs #35), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 82.8%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #8); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 78.3 in Vermont.
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 276#21 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 257#25 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 29%#5 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 34.03% | VT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.8 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 4.2%#3 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 7.6% | VT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+6%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 34#7 of 50 | +2 pts+6% | 38.8 | VT |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- No city school data
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: New York #30, Vermont #35. Health: New York #3, Vermont #8.
Are more people moving from New York to Vermont, or from Vermont to New York?
1,566 households moved from New York to Vermont and 1,546 moved from Vermont to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 20 households for Vermont. Movers to Vermont reported an average income of $77,982; movers to New York reported $66,962. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,565 people (±1,311) moving from New York to Vermont and 2,668 (±927) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +180,963 (+1,605%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 11,277#50 of 50 | +180,963+1,605% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +252,651 (+2,183%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 11,576#1 of 50 | +252,651+2,183% | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -71,688 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | -71,688 | VT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.1 | -3.6#50 of 50 | -0.5#32 of 50 | -3.1 | VT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$12,103 (+15%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $82,099#18 of 50 | +$12,103+15% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$34,047 (+47%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $71,936#28 of 50 | +$34,047+47% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.8 | -6.9#50 of 50 | -1.1#37 of 50 | -5.8 | VT |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, New York or Vermont?
Vermont 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 | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +16 places | #29score 62.6 | #13score 78.7 | +16 places | VT |
| RetireesGap +20 places | #25score 62 | #5score 78.9 | +20 places | VT |
| Remote WorkersGap +37 places | #44score 41.4 | #7score 70.3 | +37 places | VT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +30 places | #40score 42.8 | #10score 65.8 | +30 places | VT |
| Small BusinessGap +22 places | #44score 37.5 | #22score 59.3 | +22 places | VT |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +18 places | #21score 50.9 | #3score 81.1 | +18 places | VT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVermont (#13 vs #29)
- RetireesVermont (#5 vs #25)
- Remote WorkersVermont (#7 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsVermont (#10 vs #40)
- Small BusinessVermont (#22 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVermont (#3 vs #21)
Which cities stand out in New York and Vermont?
New York has 20 tracked cities and Vermont has 20; the largest are New York and Burlington. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | VermontVT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Burlington44,675 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Middleburyscore 76.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Middlebury54 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Rutlandcost index 96.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Benningtonwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Brattleborocounty median AQI 15 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | — |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Shelburnemedian income $109,583 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Essex Junction+2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and Vermont compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and Vermont AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -69 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 99%#1 of 50 | -69 pts | 29.34% | VT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.6 (-77%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 16.4#13 of 50 | -12.6-77% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap -2.8 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 17.9%#14 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 17.16% | VT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +9.3 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 23.9 min#17 of 50 | +9.3 min | 25.2 min | VT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +22.8 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 1.4%#19 of 50 | +22.8 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -4.2 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 16%#6 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 12.28% | VT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 92.7%#28 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 95#21 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | VT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.7 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 13.5%#12 of 50 | -9.7 pts | 12.39% | VT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +22 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 68%#34 of 50 | +22 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,750 (+86%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $4,380#41 of 50 | +$3,750+86% | $3,506 | VT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.7 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +4.2%#30 of 50 | -5.7 pts | +4.66% | VT |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, Vermont AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
New York vs Vermont: 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 13 of 51, Vermont on 30, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | VermontVT | GapNY−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +19,357,764 (+3,003%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 644,663#49 of 50 | +19,357,764+3,003% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,090 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | +$3,090+4% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 2.7%#4 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 3.95% | VT |
| Population growthGap +0.3 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | -0.29%#50 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$45,870 (+82%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $56,157#38 of 50 | +$45,870+82% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +1.5%#35 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | NY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +154 (+72%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +154+72% | 328 | VT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +156 (+11%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,419#24 of 50 | +156+11% | 1,535 | VT |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 235#36 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 276#21 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 213#36 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 257#25 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 29%#5 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 34.03% | VT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.8 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 4.2%#3 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 7.6% | VT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$127,661 (+32%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | +$127,661+32% | $368,697 | VT |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +1%#36 of 50 | +4.6 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,300 (+56%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $2,315#42 of 50 | +$1,300+56% | $1,948 | VT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$25,863 (+23%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $114,846#35 of 50 | +$25,863+23% | $100,006 | VT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.9 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | +9.9 pts+10% | 100 | VT |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.3x (+27%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.8x#32 of 50 | +1.3x+27% | 4.6x | VT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.47¢ (+15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 22.92¢/kWh#41 of 50 | +3.47¢+15% | 17.84¢/kWh | VT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.42 (-2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $18.00/Mcf#39 of 50 | -$0.42-2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.19 (-6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.36/gal#41 of 50 | -$0.19-6% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 97.3#31 of 50 | +10 pts+10% | 100 | VT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$692 (-3%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $21,670#44 of 50 | -$692-3% | $15,633 | NY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.03 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | +2.03 pts | 8.74% | VT |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.03 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 8.75%#42 of 50 | +6.03 pts | 5.46% | VT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.14 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 1.78%#46 of 50 | -0.14 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.15 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 6.39%#19 of 50 | +2.15 pts | 6.66% | VT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 95#21 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | VT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.7 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 13.5%#12 of 50 | -9.7 pts | 12.39% | VT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +22 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 68%#34 of 50 | +22 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,750 (+86%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $4,380#41 of 50 | +$3,750+86% | $3,506 | VT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.7 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +4.2%#30 of 50 | -5.7 pts | +4.66% | VT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+6%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 34#7 of 50 | +2 pts+6% | 38.8 | VT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -69 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 99%#1 of 50 | -69 pts | 29.34% | VT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.6 (-77%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 16.4#13 of 50 | -12.6-77% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap -2.8 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 17.9%#14 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 17.16% | VT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +9.3 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 23.9 min#17 of 50 | +9.3 min | 25.2 min | VT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +22.8 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 1.4%#19 of 50 | +22.8 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -4.2 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 16%#6 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 12.28% | VT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 92.7%#28 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +180,963 (+1,605%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 11,277#50 of 50 | +180,963+1,605% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +252,651 (+2,183%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 11,576#1 of 50 | +252,651+2,183% | 78,715 | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -71,688 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | -71,688 | -33 | VT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.1 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | -0.5#32 of 50 | -3.1 | +0.4 | VT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$12,103 (+15%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $82,099#18 of 50 | +$12,103+15% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$34,047 (+47%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $71,936#28 of 50 | +$34,047+47% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.8 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | -1.1#37 of 50 | -5.8 | +1.1 | VT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$10,583 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$32,645#41 of 50 | -$10,583 | -$11,758 | VT |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$7,045 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$27,316#34 of 50 | -$7,045 | +$31,418 | VT |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$8,609 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$31,257#35 of 50 | -$8,609 | +$35,970 | VT |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the New York and Vermont numbers say when read together.
Vermont ranks higher overall
Vermont leads 8 of the 11 categories to New York's 2, with 1 even; New York is ahead on health and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New York is ahead on 13 and Vermont on 30.
Vermont is cheaper day to day
Vermont's cost of living index is 98 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $399,053 in Vermont. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$32,645 in Vermont.
Vermont takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); Vermont collects 11.53% (high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
New York pays more
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $82,730 in Vermont, with unemployment at 4.3% and 2.7%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 214 in Vermont.
Moves between the two run about even
3,565 people moved from New York to Vermont and 2,668 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Vermont fits families and retirees better
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and Vermont #13; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and Vermont #5.
New York vs Vermont: frequently asked questions
Is New York or Vermont better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Vermont #8 as of the latest release. Vermont is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 98 vs 107.9), has a 2-point lower tax burden, and has a 42% lower violent crime rate. Vermont scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
Is New York cheaper than Vermont?
Vermont is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 98 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 -$32,645 in Vermont. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $399,053 in Vermont.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Vermont?
Vermont has the lower tax burden: 11.53% 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%; Vermont's are 8.75%, 1.78% and 6.39%.
Is New York safer than Vermont?
Vermont is safer: 214 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and Vermont #10. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 1,419 in Vermont. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Middlebury, VT.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Vermont?
Homes are 32% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $399,053 in Vermont. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $114,846 in Vermont, against median incomes of $85,820 and $82,730.
Do people earn more in New York or Vermont?
New York pays more: median household income is $85,820 vs $82,730 in Vermont, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 2.7% in Vermont. 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 Vermont's in 0.
Are more people moving from New York to Vermont or from Vermont to New York?
1,566 households moved from New York to Vermont and 1,546 moved from Vermont to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 20 households for Vermont. Movers to Vermont reported an average income of $77,982; movers to New York reported $66,962. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,565 people (±1,311) moving from New York to Vermont and 2,668 (±927) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, New York or Vermont?
Vermont is the better fit for retirees: #5 of 50 on the retiree index vs #25 for New York. New York has high across the board; Vermont has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$31,257 in Vermont.
Which is better for families, New York or Vermont?
Vermont is the better fit for families: #13 of 50 on the families index vs #29 for New York. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $21,670 in Vermont. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 82.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$32,645 in Vermont.
Is Vermont better than New York?
Yes: Vermont ranks higher than New York overall, #8 of 50 vs #29, with a composite score of 74 to 54.9. Vermont leads 8 of 11 categories and New York leads 2, including health and education. 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 New York vs Vermont.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.