Illinois vs Arizona: Which Is Better to Live In?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 100.7); Illinois carries a 2-point higher tax burden. Overall they are 0.2 points apart, too close to call: Illinois leads 5 of 11 categories, Arizona leads 3.
- Violent crime rate is 34% lower in Illinois (251 vs. 378 in Arizona).
- Typical home value is 29% lower in Illinois ($297,573 vs. $417,990 in Arizona).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 22% lower in Arizona ($1,722 vs. $2,210 in Illinois).
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -0.2 pts | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | -0.2 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$4,261 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$4,261 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$120,417 (-29%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$120,417-29% | $368,697 | IL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +2 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -127 (-34%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -127-34% | 328 | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,725 (+2%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$1,725+2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +10 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +10 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -45,925 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -45,925 | -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 Illinois or Arizona better to live in?
Illinois scores 47.6 and Arizona scores 47.8 out of 100, a 0.2-point gap this site treats as even. Illinois leads 5 of 11 categories, Arizona leads 3, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -2.8 | 15% | 39.8#37 · C | 42.6#31 · C+ | -2.8 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +10.2 | 12% | 73.4#22 · B | 63.2#32 · C+ | +10.2 pts | IL |
| Health12% of scoregap +9.1 | 12% | 58.8#24 · B | 49.7#31 · C+ | +9.1 pts | IL |
| Education12% of scoregap +33.3 | 12% | 65.9#13 · B+ | 32.6#47 · D | +33.3 pts | IL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +1.5 | 10% | 61.8#32 · C+ | 60.3#35 · C | +1.5 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -37.5 | 8% | 21.9#50 · F | 59.4#25 · B | -37.5 pts | AZ |
| Growth7% of scoregap -28.3 | 7% | 20.0#45 · D | 48.3#16 · B+ | -28.3 pts | AZ |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +0.8 | 7% | 54.2#17 · B+ | 53.4#18 · B+ | +0.8 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +7.1 | 7% | 31.4#28 · C+ | 24.3#42 · C | +7.1 pts | IL |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -31.9 | 6% | 5.8#49 · F | 37.7#16 · B+ | -31.9 pts | AZ |
| Environment4% of scoregap +5.1 | 4% | 31.0#39 · C | 25.9#44 · D | +5.1 pts | IL |
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 Illinois cheaper than Arizona?
Illinois and Arizona cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 100 vs 100.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $4,261 more a year in Arizona after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.4 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +8.4 pts+9% | 100 | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.37¢ (+15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | +2.37¢+15% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$7.33 (-39%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | -$7.33-39% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.62 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.62-16% | $3.32/gal | IL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,217 (+20%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | +$3,217+20% | $15,633 | AZ |
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 | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$584 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$584 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$1,348 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$1,348 | IL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$4,261 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$4,261 | AZ |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$589 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$589 | 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 | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$3,369 | $24,335 | $27,704 | -$3,369 | IL |
| ChildcareGap +$6,434 | $39,202 | $32,768 | +$6,434 | AZ |
| UtilitiesGap -$34 | $4,800 | $4,834 | -$34 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$946 | $11,691 | $10,745 | +$946 | AZ |
| TransportationGap -$1,949 | $9,994 | $11,943 | -$1,949 | IL |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,233 | $8,812 | $6,579 | +$2,233 | AZ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Arizona?
Arizona collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.22% vs 10.22%. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +2 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.45 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +2.45 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.55 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +1.55 pts | 1.02% | AZ |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.44 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | +0.44 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Illinois or Arizona?
Homes cost 40% more in Arizona: a typical home value of $297,573 in Illinois vs $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of income in Illinois and $104,042 in Arizona; the median household earns $83,211 and $81,486.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$120,417 (-29%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$120,417-29% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +6.4 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +6.4 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$488 (+28%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$488+28% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$10,600 (-10%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | -$10,600-10% | $100,006 | IL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.5x (-29%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | -1.5x-29% | 4.6x | IL |
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.
| IL | AZ | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,531 | $2,151 |
| Income needed vs. median | +12% | +28% |
| Five-year change | +29.1% | +9.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | Chicago | 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 Illinois or Arizona?
Median household income is about the same, $83,211 in Illinois and $81,486 in Arizona, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4.3%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$1,725 (+2%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$1,725+2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$15,330 (+26%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$15,330+26% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Population growthGap -0.76 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.76 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
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 | IL | AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | IL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | IL |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | IL |
| Software Developers | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | IL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | IL |
| Electricians | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | IL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | IL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | IL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | IL |
| Civil Engineers | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | IL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | IL |
| Registered Nurses | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | IL |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | IL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | IL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | IL |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | IL |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | IL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | IL |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | IL |
| Construction Laborers | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | IL |
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 Illinois safer than Arizona?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona (FBI). Property crime runs 1,508 and 1,514 per 100,000.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -127 (-34%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -127-34% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -6 (0%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | -60% | 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.
- Orland Park, IL9 violent per 100K
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Illinois or Arizona?
Illinois scores higher for education (#13 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 77.3%. Illinois scores higher for health (#24 vs #31); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Illinois and 76.7 in Arizona.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +10 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +10 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.9 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 7.6% | IL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-4%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | -2 pts-4% | 38.8 | IL |
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).
- No city school data
- 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: Illinois #13, Arizona #47. Health: Illinois #24, Arizona #31.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Arizona, or from Arizona to Illinois?
5,528 households moved from Illinois to Arizona and 3,606 moved from Arizona to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,922 households for Arizona. Movers to Arizona reported an average income of $112,935; movers to Illinois reported $71,107. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 9,445 people (±2,340) moving from Illinois to Arizona and 6,130 (±1,899) the other way, a net gain of about 3,315 people for Arizona 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 | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -4,378 (-4%) | 117,297#12 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | -4,378-4% | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +41,547 (+40%) | 145,906#46 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +41,547+40% | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -45,925 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -45,925 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.5 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -4.5 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$8,677 (-10%) | $78,820#26 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | -$8,677-10% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$28,850 (+38%) | $104,443#5 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | +$28,850+38% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.2 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -7.2 | 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, Illinois or Arizona?
Illinois is the better fit for families; Arizona is the better fit for 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 | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -22 places | #23score 66.1 | #45score 47.8 | -22 places | IL |
| RetireesGap +10 places | #47score 46.6 | #37score 54.6 | +10 places | AZ |
| Remote WorkersGap +13 places | #48score 31.9 | #35score 47.2 | +13 places | AZ |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +11 places | #42score 41.6 | #31score 51 | +11 places | AZ |
| Small BusinessGap +18 places | #48score 30.3 | #30score 52.2 | +18 places | AZ |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +11 places | #39score 29.9 | #28score 42.7 | +11 places | AZ |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIllinois (#23 vs #45)
- RetireesArizona (#37 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersArizona (#35 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsArizona (#31 vs #42)
- Small BusinessArizona (#30 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsArizona (#28 vs #39)
Which cities stand out in Illinois and Arizona?
Illinois has 29 tracked cities and Arizona has 23; the largest are Chicago and Phoenix. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Chicago2,711,226 people | Phoenix1,642,323 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Napervillescore 73.2 | Queen Creekscore 66.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Orland Park9 violent per 100K | Marana61 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Decaturcost index 88.4 | Yumacost index 92.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Peoria95.1% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Napervillemedian income $155,105 | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wheaton+1.3% 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 Illinois and Arizona compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Illinois carries BBB+ credit rating and Arizona AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -0.3 (-1%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -0.3-1% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap -36.2 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -36.2 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | +1.9 min | 25.2 min | AZ |
| Commuters using public transitGap +5.9 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.7 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
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 | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -25 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | -25 pts | 92.7 | AZ |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -10.6 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | -10.6 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap -27 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | -27 pts | 74.3% | AZ |
| State debt per capitaGap +$4,560 (+208%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | +$4,560+208% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.9 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | -6.9 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Illinois BBB+, 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).
Illinois vs Arizona: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Illinois is ahead on 15 of 51, Arizona on 24, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ArizonaAZ | GapIL−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,095,323 (+67%) · US 6.8 million | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | +5,095,323+67% | 6.8 million | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,725 (+2%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$1,725+2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.76 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.76 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
| GDP per capitaGap +$15,330 (+26%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$15,330+26% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -127 (-34%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -127-34% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -6 (0%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | -60% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +10 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +10 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 236#33 of 50 | 232#45 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 214#29 of 50 | 208#45 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.9 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 7.6% | IL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$120,417 (-29%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$120,417-29% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +6.4 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +6.4 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$488 (+28%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$488+28% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$10,600 (-10%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | -$10,600-10% | $100,006 | IL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.5x (-29%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | -1.5x-29% | 4.6x | IL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.37¢ (+15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | +2.37¢+15% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$7.33 (-39%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | -$7.33-39% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.62 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.62-16% | $3.32/gal | IL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.4 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +8.4 pts+9% | 100 | AZ |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,217 (+20%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | +$3,217+20% | $15,633 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +2 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.45 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +2.45 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.55 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +1.55 pts | 1.02% | AZ |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.44 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | +0.44 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -25 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | -25 pts | 92.7 | AZ |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -10.6 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | -10.6 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap -27 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | -27 pts | 74.3% | AZ |
| State debt per capitaGap +$4,560 (+208%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | +$4,560+208% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.9 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | -6.9 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-4%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | -2 pts-4% | 38.8 | IL |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -0.3 (-1%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -0.3-1% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap -36.2 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -36.2 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | +1.9 min | 25.2 min | AZ |
| Commuters using public transitGap +5.9 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.7 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
| Households moving inIRSGap -4,378 (-4%) · US 78,682 | 117,297#12 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | -4,378-4% | 78,682 | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +41,547 (+40%) · US 78,715 | 145,906#46 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +41,547+40% | 78,715 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -45,925 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -45,925 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.5 · US +0.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -4.5 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$8,677 (-10%) · US $77,690 | $78,820#26 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | -$8,677-10% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$28,850 (+38%) · US $77,024 | $104,443#5 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | +$28,850+38% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.2 · US +1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -7.2 | +1.1 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$4,261 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$4,261 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$584 · US +$31,418 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$584 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$589 · US +$35,970 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$589 | +$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 Illinois and Arizona numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Illinois (47.6, #39) and Arizona (47.8, #38) are within 2 composite points. Illinois leads 5 categories, Arizona leads 3, and 3 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 100 in Illinois and 100.7 in Arizona, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $297,573 and $417,990. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 a year after typical costs in Illinois and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Arizona takes a smaller share in taxes
Illinois collects 10.22% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack); Arizona collects 8.22% (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Illinois is safer
Median household income is $83,211 in Illinois and $81,486 in Arizona, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 378 in Arizona.
People move to Arizona on net
9,445 people moved to Arizona from Illinois in the latest Census release, against 6,130 going the other way.
Illinois for families, Arizona for retirees
For families, Illinois ranks #23 of 50 and Arizona #45; for retirees, Illinois ranks #47 and Arizona #37.
Illinois vs Arizona: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois or Arizona better to live in?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 100.7); Illinois carries a 2-point higher tax burden. Overall they are 0.2 points apart, too close to call: Illinois leads 5 of 11 categories, Arizona leads 3.
Is Illinois cheaper than Arizona?
Illinois and Arizona cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 100 vs 100.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$23,834 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Illinois, and -$19,573 in Arizona. The typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $417,990 in Arizona.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Arizona?
Arizona has the lower tax burden: 8.22% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.22% in Illinois. Illinois's top income tax rate is 4.95%, its effective property tax rate 2.11% and its combined sales tax 8.96%; Arizona's are 2.5%, 0.56% and 8.52%.
Is Illinois safer than Arizona?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona, per the FBI. Illinois ranks #20 of 50 for violent crime and Arizona #36. Property crime is 1,508 per 100,000 in Illinois and 1,514 in Arizona. The safest tracked cities are Orland Park, IL, and Marana, AZ.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or Arizona?
Homes are 40% more expensive in Arizona: the typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of household income in Illinois and $104,042 in Arizona, against median incomes of $83,211 and $81,486.
Do people earn more in Illinois or Arizona?
Illinois and Arizona pay about the same: median household income is $83,211 vs $81,486, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Illinois and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Arizona or from Arizona to Illinois?
5,528 households moved from Illinois to Arizona and 3,606 moved from Arizona to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,922 households for Arizona. Movers to Arizona reported an average income of $112,935; movers to Illinois reported $71,107. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 9,445 people (±2,340) moving from Illinois to Arizona and 6,130 (±1,899) the other way, a net gain of about 3,315 people for Arizona beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Illinois or Arizona?
Arizona is the better fit for retirees: #37 of 50 on the retiree index vs #47 for Illinois. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$34,016 left after typical costs in Illinois and +$33,427 in Arizona.
Which is better for families, Illinois or Arizona?
Illinois is the better fit for families: #23 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $19,601 a year in Illinois and $16,384 in Arizona. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 77.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 after typical costs in Illinois and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Which has better schools, Illinois or Arizona?
Illinois scores higher for education: #13 of 50 vs #47 for Arizona. Eighth graders average 277 in NAEP math in Illinois and 270 in Arizona. High school graduation rates are 87.3% in Illinois and 77.3% in Arizona, and the education category scores are 65.9 and 32.6 out of 100.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Illinois vs Arizona.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (5,528 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).