State vs State
New York vs Pennsylvania: which is more free?
On the default equal-weight blend, Pennsylvania scores higher overall — 56 vs 41 out of 100. The widest gap is in Property Rights, where Pennsylvania leads by 6.5 points.
New York leads in 4 categories · Pennsylvania leads in 6 · 0 tied
Category-by-category breakdown
What stands out in New York
- Strong press shield law
- Recreational marijuana w/ expungement
- Very high tax/regulatory burden
What stands out in Pennsylvania
- Flat 3.07% income tax
- Clean Slate Act
- Tax credit scholarships
New York vs Pennsylvania: common questions
Is New York or Pennsylvania more free?
Pennsylvania ranks higher overall, scoring 56/100 versus 41/100 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 York or Pennsylvania have more economic freedom and lower taxes?
Pennsylvania scores higher on economic freedom (6.5/10 vs 0.2/10), the category that folds in tax burden, regulation, and business climate.
Which has stronger gun rights, New York or Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania scores higher on Second Amendment freedom (3.7/10 vs 0.0/10), reflecting carry laws, permitting, and firearm restrictions.
New York 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.