Virginia vs Arizona: Which Is Better to Live In?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 100.7); Virginia carries a 0.6-point higher tax burden and has a 46% lower violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 46% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 378 in Arizona).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 29% lower in Arizona ($1,722 vs. $2,433 in Virginia).
- Median household income is 13% higher in Virginia ($92,090 vs. $81,486 in Arizona).
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +19.9 pts | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | +19.9 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | +0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$2,377 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$2,377 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$3,328 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$3,328-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.64 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +0.64 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -172 (-46%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -172-46% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap +$10,604 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$10,604+13% | $80,903 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap +11.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +11.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -16,895 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -16,895 | -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 Virginia or Arizona better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 47.8 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #38. Virginia leads 7 of 11 categories, Arizona leads 3, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +22 | 15% | 64.6#7 · A | 42.6#31 · C+ | +22 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +16.1 | 12% | 79.3#13 · B+ | 63.2#32 · C+ | +16.1 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap +11.7 | 12% | 61.4#17 · B+ | 49.7#31 · C+ | +11.7 pts | VA |
| Education12% of scoregap +32.8 | 12% | 65.4#14 · B+ | 32.6#47 · D | +32.8 pts | VA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +0.2 | 10% | 60.5#34 · C+ | 60.3#35 · C | +0.2 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +3.4 | 8% | 62.8#20 · B | 59.4#25 · B | +3.4 pts | VA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -3.2 | 7% | 45.1#19 · B | 48.3#16 · B+ | -3.2 pts | AZ |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -5.6 | 7% | 47.8#29 · C+ | 53.4#18 · B+ | -5.6 pts | AZ |
| Livability7% of scoregap +3 | 7% | 27.3#35 · C | 24.3#42 · C | +3 pts | VA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -17.6 | 6% | 20.1#30 · C+ | 37.7#16 · B+ | -17.6 pts | AZ |
| Environment4% of scoregap +22.1 | 4% | 48.0#15 · B+ | 25.9#44 · D | +22.1 pts | VA |
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 Virginia cheaper than Arizona?
Virginia and Arizona cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 101.1 vs 100.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,377 more a year in Arizona after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | +0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +5 pts+5% | 100 | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.04¢ (0%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | -0.04¢0% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.79 (-10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | -$1.79-10% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.71 (-19%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.71-19% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$880 (+5%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | +$880+5% | $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 | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,355 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | -$1,355 | AZ |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$697 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | -$697 | AZ |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$2,377 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$2,377 | AZ |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$1,164 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | -$1,164 | AZ |
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 | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$609 | $28,313 | $27,704 | +$609 | Even |
| ChildcareGap +$1,760 | $34,528 | $32,768 | +$1,760 | AZ |
| UtilitiesGap +$19 | $4,853 | $4,834 | +$19 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$563 | $11,308 | $10,745 | +$563 | AZ |
| TransportationGap -$2,232 | $9,711 | $11,943 | -$2,232 | VA |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,658 | $8,237 | $6,579 | +$1,658 | AZ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Arizona?
Arizona collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.22% vs 8.86%. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.64 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +0.64 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +3.25 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +3.25 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.2 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.75 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | -2.75 pts | 6.66% | VA |
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 Virginia or Arizona?
Typical home values are about the same: $414,662 in Virginia and $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of income in Virginia and $104,042 in Arizona; the median household earns $92,090 and $81,486.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$3,328 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$3,328-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.3 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$711 (+41%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$711+41% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,878 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | +$5,878+6% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.6x (-12%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | -0.6x-12% | 4.6x | VA |
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.
| VA | AZ | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,133 | $2,151 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +28% |
| Five-year change | +23.4% | +9.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Washington | 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 Virginia or Arizona?
Virginia pays more: median household income $92,090 vs $81,486, with unemployment at 3.4% in Virginia and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$10,604 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$10,604+13% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,617 (+13%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$7,617+13% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -0.8 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Population growthGap -0.2 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.2 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 | VA | AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | VA |
| Software Developers | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | VA |
| Lawyers | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | VA |
| Electricians | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | VA |
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 Virginia safer than Arizona?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona (FBI). Property crime runs 1,354 and 1,514 per 100,000.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -172 (-46%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -172-46% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -160 (-11%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | -160-11% | 1,535 | VA |
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.
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Virginia or Arizona?
Virginia scores higher for education (#14 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 89.1% and 77.3%. Virginia scores higher for health (#17 vs #31); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Virginia and 76.7 in Arizona.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +11.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +11.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap -1 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | -1 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -8 pts (-18%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | -8 pts-18% | 38.8 | VA |
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).
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
- 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: Virginia #14, Arizona #47. Health: Virginia #17, Arizona #31.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Arizona, or from Arizona to Virginia?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,996 people (±1,816) moving from Virginia to Arizona and 2,662 (±1,528) 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 | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +13,934 (+11%) | 135,609#7 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | +13,934+11% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +30,829 (+30%) | 135,188#44 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +30,829+30% | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -16,895 | +421#25 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -16,895 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.3 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -2.3 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$5,170 (-6%) | $82,327#17 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | -$5,170-6% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,735 (+18%) | $89,328#9 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | +$13,735+18% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.4 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -3.4 | 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, Virginia or Arizona?
Virginia is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -28 places | #17score 72.9 | #45score 47.8 | -28 places | VA |
| RetireesGap -22 places | #15score 68.4 | #37score 54.6 | -22 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap -19 places | #16score 58.3 | #35score 47.2 | -19 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -18 places | #13score 63.4 | #31score 51 | -18 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap -18 places | #12score 68 | #30score 52.2 | -18 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -5 places | #23score 48 | #28score 42.7 | -5 places | VA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #45)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #31)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #30)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #28)
Which cities stand out in Virginia and Arizona?
Virginia has 20 tracked cities and Arizona has 23; the largest are Virginia Beach and Phoenix. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Virginia Beach456,349 people | Phoenix1,642,323 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Restonscore 75.8 | Queen Creekscore 66.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K | Marana61 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 | Yumacost index 92.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Leesburg95% graduation rate | Peoria95.1% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | McLeanmedian income $250,001 | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Suffolk+1.6% 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 Virginia and Arizona compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Virginia carries AAA credit rating and Arizona AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -6 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | -6 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -26.0 (-83%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -26.0-83% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -28.1 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -28.1 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | +1.9 min | 25.2 min | AZ |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.9 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.5 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.8 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 | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$640 (+29%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | +$640+29% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Virginia 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).
Virginia vs Arizona: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Virginia is ahead on 20 of 51, Arizona on 21, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ArizonaAZ | GapVA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,256,289 (+16%) · US 6.8 million | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | +1,256,289+16% | 6.8 million | VA |
| Median household incomeGap +$10,604 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$10,604+13% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap -0.2 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,617 (+13%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$7,617+13% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -0.8 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -172 (-46%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -172-46% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -160 (-11%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | -160-11% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap +11.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +11.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 238#24 of 50 | 232#45 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 214#31 of 50 | 208#45 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap -1 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | -1 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$3,328 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$3,328-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.3 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$711 (+41%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$711+41% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,878 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | +$5,878+6% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | +0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.6x (-12%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | -0.6x-12% | 4.6x | VA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.04¢ (0%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | -0.04¢0% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.79 (-10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | -$1.79-10% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.71 (-19%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.71-19% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +5 pts+5% | 100 | AZ |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$880 (+5%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | +$880+5% | $15,633 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.64 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +0.64 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +3.25 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +3.25 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.2 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.75 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | -2.75 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$640 (+29%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | +$640+29% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -8 pts (-18%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | -8 pts-18% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -6 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | -6 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -26.0 (-83%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -26.0-83% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -28.1 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -28.1 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | +1.9 min | 25.2 min | AZ |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.9 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.5 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
| Households moving inIRSGap +13,934 (+11%) · US 78,682 | 135,609#7 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | +13,934+11% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +30,829 (+30%) · US 78,715 | 135,188#44 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +30,829+30% | 78,715 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -16,895 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -16,895 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.3 · US +0.4 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -2.3 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$5,170 (-6%) · US $77,690 | $82,327#17 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | -$5,170-6% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,735 (+18%) · US $77,024 | $89,328#9 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | +$13,735+18% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.4 · US +1.1 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -3.4 | +1.1 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$2,377 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$2,377 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,355 · US +$31,418 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | -$1,355 | +$31,418 | AZ |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$1,164 · US +$35,970 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | -$1,164 | +$35,970 | AZ |
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 Virginia and Arizona numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 7 of the 11 categories to Arizona's 3, with 1 even; Arizona is ahead on outdoor access and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Virginia is ahead on 20 and Arizona on 21.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 101.1 in Virginia and 100.7 in Arizona, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $414,662 and $417,990. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 a year after typical costs in Virginia and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Arizona takes a smaller share in taxes
Virginia collects 8.86% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Arizona collects 8.22% (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Virginia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $92,090 in Virginia and $81,486 in Arizona, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 206 per 100,000 residents in Virginia and 378 in Arizona.
Moves between the two run about even
3,996 people moved from Virginia to Arizona and 2,662 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, Virginia ranks #17 of 50 and Arizona #45; for retirees, Virginia ranks #15 and Arizona #37.
Virginia vs Arizona: frequently asked questions
Is Virginia or Arizona better to live in?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 100.7); Virginia carries a 0.6-point higher tax burden and has a 46% lower violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Virginia cheaper than Arizona?
Virginia and Arizona cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 101.1 vs 100.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$21,950 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Virginia, and -$19,573 in Arizona. The typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $417,990 in Arizona.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Arizona?
Arizona has the lower tax burden: 8.22% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.86% in Virginia. Virginia's top income tax rate is 5.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.76% and its combined sales tax 5.77%; Arizona's are 2.5%, 0.56% and 8.52%.
Is Virginia safer than Arizona?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona, per the FBI. Virginia ranks #8 of 50 for violent crime and Arizona #36. Property crime is 1,354 per 100,000 in Virginia and 1,514 in Arizona. The safest tracked cities are Virginia Beach, VA, and Marana, AZ.
Are homes more expensive in Virginia or Arizona?
Typical home values are about the same: $414,662 in Virginia and $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of household income in Virginia and $104,042 in Arizona, against median incomes of $92,090 and $81,486.
Do people earn more in Virginia or Arizona?
Virginia pays more: median household income is $92,090 vs $81,486 in Arizona, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Virginia and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Arizona or from Arizona to Virginia?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,996 people (±1,816) moving from Virginia to Arizona and 2,662 (±1,528) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Virginia or Arizona?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes 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 +$32,263 left after typical costs in Virginia and +$33,427 in Arizona.
Which is better for families, Virginia or Arizona?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $17,264 a year in Virginia and $16,384 in Arizona. High school graduation rates are 89.1% and 77.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 after typical costs in Virginia and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Is Arizona better than Virginia?
No: Virginia ranks higher than Arizona overall, #15 of 50 vs #38, with a composite score of 67.7 to 47.8. Virginia leads 7 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.