Florida vs Arkansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Arkansas #48 as of the latest release. Arkansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 86.9 vs 103.4), carries a 2.1-point higher tax burden, and has a 48% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 1.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 53% lower in Arkansas ($1,265 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
- Violent crime rate is 48% lower in Florida (275 vs. 532 in Arkansas).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 44% lower in Arkansas ($61,092 vs. $108,280 in Florida).
| Measure | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +19.8 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 40.1#48 of 50 · D | +19.8 pts | — | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16.5 pts (+19%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +16.5 pts+19% | 100 | AR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$18,849 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | -$18,849 | -$11,758 | AR |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$148,206 (+65%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | +$148,206+65% | $368,697 | AR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.12 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | -2.12 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -257 (-48%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -257-48% | 328 | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$15,629 (+25%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$15,629+25% | $80,903 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| Life expectancyGap +4.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | +4.0 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +50,080 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | +50,080 | -33 | FL |
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 Florida or Arkansas better to live in?
Florida scores higher overall: 59.9 to 40.1 out of 100, #21 of 50 against #48. Florida leads 7 of 11 categories, Arkansas leads 1, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +16.3 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 28.7#45 · D | +16.3 pts | FL |
| Safety12% of scoregap +24.2 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 48.9#47 · D | +24.2 pts | FL |
| Health12% of scoregap +32.5 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 28.0#47 · D | +32.5 pts | FL |
| Education12% of scoregap +11.8 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 49.3#40 · C | +11.8 pts | FL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -27.8 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 89.7#2 · A+ | -27.8 pts | AR |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +14 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 56.2#33 · C+ | +14 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap -0.9 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 45.8#17 · B+ | -0.9 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +0.7 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 42.9#41 · C | +0.7 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +2.1 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 24.8#40 · C | +2.1 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +13.1 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 14.7#36 · C | +13.1 pts | FL |
| Environment4% of scoregap +8.2 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 25.8#45 · D | +8.2 pts | FL |
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 Florida cheaper than Arkansas?
Arkansas is cheaper: cost of living index 86.9 vs 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $18,849 more a year in Arkansas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16.5 pts (+19%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +16.5 pts+19% | 100 | AR |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.5 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 93.6#1 of 50 | +4.5 pts+5% | 100 | AR |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.40¢ (+19%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | +2.40¢+19% | 17.84¢/kWh | AR |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.23 (+32%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | +$6.23+32% | $15.83/Mcf | AR |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.16 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | +$0.16+5% | $3.32/gal | AR |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,503 (+46%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $9,727#5 of 50 | +$4,503+46% | $15,633 | AR |
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 | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$4,588 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$37,972costs $37,028 | -$4,588 | AR |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$7,231 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$31,290costs $43,710 | -$7,231 | AR |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$18,849 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | +$8,363costs $66,637 | -$18,849 | AR |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$6,013 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$43,012costs $31,987 | -$6,013 | AR |
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 | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$10,731 | $25,862 | $15,131 | +$10,731 | AR |
| ChildcareGap +$9,006 | $28,460 | $19,454 | +$9,006 | AR |
| UtilitiesGap +$792 | $4,963 | $4,171 | +$792 | AR |
| GroceriesGap +$507 | $11,049 | $10,542 | +$507 | AR |
| TransportationGap +$503 | $9,680 | $9,177 | +$503 | AR |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,690 | $5,472 | $8,162 | -$2,690 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Arkansas?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 8.61%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Arkansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.12 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | -2.12 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.9 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 3.9%#14 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.23 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.59%#14 of 50 | +0.23 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.48 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 9.46%#47 of 50 | -2.48 pts | 6.66% | FL |
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 Florida or Arkansas?
Homes cost 65% more in Florida: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $227,264 in Arkansas. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $61,092 in Arkansas; the median household earns $77,735 and $62,106.
| Measure | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$148,206 (+65%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | +$148,206+65% | $368,697 | AR |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.6%#10 of 50 | -5.1 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,401 (+111%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,265#4 of 50 | +$1,401+111% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$47,188 (+77%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $61,092#3 of 50 | +$47,188+77% | $100,006 | AR |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.1x (+30%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.7x#16 of 50 | +1.1x+30% | 4.6x | AR |
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.
| FL | AR | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $1,169 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +21.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Miami | Little Rock |
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 Florida or Arkansas?
Florida pays more: median household income $77,735 vs $62,106, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 4.1% in Arkansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 13 after adjusting for local costs and Arkansas's in 1.
| Measure | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$15,629 (+25%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$15,629+25% | $80,903 | FL |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.1%#29 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,357 (+26%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $48,298#48 of 50 | +$12,357+26% | $64,333 | FL |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.5%#38 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.25 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.6%#19 of 50 | +0.25 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 | FL | AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $230,893$200,877 in Little Rock | AR |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $92,963$80,878 in Little Rock | FL |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $134,605$117,106 in Little Rock | FL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $58,453$50,854 in Little Rock | FL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $52,449$45,631 in Little Rock | FL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $61,684$53,665 in Little Rock | FL |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $87,640$76,247 in Little Rock | FL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $77,756$67,648 in Little Rock | FL |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $82,380$71,671 in Little Rock | FL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $70,618$61,438 in Little Rock | FL |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $100,124$87,108 in Little Rock | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $45,602$39,674 in Little Rock | FL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $49,372$42,954 in Little Rock | FL |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $58,521$50,913 in Little Rock | FL |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $32,876$28,602 in Little Rock | FL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $67,807$58,992 in Little Rock | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $52,176$45,393 in Little Rock | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $54,972$47,826 in Little Rock | Even |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $127,376$110,817 in Little Rock | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $40,714$35,421 in Little Rock | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Florida safer than Arkansas?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 532 in Arkansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,645 per 100,000. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -257 (-48%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -257-48% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -243 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,645#35 of 50 | -243-15% | 1,535 | FL |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- Bella Vista, AR167 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Arkansas?
Florida scores higher for education (#23 of 50 vs #40), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 88.2%. Florida scores higher for health (#19 vs #47); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 73.9 in Arkansas.
| Measure | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 266#43 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 255#37 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| Life expectancyGap +4.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | +4.0 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -9.3 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 38.9%#47 of 50 | -9.3 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.5 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 9.4%#39 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 7.6% | AR |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 42#38 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- Benton, AReducation score 93.4
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: Florida #23, Arkansas #40. Health: Florida #19, Arkansas #47.
Are more people moving from Florida to Arkansas, or from Arkansas to Florida?
1,933 households moved from Florida to Arkansas and 1,743 moved from Arkansas to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 190 households for Arkansas. Movers to Arkansas reported an average income of $60,184; movers to Florida reported $96,607. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,434 people (±1,771) moving from Florida to Arkansas and 4,633 (±2,564) 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 | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +317,115 (+857%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 36,997#33 of 50 | +317,115+857% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +267,035 (+842%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 31,728#16 of 50 | +267,035+842% | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +50,080 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | +50,080 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.7 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +1.7#13 of 50 | +0.7 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$59,557 (+95%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $62,982#42 of 50 | +$59,557+95% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$16,797 (+28%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $59,337#49 of 50 | +$16,797+28% | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.7 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +4.7#8 of 50 | -3.7 | AR |
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, Florida or Arkansas?
Florida 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 | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -20 places | #24score 65.4 | #44score 49.1 | -20 places | FL |
| RetireesGap -27 places | #18score 66.2 | #45score 48.5 | -27 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap -12 places | #27score 51.6 | #39score 45.8 | -12 places | FL |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -14 places | #24score 53.9 | #38score 44.6 | -14 places | FL |
| Small BusinessGap -16 places | #19score 62.4 | #35score 48.5 | -16 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -23 places | #26score 44.3 | #49score 23.3 | -23 places | FL |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesFlorida (#24 vs #44)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #45)
- Remote WorkersFlorida (#27 vs #39)
- Young ProfessionalsFlorida (#24 vs #38)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #35)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsFlorida (#26 vs #49)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Arkansas?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Arkansas has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Little Rock. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Little Rock203,436 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Bentonvillescore 68.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Bella Vista167 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Pine Bluffcost index 83 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | West Memphiswalkability 12.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | West Memphiscounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Benton93.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Bentonvillemedian income $112,792 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Bella Vista+3.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Arkansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Arkansas AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 12%#37 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | AR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.1 (-43%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 39.6#38 of 50 | -17.1-43% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +15.8 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 10.5%#22 of 50 | +15.8 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.2 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | +6.2 min | 25.2 min | AR |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.3%#49 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 8.6%#44 of 50 | +6.9 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.5 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 90.8%#43 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 92.67% | FL |
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 | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 90#40 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 6.7%#42 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 78%#19 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap +$140 (+8%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $1,820#7 of 50 | +$140+8% | $3,506 | AR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.5 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +6.3%#14 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +4.66% | AR |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Arkansas 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).
Florida vs Arkansas: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Florida is ahead on 23 of 51, Arkansas on 21, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | ArkansasAR | GapFL−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +20,347,727 (+653%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 3.1 million#33 of 50 | +20,347,727+653% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$15,629 (+25%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$15,629+25% | $80,903 | FL |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.1%#29 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.25 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.6%#19 of 50 | +0.25 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,357 (+26%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $48,298#48 of 50 | +$12,357+26% | $64,333 | FL |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.5%#38 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -257 (-48%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -257-48% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -243 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,645#35 of 50 | -243-15% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +13 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 230#47 of 50 | +13 | 237 | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 266#43 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 210#41 of 50 | +9 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 255#37 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +4.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | +4.0 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -9.3 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 38.9%#47 of 50 | -9.3 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.5 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 9.4%#39 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 7.6% | AR |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$148,206 (+65%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | +$148,206+65% | $368,697 | AR |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.6%#10 of 50 | -5.1 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,401 (+111%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,265#4 of 50 | +$1,401+111% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$47,188 (+77%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $61,092#3 of 50 | +$47,188+77% | $100,006 | AR |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16.5 pts (+19%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +16.5 pts+19% | 100 | AR |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.1x (+30%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.7x#16 of 50 | +1.1x+30% | 4.6x | AR |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.40¢ (+19%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | +2.40¢+19% | 17.84¢/kWh | AR |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.23 (+32%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | +$6.23+32% | $15.83/Mcf | AR |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.16 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | +$0.16+5% | $3.32/gal | AR |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.5 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 93.6#1 of 50 | +4.5 pts+5% | 100 | AR |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,503 (+46%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $9,727#5 of 50 | +$4,503+46% | $15,633 | AR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.12 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | -2.12 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.9 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 3.9%#14 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.23 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.59%#14 of 50 | +0.23 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.48 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 9.46%#47 of 50 | -2.48 pts | 6.66% | FL |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 90#40 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 6.7%#42 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 78%#19 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap +$140 (+8%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $1,820#7 of 50 | +$140+8% | $3,506 | AR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.5 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +6.3%#14 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +4.66% | AR |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 42#38 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 12%#37 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | AR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.1 (-43%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 39.6#38 of 50 | -17.1-43% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +15.8 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 10.5%#22 of 50 | +15.8 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.2 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | +6.2 min | 25.2 min | AR |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.3%#49 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 8.6%#44 of 50 | +6.9 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.5 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 90.8%#43 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +317,115 (+857%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 36,997#33 of 50 | +317,115+857% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +267,035 (+842%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 31,728#16 of 50 | +267,035+842% | 78,715 | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +50,080 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | +50,080 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.7 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +1.7#13 of 50 | +0.7 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$59,557 (+95%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $62,982#42 of 50 | +$59,557+95% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$16,797 (+28%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $59,337#49 of 50 | +$16,797+28% | $77,024 | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.7 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +4.7#8 of 50 | -3.7 | +1.1 | AR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$18,849 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | -$18,849 | -$11,758 | AR |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$4,588 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$37,972#4 of 50 | -$4,588 | +$31,418 | AR |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$6,013 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$43,012#4 of 50 | -$6,013 | +$35,970 | AR |
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 Florida and Arkansas numbers say when read together.
Florida ranks higher overall
Florida leads 7 of the 11 categories to Arkansas's 1, with 3 even; Arkansas is ahead on affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 23 and Arkansas on 21.
Arkansas is cheaper day to day
Arkansas's cost of living index is 86.9 against 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $227,264 in Arkansas. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and +$8,363 in Arkansas.
Florida takes a smaller share in taxes
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Arkansas collects 8.61% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Florida pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $62,106 in Arkansas, with unemployment at 3.9% and 4.1%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 532 in Arkansas.
Moves between the two run about even
4,434 people moved from Florida to Arkansas and 4,633 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Florida fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Arkansas #44; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Arkansas #45.
Florida vs Arkansas: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Arkansas better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Arkansas #48 as of the latest release. Arkansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 86.9 vs 103.4), carries a 2.1-point higher tax burden, and has a 48% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Florida cheaper than Arkansas?
Arkansas is cheaper than Florida: cost of living index 86.9 vs 103.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and +$8,363 in Arkansas. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $227,264 in Arkansas.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Arkansas?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.61% in Arkansas. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Arkansas's are 3.9%, 0.59% and 9.46%.
Is Florida safer than Arkansas?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 532 in Arkansas, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Arkansas #48. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,645 in Arkansas. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Pembroke Pines, FL, and Bella Vista, AR.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Arkansas?
Homes are 65% more expensive in Florida: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $227,264 in Arkansas. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $61,092 in Arkansas, against median incomes of $77,735 and $62,106.
Do people earn more in Florida or Arkansas?
Florida pays more: median household income is $77,735 vs $62,106 in Arkansas, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 4.1% in Arkansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 13 after adjusting for local costs and Arkansas's in 1, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Arkansas or from Arkansas to Florida?
1,933 households moved from Florida to Arkansas and 1,743 moved from Arkansas to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 190 households for Arkansas. Movers to Arkansas reported an average income of $60,184; movers to Florida reported $96,607. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,434 people (±1,771) moving from Florida to Arkansas and 4,633 (±2,564) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Arkansas?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #45 for Arkansas. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Arkansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$43,012 in Arkansas.
Which is better for families, Florida or Arkansas?
Florida is the better fit for families: #24 of 50 on the families index vs #44 for Arkansas. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $9,727 in Arkansas. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 88.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and +$8,363 in Arkansas.
Is Arkansas better than Florida?
No: Florida ranks higher than Arkansas overall, #21 of 50 vs #48, with a composite score of 59.9 to 40.1. Florida leads 7 of 11 categories and Arkansas leads 1, including affordability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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