Tennessee vs Arkansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and Arkansas #48 as of the latest release. Arkansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 86.9 vs 91.9), carries a 2.2-point higher tax burden, and has a 7% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 1.
- Typical home value is 32% lower in Arkansas ($227,264 vs. $334,108 in Tennessee).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 30% lower in Arkansas ($1,265 vs. $1,813 in Tennessee).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 30% lower in Arkansas ($9,727 vs. $13,926 in Tennessee).
| Measure | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +17 pts | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | 40.1#48 of 50 · D | +17 pts | — | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +5 pts+6% | 100 | AR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$14,022 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | -$14,022 | -$11,758 | AR |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$106,844 (+47%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | +$106,844+47% | $368,697 | AR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.23 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | -2.23 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -39 (-7%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -39-7% | 328 | TN |
| Median household incomeGap +$9,891 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$9,891+16% | $80,903 | TN |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap -0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | -0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +18,835 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | +18,835 | -33 | TN |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Tennessee or Arkansas better to live in?
Tennessee scores higher overall: 57.1 to 40.1 out of 100, #24 of 50 against #48. Tennessee leads 7 of 11 categories, Arkansas leads 1, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +17.1 | 15% | 45.8#26 · B | 28.7#45 · D | +17.1 pts | TN |
| Safety12% of scoregap +3.3 | 12% | 52.2#45 · D | 48.9#47 · D | +3.3 pts | TN |
| Health12% of scoregap +0.7 | 12% | 28.7#46 · D | 28.0#47 · D | +0.7 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +22.4 | 12% | 71.7#8 · A | 49.3#40 · C | +22.4 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -11.8 | 10% | 77.9#17 · B+ | 89.7#2 · A+ | -11.8 pts | AR |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +19.9 | 8% | 76.1#3 · A+ | 56.2#33 · C+ | +19.9 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap +11.1 | 7% | 56.9#5 · A+ | 45.8#17 · B+ | +11.1 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap 0 | 7% | 42.9#40 · C | 42.9#41 · C | 0 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +22.2 | 7% | 47.0#9 · A | 24.8#40 · C | +22.2 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -1.4 | 6% | 13.3#38 · C | 14.7#36 · C | -1.4 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +10.4 | 4% | 36.2#33 · C+ | 25.8#45 · D | +10.4 pts | TN |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Tennessee cheaper than Arkansas?
Arkansas is cheaper: cost of living index 86.9 vs 91.9 in Tennessee (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $14,022 more a year in Arkansas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +5 pts+6% | 100 | AR |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 93.6#1 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | AR |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.34¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | +0.34¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$7.41 (-38%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | -$7.41-38% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.16 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | +$0.16+5% | $3.32/gal | AR |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,199 (+43%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $9,727#5 of 50 | +$4,199+43% | $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 | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,064 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | +$37,972costs $37,028 | -$2,064 | AR |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$3,898 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | +$31,290costs $43,710 | -$3,898 | AR |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$14,022 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | +$8,363costs $66,637 | -$14,022 | AR |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,052 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | +$43,012costs $31,987 | -$3,052 | 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 | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$7,080 | $22,211 | $15,131 | +$7,080 | AR |
| ChildcareGap +$8,398 | $27,852 | $19,454 | +$8,398 | AR |
| UtilitiesGap +$240 | $4,411 | $4,171 | +$240 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$293 | $10,835 | $10,542 | +$293 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$503 | $9,680 | $9,177 | +$503 | AR |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,491 | $5,671 | $8,162 | -$2,491 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or Arkansas?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 8.61%. Tennessee has no 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 | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.23 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | -2.23 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.9 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 3.9%#14 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.01 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 0.59%#14 of 50 | -0.01 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.15 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 9.46%#47 of 50 | +0.15 pts | 6.66% | Even |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Tennessee or Arkansas?
Homes cost 47% more in Tennessee: a typical home value of $334,108 in Tennessee vs $227,264 in Arkansas. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of income in Tennessee and $61,092 in Arkansas; the median household earns $71,997 and $62,106.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$106,844 (+47%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | +$106,844+47% | $368,697 | AR |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.9 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +3.6%#10 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$548 (+43%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,265#4 of 50 | +$548+43% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,457 (+40%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $61,092#3 of 50 | +$24,457+40% | $100,006 | AR |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+24%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 3.7x#16 of 50 | +0.9x+24% | 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.
| TN | AR | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,719 | $1,169 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +24.8% | +21.2% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Nashville | 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 Tennessee or Arkansas?
Tennessee pays more: median household income $71,997 vs $62,106, with unemployment at 3.5% in Tennessee and 4.1% in Arkansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Arkansas's in 0.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$9,891 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$9,891+16% | $80,903 | TN |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 4.1%#29 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,895 (+27%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $48,298#48 of 50 | +$12,895+27% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +1.5%#38 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Population growthGap +0.28 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.6%#19 of 50 | +0.28 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 | TN | AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | $134,605$117,106 in Little Rock | TN |
| Civil Engineers | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | $87,640$76,247 in Little Rock | TN |
| Registered Nurses | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | $82,380$71,671 in Little Rock | TN |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | $92,963$80,878 in Little Rock | TN |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | $70,618$61,438 in Little Rock | TN |
| Software Developers | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | $127,376$110,817 in Little Rock | TN |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | $100,124$87,108 in Little Rock | TN |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | $52,449$45,631 in Little Rock | TN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | $58,453$50,854 in Little Rock | TN |
| Electricians | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | $58,521$50,913 in Little Rock | TN |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | $67,807$58,992 in Little Rock | TN |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | $61,684$53,665 in Little Rock | TN |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | $52,176$45,393 in Little Rock | TN |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | $49,372$42,954 in Little Rock | TN |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | $45,602$39,674 in Little Rock | TN |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | $32,876$28,602 in Little Rock | TN |
| Accountants & Auditors | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | $77,756$67,648 in Little Rock | TN |
| Construction Laborers | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | $40,714$35,421 in Little Rock | TN |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | $54,972$47,826 in Little Rock | TN |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | $230,893$200,877 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 Tennessee safer than Arkansas?
Tennessee is safer: 492 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 532 in Arkansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,637 and 1,645 per 100,000.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -39 (-7%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -39-7% | 328 | TN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -8 (-1%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,645#35 of 50 | -8-1% | 1,535 | Even |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Brentwood, TN62 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, Tennessee or Arkansas?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #40), with high school graduation rates of 90.4% and 88.2%. They are close on health (#46 and #47); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Tennessee and 73.9 in Arkansas.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 266#43 of 50 | +10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 255#37 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap -0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | -0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.3 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 38.9%#47 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 34.03% | TN |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.3 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 9.4%#39 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 42#38 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | TN |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
- 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: Tennessee #8, Arkansas #40. Health: Tennessee #46, Arkansas #47.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to Arkansas, or from Arkansas to Tennessee?
1,960 households moved from Tennessee to Arkansas and 1,839 moved from Arkansas to Tennessee in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 121 households for Arkansas. Movers to Arkansas reported an average income of $60,027; movers to Tennessee reported $54,238. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,579 people (±1,147) moving from Tennessee to Arkansas and 3,503 (±1,498) 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 | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +76,791 (+208%) | 113,788#13 of 50 | 36,997#33 of 50 | +76,791+208% | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +57,956 (+183%) | 89,684#34 of 50 | 31,728#16 of 50 | +57,956+183% | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +18,835 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | +18,835 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.6 | +3.3#4 of 50 | +1.7#13 of 50 | +1.6 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$16,448 (+26%) | $79,430#24 of 50 | $62,982#42 of 50 | +$16,448+26% | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,739 (+18%) | $70,076#32 of 50 | $59,337#49 of 50 | +$10,739+18% | TN |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +4.7#8 of 50 | +1.1 | TN |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Tennessee or Arkansas?
Tennessee 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 | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -14 places | #30score 62.5 | #44score 49.1 | -14 places | TN |
| RetireesGap -17 places | #28score 60.3 | #45score 48.5 | -17 places | TN |
| Remote WorkersGap -25 places | #14score 59.5 | #39score 45.8 | -25 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -22 places | #16score 60 | #38score 44.6 | -22 places | TN |
| Small BusinessGap -27 places | #8score 73.5 | #35score 48.5 | -27 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -5 places | #44score 28.8 | #49score 23.3 | -5 places | TN |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesTennessee (#30 vs #44)
- RetireesTennessee (#28 vs #45)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #39)
- Young ProfessionalsTennessee (#16 vs #38)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #35)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsTennessee (#44 vs #49)
Which cities stand out in Tennessee and Arkansas?
Tennessee has 20 tracked cities and Arkansas has 20; the largest are Nashville and Little Rock. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Nashville690,130 people | Little Rock203,436 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Franklinscore 69.5 | Bentonvillescore 68.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Brentwood62 violent per 100K | Bella Vista167 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Jacksoncost index 85.5 | Pine Bluffcost index 83 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 | West Memphiswalkability 12.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 | West Memphiscounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Lebanon97% graduation rate | Benton93.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 | Bentonvillemedian income $112,792 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Lebanon+5.6% 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 Tennessee and Arkansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Tennessee carries AAA credit rating and Arkansas AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 12%#37 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -14.6 (-37%) · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 39.6#38 of 50 | -14.6-37% | 29.6 | TN |
| Public land shareGap -3.3 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 10.5%#22 of 50 | -3.3 pts | 17.16% | AR |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | +3.8 min | 25.2 min | AR |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 0.3%#49 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.1 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 8.6%#44 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 90.8%#43 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 92.67% | TN |
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 | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 90#40 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.5 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 6.7%#42 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +19 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 78%#19 of 50 | +19 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$190 (-10%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $1,820#7 of 50 | -$190-10% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.1 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +6.3%#14 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Tennessee 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).
Tennessee vs Arkansas: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Tennessee is ahead on 24 of 51, Arkansas on 14, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TennesseeTN | ArkansasAR | GapTN−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,200,285 (+135%) · US 6.8 million | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | 3.1 million#33 of 50 | +4,200,285+135% | 6.8 million | TN |
| Median household incomeGap +$9,891 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$9,891+16% | $80,903 | TN |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 4.1%#29 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| Population growthGap +0.28 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.6%#19 of 50 | +0.28 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,895 (+27%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $48,298#48 of 50 | +$12,895+27% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +1.5%#38 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -39 (-7%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -39-7% | 328 | TN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -8 (-1%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,645#35 of 50 | -8-1% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 237 | 240#12 of 50 | 230#47 of 50 | +9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 266#43 of 50 | +10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 214 | 215#23 of 50 | 210#41 of 50 | +5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 255#37 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | -0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.3 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 38.9%#47 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 34.03% | TN |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.3 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 9.4%#39 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$106,844 (+47%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | +$106,844+47% | $368,697 | AR |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.9 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +3.6%#10 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$548 (+43%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,265#4 of 50 | +$548+43% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,457 (+40%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $61,092#3 of 50 | +$24,457+40% | $100,006 | AR |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +5 pts+6% | 100 | AR |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+24%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 3.7x#16 of 50 | +0.9x+24% | 4.6x | AR |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.34¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | +0.34¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$7.41 (-38%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | -$7.41-38% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.16 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | +$0.16+5% | $3.32/gal | AR |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 93.6#1 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | AR |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,199 (+43%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $9,727#5 of 50 | +$4,199+43% | $15,633 | AR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.23 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | -2.23 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.9 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 3.9%#14 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.01 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 0.59%#14 of 50 | -0.01 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.15 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 9.46%#47 of 50 | +0.15 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 90#40 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.5 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 6.7%#42 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +19 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 78%#19 of 50 | +19 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$190 (-10%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $1,820#7 of 50 | -$190-10% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.1 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +6.3%#14 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 42#38 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | TN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 12%#37 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -14.6 (-37%) · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 39.6#38 of 50 | -14.6-37% | 29.6 | TN |
| Public land shareGap -3.3 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 10.5%#22 of 50 | -3.3 pts | 17.16% | AR |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | +3.8 min | 25.2 min | AR |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 0.3%#49 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.1 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 8.6%#44 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 90.8%#43 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 92.67% | TN |
| Households moving inIRSGap +76,791 (+208%) · US 78,682 | 113,788#13 of 50 | 36,997#33 of 50 | +76,791+208% | 78,682 | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +57,956 (+183%) · US 78,715 | 89,684#34 of 50 | 31,728#16 of 50 | +57,956+183% | 78,715 | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +18,835 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | +18,835 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.6 · US +0.4 | +3.3#4 of 50 | +1.7#13 of 50 | +1.6 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$16,448 (+26%) · US $77,690 | $79,430#24 of 50 | $62,982#42 of 50 | +$16,448+26% | $77,690 | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,739 (+18%) · US $77,024 | $70,076#32 of 50 | $59,337#49 of 50 | +$10,739+18% | $77,024 | TN |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 · US +1.1 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +4.7#8 of 50 | +1.1 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$14,022 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | -$14,022 | -$11,758 | AR |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,064 · US +$31,418 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | +$37,972#4 of 50 | -$2,064 | +$31,418 | AR |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,052 · US +$35,970 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | +$43,012#4 of 50 | -$3,052 | +$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 Tennessee and Arkansas numbers say when read together.
Tennessee ranks higher overall
Tennessee 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, Tennessee is ahead on 24 and Arkansas on 14.
Arkansas is cheaper day to day
Arkansas's cost of living index is 86.9 against 91.9 in Tennessee (US = 100). The typical home costs $334,108 in Tennessee and $227,264 in Arkansas. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 a year after typical costs in Tennessee and +$8,363 in Arkansas.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Tennessee collects 6.38% of income in state and local taxes (no 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).
Tennessee pays more and is safer
Median household income is $71,997 in Tennessee and $62,106 in Arkansas, with unemployment at 3.5% and 4.1%. Violent crime runs 492 per 100,000 residents in Tennessee and 532 in Arkansas.
Moves between the two run about even
2,579 people moved from Tennessee to Arkansas and 3,503 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Tennessee fits families and retirees better
For families, Tennessee ranks #30 of 50 and Arkansas #44; for retirees, Tennessee ranks #28 and Arkansas #45.
Tennessee vs Arkansas: frequently asked questions
Is Tennessee or Arkansas better to live in?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and Arkansas #48 as of the latest release. Arkansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 86.9 vs 91.9), carries a 2.2-point higher tax burden, and has a 7% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Tennessee cheaper than Arkansas?
Arkansas is cheaper than Tennessee: cost of living index 86.9 vs 91.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,659 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Tennessee, and +$8,363 in Arkansas. The typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $227,264 in Arkansas.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or Arkansas?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.61% in Arkansas. Tennessee's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.58% and its combined sales tax 9.61%; Arkansas's are 3.9%, 0.59% and 9.46%.
Is Tennessee safer than Arkansas?
Tennessee is safer: 492 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 532 in Arkansas, per the FBI. Tennessee ranks #46 of 50 for violent crime and Arkansas #48. Property crime is 1,637 per 100,000 in Tennessee and 1,645 in Arkansas. The safest tracked cities are Brentwood, TN, and Bella Vista, AR.
Are homes more expensive in Tennessee or Arkansas?
Homes are 47% more expensive in Tennessee: the typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $227,264 in Arkansas. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of household income in Tennessee and $61,092 in Arkansas, against median incomes of $71,997 and $62,106.
Do people earn more in Tennessee or Arkansas?
Tennessee pays more: median household income is $71,997 vs $62,106 in Arkansas, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.5% in Tennessee and 4.1% in Arkansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Arkansas's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to Arkansas or from Arkansas to Tennessee?
1,960 households moved from Tennessee to Arkansas and 1,839 moved from Arkansas to Tennessee in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 121 households for Arkansas. Movers to Arkansas reported an average income of $60,027; movers to Tennessee reported $54,238. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,579 people (±1,147) moving from Tennessee to Arkansas and 3,503 (±1,498) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Tennessee or Arkansas?
Tennessee is the better fit for retirees: #28 of 50 on the retiree index vs #45 for Arkansas. Tennessee has no 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 +$39,960 left after typical costs in Tennessee and +$43,012 in Arkansas.
Which is better for families, Tennessee or Arkansas?
Tennessee is the better fit for families: #30 of 50 on the families index vs #44 for Arkansas. Center-based infant care costs $13,926 a year in Tennessee and $9,727 in Arkansas. High school graduation rates are 90.4% and 88.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 after typical costs in Tennessee and +$8,363 in Arkansas.
Is Arkansas better than Tennessee?
No: Tennessee ranks higher than Arkansas overall, #24 of 50 vs #48, with a composite score of 57.1 to 40.1. Tennessee 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.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Tennessee vs Arkansas.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.