Honest unbiased opions on Mass. v Ct. (Springfield: to rent, schools)

[startingoveragaininct]

We are moving and my husband is already in Ct. right now but work may take him to Ma. so now we are considering Ma. the area near Ct. What are the differences between the two states? Is the cost of living more or less? We are looking to rent a 4 bedroom, 2 bath around 1,500.00. Any relevant information would be greatly appreciated! Also, we have to kids 13 & 10 so schools are a priority I would like to find someplace that is close to shopping and now that our kids are older, I would like my husband and I to start having a life again and go out

Thank YOU ALL very much!!!!!!!!!!!!

[missionhill]

The two states have a 100 mile or so border so you could be more specific about where you're looking. If it's the Hartford-Springfield area I'd say Conn is a little more expensive on housing and taxes. There's a lot of money around Hartford (if not in it) as compared to Springfield and local taxes tend to be higher and services probably better. There's not a lot of difference between the two states (they're both great!) --Conn is more Italian; Mass more Irish, and both manage to be heavily Catholic despite their Yankee Protestant histories. But $1500 for four bedrooms? That doesn't sound very realistic in any part of either state.