freedomrankings.comState vs State
On the default equal-weight blend, California is more free than New York overall, scoring 44 to 41 out of 100 and winning 3 of the ten freedom categories outright. The widest gap is in Property Rights, where California leads by 3.5 points.
The sharpest contrast is Property Rights, where California leads 5.0 to 1.5 out of 10 — a 3.5-point gap. They also part ways on Criminal Justice (New York +1.2) and 2nd Amendment (California +0.6). Where they’re most alike is Education Choice (1.5 vs 1.5).
Bottom line: California’s strongest case is Drug Policy (9.5/10), while New York’s is Drug Policy (9.5/10) — so the freer choice depends on which of those you weight most.
California leads in 3 categories · New York leads in 3 · 4 tied
California ranks higher overall, scoring 44/100 versus 41/100 across the ten freedom categories. California wins 3 of the ten categories outright. Which state is "freer" for you depends on which of those freedoms you weight most.
California scores higher on economic freedom (0.6/10 vs 0.2/10), the category that folds in tax burden, regulation, and business climate.
California scores higher on Second Amendment freedom (0.6/10 vs 0.0/10), reflecting carry laws, permitting, and firearm restrictions.
California and New York tie on education choice (1.5/10 each).