freedomrankings.comState vs State
On the default equal-weight blend, Rhode Island is more free than Connecticut overall, scoring 54.1 to 53.5 out of 100 and winning 4 of the ten freedom categories outright. The widest gap is in Economic Freedom, where Connecticut leads by 3.3 points.
The sharpest contrast is Economic Freedom, where Connecticut leads 5.1 to 1.8 out of 10 — a 3.3-point gap. They also part ways on Education Choice (Rhode Island +3.3) and Criminal Justice (Rhode Island +2.3). Where they’re most alike is Religious Liberty (5.0 vs 5.0).
Bottom line: Connecticut’s strongest case is Drug Policy (9.5/10), while Rhode Island’s is Drug Policy (9.5/10) — so the freer choice depends on which of those you weight most.
Connecticut leads in 3 categories · Rhode Island leads in 4 · 3 tied
Rhode Island ranks higher overall, scoring 54.1/100 versus 53.5/100 across the ten freedom categories. Rhode Island wins 4 of the ten categories outright. Which state is "freer" for you depends on which of those freedoms you weight most.
Connecticut scores higher on economic freedom (5.1/10 vs 1.8/10), the category that folds in tax burden, regulation, and business climate.
Rhode Island scores higher on Second Amendment freedom (1.4/10 vs 1.0/10), reflecting carry laws, permitting, and firearm restrictions.
Rhode Island scores higher on education choice (4.8/10 vs 1.5/10), covering vouchers, ESAs, charters, and homeschool freedom.