Florida vs Indiana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 103.4), carries a 2.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 8% lower violent crime rate. Overall they are 0.7 points apart, too close to call: Florida leads 3 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 5.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 42% lower in Indiana ($1,552 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 35% lower in Indiana ($70,704 vs. $108,280 in Florida).
- Total tax burden is 29% lower in Florida (6.49% vs. 9.09% in Indiana).
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +0.7 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 59.2#22 of 50 · B | +0.7 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.1 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +10.1 pts+11% | 100 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$311 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | -$311 | -$11,758 | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$115,375 (+44%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$115,375+44% | $368,697 | IN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.6 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +21 (+8%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +21+8% | 328 | IN |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,776 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$5,776+8% | $80,903 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +2.5 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,617 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +56,617 | -33 | FL |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Florida or Indiana better to live in?
Florida scores 59.9 and Indiana scores 59.2 out of 100, a 0.7-point gap this site treats as even. Florida leads 3 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 5, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +2.1 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 42.9#30 · C+ | +2.1 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -6.8 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 79.9#11 · B+ | -6.8 pts | IN |
| Health12% of scoregap +20.2 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 40.3#39 · C | +20.2 pts | FL |
| Education12% of scoregap -12.4 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 73.5#7 · A | -12.4 pts | IN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -13.8 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 75.7#19 · B | -13.8 pts | IN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +4.9 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 65.3#16 · B+ | +4.9 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +2.2 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 42.7#21 · B | +2.2 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1.5 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 42.1#44 · D | +1.5 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -3.1 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 30.0#30 · C+ | -3.1 pts | IN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +18 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 9.8#44 · D | +18 pts | FL |
| Environment4% of scoregap -4.4 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 38.4#28 · C+ | -4.4 pts | IN |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Florida cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper: cost of living index 93.3 vs 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 ends up in about the same place in both after typical costs.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.1 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +10.1 pts+11% | 100 | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | IN |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.99¢ (-6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | -0.99¢-6% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$13.99 (+122%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$13.99+122% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,231 (-19%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$3,231-19% | $15,633 | FL |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,065 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$36,449costs $38,552 | -$3,065 | IN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,876 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$28,935costs $46,065 | -$4,876 | IN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$311 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$10,175costs $85,175 | -$311 | Even |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$4,033 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$41,032costs $33,968 | -$4,033 | IN |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$8,077 | $25,862 | $17,785 | +$8,077 | IN |
| ChildcareGap -$6,462 | $28,460 | $34,922 | -$6,462 | FL |
| UtilitiesGap +$485 | $4,963 | $4,478 | +$485 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$293 | $11,049 | $10,756 | +$293 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$31 | $9,680 | $9,649 | +$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,113 | $5,472 | $7,585 | -$2,113 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Indiana?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 9.09%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.6 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.02 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | -5.02 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.02 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | -0.02 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 Florida or Indiana?
Homes cost 44% more in Florida: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $70,704 in Indiana; the median household earns $77,735 and $71,959.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$115,375 (+44%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$115,375+44% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | -4.5 pts | +1.2% | IN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,114 (+72%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$1,114+72% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$37,576 (+53%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$37,576+53% | $100,006 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.2x (+33%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +1.2x+33% | 4.6x | IN |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| FL | IN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $1,338 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +28.9% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Miami | Indianapolis |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Florida or Indiana?
Florida pays more: median household income $77,735 vs $71,959, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 12.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,776 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$5,776+8% | $80,903 | FL |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,437 (+2%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$1,437+2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.29 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.56%#22 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 | FL | IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $233,118$214,469 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $74,259$68,318 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $80,465$74,028 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $133,348$122,680 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $66,653$61,321 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $70,046$64,442 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $59,879$55,089 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $56,825$52,279 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $45,954$42,278 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $90,771$83,509 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $95,698$88,042 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $144,667$133,094 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $50,742$46,683 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $109,830$101,044 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $79,365$73,016 in Indianapolis | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $59,445$54,689 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $54,926$50,532 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $33,860$31,151 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $67,846$62,418 in Indianapolis | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $102,621$94,411 in Indianapolis | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Florida safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,052 per 100,000. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +21 (+8%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +21+8% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +350 (+33%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +350+33% | 1,535 | IN |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- Carmel, IN51 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Indiana?
Indiana scores higher for education (#7 of 50 vs #23), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 87.7%. Florida scores higher for health (#19 vs #39); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 75.4 in Indiana.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -11 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -11 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +2.5 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -8.8 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -8.8 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 7.6% | IN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- Fishers, INeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Florida #23, Indiana #7. Health: Florida #19, Indiana #39.
Are more people moving from Florida to Indiana, or from Indiana to Florida?
7,213 households moved from Florida to Indiana and 7,615 moved from Indiana to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 402 households for Florida. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $64,917; movers to Florida reported $104,626. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 9,264 people (±2,655) moving from Florida to Indiana and 14,906 (±3,336) the other way, a net gain of about 5,642 people for Florida beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +284,740 (+410%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +284,740+410% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +228,123 (+323%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +228,123+323% | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,617 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +56,617 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.6 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | +2.6 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$58,190 (+90%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$58,190+90% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$8,320 (+12%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$8,320+12% | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.8 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -0.8 | IN |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Florida or Indiana?
Florida is the better fit for retirees and outdoor enthusiasts; Indiana is the better fit for families and remote workers; 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 | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +6 places | #24score 65.4 | #18score 71.9 | +6 places | IN |
| RetireesGap -4 places | #18score 66.2 | #22score 62.8 | -4 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap +5 places | #27score 51.6 | #22score 53.9 | +5 places | IN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +1 places | #24score 53.9 | #23score 54.1 | +1 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +1 places | #19score 62.4 | #18score 63 | +1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -7 places | #26score 44.3 | #33score 34.9 | -7 places | FL |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIndiana (#18 vs #24)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #22)
- Remote WorkersIndiana (#22 vs #27)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#24 vs #23)
- Small BusinessEven (#19 vs #18)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsFlorida (#26 vs #33)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Indiana?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Indiana has 21; the largest are Jacksonville and Indianapolis. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | IndianaIN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Indianapolis885,860 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Carmelscore 73.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Carmel51 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Terre Hautecost index 87.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Bloomingtonwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Bloomingtoncounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Fishers98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Carmelmedian income $141,505 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Westfield+5.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Indiana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Indiana AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -5 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -5 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +5.6 (+33%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | +5.6+33% | 29.6 | IN |
| Public land shareGap +24.2 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +24.2 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.3 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +4.3 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.3 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 92.67% | FL |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.8 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap -$380 (-16%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | -$380-16% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -1 pts | +4.66% | IN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Indiana AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Florida vs Indiana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Florida is ahead on 17 of 51, Indiana on 19, and 15 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | IndianaIN | GapFL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +16,489,185 (+236%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 7 million#17 of 50 | +16,489,185+236% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,776 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$5,776+8% | $80,903 | FL |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.29 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | +0.29 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,437 (+2%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$1,437+2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +21 (+8%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +21+8% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +350 (+33%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +350+33% | 1,535 | IN |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 240#9 of 50 | +3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -11 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -11 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 220#6 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +2.5 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -8.8 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -8.8 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 7.6% | IN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$115,375 (+44%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$115,375+44% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | -4.5 pts | +1.2% | IN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,114 (+72%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$1,114+72% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$37,576 (+53%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$37,576+53% | $100,006 | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.1 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +10.1 pts+11% | 100 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.2x (+33%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +1.2x+33% | 4.6x | IN |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.99¢ (-6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | -0.99¢-6% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$13.99 (+122%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$13.99+122% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | IN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,231 (-19%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$3,231-19% | $15,633 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.6 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.02 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | -5.02 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.02 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.8 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap -$380 (-16%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | -$380-16% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -1 pts | +4.66% | IN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -5 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -5 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +5.6 (+33%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | +5.6+33% | 29.6 | IN |
| Public land shareGap +24.2 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +24.2 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.3 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +4.3 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.3 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +284,740 (+410%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +284,740+410% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +228,123 (+323%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +228,123+323% | 78,715 | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,617 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +56,617 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.6 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | +2.6 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$58,190 (+90%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$58,190+90% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$8,320 (+12%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$8,320+12% | $77,024 | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.8 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -0.8 | +1.1 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$311 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | -$311 | -$11,758 | Even |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,065 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$36,449#10 of 50 | -$3,065 | +$31,418 | IN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$4,033 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$41,032#9 of 50 | -$4,033 | +$35,970 | IN |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Florida and Indiana numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Florida (59.9, #21) and Indiana (59.2, #22) are within 2 composite points. Florida leads 3 categories, Indiana leads 5, and 3 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Indiana is cheaper day to day
Indiana's cost of living index is 93.3 against 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $260,095 in Indiana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Florida takes a smaller share in taxes
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Indiana collects 9.09% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Florida pays more
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 3.9% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 254 in Indiana.
People move to Florida on net
14,906 people moved to Florida from Indiana in the latest Census release, against 9,264 going the other way.
Indiana for families, Florida for retirees
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Indiana #18; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Indiana #22.
Florida vs Indiana: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Indiana better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 103.4), carries a 2.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 8% lower violent crime rate. Overall they are 0.7 points apart, too close to call: Florida leads 3 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 5.
Is Florida cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper than Florida: cost of living index 93.3 vs 103.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and -$10,175 in Indiana. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $260,095 in Indiana.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Indiana?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.09% in Indiana. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Indiana's are 5.02%, 0.77% and 7%.
Is Florida safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Indiana #21. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,052 in Indiana. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Pembroke Pines, FL, and Carmel, IN.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Indiana?
Homes are 44% more expensive in Florida: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $70,704 in Indiana, against median incomes of $77,735 and $71,959.
Do people earn more in Florida or Indiana?
Florida pays more: median household income is $77,735 vs $71,959 in Indiana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 12, with 8 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Indiana or from Indiana to Florida?
7,213 households moved from Florida to Indiana and 7,615 moved from Indiana to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 402 households for Florida. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $64,917; movers to Florida reported $104,626. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 9,264 people (±2,655) moving from Florida to Indiana and 14,906 (±3,336) the other way, a net gain of about 5,642 people for Florida beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Indiana?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #22 for Indiana. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$41,032 in Indiana.
Which is better for families, Florida or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for families: #18 of 50 on the families index vs #24 for Florida. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $17,461 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Which has better schools, Florida or Indiana?
Indiana scores higher for education: #7 of 50 vs #23 for Florida. Eighth graders average 267 in NAEP math in Florida and 278 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 87.3% in Florida and 87.7% in Indiana, and the education category scores are 61.1 and 73.5 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Sanford and Fishers have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Florida vs Indiana.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (7,615 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).