Georgia vs Alabama: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Alabama #37 as of the latest release. Alabama is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 96.3), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 15% higher violent crime rate. Georgia scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 29% lower in Alabama ($63,954 vs. $90,495 in Georgia).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 23% lower in Alabama ($1,433 vs. $1,853 in Georgia).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 20% lower in Alabama ($8,859 vs. $11,066 in Georgia).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +6.9 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 48.5#37 of 50 · C | +6.9 pts | — | GA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.5 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +7.5 pts+8% | 100 | AL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$11,645 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | -$11,645 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$89,204 (+37%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$89,204+37% | $368,697 | AL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.48 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | +0.48 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -51 (-15%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | -51-15% | 328 | GA |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,332 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$13,332+20% | $80,903 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.1 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,469 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +8,469 | -33 | GA |
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 Georgia or Alabama better to live in?
Georgia scores higher overall: 55.4 to 48.5 out of 100, #26 of 50 against #37. Georgia leads 8 of 11 categories, Alabama leads 1, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +4.3 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 49.8#21 · B | +4.3 pts | GA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +4.9 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 66.3#28 · C+ | +4.9 pts | GA |
| Health12% of scoregap +10 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 29.5#45 · D | +10 pts | GA |
| Education12% of scoregap +3.7 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 49.4#39 · C | +3.7 pts | GA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -12.4 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 85.5#7 · A | -12.4 pts | AL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +13.3 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 56.4#31 · C+ | +13.3 pts | GA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -2.1 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 53.6#7 · A | -2.1 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +5.8 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 32.9#49 · F | +5.8 pts | GA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +5.3 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 22.8#45 · D | +5.3 pts | GA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +1 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 6.6#47 · D | +1 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +3.8 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 28.3#43 · D | +3.8 pts | GA |
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 Georgia cheaper than Alabama?
Alabama is cheaper: cost of living index 88.8 vs 96.3 in Georgia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $11,645 more a year in Alabama after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.5 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +7.5 pts+8% | 100 | AL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.5 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 96.4#26 of 50 | +2.5 pts+3% | 100 | AL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.37¢ (-9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | -1.37¢-9% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.86 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | +$2.86+16% | $15.83/Mcf | AL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.06 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | +$0.06+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,207 (+25%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $8,859#3 of 50 | +$2,207+25% | $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 | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$4,604 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$36,789costs $38,211 | -$4,604 | AL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$5,945 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$30,195costs $44,805 | -$5,945 | AL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$11,645 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | +$8,845costs $66,155 | -$11,645 | AL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$5,171 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$41,956costs $33,044 | -$5,171 | 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 | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$7,216 | $22,819 | $15,603 | +$7,216 | AL |
| ChildcareGap +$4,414 | $22,132 | $17,718 | +$4,414 | AL |
| UtilitiesGap +$360 | $4,622 | $4,262 | +$360 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$281 | $11,139 | $10,858 | +$281 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$188 | $9,271 | $9,083 | +$188 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$814 | $7,817 | $8,631 | -$814 | GA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Alabama?
Georgia and Alabama collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.47% vs 7.99%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.48 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | +0.48 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.24 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 4.15%#15 of 50 | +1.24 pts | 5.46% | AL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.44 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.39%#2 of 50 | +0.44 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.97 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 9.46%#46 of 50 | -1.97 pts | 6.66% | GA |
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 Georgia or Alabama?
Homes cost 37% more in Georgia: a typical home value of $330,817 in Georgia vs $241,613 in Alabama. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $63,954 in Alabama; the median household earns $79,991 and $66,659.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$89,204 (+37%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$89,204+37% | $368,697 | AL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.4 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +1.9%#29 of 50 | -2.4 pts | +1.2% | AL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$420 (+29%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,433#11 of 50 | +$420+29% | $1,948 | AL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$26,541 (+42%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $63,954#5 of 50 | +$26,541+42% | $100,006 | AL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.5x (+14%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 3.6x#8 of 50 | +0.5x+14% | 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.
| GA | AL | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $1,243 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | -4% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +17.7% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | 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 Georgia or Alabama?
Georgia pays more: median household income $79,991 vs $66,659, with unemployment at 3.4% in Georgia and 2.9% in Alabama. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Alabama's in 0.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$13,332 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$13,332+20% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 2.9%#5 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,582 (+25%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $51,087#44 of 50 | +$12,582+25% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Population growthGap +0.3 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.58%#20 of 50 | +0.3 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 | GA | AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $143,248$128,923 in Birmingham | GA |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $95,904$86,314 in Birmingham | GA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $65,068$58,561 in Birmingham | GA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $61,371$55,234 in Birmingham | GA |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $96,769$87,092 in Birmingham | GA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $55,134$49,621 in Birmingham | GA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $70,578$63,520 in Birmingham | GA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $79,326$71,393 in Birmingham | GA |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $87,941$79,147 in Birmingham | GA |
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $134,596$121,136 in Birmingham | GA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $104,288$93,859 in Birmingham | GA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $53,592$48,233 in Birmingham | GA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $55,494$49,945 in Birmingham | GA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $52,873$47,586 in Birmingham | GA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $64,834$58,351 in Birmingham | GA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $239,510$215,559 in Birmingham | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $41,163$37,047 in Birmingham | GA |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $62,286$56,057 in Birmingham | GA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $48,637$43,773 in Birmingham | GA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $33,911$30,520 in Birmingham | GA |
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 Georgia safer than Alabama?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 348 in Alabama (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,462 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -51 (-15%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | -51-15% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -53 (-4%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,462#27 of 50 | -53-4% | 1,535 | Even |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Johns Creek, GA40 violent per 100K
- Daphne, AL57 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or Alabama?
Georgia scores higher for education (#34 of 50 vs #39), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 88.2%. Georgia scores higher for health (#40 vs #45); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 73.8 in Alabama.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 262#48 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 250#45 of 50 | +10 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.1 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.5 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 38.9%#46 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 34.03% | GA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.8 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 8.2%#32 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 7.6% | AL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+7%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 42#37 of 50 | +3 pts+7% | 38.8 | AL |
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).
- Valdosta, GAeducation score 92.3
- 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: Georgia #34, Alabama #39. Health: Georgia #40, Alabama #45.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Alabama, or from Alabama to Georgia?
9,224 households moved from Georgia to Alabama and 8,527 moved from Alabama to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 697 households for Alabama. Movers to Alabama reported an average income of $61,054; movers to Georgia reported $54,746. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 15,194 people (±2,860) moving from Georgia to Alabama and 15,804 (±5,475) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
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 | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +92,875 (+168%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 55,369#25 of 50 | +92,875+168% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +84,406 (+172%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 49,167#24 of 50 | +84,406+172% | AL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,469 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +8,469 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.1 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +1.2#19 of 50 | +0.1 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$3,702 (+6%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $66,467#36 of 50 | +$3,702+6% | GA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$8,421 (+13%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $63,867#45 of 50 | +$8,421+13% | GA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +4.5#11 of 50 | -2.1 | 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, Georgia or Alabama?
Georgia is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -6 places | #33score 60.1 | #39score 56.2 | -6 places | GA |
| RetireesGap -17 places | #27score 60.4 | #44score 51.9 | -17 places | GA |
| Remote WorkersGap -6 places | #20score 54.6 | #26score 52 | -6 places | GA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -5 places | #17score 58.9 | #22score 55.2 | -5 places | GA |
| Small BusinessGap -11 places | #13score 66.7 | #24score 58.7 | -11 places | GA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -8 places | #40score 29.7 | #48score 25.3 | -8 places | GA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesGeorgia (#33 vs #39)
- RetireesGeorgia (#27 vs #44)
- Remote WorkersGeorgia (#20 vs #26)
- Young ProfessionalsGeorgia (#17 vs #22)
- Small BusinessGeorgia (#13 vs #24)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsGeorgia (#40 vs #48)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and Alabama?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and Alabama has 20; the largest are Atlanta and Huntsville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Huntsville222,791 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Madisonscore 72.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Daphne57 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Enterprisecost index 83.2 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Montgomerywalkability 12.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Alabastercounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Florence98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | Madisonmedian income $134,655 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Madison+6.5% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and Alabama compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and Alabama AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +3 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 9%#40 of 50 | +3 pts | 29.34% | GA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.7 (-57%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 31.1#28 of 50 | -17.7-57% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap +2.4 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 3.7%#40 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 17.16% | GA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 26 min#27 of 50 | +3.4 min | 25.2 min | AL |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 0.4%#44 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 2.29% | GA |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.6 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 8.3%#46 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 91.6%#38 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 92.67% | GA |
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 | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 90#34 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.6 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 9.8%#28 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +5 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 72%#29 of 50 | +5 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$766 (-31%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $2,456#19 of 50 | -$766-31% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +5.2%#23 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia 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).
Georgia vs Alabama: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Georgia is ahead on 21 of 51, Alabama on 19, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | AlabamaAL | GapGA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,109,660 (+118%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 5.2 million#24 of 50 | +6,109,660+118% | 6.8 million | GA |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,332 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$13,332+20% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 2.9%#5 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| Population growthGap +0.3 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.58%#20 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,582 (+25%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $51,087#44 of 50 | +$12,582+25% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -51 (-15%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | -51-15% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -53 (-4%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,462#27 of 50 | -53-4% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.1 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 236#31 of 50 | -0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 262#48 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 213#33 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 250#45 of 50 | +10 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.5 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 38.9%#46 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 34.03% | GA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.8 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 8.2%#32 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 7.6% | AL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$89,204 (+37%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$89,204+37% | $368,697 | AL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.4 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +1.9%#29 of 50 | -2.4 pts | +1.2% | AL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$420 (+29%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,433#11 of 50 | +$420+29% | $1,948 | AL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$26,541 (+42%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $63,954#5 of 50 | +$26,541+42% | $100,006 | AL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.5 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +7.5 pts+8% | 100 | AL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.5x (+14%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 3.6x#8 of 50 | +0.5x+14% | 4.6x | AL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.37¢ (-9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | -1.37¢-9% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.86 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | +$2.86+16% | $15.83/Mcf | AL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.06 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | +$0.06+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.5 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 96.4#26 of 50 | +2.5 pts+3% | 100 | AL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,207 (+25%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $8,859#3 of 50 | +$2,207+25% | $15,633 | AL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.48 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | +0.48 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.24 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 4.15%#15 of 50 | +1.24 pts | 5.46% | AL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.44 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.39%#2 of 50 | +0.44 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.97 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 9.46%#46 of 50 | -1.97 pts | 6.66% | GA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 90#34 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.6 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 9.8%#28 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +5 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 72%#29 of 50 | +5 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$766 (-31%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $2,456#19 of 50 | -$766-31% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +5.2%#23 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+7%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 42#37 of 50 | +3 pts+7% | 38.8 | AL |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +3 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 9%#40 of 50 | +3 pts | 29.34% | GA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.7 (-57%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 31.1#28 of 50 | -17.7-57% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap +2.4 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 3.7%#40 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 17.16% | GA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 26 min#27 of 50 | +3.4 min | 25.2 min | AL |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 0.4%#44 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 2.29% | GA |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.6 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 8.3%#46 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 91.6%#38 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 92.67% | GA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +92,875 (+168%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 55,369#25 of 50 | +92,875+168% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +84,406 (+172%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 49,167#24 of 50 | +84,406+172% | 78,715 | AL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,469 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +8,469 | -33 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.1 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +1.2#19 of 50 | +0.1 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$3,702 (+6%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $66,467#36 of 50 | +$3,702+6% | $77,690 | GA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$8,421 (+13%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $63,867#45 of 50 | +$8,421+13% | $77,024 | GA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.1 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +4.5#11 of 50 | -2.1 | +1.1 | AL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$11,645 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | -$11,645 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$4,604 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$36,789#7 of 50 | -$4,604 | +$31,418 | AL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$5,171 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$41,956#6 of 50 | -$5,171 | +$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 Georgia and Alabama numbers say when read together.
Georgia ranks higher overall
Georgia leads 8 of the 11 categories to Alabama's 1, with 2 even; Alabama is ahead on affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Georgia is ahead on 21 and Alabama on 19.
Alabama is cheaper day to day
Alabama's cost of living index is 88.8 against 96.3 in Georgia (US = 100). The typical home costs $330,817 in Georgia and $241,613 in Alabama. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and +$8,845 in Alabama.
Tax burdens are close
Georgia collects 8.47% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); Alabama collects 7.99% (low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack).
Georgia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,991 in Georgia and $66,659 in Alabama, with unemployment at 3.4% and 2.9%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 348 in Alabama.
Moves between the two run about even
15,194 people moved from Georgia to Alabama and 15,804 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Georgia fits families and retirees better
For families, Georgia ranks #33 of 50 and Alabama #39; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and Alabama #44.
Georgia vs Alabama: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or Alabama better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Alabama #37 as of the latest release. Alabama is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 96.3), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 15% higher violent crime rate. Georgia scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Georgia cheaper than Alabama?
Alabama is cheaper than Georgia: cost of living index 88.8 vs 96.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$2,800 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Georgia, and +$8,845 in Alabama. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $241,613 in Alabama.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Alabama?
Georgia and Alabama have similar tax burdens: 8.47% vs 7.99% of income in state and local taxes. Georgia's top income tax rate is 5.39%, its effective property tax rate 0.83% and its combined sales tax 7.49%; Alabama's are 4.15%, 0.39% and 9.46%.
Is Georgia safer than Alabama?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 348 in Alabama, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and Alabama #33. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,462 in Alabama. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Daphne, AL.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or Alabama?
Homes are 37% more expensive in Georgia: the typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $241,613 in Alabama. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $63,954 in Alabama, against median incomes of $79,991 and $66,659.
Do people earn more in Georgia or Alabama?
Georgia pays more: median household income is $79,991 vs $66,659 in Alabama, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 2.9% in Alabama. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Alabama's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Alabama or from Alabama to Georgia?
9,224 households moved from Georgia to Alabama and 8,527 moved from Alabama to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 697 households for Alabama. Movers to Alabama reported an average income of $61,054; movers to Georgia reported $54,746. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 15,194 people (±2,860) moving from Georgia to Alabama and 15,804 (±5,475) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or Alabama?
Georgia is the better fit for retirees: #27 of 50 on the retiree index vs #44 for Alabama. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; 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 +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$41,956 in Alabama.
Which is better for families, Georgia or Alabama?
Georgia is the better fit for families: #33 of 50 on the families index vs #39 for Alabama. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $8,859 in Alabama. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 88.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and +$8,845 in Alabama.
Is Alabama better than Georgia?
No: Georgia ranks higher than Alabama overall, #26 of 50 vs #37, with a composite score of 55.4 to 48.5. Georgia leads 8 of 11 categories and Alabama leads 1, including affordability. 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 Georgia vs Alabama.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (9,224 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).