Georgia vs Arizona: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. Georgia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 100.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 21% lower violent crime rate. Georgia scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 32% lower in Georgia ($11,066 vs. $16,384 in Arizona).
- Violent crime rate is 21% lower in Georgia (297 vs. 378 in Arizona).
- Typical home value is 21% lower in Georgia ($330,817 vs. $417,990 in Arizona).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +7.6 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | +7.6 pts | — | GA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -4.4 pts-4% | 100 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$16,773 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | +$16,773 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$87,173 (-21%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$87,173-21% | $368,697 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.25 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -81 (-21%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -81-21% | 328 | GA |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,495 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | -$1,495-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 85.62% | GA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | -0.8 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -2,645 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -2,645 | -33 | AZ |
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 Arizona better to live in?
Georgia scores higher overall: 55.4 to 47.8 out of 100, #26 of 50 against #38. Georgia leads 8 of 11 categories, Arizona leads 3, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +11.5 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 42.6#31 · C+ | +11.5 pts | GA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +8 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 63.2#32 · C+ | +8 pts | GA |
| Health12% of scoregap -10.2 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 49.7#31 · C+ | -10.2 pts | AZ |
| Education12% of scoregap +20.5 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 32.6#47 · D | +20.5 pts | GA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +12.8 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 60.3#35 · C | +12.8 pts | GA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +10.3 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 59.4#25 · B | +10.3 pts | GA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +3.2 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 48.3#16 · B+ | +3.2 pts | GA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -14.7 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 53.4#18 · B+ | -14.7 pts | AZ |
| Livability7% of scoregap +3.8 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 24.3#42 · C | +3.8 pts | GA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -30.1 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 37.7#16 · B+ | -30.1 pts | AZ |
| Environment4% of scoregap +6.2 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 25.9#44 · D | +6.2 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 Arizona?
Georgia is cheaper: cost of living index 96.3 vs 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $16,773 more a year in Georgia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -4.4 pts-4% | 100 | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.5 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +3.5 pts+4% | 100 | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.59¢ (-4%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | -0.59¢-4% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.84 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | +$1.84+10% | $15.83/Mcf | AZ |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.85 (-22%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.85-22% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$5,318 (-32%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | -$5,318-32% | $15,633 | GA |
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 | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,428 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$2,428 | GA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$4,475 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$4,475 | GA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$16,773 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | +$16,773 | GA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$3,358 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$3,358 | GA |
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 | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$4,885 | $22,819 | $27,704 | -$4,885 | GA |
| ChildcareGap -$10,636 | $22,132 | $32,768 | -$10,636 | GA |
| UtilitiesGap -$212 | $4,622 | $4,834 | -$212 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$394 | $11,139 | $10,745 | +$394 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$2,672 | $9,271 | $11,943 | -$2,672 | GA |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,238 | $7,817 | $6,579 | +$1,238 | AZ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Arizona?
Georgia and Arizona collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.47% vs 8.22%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.25 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.89 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +2.89 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.27 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +0.27 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.03 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | -1.03 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 Arizona?
Homes cost 26% more in Arizona: a typical home value of $330,817 in Georgia vs $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $104,042 in Arizona; the median household earns $79,991 and $81,486.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$87,173 (-21%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$87,173-21% | $368,697 | GA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.6 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.2% | GA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$131 (+8%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$131+8% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$13,547 (-13%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | -$13,547-13% | $100,006 | GA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | -1x-20% | 4.6x | GA |
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 | AZ | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $2,151 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +28% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +9.1% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cold |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | Phoenix |
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 Arizona?
Median household income is about the same, $79,991 in Georgia and $81,486 in Arizona, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.3%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$1,495 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | -$1,495-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,846 (+8%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$4,846+8% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.01 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.01 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 | AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | GA |
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | GA |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | GA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | GA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | GA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | GA |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | GA |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | GA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | GA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | GA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | GA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | GA |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | GA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | GA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | GA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | GA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | GA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | GA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | GA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | 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 Arizona?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,514 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -81 (-21%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -81-21% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -104 (-7%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | -104-7% | 1,535 | GA |
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
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or Arizona?
Georgia scores higher for education (#34 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 77.3%. Arizona scores higher for health (#31 vs #40); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 76.7 in Arizona.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 85.62% | GA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | -0.8 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 7.6% | AZ |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 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).
- Valdosta, GAeducation score 92.3
- Peoria, AZeducation score 95.1
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, Arizona #47. Health: Georgia #40, Arizona #31.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Arizona, or from Arizona to Georgia?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,218 people (±1,467) moving from Georgia to Arizona and 5,085 (±3,014) 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 | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +26,569 (+22%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | +26,569+22% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +29,214 (+28%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +29,214+28% | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -2,645 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -2,645 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.0 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -1.0 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$17,328 (-20%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | -$17,328-20% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,305 (-4%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | -$3,305-4% | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -1.7 | AZ |
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 Arizona?
Georgia is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Arizona is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -12 places | #33score 60.1 | #45score 47.8 | -12 places | GA |
| RetireesGap -10 places | #27score 60.4 | #37score 54.6 | -10 places | GA |
| Remote WorkersGap -15 places | #20score 54.6 | #35score 47.2 | -15 places | GA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -14 places | #17score 58.9 | #31score 51 | -14 places | GA |
| Small BusinessGap -17 places | #13score 66.7 | #30score 52.2 | -17 places | GA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +12 places | #40score 29.7 | #28score 42.7 | +12 places | AZ |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesGeorgia (#33 vs #45)
- RetireesGeorgia (#27 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersGeorgia (#20 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsGeorgia (#17 vs #31)
- Small BusinessGeorgia (#13 vs #30)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsArizona (#28 vs #40)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and Arizona?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and Arizona has 23; the largest are Atlanta and Phoenix. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Phoenix1,642,323 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Queen Creekscore 66.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Marana61 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Yumacost index 92.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Peoria95.1% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Queen Creek+8.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and Arizona compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and Arizona AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -4 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | -4 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -18.1 (-57%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -18.1-57% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap -32.5 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -32.5 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | +3 min | 25.2 min | AZ |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.4 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.9 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +5 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | +5 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$500 (-23%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | -$500-23% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.8 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +4.66% | GA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia AAA, Arizona 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 Arizona: 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 23 of 51, Arizona on 16, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | ArizonaAZ | GapGA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,678,930 (+48%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | +3,678,930+48% | 6.8 million | GA |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,495 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | -$1,495-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| Population growthGap -0.01 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.01 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,846 (+8%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$4,846+8% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -81 (-21%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -81-21% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -104 (-7%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | -104-7% | 1,535 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 85.62% | GA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 232#45 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 208#45 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | -0.8 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 7.6% | AZ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$87,173 (-21%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$87,173-21% | $368,697 | GA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.6 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.2% | GA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$131 (+8%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$131+8% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$13,547 (-13%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | -$13,547-13% | $100,006 | GA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -4.4 pts-4% | 100 | GA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | -1x-20% | 4.6x | GA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.59¢ (-4%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | -0.59¢-4% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.84 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | +$1.84+10% | $15.83/Mcf | AZ |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.85 (-22%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.85-22% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.5 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +3.5 pts+4% | 100 | AZ |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$5,318 (-32%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | -$5,318-32% | $15,633 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.25 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.89 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +2.89 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.27 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +0.27 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.03 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | -1.03 pts | 6.66% | GA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.9 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +5 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | +5 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$500 (-23%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | -$500-23% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.8 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +4.66% | GA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -4 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | -4 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -18.1 (-57%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -18.1-57% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap -32.5 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -32.5 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | +3 min | 25.2 min | AZ |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.4 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +26,569 (+22%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | +26,569+22% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +29,214 (+28%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +29,214+28% | 78,715 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -2,645 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -2,645 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.0 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -1.0 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$17,328 (-20%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | -$17,328-20% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,305 (-4%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | -$3,305-4% | $77,024 | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -1.7 | +1.1 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$16,773 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | +$16,773 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,428 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$2,428 | +$31,418 | GA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$3,358 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$3,358 | +$35,970 | GA |
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 Arizona numbers say when read together.
Georgia ranks higher overall
Georgia leads 8 of the 11 categories to Arizona's 3, with 0 even; Arizona is ahead on outdoor access and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Georgia is ahead on 23 and Arizona on 16.
Georgia is cheaper day to day
Georgia's cost of living index is 96.3 against 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). The typical home costs $330,817 in Georgia and $417,990 in Arizona. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and -$19,573 in Arizona.
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); Arizona collects 8.22% (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Georgia is safer
Median household income is $79,991 in Georgia and $81,486 in Arizona, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 378 in Arizona.
Moves between the two run about even
3,218 people moved from Georgia to Arizona and 5,085 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 Arizona #45; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and Arizona #37.
Georgia vs Arizona: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or Arizona better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. Georgia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 100.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 21% lower violent crime rate. Georgia scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Georgia cheaper than Arizona?
Georgia is cheaper than Arizona: cost of living index 96.3 vs 100.7 (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 -$19,573 in Arizona. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $417,990 in Arizona.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Arizona?
Georgia and Arizona have similar tax burdens: 8.47% vs 8.22% 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%; Arizona's are 2.5%, 0.56% and 8.52%.
Is Georgia safer than Arizona?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and Arizona #36. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,514 in Arizona. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Marana, AZ.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or Arizona?
Homes are 26% more expensive in Arizona: the typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $104,042 in Arizona, against median incomes of $79,991 and $81,486.
Do people earn more in Georgia or Arizona?
Georgia and Arizona pay about the same: median household income is $79,991 vs $81,486, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Arizona or from Arizona to Georgia?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,218 people (±1,467) moving from Georgia to Arizona and 5,085 (±3,014) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or Arizona?
Georgia is the better fit for retirees: #27 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$33,427 in Arizona.
Which is better for families, Georgia or Arizona?
Georgia is the better fit for families: #33 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $16,384 in Arizona. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 77.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Is Arizona better than Georgia?
No: Georgia ranks higher than Arizona overall, #26 of 50 vs #38, with a composite score of 55.4 to 47.8. Georgia leads 8 of 11 categories and Arizona leads 3, including outdoor access and transportation. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: most-searched matchup.