Arizona vs Tennessee: Which Is Better to Live In?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 100.7), has no income tax, and has a 23% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 23% lower in Arizona (378 vs. 492 in Tennessee).
- Total tax burden is 22% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 8.22% in Arizona).
- Typical home value is 20% lower in Tennessee ($334,108 vs. $417,990 in Arizona).
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -9.3 pts | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | -9.3 pts | — | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.8 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +8.8 pts+10% | 100 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$13,914 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$13,914 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$83,882 (+25%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$83,882+25% | $368,697 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.84 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +1.84 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -114 (-23%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -114-23% | 328 | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$9,489 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$9,489+13% | $80,903 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap -13.1 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -13.1 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +2.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +2.9 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -6,788 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -6,788 | -33 | TN |
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 Arizona or Tennessee better to live in?
Tennessee scores higher overall: 57.1 to 47.8 out of 100, #24 of 50 against #38. Arizona leads 4 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 7, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -3.2 | 15% | 42.6#31 · C+ | 45.8#26 · B | -3.2 pts | TN |
| Safety12% of scoregap +11 | 12% | 63.2#32 · C+ | 52.2#45 · D | +11 pts | AZ |
| Health12% of scoregap +21 | 12% | 49.7#31 · C+ | 28.7#46 · D | +21 pts | AZ |
| Education12% of scoregap -39.1 | 12% | 32.6#47 · D | 71.7#8 · A | -39.1 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -17.6 | 10% | 60.3#35 · C | 77.9#17 · B+ | -17.6 pts | TN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -16.7 | 8% | 59.4#25 · B | 76.1#3 · A+ | -16.7 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -8.6 | 7% | 48.3#16 · B+ | 56.9#5 · A+ | -8.6 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +10.5 | 7% | 53.4#18 · B+ | 42.9#40 · C | +10.5 pts | AZ |
| Livability7% of scoregap -22.7 | 7% | 24.3#42 · C | 47.0#9 · A | -22.7 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +24.4 | 6% | 37.7#16 · B+ | 13.3#38 · C | +24.4 pts | AZ |
| Environment4% of scoregap -10.3 | 4% | 25.9#44 · D | 36.2#33 · C+ | -10.3 pts | TN |
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 Arizona cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper: cost of living index 91.9 vs 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $13,914 more a year in Tennessee after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.8 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +8.8 pts+10% | 100 | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.8 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | -0.8 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.14¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +2.14¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.74 (+57%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$6.74+57% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.72 (+23%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.72+23% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,458 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$2,458+18% | $15,633 | TN |
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 | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$6,151 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | -$6,151 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$7,617 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | -$7,617 | TN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$13,914 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | -$13,914 | TN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$6,533 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | -$6,533 | TN |
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 | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$5,493 | $27,704 | $22,211 | +$5,493 | TN |
| ChildcareGap +$4,916 | $32,768 | $27,852 | +$4,916 | TN |
| UtilitiesGap +$423 | $4,834 | $4,411 | +$423 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$90 | $10,745 | $10,835 | -$90 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$2,263 | $11,943 | $9,680 | +$2,263 | TN |
| State and local taxesGap +$908 | $6,579 | $5,671 | +$908 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Tennessee?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 8.22%. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.84 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +1.84 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.5 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.02 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.09 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -1.09 pts | 6.66% | AZ |
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 Arizona or Tennessee?
Homes cost 25% more in Arizona: a typical home value of $417,990 in Arizona vs $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of income in Arizona and $85,549 in Tennessee; the median household earns $81,486 and $71,997.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$83,882 (+25%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$83,882+25% | $368,697 | TN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | -1.8 pts | +1.2% | TN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$91 (-5%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | -$91-5% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$18,493 (+22%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$18,493+22% | $100,006 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.5x (+11%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | +0.5x+11% | 4.6x | TN |
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.
| AZ | TN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,151 | $1,719 |
| Income needed vs. median | +28% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +9.1% | +24.8% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cold |
| Largest metro | Phoenix | Nashville |
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 Arizona or Tennessee?
Arizona pays more: median household income $81,486 vs $71,997, with unemployment at 4.3% in Arizona and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 19.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$9,489 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$9,489+13% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap -$2,370 (-4%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | -$2,370-4% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Population growthGap +0.01 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.88%#9 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 | AZ | TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | TN |
| General & Operations Managers | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | TN |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | TN |
| Software Developers | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | TN |
| Registered Nurses | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | TN |
| Electricians | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | TN |
| Civil Engineers | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | TN |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | TN |
| Mental Health Counselors | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | TN |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | TN |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | TN |
| Accountants & Auditors | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | TN |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | TN |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | TN |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | TN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | TN |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | TN |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | TN |
| Construction Laborers | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | TN |
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 Arizona safer than Tennessee?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,514 and 1,637 per 100,000.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -114 (-23%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -114-23% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -123 (-8%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -123-8% | 1,535 | AZ |
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.
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Arizona or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 77.3% and 90.4%. Arizona scores higher for health (#31 vs #46); life expectancy is 76.7 years in Arizona and 73.8 in Tennessee.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -13.1 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -13.1 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +2.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +2.9 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.3 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.6 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 7.6% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+13%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | +5 pts+13% | 38.8 | TN |
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).
- Peoria, AZeducation score 95.1
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
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: Arizona #47, Tennessee #8. Health: Arizona #31, Tennessee #46.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Tennessee, or from Tennessee to Arizona?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 2,002 people (±981) moving from Arizona to Tennessee and 2,341 (±1,305) 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 | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +7,887 (+7%) | 121,675#10 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +7,887+7% | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +14,675 (+16%) | 104,359#38 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +14,675+16% | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -6,788 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -6,788 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.0 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -1.0 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,067 (+10%) | $87,497#11 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | +$8,067+10% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,517 (+8%) | $75,593#21 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$5,517+8% | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -1.7 | TN |
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, Arizona or Tennessee?
Arizona is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Tennessee is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +15 places | #45score 47.8 | #30score 62.5 | +15 places | TN |
| RetireesGap +9 places | #37score 54.6 | #28score 60.3 | +9 places | TN |
| Remote WorkersGap +21 places | #35score 47.2 | #14score 59.5 | +21 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +15 places | #31score 51 | #16score 60 | +15 places | TN |
| Small BusinessGap +22 places | #30score 52.2 | #8score 73.5 | +22 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -16 places | #28score 42.7 | #44score 28.8 | -16 places | AZ |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesTennessee (#30 vs #45)
- RetireesTennessee (#28 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsTennessee (#16 vs #31)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #30)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsArizona (#28 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in Arizona and Tennessee?
Arizona has 23 tracked cities and Tennessee has 20; the largest are Phoenix and Nashville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Phoenix1,642,323 people | Nashville690,130 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Queen Creekscore 66.2 | Franklinscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Marana61 violent per 100K | Brentwood62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yumacost index 92.7 | Jacksoncost index 85.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Peoria95.1% graduation rate | Lebanon97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Queen Creek+8.2% growth | Lebanon+5.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Arizona and Tennessee compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Arizona carries AA credit rating and Tennessee AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.5 (+26%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | +6.5+26% | 29.6 | TN |
| Public land shareGap +31.4 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | +31.4 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.1 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | -0.1 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | AZ |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.6 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +1.1 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 | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -25 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -25 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$560 (+34%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$560+34% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -1.4 pts | +4.66% | TN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Arizona AA, Tennessee AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Arizona vs Tennessee: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Arizona is ahead on 15 of 51, Tennessee on 28, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | TennesseeTN | GapAZ−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +308,742 (+4%) · US 6.8 million | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | +308,742+4% | 6.8 million | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$9,489 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$9,489+13% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| Population growthGap +0.01 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.01 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$2,370 (-4%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | -$2,370-4% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -114 (-23%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -114-23% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -123 (-8%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -123-8% | 1,535 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap -13.1 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -13.1 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 237 | 232#45 of 50 | 240#12 of 50 | -7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 214 | 208#45 of 50 | 215#23 of 50 | -7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +2.9 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.3 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.6 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 7.6% | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$83,882 (+25%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$83,882+25% | $368,697 | TN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | -1.8 pts | +1.2% | TN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$91 (-5%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | -$91-5% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$18,493 (+22%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$18,493+22% | $100,006 | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.8 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +8.8 pts+10% | 100 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.5x (+11%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | +0.5x+11% | 4.6x | TN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.14¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +2.14¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.74 (+57%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$6.74+57% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.72 (+23%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.72+23% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.8 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | -0.8 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,458 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$2,458+18% | $15,633 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.84 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +1.84 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.5 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.02 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.09 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -1.09 pts | 6.66% | AZ |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -25 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -25 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$560 (+34%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$560+34% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -1.4 pts | +4.66% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+13%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | +5 pts+13% | 38.8 | TN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.5 (+26%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | +6.5+26% | 29.6 | TN |
| Public land shareGap +31.4 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | +31.4 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.1 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | -0.1 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | AZ |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.6 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
| Households moving inIRSGap +7,887 (+7%) · US 78,682 | 121,675#10 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +7,887+7% | 78,682 | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +14,675 (+16%) · US 78,715 | 104,359#38 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +14,675+16% | 78,715 | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -6,788 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -6,788 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.0 · US +0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -1.0 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,067 (+10%) · US $77,690 | $87,497#11 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | +$8,067+10% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,517 (+8%) · US $77,024 | $75,593#21 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$5,517+8% | $77,024 | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 · US +1.1 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -1.7 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$13,914 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$13,914 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$6,151 · US +$31,418 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | -$6,151 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$6,533 · US +$35,970 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | -$6,533 | +$35,970 | TN |
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 Arizona and Tennessee numbers say when read together.
Tennessee ranks higher overall
Tennessee leads 7 of the 11 categories to Arizona's 4, with 0 even; Arizona is ahead on outdoor access and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Arizona is ahead on 15 and Tennessee on 28.
Tennessee is cheaper day to day
Tennessee's cost of living index is 91.9 against 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). The typical home costs $417,990 in Arizona and $334,108 in Tennessee. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 a year after typical costs in Arizona and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Arizona collects 8.22% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Tennessee collects 6.38% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Arizona pays more and is safer
Median household income is $81,486 in Arizona and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 378 per 100,000 residents in Arizona and 492 in Tennessee.
Moves between the two run about even
2,002 people moved from Arizona to Tennessee and 2,341 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Tennessee fits families and retirees better
For families, Arizona ranks #45 of 50 and Tennessee #30; for retirees, Arizona ranks #37 and Tennessee #28.
Arizona vs Tennessee: frequently asked questions
Is Arizona or Tennessee better to live in?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 100.7), has no income tax, and has a 23% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Arizona cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper than Arizona: cost of living index 91.9 vs 100.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$19,573 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Arizona, and -$5,659 in Tennessee. The typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $334,108 in Tennessee.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Tennessee?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.22% in Arizona. Arizona's top income tax rate is 2.5%, its effective property tax rate 0.56% and its combined sales tax 8.52%; Tennessee's are zero, 0.58% and 9.61%.
Is Arizona safer than Tennessee?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Arizona ranks #36 of 50 for violent crime and Tennessee #46. Property crime is 1,514 per 100,000 in Arizona and 1,637 in Tennessee. The safest tracked cities are Marana, AZ, and Brentwood, TN.
Are homes more expensive in Arizona or Tennessee?
Homes are 25% more expensive in Arizona: the typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of household income in Arizona and $85,549 in Tennessee, against median incomes of $81,486 and $71,997.
Do people earn more in Arizona or Tennessee?
Arizona pays more: median household income is $81,486 vs $71,997 in Tennessee, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Arizona and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 19, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Tennessee or from Tennessee to Arizona?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 2,002 people (±981) moving from Arizona to Tennessee and 2,341 (±1,305) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Arizona or Tennessee?
Tennessee is the better fit for retirees: #28 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$33,427 left after typical costs in Arizona and +$39,960 in Tennessee.
Which is better for families, Arizona or Tennessee?
Tennessee is the better fit for families: #30 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $16,384 a year in Arizona and $13,926 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 77.3% and 90.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 after typical costs in Arizona and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Is Tennessee better than Arizona?
Yes: Tennessee ranks higher than Arizona overall, #24 of 50 vs #38, with a composite score of 57.1 to 47.8. Tennessee leads 7 of 11 categories and Arizona leads 4, including outdoor access and health. 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.