Florida vs Alabama: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Alabama #37 as of the latest release. Alabama is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 103.4), carries a 1.5-point higher tax burden, and has a 21% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 46% lower in Alabama ($1,433 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 41% lower in Alabama ($63,954 vs. $108,280 in Florida).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 38% lower in Alabama ($8,859 vs. $14,230 in Florida).
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +11.4 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 48.5#37 of 50 · C | +11.4 pts | — | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.6 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +14.6 pts+16% | 100 | AL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$19,331 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | -$19,331 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$133,857 (+55%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$133,857+55% | $368,697 | AL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.5 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -73 (-21%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | -73-21% | 328 | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,076 (+17%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$11,076+17% | $80,903 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| Life expectancyGap +4.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +4.1 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +49,147 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +49,147 | -33 | FL |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Florida or Alabama better to live in?
Florida scores higher overall: 59.9 to 48.5 out of 100, #21 of 50 against #37. Florida leads 8 of 11 categories, Alabama leads 3, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -4.8 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 49.8#21 · B | -4.8 pts | AL |
| Safety12% of scoregap +6.8 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 66.3#28 · C+ | +6.8 pts | FL |
| Health12% of scoregap +31 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 29.5#45 · D | +31 pts | FL |
| Education12% of scoregap +11.7 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 49.4#39 · C | +11.7 pts | FL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -23.6 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 85.5#7 · A | -23.6 pts | AL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +13.8 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 56.4#31 · C+ | +13.8 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap -8.7 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 53.6#7 · A | -8.7 pts | AL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +10.7 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 32.9#49 · F | +10.7 pts | FL |
| Livability7% of scoregap +4.1 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 22.8#45 · D | +4.1 pts | FL |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +21.2 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 6.6#47 · D | +21.2 pts | FL |
| Environment4% of scoregap +5.7 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 28.3#43 · D | +5.7 pts | FL |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Florida cheaper than Alabama?
Alabama is cheaper: cost of living index 88.8 vs 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $19,331 more a year in Alabama after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.6 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +14.6 pts+16% | 100 | AL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.7 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 96.4#26 of 50 | +1.7 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.86¢ (-5%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | -0.86¢-5% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.92 (+45%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | +$7.92+45% | $15.83/Mcf | AL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.19 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | +$0.19+7% | $3.32/gal | AL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,371 (+61%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $8,859#3 of 50 | +$5,371+61% | $15,633 | AL |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,405 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$36,789costs $38,211 | -$3,405 | AL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$6,136 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$30,195costs $44,805 | -$6,136 | AL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$19,331 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | +$8,845costs $66,155 | -$19,331 | AL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$4,957 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$41,956costs $33,044 | -$4,957 | AL |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$10,259 | $25,862 | $15,603 | +$10,259 | AL |
| ChildcareGap +$10,742 | $28,460 | $17,718 | +$10,742 | AL |
| UtilitiesGap +$701 | $4,963 | $4,262 | +$701 | AL |
| GroceriesGap +$191 | $11,049 | $10,858 | +$191 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$597 | $9,680 | $9,083 | +$597 | AL |
| State and local taxesGap -$3,159 | $5,472 | $8,631 | -$3,159 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Alabama?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 7.99%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.5 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.15 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 4.15%#15 of 50 | -4.15 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.43 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.39%#2 of 50 | +0.43 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.48 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 9.46%#46 of 50 | -2.48 pts | 6.66% | FL |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Alabama?
Homes cost 55% more in Florida: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $241,613 in Alabama. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $63,954 in Alabama; the median household earns $77,735 and $66,659.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$133,857 (+55%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$133,857+55% | $368,697 | AL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.4 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1.9%#29 of 50 | -3.4 pts | +1.2% | AL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,233 (+86%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,433#11 of 50 | +$1,233+86% | $1,948 | AL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$44,326 (+69%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $63,954#5 of 50 | +$44,326+69% | $100,006 | AL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.2x (+33%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.6x#8 of 50 | +1.2x+33% | 4.6x | AL |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| FL | AL | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $1,243 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | -4% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +17.7% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Miami | Birmingham |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Florida or Alabama?
Florida pays more: median household income $77,735 vs $66,659, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 2.9% in Alabama. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Alabama's in 3.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$11,076 (+17%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$11,076+17% | $80,903 | FL |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 2.9%#5 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,568 (+19%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $51,087#44 of 50 | +$9,568+19% | $64,333 | FL |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.7 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.27 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.58%#20 of 50 | +0.27 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | FL | AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $239,510$215,559 in Birmingham | AL |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $134,596$121,136 in Birmingham | AL |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $95,904$86,314 in Birmingham | FL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $61,371$55,234 in Birmingham | FL |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $143,248$128,923 in Birmingham | FL |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $96,769$87,092 in Birmingham | AL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $55,134$49,621 in Birmingham | FL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $104,288$93,859 in Birmingham | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $70,578$63,520 in Birmingham | FL |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $87,941$79,147 in Birmingham | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $79,326$71,393 in Birmingham | Even |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $62,286$56,057 in Birmingham | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $52,873$47,586 in Birmingham | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $65,068$58,561 in Birmingham | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $55,494$49,945 in Birmingham | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $33,911$30,520 in Birmingham | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $48,637$43,773 in Birmingham | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $64,834$58,351 in Birmingham | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $41,163$37,047 in Birmingham | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $53,592$48,233 in Birmingham | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Florida safer than Alabama?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 348 in Alabama (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,462 per 100,000. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -73 (-21%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | -73-21% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -60 (-4%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,462#27 of 50 | -60-4% | 1,535 | Even |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- Daphne, AL57 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Alabama?
Florida scores higher for education (#23 of 50 vs #39), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 88.2%. Florida scores higher for health (#19 vs #45); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 73.8 in Alabama.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 262#48 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 250#45 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| Life expectancyGap +4.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +4.1 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -9.3 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 38.9%#46 of 50 | -9.3 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 8.2%#32 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 7.6% | AL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 42#37 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- Florence, ALeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Florida #23, Alabama #39. Health: Florida #19, Alabama #45.
Are more people moving from Florida to Alabama, or from Alabama to Florida?
8,410 households moved from Florida to Alabama and 7,060 moved from Alabama to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,350 households for Alabama. Movers to Alabama reported an average income of $61,123; movers to Florida reported $74,344. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 16,423 people (±4,099) moving from Florida to Alabama and 11,110 (±3,108) the other way, a net gain of about 5,313 people for Alabama beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +298,743 (+540%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 55,369#25 of 50 | +298,743+540% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +249,596 (+508%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 49,167#24 of 50 | +249,596+508% | AL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +49,147 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +49,147 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +1.2#19 of 50 | +1.2 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$56,072 (+84%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $66,467#36 of 50 | +$56,072+84% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$12,267 (+19%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $63,867#45 of 50 | +$12,267+19% | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.5 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +4.5#11 of 50 | -3.5 | AL |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Florida or Alabama?
Florida is the better fit for families, retirees, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -15 places | #24score 65.4 | #39score 56.2 | -15 places | FL |
| RetireesGap -26 places | #18score 66.2 | #44score 51.9 | -26 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap +1 places | #27score 51.6 | #26score 52 | +1 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +2 places | #24score 53.9 | #22score 55.2 | +2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -5 places | #19score 62.4 | #24score 58.7 | -5 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -22 places | #26score 44.3 | #48score 25.3 | -22 places | FL |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesFlorida (#24 vs #39)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #44)
- Remote WorkersEven (#27 vs #26)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#24 vs #22)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #24)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsFlorida (#26 vs #48)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Alabama?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Alabama has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Huntsville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Huntsville222,791 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Madisonscore 72.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Daphne57 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Enterprisecost index 83.2 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Montgomerywalkability 12.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Alabastercounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Florence98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Madisonmedian income $134,655 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Madison+6.5% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Alabama compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Alabama AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 9%#40 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | FL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -8.6 (-28%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 31.1#28 of 50 | -8.6-28% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +22.6 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 3.7%#40 of 50 | +22.6 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.9 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 26 min#27 of 50 | +2.9 min | 25.2 min | AL |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.9 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.4%#44 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +7.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 8.3%#46 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.7 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 91.6%#38 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 92.67% | FL |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 90#34 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 9.8%#28 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +10 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 72%#29 of 50 | +10 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$496 (-20%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,456#19 of 50 | -$496-20% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +5.2%#23 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Alabama AA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Florida vs Alabama: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Florida is ahead on 24 of 51, Alabama on 17, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlabamaAL | GapFL−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +18,269,430 (+352%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 5.2 million#24 of 50 | +18,269,430+352% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,076 (+17%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$11,076+17% | $80,903 | FL |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 2.9%#5 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| Population growthGap +0.27 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.58%#20 of 50 | +0.27 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,568 (+19%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $51,087#44 of 50 | +$9,568+19% | $64,333 | FL |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.7 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -73 (-21%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | -73-21% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -60 (-4%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,462#27 of 50 | -60-4% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 236#31 of 50 | +7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 262#48 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 213#33 of 50 | +5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 250#45 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +4.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +4.1 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -9.3 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 38.9%#46 of 50 | -9.3 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 8.2%#32 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 7.6% | AL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$133,857 (+55%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$133,857+55% | $368,697 | AL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.4 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1.9%#29 of 50 | -3.4 pts | +1.2% | AL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,233 (+86%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,433#11 of 50 | +$1,233+86% | $1,948 | AL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$44,326 (+69%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $63,954#5 of 50 | +$44,326+69% | $100,006 | AL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.6 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +14.6 pts+16% | 100 | AL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.2x (+33%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.6x#8 of 50 | +1.2x+33% | 4.6x | AL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.86¢ (-5%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | -0.86¢-5% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.92 (+45%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | +$7.92+45% | $15.83/Mcf | AL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.19 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | +$0.19+7% | $3.32/gal | AL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.7 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 96.4#26 of 50 | +1.7 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,371 (+61%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $8,859#3 of 50 | +$5,371+61% | $15,633 | AL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.5 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.15 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 4.15%#15 of 50 | -4.15 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.43 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.39%#2 of 50 | +0.43 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.48 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 9.46%#46 of 50 | -2.48 pts | 6.66% | FL |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 90#34 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 9.8%#28 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +10 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 72%#29 of 50 | +10 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$496 (-20%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,456#19 of 50 | -$496-20% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +5.2%#23 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 42#37 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 9%#40 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | FL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -8.6 (-28%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 31.1#28 of 50 | -8.6-28% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +22.6 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 3.7%#40 of 50 | +22.6 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.9 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 26 min#27 of 50 | +2.9 min | 25.2 min | AL |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.9 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.4%#44 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +7.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 8.3%#46 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.7 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 91.6%#38 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +298,743 (+540%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 55,369#25 of 50 | +298,743+540% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +249,596 (+508%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 49,167#24 of 50 | +249,596+508% | 78,715 | AL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +49,147 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +49,147 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +1.2#19 of 50 | +1.2 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$56,072 (+84%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $66,467#36 of 50 | +$56,072+84% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$12,267 (+19%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $63,867#45 of 50 | +$12,267+19% | $77,024 | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.5 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +4.5#11 of 50 | -3.5 | +1.1 | AL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$19,331 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | -$19,331 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,405 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$36,789#7 of 50 | -$3,405 | +$31,418 | AL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$4,957 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$41,956#6 of 50 | -$4,957 | +$35,970 | AL |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Florida and Alabama numbers say when read together.
Florida ranks higher overall
Florida leads 8 of the 11 categories to Alabama's 3, with 0 even; Alabama is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 24 and Alabama on 17.
Alabama is cheaper day to day
Alabama's cost of living index is 88.8 against 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $241,613 in Alabama. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and +$8,845 in Alabama.
Florida takes a smaller share in taxes
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Alabama collects 7.99% (low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack).
Florida pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $66,659 in Alabama, with unemployment at 3.9% and 2.9%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 348 in Alabama.
People move to Alabama on net
16,423 people moved to Alabama from Florida in the latest Census release, against 11,110 going the other way.
Florida fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Alabama #39; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Alabama #44.
Florida vs Alabama: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Alabama better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Alabama #37 as of the latest release. Alabama is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 103.4), carries a 1.5-point higher tax burden, and has a 21% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Florida cheaper than Alabama?
Alabama is cheaper than Florida: cost of living index 88.8 vs 103.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and +$8,845 in Alabama. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $241,613 in Alabama.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Alabama?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 7.99% in Alabama. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Alabama's are 4.15%, 0.39% and 9.46%.
Is Florida safer than Alabama?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 348 in Alabama, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Alabama #33. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,462 in Alabama. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Pembroke Pines, FL, and Daphne, AL.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Alabama?
Homes are 55% more expensive in Florida: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $241,613 in Alabama. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $63,954 in Alabama, against median incomes of $77,735 and $66,659.
Do people earn more in Florida or Alabama?
Florida pays more: median household income is $77,735 vs $66,659 in Alabama, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 2.9% in Alabama. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Alabama's in 3, with 12 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Alabama or from Alabama to Florida?
8,410 households moved from Florida to Alabama and 7,060 moved from Alabama to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,350 households for Alabama. Movers to Alabama reported an average income of $61,123; movers to Florida reported $74,344. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 16,423 people (±4,099) moving from Florida to Alabama and 11,110 (±3,108) the other way, a net gain of about 5,313 people for Alabama beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Alabama?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #44 for Alabama. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$41,956 in Alabama.
Which is better for families, Florida or Alabama?
Florida is the better fit for families: #24 of 50 on the families index vs #39 for Alabama. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $8,859 in Alabama. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 88.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and +$8,845 in Alabama.
Is Alabama better than Florida?
No: Florida ranks higher than Alabama overall, #21 of 50 vs #37, with a composite score of 59.9 to 48.5. Florida leads 8 of 11 categories and Alabama leads 3, including affordability and growth. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Florida vs Alabama.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (8,410 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).