In the context of living and raising a family in NYC metro suburbs, and commuting...

1) NJ
2) NY...Westchester County or Long Island
3) CT...Fairfield County

CT has the lowest property taxes, public schools in select towns are top in the US, most bang-for-the buck real estate, easiest access to skiing/fishing in New England, and LIS....I can fish in the AM and be at work by 9:00.

CT has significant issues...budget, infrastructure, leadership, etc. NJ/NY all have/had similar challenges...CT is having its "moment".