Virginia vs Colorado: Which Is Better to Live In?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Colorado #18 as of the latest release. Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 103.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 51% lower violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 51% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 422 in Colorado).
- Property crime rate is 37% lower in Virginia (1,354 vs. 2,144 in Colorado).
- Typical home value is 22% lower in Virginia ($414,662 vs. $532,748 in Colorado).
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +3 pts | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | +3 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -2 pts-2% | 100 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$13,380 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$13,380 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$118,086 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$118,086-22% | $368,697 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.13 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | +0.13 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -216 (-51%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -216-51% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$5,023 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$5,023-5% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -1.0 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -10,920 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -10,920 | -33 | CO |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Virginia or Colorado better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 64.7 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #18. Virginia leads 4 of 11 categories, Colorado leads 4, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +4.3 | 15% | 64.6#7 · A | 60.3#9 · A | +4.3 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +28.9 | 12% | 79.3#13 · B+ | 50.4#46 · D | +28.9 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap -14 | 12% | 61.4#17 · B+ | 75.4#7 · A | -14 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap +0.1 | 12% | 65.4#14 · B+ | 65.3#18 · B+ | +0.1 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +7.4 | 10% | 60.5#34 · C+ | 53.1#38 · C | +7.4 pts | VA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +2.4 | 8% | 62.8#20 · B | 60.4#22 · B | +2.4 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +14.1 | 7% | 45.1#19 · B | 31.0#33 · C+ | +14.1 pts | VA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -13.6 | 7% | 47.8#29 · C+ | 61.4#3 · A+ | -13.6 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap -6.9 | 7% | 27.3#35 · C | 34.2#24 · B | -6.9 pts | CO |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -24.4 | 6% | 20.1#30 · C+ | 44.5#9 · A | -24.4 pts | CO |
| Environment4% of scoregap +2.1 | 4% | 48.0#15 · B+ | 45.9#20 · B | +2.1 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Virginia cheaper than Colorado?
Virginia is cheaper: cost of living index 101.1 vs 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $13,380 more a year in Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -2 pts-2% | 100 | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.7 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 98.7#36 of 50 | +1.7 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.57¢ (-4%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | -0.57¢-4% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.62 (+50%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | +$5.62+50% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.04 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | -$0.04-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,714 (-18%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $20,978#42 of 50 | -$3,714-18% | $15,633 | VA |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,237 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$3,237 | VA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$4,488 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$4,488 | VA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$13,380 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | +$13,380 | VA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$3,777 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$3,777 | VA |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$6,624 | $28,313 | $34,937 | -$6,624 | VA |
| ChildcareGap -$7,428 | $34,528 | $41,956 | -$7,428 | VA |
| UtilitiesGap -$96 | $4,853 | $4,949 | -$96 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$191 | $11,308 | $11,117 | +$191 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$126 | $9,711 | $9,837 | -$126 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$702 | $8,237 | $7,535 | +$702 | CO |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Colorado?
Virginia and Colorado collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.86% vs 8.73%. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.13 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | +0.13 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.35 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 4.4%#17 of 50 | +1.35 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.27 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.49%#3 of 50 | +0.27 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.12 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 7.89%#35 of 50 | -2.12 pts | 6.66% | VA |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Virginia or Colorado?
Homes cost 28% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $414,662 in Virginia vs $532,748 in Colorado. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of income in Virginia and $138,758 in Colorado; the median household earns $92,090 and $97,113.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$118,086 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$118,086-22% | $368,697 | VA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +3.6 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$511 (+27%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,922#34 of 50 | +$511+27% | $1,948 | CO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$28,838 (-21%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $138,758#43 of 50 | -$28,838-21% | $100,006 | VA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1x (-18%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 5.5x#40 of 50 | -1x-18% | 4.6x | VA |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| VA | CO | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,133 | $2,741 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +43% |
| Five-year change | +23.4% | +6.8% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Washington | Denver |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Virginia or Colorado?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $92,090, with unemployment at 3.4% in Virginia and 4% in Colorado. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Colorado's in 0.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$5,023 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$5,023-5% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4%#26 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$8,584 (-11%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $75,024#7 of 50 | -$8,584-11% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.29 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.29 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | VA | CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | VA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | VA |
| Software Developers | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | VA |
| Electricians | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | 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 Virginia safer than Colorado?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 1,354 and 2,144 per 100,000.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -216 (-51%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -216-51% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -790 (-37%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 2,144#49 of 50 | -790-37% | 1,535 | VA |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Virginia or Colorado?
Virginia and Colorado are close on education (#14 and #18 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 89.1% and 82.3%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #17); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Virginia and 78.5 in Colorado.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 278#15 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 265#3 of 50 | -8 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -1.0 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap +7.3 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 25%#1 of 50 | +7.3 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 7.9%#30 of 50 | -1 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-12%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 42#35 of 50 | -5 pts-12% | 38.8 | VA |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Virginia #14, Colorado #18. Health: Virginia #17, Colorado #7.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Colorado, or from Colorado to Virginia?
3,276 households moved from Virginia to Colorado in the latest IRS release (average income $89,278); the flow from Colorado to Virginia is too small to appear among Virginia's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,039 people (±4,554) moving from Virginia to Colorado and 5,064 (±1,519) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +14,219 (+12%) | 135,609#7 of 50 | 121,390#11 of 50 | +14,219+12% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +25,139 (+23%) | 135,188#44 of 50 | 110,049#39 of 50 | +25,139+23% | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -10,920 | +421#25 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -10,920 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.9 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -1.9 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$205 (0%) | $82,327#17 of 50 | $82,532#16 of 50 | -$2050% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$4,788 (+6%) | $89,328#9 of 50 | $84,540#13 of 50 | +$4,788+6% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.7 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +2.7 | VA |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Virginia or Colorado?
Virginia is the better fit for families, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Colorado is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -5 places | #17score 72.9 | #22score 66.1 | -5 places | VA |
| RetireesGap -1 places | #15score 68.4 | #16score 67 | -1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -7 places | #16score 58.3 | #23score 53.8 | -7 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -7 places | #13score 63.4 | #20score 56.7 | -7 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap -8 places | #12score 68 | #20score 59.8 | -8 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +8 places | #23score 48 | #15score 55.8 | +8 places | CO |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #22)
- RetireesEven (#15 vs #16)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #23)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #20)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #20)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsColorado (#15 vs #23)
Which cities stand out in Virginia and Colorado?
Virginia has 20 tracked cities and Colorado has 20; the largest are Virginia Beach and Denver. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Virginia Beach456,349 people | Denver718,877 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Restonscore 75.8 | Broomfieldscore 68.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 | Pueblocost index 91.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Leesburg95% graduation rate | Pueblo93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | McLeanmedian income $250,001 | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Suffolk+1.6% growth | Grand Junction+1.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Virginia and Colorado compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Virginia carries AAA credit rating and Colorado AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -29 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 39%#14 of 50 | -29 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.4 (-69%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 17.9#16 of 50 | -12.4-69% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -25.7 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 36.2%#9 of 50 | -25.7 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | CO |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.3 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 1.7%#18 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -4.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 19.9%#1 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 94.9%#5 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 92.67% | CO |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 95#24 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 13.2%#14 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 67%#37 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$290 (-9%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $3,120#29 of 50 | -$290-9% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +1 pts | +4.66% | VA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Virginia AAA, Colorado AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Virginia vs Colorado: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Virginia is ahead on 25 of 51, Colorado on 15, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | VirginiaVA | ColoradoCO | GapVA−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,867,546 (+48%) · US 6.8 million | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | 6 million#20 of 50 | +2,867,546+48% | 6.8 million | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$5,023 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$5,023-5% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4%#26 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap +0.29 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.29 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$8,584 (-11%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $75,024#7 of 50 | -$8,584-11% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -216 (-51%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -216-51% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -790 (-37%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 2,144#49 of 50 | -790-37% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 238#24 of 50 | 239#18 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 278#15 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 214 | 214#31 of 50 | 221#5 of 50 | -7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 265#3 of 50 | -8 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -1.0 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap +7.3 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 25%#1 of 50 | +7.3 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 7.9%#30 of 50 | -1 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$118,086 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$118,086-22% | $368,697 | VA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +3.6 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$511 (+27%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,922#34 of 50 | +$511+27% | $1,948 | CO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$28,838 (-21%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $138,758#43 of 50 | -$28,838-21% | $100,006 | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -2 pts-2% | 100 | VA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1x (-18%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 5.5x#40 of 50 | -1x-18% | 4.6x | VA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.57¢ (-4%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | -0.57¢-4% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.62 (+50%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | +$5.62+50% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.04 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | -$0.04-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.7 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 98.7#36 of 50 | +1.7 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,714 (-18%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $20,978#42 of 50 | -$3,714-18% | $15,633 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.13 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | +0.13 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.35 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 4.4%#17 of 50 | +1.35 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.27 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.49%#3 of 50 | +0.27 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.12 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 7.89%#35 of 50 | -2.12 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 95#24 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 13.2%#14 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 67%#37 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$290 (-9%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $3,120#29 of 50 | -$290-9% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +1 pts | +4.66% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-12%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 42#35 of 50 | -5 pts-12% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -29 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 39%#14 of 50 | -29 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.4 (-69%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 17.9#16 of 50 | -12.4-69% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -25.7 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 36.2%#9 of 50 | -25.7 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | CO |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.3 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 1.7%#18 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -4.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 19.9%#1 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 94.9%#5 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +14,219 (+12%) · US 78,682 | 135,609#7 of 50 | 121,390#11 of 50 | +14,219+12% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +25,139 (+23%) · US 78,715 | 135,188#44 of 50 | 110,049#39 of 50 | +25,139+23% | 78,715 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -10,920 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -10,920 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.9 · US +0.4 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -1.9 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$205 (0%) · US $77,690 | $82,327#17 of 50 | $82,532#16 of 50 | -$2050% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$4,788 (+6%) · US $77,024 | $89,328#9 of 50 | $84,540#13 of 50 | +$4,788+6% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.7 · US +1.1 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +2.7 | +1.1 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$13,380 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$13,380 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,237 · US +$31,418 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$3,237 | +$31,418 | VA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$3,777 · US +$35,970 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$3,777 | +$35,970 | VA |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Virginia and Colorado numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 4 of the 11 categories to Colorado's 4, with 3 even; Colorado is ahead on outdoor access and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Virginia is ahead on 25 and Colorado on 15.
Virginia is cheaper day to day
Virginia's cost of living index is 101.1 against 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). The typical home costs $414,662 in Virginia and $532,748 in Colorado. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 a year after typical costs in Virginia and -$35,330 in Colorado.
Tax burdens are close
Virginia collects 8.86% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Colorado collects 8.73% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Colorado pays more
Median household income is $92,090 in Virginia and $97,113 in Colorado, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4%. Violent crime runs 206 per 100,000 residents in Virginia and 422 in Colorado.
Moves between the two run about even
8,039 people moved from Virginia to Colorado and 5,064 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia is the better fit for families
For families, Virginia ranks #17 of 50 and Colorado #22; for retirees, Virginia ranks #15 and Colorado #16.
Virginia vs Colorado: frequently asked questions
Is Virginia or Colorado better to live in?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Colorado #18 as of the latest release. Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 103.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 51% lower violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Virginia cheaper than Colorado?
Virginia is cheaper than Colorado: cost of living index 101.1 vs 103.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$21,950 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Virginia, and -$35,330 in Colorado. The typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $532,748 in Colorado.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Colorado?
Virginia and Colorado have similar tax burdens: 8.86% vs 8.73% of income in state and local taxes. Virginia's top income tax rate is 5.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.76% and its combined sales tax 5.77%; Colorado's are 4.4%, 0.49% and 7.89%.
Is Virginia safer than Colorado?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado, per the FBI. Virginia ranks #8 of 50 for violent crime and Colorado #43. Property crime is 1,354 per 100,000 in Virginia and 2,144 in Colorado. The safest tracked cities are Virginia Beach, VA, and Castle Rock, CO.
Are homes more expensive in Virginia or Colorado?
Homes are 28% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $532,748 in Colorado. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of household income in Virginia and $138,758 in Colorado, against median incomes of $92,090 and $97,113.
Do people earn more in Virginia or Colorado?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $92,090 in Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Virginia and 4% in Colorado. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Colorado's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Colorado or from Colorado to Virginia?
3,276 households moved from Virginia to Colorado in the latest IRS release (average income $89,278); the flow from Colorado to Virginia is too small to appear among Virginia's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,039 people (±4,554) moving from Virginia to Colorado and 5,064 (±1,519) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Virginia or Colorado?
Virginia and Colorado are close for retirees: #15 and #16 of 50 on the retiree index. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$32,263 left after typical costs in Virginia and +$28,486 in Colorado.
Which is better for families, Virginia or Colorado?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #22 for Colorado. Center-based infant care costs $17,264 a year in Virginia and $20,978 in Colorado. High school graduation rates are 89.1% and 82.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 after typical costs in Virginia and -$35,330 in Colorado.
Is Colorado better than Virginia?
No: Virginia ranks higher than Colorado overall, #15 of 50 vs #18, with a composite score of 67.7 to 64.7. Virginia leads 4 of 11 categories and Colorado leads 4, including outdoor access and health. 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 Virginia vs Colorado.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (3,276 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).