State vs State
New Jersey vs Pennsylvania: which is more free?
On the default equal-weight blend, Pennsylvania scores higher overall — 56 vs 46 out of 100. The widest gap is in Criminal Justice, where New Jersey leads by 4.5 points.
New Jersey leads in 2 categories · Pennsylvania leads in 6 · 2 tied
Category-by-category breakdown
What stands out in New Jersey
- Eliminated cash bail
- Recreational marijuana legal
- Highest property taxes
What stands out in Pennsylvania
- Flat 3.07% income tax
- Clean Slate Act
- Tax credit scholarships
New Jersey vs Pennsylvania: common questions
Is New Jersey or Pennsylvania more free?
Pennsylvania ranks higher overall, scoring 56/100 versus 46/100 across the ten freedom categories. Pennsylvania wins 6 of the ten categories outright. Which state is "freer" for you depends on which of those freedoms you weight most.
Does New Jersey or Pennsylvania have more economic freedom and lower taxes?
Pennsylvania scores higher on economic freedom (6.5/10 vs 2.4/10), the category that folds in tax burden, regulation, and business climate.
Which has stronger gun rights, New Jersey or Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania scores higher on Second Amendment freedom (3.7/10 vs 0.2/10), reflecting carry laws, permitting, and firearm restrictions.
New Jersey vs Pennsylvania: which is better for school choice?
Pennsylvania scores higher on education choice (5.7/10 vs 1.5/10), covering vouchers, ESAs, charters, and homeschool freedom.