Massachusetts vs New York: Cost of Living

Side-by-side comparison · 2023 Census ACS & Tax Foundation data

Massachusetts

Median Home
$525,800
Median Rent
$1,687/mo
Median Income
$101,341
Income Tax
9.0%
Browse Massachusetts cities →

New York

Median Home
$403,000
Median Rent
$1,576/mo
Median Income
$84,578
Income Tax
10.9%
Browse New York cities →
Category Massachusetts New York
Median Home Value $525,800 $403,000
Median Gross Rent $1,687/mo $1,576/mo
Median Household Income $101,341 $84,578
Per Capita Income $56,284 $49,520
Unemployment Rate 5.1% 6.2%
Poverty Rate 10.0% 13.7%
Avg Commute 31.9 min 28.2 min
Taxes
State Income Tax (top rate) 9.0% 10.9%
Total Sales Tax 6.3% 8.5%
Property Tax Rate 1.2% 1.7%

Green = better value for that metric. Data from 2023 Census ACS 5-Year Estimates and Tax Foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Massachusetts or New York cheaper to live in?

Based on median home values, New York is more affordable. Massachusetts's median home value is $525,800 vs New York's $403,000. However, income levels also matter — Massachusetts's median household income is $101,341 while New York's is $84,578.

Does Massachusetts or New York have lower income taxes?

Massachusetts has a lower top state income tax rate. Massachusetts: 9.0%, New York: 10.9%.

What is the difference in cost of living between Massachusetts and New York?

Median home values differ by $122,800. Median rents differ by $111/mo. Median incomes: Massachusetts $101,341, New York $84,578.