New York
High tax burden · COL index 139
Wins 5 categories
Pennsylvania
Moderate tax burden · COL index 97
Wins 10 categories
New York's top income tax rate is 10.9% vs Pennsylvania's 3.07%. Cost of living in New York (index 139) runs 43% higher than Pennsylvania (index 97). The median home in New York costs $470K vs $270K in Pennsylvania. Politically, Pennsylvania voted Republican in 2024 (R+2.0) while New York went Democratic (D+12.0).
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
5
New York
10
Pennsylvania
Run the full slider tool to score these states against your specific income, home value, retirement, and lifestyle priorities.
Score For My Profile →People Also Ask
Is it better to live in New York or Pennsylvania?
Who has higher taxes, NY or PA?
Comparing the total local and state per capita tax burden, Pennsylvania ranked 19th, below New York (No. 1), New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware. The combined state personal income tax and local earned income tax led to Pennsylvania having the 18th highest income tax burden.
Is $40,000 enough to live in New York?
Is it better to retire in PA or NY?
Cost of Living Comparison Retiring in Pennsylvania generally offers a more affordable cost of living compared to New York. Housing costs, including property taxes, are significantly lower in Pennsylvania. Groceries, healthcare, and utility expenses also tend to be more affordable.