freedomrankings.comState vs State
On the default equal-weight blend, Delaware is more free than Hawaii overall, scoring 43.0 to 40.9 out of 100 and winning 5 of the ten freedom categories outright. The widest gap is in Criminal Justice, where Hawaii leads by 5.1 points.
The sharpest contrast is Criminal Justice, where Hawaii leads 6.7 to 1.6 out of 10 — a 5.1-point gap. They also part ways on Drug Policy (Delaware +4.0) and 2nd Amendment (Delaware +1.2). Where they’re most alike is Education Choice (1.5 vs 1.5).
Bottom line: Delaware’s strongest case is Drug Policy (9.5/10), while Hawaii’s is Criminal Justice (6.7/10) — so the freer choice depends on which of those you weight most.
Delaware leads in 5 categories · Hawaii leads in 1 · 4 tied
Delaware ranks higher overall, scoring 43.0/100 versus 40.9/100 across the ten freedom categories. Delaware wins 5 of the ten categories outright. Which state is "freer" for you depends on which of those freedoms you weight most.
Delaware scores higher on economic freedom (1.2/10 vs 0.4/10), the category that folds in tax burden, regulation, and business climate.
Delaware scores higher on Second Amendment freedom (1.6/10 vs 0.4/10), reflecting carry laws, permitting, and firearm restrictions.
Delaware and Hawaii tie on education choice (1.5/10 each).