Louisiana vs Arkansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
Louisiana ranks #50 of 50 overall and Arkansas #48 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 88.2 vs 86.9); Louisiana collects a similar share of income in taxes. Arkansas scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 0.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 21% lower in Arkansas ($1,265 vs. $1,598 in Louisiana).
- Property crime rate is 16% lower in Arkansas (1,645 vs. 1,966 in Louisiana).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 13% lower in Arkansas ($9,727 vs. $11,133 in Louisiana).
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -10.1 pts | 30.0#50 of 50 · F | 40.1#48 of 50 · D | -10.1 pts | — | AR |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.3 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 88.2#5 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +1.3 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,070 · US -$11,758 | +$7,293#5 of 50 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | -$1,070 | -$11,758 | AR |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$10,225 (-4%) · US $368,697 | $217,039#3 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | -$10,225-4% | $368,697 | LA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 8.94%#30 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | +0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -17 (-3%) · US 328 | 515#47 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -17-3% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,120 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $60,986#48 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | -$1,120-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -5.1 pts · US 85.62% | 83.1%#38 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| Life expectancyGap -0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#47 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | -0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,398 · US -33 | -10,129#43 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | -15,398 | -33 | AR |
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 Louisiana or Arkansas better to live in?
Arkansas scores higher overall: 40.1 to 30 out of 100, #48 of 50 against #50. Louisiana leads 0 of 11 categories, Arkansas leads 8, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -3.8 | 15% | 24.9#48 · D | 28.7#45 · D | -3.8 pts | AR |
| Safety12% of scoregap -3.4 | 12% | 45.5#48 · D | 48.9#47 · D | -3.4 pts | AR |
| Health12% of scoregap +1.9 | 12% | 29.9#44 · D | 28.0#47 · D | +1.9 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -1 | 12% | 48.3#41 · C | 49.3#40 · C | -1 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -1 | 10% | 88.7#3 · A+ | 89.7#2 · A+ | -1 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -13.1 | 8% | 43.1#44 · D | 56.2#33 · C+ | -13.1 pts | AR |
| Growth7% of scoregap -24.7 | 7% | 21.1#44 · D | 45.8#17 · B+ | -24.7 pts | AR |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -6.5 | 7% | 36.4#48 · D | 42.9#41 · C | -6.5 pts | AR |
| Livability7% of scoregap -4.5 | 7% | 20.3#47 · D | 24.8#40 · C | -4.5 pts | AR |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -4.4 | 6% | 10.3#41 · C | 14.7#36 · C | -4.4 pts | AR |
| Environment4% of scoregap -9.8 | 4% | 16.0#50 · F | 25.8#45 · D | -9.8 pts | AR |
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 Louisiana cheaper than Arkansas?
Louisiana and Arkansas cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 88.2 vs 86.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $1,070 more a year in Arkansas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.3 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 88.2#5 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +1.3 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 93.7#4 of 50 | 93.6#1 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.27¢ (-2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.57¢/kWh#4 of 50 | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | -0.27¢-2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.87 (-10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.38/Mcf#35 of 50 | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | -$1.87-10% | $15.83/Mcf | LA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.02 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.90/gal#4 of 50 | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | -$0.02-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,406 (+14%) · US $15,633 | $11,133#11 of 50 | $9,727#5 of 50 | +$1,406+14% | $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 | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,268 | +$39,240costs $35,760 | +$37,972costs $37,028 | +$1,268 | LA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$1,667 | +$32,957costs $42,043 | +$31,290costs $43,710 | +$1,667 | LA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$1,070 | +$7,293costs $67,708 | +$8,363costs $66,637 | -$1,070 | AR |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,585 | +$44,597costs $30,403 | +$43,012costs $31,987 | +$1,585 | LA |
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 | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$768 | $14,363 | $15,131 | -$768 | LA |
| ChildcareGap +$2,812 | $22,266 | $19,454 | +$2,812 | AR |
| UtilitiesGap +$63 | $4,234 | $4,171 | +$63 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$11 | $10,553 | $10,542 | +$11 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$63 | $9,114 | $9,177 | -$63 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$984 | $7,178 | $8,162 | -$984 | LA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Louisiana or Arkansas?
Louisiana and Arkansas collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.94% vs 8.61%. Louisiana has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Arkansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 8.94%#30 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | +0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.9 pts · US 5.46% | 3%#12 of 50 | 3.9%#14 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 5.46% | LA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.04 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#9 of 50 | 0.59%#14 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.65 pts · US 6.66% | 10.11%#50 of 50 | 9.46%#47 of 50 | +0.65 pts | 6.66% | AR |
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 Louisiana or Arkansas?
Homes cost 5% more in Arkansas: a typical home value of $217,039 in Louisiana vs $227,264 in Arkansas. Buying the typical home takes about $64,285 of income in Louisiana and $61,092 in Arkansas; the median household earns $60,986 and $62,106.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$10,225 (-4%) · US $368,697 | $217,039#3 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | -$10,225-4% | $368,697 | LA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2.1%#26 of 50 | +3.6%#10 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$333 (+26%) · US $1,948 | $1,598#21 of 50 | $1,265#4 of 50 | +$333+26% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$3,193 (+5%) · US $100,006 | $64,285#6 of 50 | $61,092#3 of 50 | +$3,193+5% | $100,006 | AR |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-3%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#11 of 50 | 3.7x#16 of 50 | -0.1x-3% | 4.6x | Even |
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.
| LA | AR | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,117 | $1,169 |
| Income needed vs. median | +5% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +1.1% | +21.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | New Orleans | 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 Louisiana or Arkansas?
Median household income is about the same, $60,986 in Louisiana and $62,106 in Arkansas, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.1%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Louisiana's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Arkansas's in 0.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$1,120 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $60,986#48 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | -$1,120-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#36 of 50 | 4.1%#29 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,160 (+19%) · US $64,333 | $57,458#36 of 50 | $48,298#48 of 50 | +$9,160+19% | $64,333 | LA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +0.8%#45 of 50 | +1.5%#38 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +1.91% | AR |
| Population growthGap -0.53 pts · US +0.51% | +0.07%#44 of 50 | +0.6%#19 of 50 | -0.53 pts | +0.51% | AR |
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 | LA | AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $141,252$124,302 in New Orleans | $127,376$110,817 in Little Rock | LA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $105,259$92,628 in New Orleans | $92,963$80,878 in Little Rock | LA |
| Lawyers | $144,611$127,258 in New Orleans | $134,605$117,106 in Little Rock | LA |
| Registered Nurses | $92,147$81,089 in New Orleans | $82,380$71,671 in Little Rock | LA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $240,041$211,236 in New Orleans | $230,893$200,877 in Little Rock | LA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $78,886$69,420 in New Orleans | $70,618$61,438 in Little Rock | LA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,424$94,533 in New Orleans | $100,124$87,108 in Little Rock | LA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $59,427$52,296 in New Orleans | $52,449$45,631 in Little Rock | LA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $65,197$57,373 in New Orleans | $58,453$50,854 in Little Rock | LA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $55,973$49,256 in New Orleans | $49,372$42,954 in Little Rock | LA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,943$59,790 in New Orleans | $61,684$53,665 in Little Rock | LA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $74,014$65,132 in New Orleans | $67,807$58,992 in Little Rock | LA |
| Civil Engineers | $93,240$82,051 in New Orleans | $87,640$76,247 in Little Rock | LA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,126$39,711 in New Orleans | $40,714$35,421 in Little Rock | LA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,964$43,088 in New Orleans | $45,602$39,674 in Little Rock | LA |
| Electricians | $60,933$53,621 in New Orleans | $58,521$50,913 in Little Rock | LA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,775$47,322 in New Orleans | $52,176$45,393 in Little Rock | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $79,319$69,801 in New Orleans | $77,756$67,648 in Little Rock | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,788$49,093 in New Orleans | $54,972$47,826 in Little Rock | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,564$29,536 in New Orleans | $32,876$28,602 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 Louisiana safer than Arkansas?
Violent crime is about the same: 515 per 100,000 residents in Louisiana and 532 in Arkansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,966 and 1,645 per 100,000.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -17 (-3%) · US 328 | 515#47 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -17-3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +322 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,966#45 of 50 | 1,645#35 of 50 | +322+20% | 1,535 | AR |
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.
- Slidell, LA275 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, Louisiana or Arkansas?
Louisiana and Arkansas are close on education (#41 and #40 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 83.1% and 88.2%. They are close on health (#44 and #47); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Louisiana and 73.9 in Arkansas.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 267#42 of 50 | 266#43 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 257#28 of 50 | 255#37 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -5.1 pts · US 85.62% | 83.1%#38 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| Life expectancyGap -0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#47 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | -0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.3 pts · US 34.03% | 39.2%#48 of 50 | 38.9%#47 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#29 of 50 | 9.4%#39 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | LA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+2%) · US 38.8 | 43#44 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).
- Ruston, LAeducation score 98
- 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: Louisiana #41, Arkansas #40. Health: Louisiana #44, Arkansas #47.
Are more people moving from Louisiana to Arkansas, or from Arkansas to Louisiana?
1,423 households moved from Louisiana to Arkansas and 1,063 moved from Arkansas to Louisiana in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 360 households for Arkansas. Movers to Arkansas reported an average income of $55,187; movers to Louisiana reported $48,217. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,183 people (±1,163) moving from Louisiana to Arkansas and 3,011 (±1,213) 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 | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +23 (0%) | 37,020#32 of 50 | 36,997#33 of 50 | +230% | Even |
| Households moving outIRSGap +15,421 (+49%) | 47,149#23 of 50 | 31,728#16 of 50 | +15,421+49% | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,398 | -10,129#43 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | -15,398 | AR |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.9 | -2.2#48 of 50 | +1.7#13 of 50 | -3.9 | AR |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$4,793 (-8%) | $58,189#48 of 50 | $62,982#42 of 50 | -$4,793-8% | AR |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,306 (+6%) | $62,643#46 of 50 | $59,337#49 of 50 | +$3,306+6% | LA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.8 | -3.1#44 of 50 | +4.7#8 of 50 | -7.8 | 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, Louisiana or Arkansas?
Arkansas is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +3 places | #47score 44.5 | #44score 49.1 | +3 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +5 places | #50score 39.5 | #45score 48.5 | +5 places | AR |
| Remote WorkersGap +8 places | #47score 32.3 | #39score 45.8 | +8 places | AR |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +11 places | #49score 30 | #38score 44.6 | +11 places | AR |
| Small BusinessGap +14 places | #49score 29.9 | #35score 48.5 | +14 places | AR |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +1 places | #50score 14.3 | #49score 23.3 | +1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#47 vs #44)
- RetireesArkansas (#45 vs #50)
- Remote WorkersArkansas (#39 vs #47)
- Young ProfessionalsArkansas (#38 vs #49)
- Small BusinessArkansas (#35 vs #49)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#50 vs #49)
Which cities stand out in Louisiana and Arkansas?
Louisiana has 20 tracked cities and Arkansas has 20; the largest are New Orleans and Little Rock. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New Orleans371,853 people | Little Rock203,436 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Prairievillescore 58.2 | Bentonvillescore 68.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Slidell275 violent per 100K | Bella Vista167 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | New Iberiacost index 82.5 | Pine Bluffcost index 83 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | New Orleanswalkability 13.7 of 20 | West Memphiswalkability 12.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Prairievillecounty median AQI 33 | West Memphiscounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Ruston98% graduation rate | Benton93.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Prairievillemedian income $104,923 | Bentonvillemedian income $112,792 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Lake Charles+1.5% 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 Louisiana and Arkansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Louisiana carries AA- credit rating and Arkansas AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -7 pts · US 29.34% | 5%#50 of 50 | 12%#37 of 50 | -7 pts | 29.34% | AR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +12.4 (+31%) · US 29.6 | 52.0#45 of 50 | 39.6#38 of 50 | +12.4+31% | 29.6 | AR |
| Public land shareGap -6.3 pts · US 17.16% | 4.2%#38 of 50 | 10.5%#22 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 17.16% | AR |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 26.2 min#28 of 50 | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | +3.5 min | 25.2 min | AR |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.9%#29 of 50 | 0.3%#49 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | LA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 8%#48 of 50 | 8.6%#44 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.28% | AR |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 90.5%#47 of 50 | 90.8%#43 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#46 of 50 | 90#40 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | AR |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.5 pts · US 12.39% | 4.2%#47 of 50 | 6.7%#42 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 12.39% | AR |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 64%#40 of 50 | 78%#19 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | AR |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,070 (+114%) · US $3,506 | $3,890#37 of 50 | $1,820#7 of 50 | +$2,070+114% | $3,506 | AR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.8 pts · US +4.66% | +1.5%#45 of 50 | +6.3%#14 of 50 | -4.8 pts | +4.66% | AR |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Louisiana AA-, 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).
Louisiana vs Arkansas: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Louisiana is ahead on 9 of 51, Arkansas on 24, and 18 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | LouisianaLA | ArkansasAR | GapLA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,503,398 (+48%) · US 6.8 million | 4.6 million#25 of 50 | 3.1 million#33 of 50 | +1,503,398+48% | 6.8 million | LA |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,120 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $60,986#48 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | -$1,120-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#36 of 50 | 4.1%#29 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.53 pts · US +0.51% | +0.07%#44 of 50 | +0.6%#19 of 50 | -0.53 pts | +0.51% | AR |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,160 (+19%) · US $64,333 | $57,458#36 of 50 | $48,298#48 of 50 | +$9,160+19% | $64,333 | LA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +0.8%#45 of 50 | +1.5%#38 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +1.91% | AR |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -17 (-3%) · US 328 | 515#47 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -17-3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +322 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,966#45 of 50 | 1,645#35 of 50 | +322+20% | 1,535 | AR |
| High school graduation rateGap -5.1 pts · US 85.62% | 83.1%#38 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 235#37 of 50 | 230#47 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 267#42 of 50 | 266#43 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 216#15 of 50 | 210#41 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 257#28 of 50 | 255#37 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#47 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | -0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.3 pts · US 34.03% | 39.2%#48 of 50 | 38.9%#47 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#29 of 50 | 9.4%#39 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | LA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$10,225 (-4%) · US $368,697 | $217,039#3 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | -$10,225-4% | $368,697 | LA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2.1%#26 of 50 | +3.6%#10 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$333 (+26%) · US $1,948 | $1,598#21 of 50 | $1,265#4 of 50 | +$333+26% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$3,193 (+5%) · US $100,006 | $64,285#6 of 50 | $61,092#3 of 50 | +$3,193+5% | $100,006 | AR |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.3 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 88.2#5 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +1.3 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-3%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#11 of 50 | 3.7x#16 of 50 | -0.1x-3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.27¢ (-2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.57¢/kWh#4 of 50 | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | -0.27¢-2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.87 (-10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.38/Mcf#35 of 50 | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | -$1.87-10% | $15.83/Mcf | LA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.02 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.90/gal#4 of 50 | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | -$0.02-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 93.7#4 of 50 | 93.6#1 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,406 (+14%) · US $15,633 | $11,133#11 of 50 | $9,727#5 of 50 | +$1,406+14% | $15,633 | AR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 8.94%#30 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | +0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.9 pts · US 5.46% | 3%#12 of 50 | 3.9%#14 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 5.46% | LA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.04 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#9 of 50 | 0.59%#14 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.65 pts · US 6.66% | 10.11%#50 of 50 | 9.46%#47 of 50 | +0.65 pts | 6.66% | AR |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#46 of 50 | 90#40 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | AR |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.5 pts · US 12.39% | 4.2%#47 of 50 | 6.7%#42 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 12.39% | AR |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 64%#40 of 50 | 78%#19 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | AR |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,070 (+114%) · US $3,506 | $3,890#37 of 50 | $1,820#7 of 50 | +$2,070+114% | $3,506 | AR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.8 pts · US +4.66% | +1.5%#45 of 50 | +6.3%#14 of 50 | -4.8 pts | +4.66% | AR |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+2%) · US 38.8 | 43#44 of 50 | 42#38 of 50 | +1 pts+2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -7 pts · US 29.34% | 5%#50 of 50 | 12%#37 of 50 | -7 pts | 29.34% | AR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +12.4 (+31%) · US 29.6 | 52.0#45 of 50 | 39.6#38 of 50 | +12.4+31% | 29.6 | AR |
| Public land shareGap -6.3 pts · US 17.16% | 4.2%#38 of 50 | 10.5%#22 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 17.16% | AR |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 26.2 min#28 of 50 | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | +3.5 min | 25.2 min | AR |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.9%#29 of 50 | 0.3%#49 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | LA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 8%#48 of 50 | 8.6%#44 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.28% | AR |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 90.5%#47 of 50 | 90.8%#43 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +23 (0%) · US 78,682 | 37,020#32 of 50 | 36,997#33 of 50 | +230% | 78,682 | Even |
| Households moving outIRSGap +15,421 (+49%) · US 78,715 | 47,149#23 of 50 | 31,728#16 of 50 | +15,421+49% | 78,715 | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -15,398 · US -33 | -10,129#43 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | -15,398 | -33 | AR |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.9 · US +0.4 | -2.2#48 of 50 | +1.7#13 of 50 | -3.9 | +0.4 | AR |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$4,793 (-8%) · US $77,690 | $58,189#48 of 50 | $62,982#42 of 50 | -$4,793-8% | $77,690 | AR |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,306 (+6%) · US $77,024 | $62,643#46 of 50 | $59,337#49 of 50 | +$3,306+6% | $77,024 | LA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.8 · US +1.1 | -3.1#44 of 50 | +4.7#8 of 50 | -7.8 | +1.1 | AR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,070 · US -$11,758 | +$7,293#5 of 50 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | -$1,070 | -$11,758 | AR |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,268 · US +$31,418 | +$39,240#1 of 50 | +$37,972#4 of 50 | +$1,268 | +$31,418 | LA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,585 · US +$35,970 | +$44,597#1 of 50 | +$43,012#4 of 50 | +$1,585 | +$35,970 | LA |
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 Louisiana and Arkansas numbers say when read together.
Arkansas ranks higher overall
Arkansas leads 8 of the 11 categories to Louisiana's 0, with 3 even. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Louisiana is ahead on 9 and Arkansas on 24.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 88.2 in Louisiana and 86.9 in Arkansas, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $217,039 and $227,264. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$7,293 a year after typical costs in Louisiana and +$8,363 in Arkansas.
Tax burdens are close
Louisiana collects 8.94% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Arkansas collects 8.61% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Pay and safety are close
Median household income is $60,986 in Louisiana and $62,106 in Arkansas, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.1%. Violent crime runs 515 per 100,000 residents in Louisiana and 532 in Arkansas.
Moves between the two run about even
3,183 people moved from Louisiana to Arkansas and 3,011 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Arkansas is the better fit for retirees
For families, Louisiana ranks #47 of 50 and Arkansas #44; for retirees, Louisiana ranks #50 and Arkansas #45.
Louisiana vs Arkansas: frequently asked questions
Is Louisiana or Arkansas better to live in?
Louisiana ranks #50 of 50 overall and Arkansas #48 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 88.2 vs 86.9); Louisiana collects a similar share of income in taxes. Arkansas scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 0.
Is Louisiana cheaper than Arkansas?
Louisiana and Arkansas cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 88.2 vs 86.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have +$7,293 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Louisiana, and +$8,363 in Arkansas. The typical home value is $217,039 in Louisiana and $227,264 in Arkansas.
Which has lower taxes, Louisiana or Arkansas?
Louisiana and Arkansas have similar tax burdens: 8.94% vs 8.61% of income in state and local taxes. Louisiana's top income tax rate is 3%, its effective property tax rate 0.55% and its combined sales tax 10.11%; Arkansas's are 3.9%, 0.59% and 9.46%.
Is Louisiana safer than Arkansas?
Louisiana and Arkansas have similar violent crime rates: 515 vs 532 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Louisiana ranks #47 of 50 for violent crime and Arkansas #48. Property crime is 1,966 per 100,000 in Louisiana and 1,645 in Arkansas. The safest tracked cities are Slidell, LA, and Bella Vista, AR.
Are homes more expensive in Louisiana or Arkansas?
Homes are 5% more expensive in Arkansas: the typical home value is $217,039 in Louisiana and $227,264 in Arkansas. Buying the typical home takes about $64,285 of household income in Louisiana and $61,092 in Arkansas, against median incomes of $60,986 and $62,106.
Do people earn more in Louisiana or Arkansas?
Louisiana and Arkansas pay about the same: median household income is $60,986 vs $62,106, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Louisiana and 4.1% in Arkansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Louisiana's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Arkansas's in 0, with 4 even.
Are more people moving from Louisiana to Arkansas or from Arkansas to Louisiana?
1,423 households moved from Louisiana to Arkansas and 1,063 moved from Arkansas to Louisiana in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 360 households for Arkansas. Movers to Arkansas reported an average income of $55,187; movers to Louisiana reported $48,217. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,183 people (±1,163) moving from Louisiana to Arkansas and 3,011 (±1,213) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Louisiana or Arkansas?
Arkansas is the better fit for retirees: #45 of 50 on the retiree index vs #50 for Louisiana. Louisiana has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Arkansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$44,597 left after typical costs in Louisiana and +$43,012 in Arkansas.
Which is better for families, Louisiana or Arkansas?
Louisiana and Arkansas are close for families: #47 and #44 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $11,133 a year in Louisiana and $9,727 in Arkansas. High school graduation rates are 83.1% and 88.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$7,293 after typical costs in Louisiana and +$8,363 in Arkansas.
Is Arkansas better than Louisiana?
Yes: Arkansas ranks higher than Louisiana overall, #48 of 50 vs #50, with a composite score of 40.1 to 30. Arkansas leads 8 of 11 categories and Louisiana leads 0. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Louisiana vs Arkansas.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.