Alabama vs Kentucky: Which Is Better to Live In?
Alabama ranks #37 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 90.2); Alabama has a 0.9-point lower tax burden and has a 39% higher violent crime rate. Alabama scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
- Violent crime rate is 39% lower in Kentucky (212 vs. 348 in Alabama).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 32% lower in Alabama ($8,859 vs. $13,075 in Kentucky).
- Residential electricity price is 18% lower in Kentucky (13.24¢/kWh vs. 16.10¢/kWh in Alabama).
| Measure | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +3.7 pts | 48.5#37 of 50 · C | 44.8#41 of 50 · C | +3.7 pts | — | AL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 88.8#7 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | -1.4 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$9,189 · US -$11,758 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | +$9,189 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$9,036 (+4%) · US $368,697 | $241,613#8 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$9,036+4% | $368,697 | KY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.94 pts · US 8.74% | 7.99%#14 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | -0.94 pts | 8.74% | AL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +136 (+64%) · US 328 | 348#33 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +136+64% | 328 | KY |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,133 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $66,659#44 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$2,133+3% | $80,903 | AL |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.9 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#14 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#45 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,044 · US -33 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +4,044 | -33 | AL |
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 Alabama or Kentucky better to live in?
Alabama scores higher overall: 48.5 to 44.8 out of 100, #37 of 50 against #41. Alabama leads 4 of 11 categories, Kentucky leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +26.1 | 15% | 49.8#21 · B | 23.7#49 · F | +26.1 pts | AL |
| Safety12% of scoregap -13.9 | 12% | 66.3#28 · C+ | 80.2#10 · A | -13.9 pts | KY |
| Health12% of scoregap -3.6 | 12% | 29.5#45 · D | 33.1#43 · D | -3.6 pts | KY |
| Education12% of scoregap -18.2 | 12% | 49.4#39 · C | 67.6#10 · A | -18.2 pts | KY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +2.5 | 10% | 85.5#7 · A | 83.0#11 · B+ | +2.5 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +18 | 8% | 56.4#31 · C+ | 38.4#47 · D | +18 pts | AL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +18.7 | 7% | 53.6#7 · A | 34.9#30 · C+ | +18.7 pts | AL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -11.9 | 7% | 32.9#49 · F | 44.8#37 · C | -11.9 pts | KY |
| Livability7% of scoregap +4.5 | 7% | 22.8#45 · D | 18.3#49 · F | +4.5 pts | AL |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -3.3 | 6% | 6.6#47 · D | 9.9#43 · D | -3.3 pts | KY |
| Environment4% of scoregap -0.6 | 4% | 28.3#43 · D | 28.9#40 · C | -0.6 pts | Even |
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 Alabama cheaper than Kentucky?
Alabama and Kentucky cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 88.8 vs 90.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $9,189 more a year in Alabama after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 88.8#7 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | -1.4 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.4#26 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | +0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.86¢ (+22%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | +2.86¢+22% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.33 (+23%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | +$3.33+23% | $15.83/Mcf | KY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.28 (-9%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | -$0.28-9% | $3.32/gal | AL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,216 (-32%) · US $15,633 | $8,859#3 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | -$4,216-32% | $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 | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$49 | +$36,789costs $38,211 | +$36,838costs $38,162 | -$49 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$486 | +$30,195costs $44,805 | +$29,709costs $45,290 | +$486 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$9,189 | +$8,845costs $66,155 | -$344costs $75,344 | +$9,189 | AL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$272 | +$41,956costs $33,044 | +$41,684costs $33,316 | +$272 | Even |
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 | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$370 | $15,603 | $15,973 | -$370 | Even |
| ChildcareGap -$8,432 | $17,718 | $26,150 | -$8,432 | AL |
| UtilitiesGap -$68 | $4,262 | $4,330 | -$68 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$46 | $10,858 | $10,812 | +$46 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$880 | $9,083 | $9,963 | -$880 | AL |
| State and local taxesGap +$515 | $8,631 | $8,116 | +$515 | KY |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Alabama or Kentucky?
Alabama collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.99% vs 8.93%. Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.94 pts · US 8.74% | 7.99%#14 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | -0.94 pts | 8.74% | AL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -2.05 pts · US 5.46% | 4.15%#15 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -2.05 pts | 5.46% | AL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.41 pts · US 1.02% | 0.39%#2 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | -0.41 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.46 pts · US 6.66% | 9.46%#46 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | +3.46 pts | 6.66% | KY |
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 Alabama or Kentucky?
Homes cost 4% more in Alabama: a typical home value of $241,613 in Alabama vs $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $63,954 of income in Alabama and $63,057 in Kentucky; the median household earns $66,659 and $64,526.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$9,036 (+4%) · US $368,697 | $241,613#8 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$9,036+4% | $368,697 | KY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.3 pts · US +1.2% | +1.9%#29 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +1.2% | AL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$85 (+6%) · US $1,948 | $1,433#11 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$85+6% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$897 (+1%) · US $100,006 | $63,954#5 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$897+1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#8 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
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.
| AL | KY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,243 | $1,197 |
| Income needed vs. median | -4% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +17.7% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Birmingham | Louisville |
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 Alabama or Kentucky?
Alabama pays more: median household income $66,659 vs $64,526, with unemployment at 2.9% in Alabama and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Alabama's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 13.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$2,133 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $66,659#44 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$2,133+3% | $80,903 | AL |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.7 pts · US 3.95% | 2.9%#5 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| GDP per capitaGap +$262 (+1%) · US $64,333 | $51,087#44 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$262+1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | AL |
| Population growthGap +0.08 pts · US +0.51% | +0.58%#20 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | +0.08 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 | AL | KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,510$215,559 in Birmingham | $230,688$207,619 in Louisville | AL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $104,288$93,859 in Birmingham | $111,147$100,032 in Louisville | KY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,371$55,234 in Birmingham | $67,440$60,696 in Louisville | KY |
| Lawyers | $143,248$128,923 in Birmingham | $149,011$134,110 in Louisville | KY |
| Civil Engineers | $96,769$87,092 in Birmingham | $102,343$92,109 in Louisville | KY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $70,578$63,520 in Birmingham | $75,852$68,267 in Louisville | KY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,134$49,621 in Birmingham | $59,164$53,248 in Louisville | KY |
| Registered Nurses | $87,941$79,147 in Birmingham | $91,587$82,428 in Louisville | KY |
| Construction Laborers | $41,163$37,047 in Birmingham | $44,696$40,226 in Louisville | KY |
| General & Operations Managers | $95,904$86,314 in Birmingham | $98,924$89,032 in Louisville | KY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,834$58,351 in Birmingham | $67,624$60,862 in Louisville | KY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $65,068$58,561 in Birmingham | $67,671$60,904 in Louisville | KY |
| Software Developers | $134,596$121,136 in Birmingham | $132,426$119,183 in Louisville | Even |
| Electricians | $62,286$56,057 in Birmingham | $60,249$54,224 in Louisville | AL |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,494$49,945 in Birmingham | $57,318$51,586 in Louisville | KY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $79,326$71,393 in Birmingham | $81,118$73,006 in Louisville | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $52,873$47,586 in Birmingham | $54,420$48,978 in Louisville | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,911$30,520 in Birmingham | $35,396$31,856 in Louisville | KY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,637$43,773 in Birmingham | $47,671$42,904 in Louisville | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,592$48,233 in Birmingham | $54,301$48,871 in Louisville | 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 Alabama safer than Kentucky?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 348 in Alabama (FBI). Property crime runs 1,462 and 1,262 per 100,000.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +136 (+64%) · US 328 | 348#33 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +136+64% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +200 (+16%) · US 1,535 | 1,462#27 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +200+16% | 1,535 | KY |
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.
- Daphne, AL57 violent per 100K
- Independence, KY49 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Alabama or Kentucky?
Kentucky scores higher for education (#10 of 50 vs #39), with high school graduation rates of 88.2% and 90.1%. Kentucky scores higher for health (#43 vs #45); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Alabama and 73.6 in Kentucky.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 262#48 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 257 | 250#45 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | -8 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.9 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#14 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#45 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.7 pts · US 34.03% | 38.9%#46 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 34.03% | KY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.4 pts · US 7.6% | 8.2%#32 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 7.6% | KY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+2%) · US 38.8 | 42#37 of 50 | 41#34 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).
- Florence, ALeducation score 98
- Bowling Green, KYeducation score 96
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: Alabama #39, Kentucky #10. Health: Alabama #45, Kentucky #43.
Are more people moving from Alabama to Kentucky, or from Kentucky to Alabama?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 758 people (±451) moving from Alabama to Kentucky and 2,576 (±890) the other way, a net gain of about 1,818 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 | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +6,510 (+13%) | 55,369#25 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | +6,510+13% | AL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +2,466 (+5%) | 49,167#24 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +2,466+5% | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,044 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +4,044 | AL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.7 | +1.2#19 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | +0.7 | AL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,984 (+10%) | $66,467#36 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | +$5,984+10% | AL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$1,807 (-3%) | $63,867#45 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | -$1,807-3% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 | +4.5#11 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | +2.9 | 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, Alabama or Kentucky?
Alabama is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Kentucky is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +14 places | #39score 56.2 | #25score 65.1 | +14 places | KY |
| RetireesGap -2 places | #44score 51.9 | #46score 47.3 | -2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -20 places | #26score 52 | #46score 39.5 | -20 places | AL |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -22 places | #22score 55.2 | #44score 39.5 | -22 places | AL |
| Small BusinessGap -19 places | #24score 58.7 | #43score 39.1 | -19 places | AL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +5 places | #48score 25.3 | #43score 28.9 | +5 places | KY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesKentucky (#25 vs #39)
- RetireesEven (#44 vs #46)
- Remote WorkersAlabama (#26 vs #46)
- Young ProfessionalsAlabama (#22 vs #44)
- Small BusinessAlabama (#24 vs #43)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsKentucky (#43 vs #48)
Which cities stand out in Alabama and Kentucky?
Alabama has 20 tracked cities and Kentucky has 20; the largest are Huntsville and Louisville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Huntsville222,791 people | Louisville631,818 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Madisonscore 72.1 | Independencescore 64.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Daphne57 violent per 100K | Independence49 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Enterprisecost index 83.2 | Richmondcost index 85.3 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Montgomerywalkability 12.6 of 20 | Covingtonwalkability 13.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Alabastercounty median AQI 36 | Florencecounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Florence98% graduation rate | Bowling Green96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Madisonmedian income $134,655 | Independencemedian income $102,361 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Madison+6.5% growth | Elizabethtown+2.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Alabama and Kentucky compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Alabama carries AA credit rating and Kentucky A.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 9%#40 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.5 (-7%) · US 29.6 | 31.1#28 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | -2.5-7% | 29.6 | AL |
| Public land shareGap -1.7 pts · US 17.16% | 3.7%#40 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 17.16% | KY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.5 min · US 25.2 min | 26 min#27 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | +1.5 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.4%#44 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.2 pts · US 12.28% | 8.3%#46 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 12.28% | KY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 91.6%#38 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 92.67% | AL |
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 | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 90#34 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | AL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.9 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#28 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.39% | AL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +25 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#29 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | +25 pts | 74.3% | AL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$964 (-28%) · US $3,506 | $2,456#19 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | -$964-28% | $3,506 | AL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#23 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +4.66% | AL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Alabama AA, Kentucky A), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Alabama vs Kentucky: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Alabama is ahead on 20 of 51, Kentucky on 13, and 18 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | AlabamaAL | KentuckyKY | GapAL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +586,224 (+13%) · US 6.8 million | 5.2 million#24 of 50 | 4.6 million#26 of 50 | +586,224+13% | 6.8 million | AL |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,133 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $66,659#44 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$2,133+3% | $80,903 | AL |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.7 pts · US 3.95% | 2.9%#5 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| Population growthGap +0.08 pts · US +0.51% | +0.58%#20 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | +0.08 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$262 (+1%) · US $64,333 | $51,087#44 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$262+1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | AL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +136 (+64%) · US 328 | 348#33 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +136+64% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +200 (+16%) · US 1,535 | 1,462#27 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +200+16% | 1,535 | KY |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.9 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#14 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 236#31 of 50 | 238#25 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 262#48 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 214 | 213#33 of 50 | 218#11 of 50 | -5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 257 | 250#45 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | -8 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#45 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.7 pts · US 34.03% | 38.9%#46 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 34.03% | KY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.4 pts · US 7.6% | 8.2%#32 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 7.6% | KY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$9,036 (+4%) · US $368,697 | $241,613#8 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$9,036+4% | $368,697 | KY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.3 pts · US +1.2% | +1.9%#29 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +1.2% | AL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$85 (+6%) · US $1,948 | $1,433#11 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$85+6% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$897 (+1%) · US $100,006 | $63,954#5 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$897+1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 88.8#7 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | -1.4 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#8 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.86¢ (+22%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | +2.86¢+22% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.33 (+23%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | +$3.33+23% | $15.83/Mcf | KY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.28 (-9%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | -$0.28-9% | $3.32/gal | AL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.4#26 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | +0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,216 (-32%) · US $15,633 | $8,859#3 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | -$4,216-32% | $15,633 | AL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.94 pts · US 8.74% | 7.99%#14 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | -0.94 pts | 8.74% | AL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -2.05 pts · US 5.46% | 4.15%#15 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -2.05 pts | 5.46% | AL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.41 pts · US 1.02% | 0.39%#2 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | -0.41 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.46 pts · US 6.66% | 9.46%#46 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | +3.46 pts | 6.66% | KY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 90#34 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | AL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.9 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#28 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.39% | AL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +25 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#29 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | +25 pts | 74.3% | AL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$964 (-28%) · US $3,506 | $2,456#19 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | -$964-28% | $3,506 | AL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#23 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +4.66% | AL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+2%) · US 38.8 | 42#37 of 50 | 41#34 of 50 | +1 pts+2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 9%#40 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.5 (-7%) · US 29.6 | 31.1#28 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | -2.5-7% | 29.6 | AL |
| Public land shareGap -1.7 pts · US 17.16% | 3.7%#40 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 17.16% | KY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.5 min · US 25.2 min | 26 min#27 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | +1.5 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.4%#44 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.2 pts · US 12.28% | 8.3%#46 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 12.28% | KY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 91.6%#38 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 92.67% | AL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +6,510 (+13%) · US 78,682 | 55,369#25 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | +6,510+13% | 78,682 | AL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +2,466 (+5%) · US 78,715 | 49,167#24 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +2,466+5% | 78,715 | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,044 · US -33 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +4,044 | -33 | AL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.7 · US +0.4 | +1.2#19 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | +0.7 | +0.4 | AL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,984 (+10%) · US $77,690 | $66,467#36 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | +$5,984+10% | $77,690 | AL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$1,807 (-3%) · US $77,024 | $63,867#45 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | -$1,807-3% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 · US +1.1 | +4.5#11 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | +2.9 | +1.1 | AL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$9,189 · US -$11,758 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | +$9,189 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$49 · US +$31,418 | +$36,789#7 of 50 | +$36,838#6 of 50 | -$49 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$272 · US +$35,970 | +$41,956#6 of 50 | +$41,684#7 of 50 | +$272 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Alabama and Kentucky numbers say when read together.
Alabama ranks higher overall
Alabama leads 4 of the 11 categories to Kentucky's 5, with 2 even; Kentucky is ahead on education and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Alabama is ahead on 20 and Kentucky on 13.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 88.8 in Alabama and 90.2 in Kentucky, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $241,613 and $232,577. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$8,845 a year after typical costs in Alabama and -$344 in Kentucky.
Alabama takes a smaller share in taxes
Alabama collects 7.99% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack); Kentucky collects 8.93% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Alabama pays more
Median household income is $66,659 in Alabama and $64,526 in Kentucky, with unemployment at 2.9% and 4.6%. Violent crime runs 348 per 100,000 residents in Alabama and 212 in Kentucky.
People move to Alabama on net
2,576 people moved to Alabama from Kentucky in the latest Census release, against 758 going the other way.
Kentucky is the better fit for families
For families, Alabama ranks #39 of 50 and Kentucky #25; for retirees, Alabama ranks #44 and Kentucky #46.
Alabama vs Kentucky: frequently asked questions
Is Alabama or Kentucky better to live in?
Alabama ranks #37 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 90.2); Alabama has a 0.9-point lower tax burden and has a 39% higher violent crime rate. Alabama scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Alabama cheaper than Kentucky?
Alabama and Kentucky cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 88.8 vs 90.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have +$8,845 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Alabama, and -$344 in Kentucky. The typical home value is $241,613 in Alabama and $232,577 in Kentucky.
Which has lower taxes, Alabama or Kentucky?
Alabama has the lower tax burden: 7.99% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.93% in Kentucky. Alabama's top income tax rate is 4.15%, its effective property tax rate 0.39% and its combined sales tax 9.46%; Kentucky's are 6.2%, 0.8% and 6%.
Is Alabama safer than Kentucky?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 348 in Alabama, per the FBI. Alabama ranks #33 of 50 for violent crime and Kentucky #9. Property crime is 1,462 per 100,000 in Alabama and 1,262 in Kentucky. The safest tracked cities are Daphne, AL, and Independence, KY.
Are homes more expensive in Alabama or Kentucky?
Homes are 4% more expensive in Alabama: the typical home value is $241,613 in Alabama and $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $63,954 of household income in Alabama and $63,057 in Kentucky, against median incomes of $66,659 and $64,526.
Do people earn more in Alabama or Kentucky?
Alabama pays more: median household income is $66,659 vs $64,526 in Kentucky, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 2.9% in Alabama and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Alabama's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 13, with 5 even.
Are more people moving from Alabama to Kentucky or from Kentucky to Alabama?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 758 people (±451) moving from Alabama to Kentucky and 2,576 (±890) the other way, a net gain of about 1,818 people for Alabama beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Alabama or Kentucky?
Alabama and Kentucky are close for retirees: #44 and #46 of 50 on the retiree index. Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,956 left after typical costs in Alabama and +$41,684 in Kentucky.
Which is better for families, Alabama or Kentucky?
Kentucky is the better fit for families: #25 of 50 on the families index vs #39 for Alabama. Center-based infant care costs $8,859 a year in Alabama and $13,075 in Kentucky. High school graduation rates are 88.2% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$8,845 after typical costs in Alabama and -$344 in Kentucky.
Is Kentucky better than Alabama?
No: Alabama ranks higher than Kentucky overall, #37 of 50 vs #41, with a composite score of 48.5 to 44.8. Alabama leads 4 of 11 categories and Kentucky leads 5, including education and safety. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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