Florida vs Iowa: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Iowa #14 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 103.4), carries a 2.7-point higher tax burden, and has a 15% lower violent crime rate. Iowa scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 51% lower in Iowa ($1,297 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
- Typical home value is 36% lower in Iowa ($239,547 vs. $375,470 in Florida).
- Total tax burden is 30% lower in Florida (6.49% vs. 9.23% in Iowa).
| Measure | FloridaFL | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -9.3 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 69.2#14 of 50 · B+ | -9.3 pts | — | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.6 pts (+18%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +15.6 pts+18% | 100 | IA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$8,169 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$8,169 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$135,923 (+57%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$135,923+57% | $368,697 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.74 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | -2.74 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +41 (+18%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +41+18% | 328 | IA |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,234 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$2,234+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +57,763 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | +57,763 | -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 Iowa better to live in?
Iowa scores higher overall: 69.2 to 59.9 out of 100, #14 of 50 against #21. Florida leads 3 of 11 categories, Iowa leads 6, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | IowaIA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -3.8 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 48.8#24 · B | -3.8 pts | IA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -6.7 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 79.8#12 · B+ | -6.7 pts | IA |
| Health12% of scoregap +0.2 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 60.3#20 · B | +0.2 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -7.9 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 69.0#9 · A | -7.9 pts | IA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -24.4 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 86.3#5 · A+ | -24.4 pts | IA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +4.2 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 66.0#14 · B+ | +4.2 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +9.9 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 35.0#29 · C+ | +9.9 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -12 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 55.6#13 · B+ | -12 pts | IA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -0.7 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 27.6#34 · C+ | -0.7 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +5.4 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 22.4#28 · C+ | +5.4 pts | FL |
| Environment4% of scoregap -12.7 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 46.7#17 · B+ | -12.7 pts | IA |
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 Iowa?
Iowa is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $8,169 more a year in Iowa after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.6 pts (+18%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +15.6 pts+18% | 100 | IA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 93.7#2 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.52¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | +1.52¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | IA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$14.87 (+140%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | +$14.87+140% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.04 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | -$0.04-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$977 (+7%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $13,253#17 of 50 | +$977+7% | $15,633 | IA |
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 | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,452 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$35,836costs $39,165 | -$2,452 | IA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,259 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$28,318costs $46,683 | -$4,259 | IA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$8,169 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$2,317costs $77,317 | -$8,169 | IA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,467 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$40,466costs $34,534 | -$3,467 | IA |
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 | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$7,757 | $25,862 | $18,105 | +$7,757 | IA |
| ChildcareGap +$1,954 | $28,460 | $26,506 | +$1,954 | IA |
| UtilitiesGap +$749 | $4,963 | $4,214 | +$749 | IA |
| GroceriesGap +$496 | $11,049 | $10,553 | +$496 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$126 | $9,680 | $9,806 | -$126 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,661 | $5,472 | $8,133 | -$2,661 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Iowa?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 9.23%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.74 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | -2.74 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.8 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 3.8%#13 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.67 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.49%#41 of 50 | -0.67 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.04 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 6.94%#22 of 50 | +0.04 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 Iowa?
Homes cost 57% more in Florida: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $239,547 in Iowa. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $70,437 in Iowa; the median household earns $77,735 and $75,501.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$135,923 (+57%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$135,923+57% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.5%#11 of 50 | -5 pts | +1.2% | IA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,369 (+106%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,297#6 of 50 | +$1,369+106% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$37,843 (+54%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $70,437#8 of 50 | +$37,843+54% | $100,006 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.6x (+50%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.2x#2 of 50 | +1.6x+50% | 4.6x | IA |
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 | IA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $1,232 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | -7% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +26.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Miami | Des Moines |
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 Iowa?
Median household income is about the same, $77,735 in Florida and $75,501 in Iowa, with unemployment at 3.9% and 3.5%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Iowa's in 12.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$2,234 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$2,234+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 3.5%#15 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,109 (-6%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $64,764#21 of 50 | -$4,109-6% | $64,333 | IA |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.6 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.25%#37 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +0.51% | FL |
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 | IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $241,727$215,137 in Des Moines | IA |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $141,671$126,087 in Des Moines | IA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $75,354$67,065 in Des Moines | IA |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $100,113$89,101 in Des Moines | IA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $70,096$62,385 in Des Moines | IA |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $143,340$127,573 in Des Moines | FL |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $90,444$80,495 in Des Moines | IA |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $65,071$57,913 in Des Moines | IA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $56,109$49,937 in Des Moines | IA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $51,294$45,652 in Des Moines | IA |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $105,399$93,805 in Des Moines | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $56,442$50,233 in Des Moines | IA |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $43,482$38,699 in Des Moines | IA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $56,506$50,290 in Des Moines | IA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $80,166$71,348 in Des Moines | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $35,545$31,635 in Des Moines | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $107,679$95,834 in Des Moines | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $73,833$65,711 in Des Moines | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $58,447$52,018 in Des Moines | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $67,263$59,864 in Des Moines | 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 Iowa?
Iowa is safer: 234 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,172 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 | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +41 (+18%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +41+18% | 328 | IA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +230 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,172#11 of 50 | +230+20% | 1,535 | IA |
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
- Bettendorf, IA94 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Iowa?
Iowa scores higher for education (#9 of 50 vs #23), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 89.9%. They are close on health (#19 and #20); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 77.9 in Iowa.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 275#23 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 261#10 of 50 | -8 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -7 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 36.6%#34 of 50 | -7 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.5 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 5.4%#11 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 43#39 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | FL |
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
- Urbandale, IAeducation score 98.3
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, Iowa #9. Health: Florida #19, Iowa #20.
Are more people moving from Florida to Iowa, or from Iowa to Florida?
1,754 households moved from Florida to Iowa and 2,080 moved from Iowa to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 326 households for Florida. Movers to Iowa reported an average income of $71,743; movers to Florida reported $108,243. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,158 people (±854) moving from Florida to Iowa and 1,724 (±999) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +320,568 (+956%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 33,544#35 of 50 | +320,568+956% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +262,805 (+731%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 35,958#18 of 50 | +262,805+731% | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +57,763 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | +57,763 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.1 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -0.7#34 of 50 | +3.1 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$60,931 (+99%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $61,608#43 of 50 | +$60,931+99% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,251 (+17%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $64,883#41 of 50 | +$11,251+17% | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.3 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -0.3#35 of 50 | +1.3 | FL |
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 Iowa?
Iowa is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +21 places | #24score 65.4 | #3score 81.7 | +21 places | IA |
| RetireesGap +10 places | #18score 66.2 | #8score 77.8 | +10 places | IA |
| Remote WorkersGap +17 places | #27score 51.6 | #10score 63.9 | +17 places | IA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +9 places | #24score 53.9 | #15score 62.7 | +9 places | IA |
| Small BusinessGap +5 places | #19score 62.4 | #14score 65.8 | +5 places | IA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +8 places | #26score 44.3 | #18score 52.5 | +8 places | IA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIowa (#3 vs #24)
- RetireesIowa (#8 vs #18)
- Remote WorkersIowa (#10 vs #27)
- Young ProfessionalsIowa (#15 vs #24)
- Small BusinessIowa (#14 vs #19)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIowa (#18 vs #26)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Iowa?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Iowa has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Des Moines. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | IowaIA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Des Moines212,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Waukeescore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Bettendorf94 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Marshalltowncost index 84.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Fort Dodgewalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Iowa Citycounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Urbandale98.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Urbandalemedian income $112,795 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Waukee+9.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Iowa compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Iowa AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -57 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 67%#6 of 50 | -57 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.8 (-41%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 38.3#36 of 50 | -15.8-41% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +25.2 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 1.1%#48 of 50 | +25.2 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +8.5 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | +8.5 min | 25.2 min | IA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.8%#31 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 9.9%#36 of 50 | +5.6 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 90.7%#45 of 50 | +3.6 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 | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 100#6 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.1 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 10.6%#23 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 87%#9 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | IA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$690 (-26%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,650#22 of 50 | -$690-26% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +7.1%#10 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +4.66% | IA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Iowa 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 Iowa: 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 19 of 51, Iowa on 22, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | IowaIA | GapFL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +20,224,131 (+625%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 3.2 million#32 of 50 | +20,224,131+625% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,234 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$2,234+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 3.5%#15 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.6 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.25%#37 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +0.51% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,109 (-6%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $64,764#21 of 50 | -$4,109-6% | $64,333 | IA |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +41 (+18%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +41+18% | 328 | IA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +230 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,172#11 of 50 | +230+20% | 1,535 | IA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 237#30 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 275#23 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 215#25 of 50 | +4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 261#10 of 50 | -8 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -7 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 36.6%#34 of 50 | -7 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.5 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 5.4%#11 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$135,923 (+57%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$135,923+57% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.5%#11 of 50 | -5 pts | +1.2% | IA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,369 (+106%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,297#6 of 50 | +$1,369+106% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$37,843 (+54%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $70,437#8 of 50 | +$37,843+54% | $100,006 | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.6 pts (+18%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +15.6 pts+18% | 100 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.6x (+50%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.2x#2 of 50 | +1.6x+50% | 4.6x | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.52¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | +1.52¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | IA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$14.87 (+140%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | +$14.87+140% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.04 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | -$0.04-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 93.7#2 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | IA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$977 (+7%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $13,253#17 of 50 | +$977+7% | $15,633 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.74 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | -2.74 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.8 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 3.8%#13 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.67 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.49%#41 of 50 | -0.67 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.04 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 6.94%#22 of 50 | +0.04 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 100#6 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.1 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 10.6%#23 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 87%#9 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | IA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$690 (-26%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,650#22 of 50 | -$690-26% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +7.1%#10 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +4.66% | IA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 43#39 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | FL |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -57 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 67%#6 of 50 | -57 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.8 (-41%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 38.3#36 of 50 | -15.8-41% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +25.2 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 1.1%#48 of 50 | +25.2 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +8.5 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | +8.5 min | 25.2 min | IA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.8%#31 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 9.9%#36 of 50 | +5.6 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 90.7%#45 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +320,568 (+956%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 33,544#35 of 50 | +320,568+956% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +262,805 (+731%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 35,958#18 of 50 | +262,805+731% | 78,715 | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +57,763 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | +57,763 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.1 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -0.7#34 of 50 | +3.1 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$60,931 (+99%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $61,608#43 of 50 | +$60,931+99% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,251 (+17%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $64,883#41 of 50 | +$11,251+17% | $77,024 | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.3 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -0.3#35 of 50 | +1.3 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$8,169 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$8,169 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,452 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$35,836#12 of 50 | -$2,452 | +$31,418 | IA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,467 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$40,466#12 of 50 | -$3,467 | +$35,970 | IA |
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 Iowa numbers say when read together.
Iowa ranks higher overall
Iowa leads 6 of the 11 categories to Florida's 3, with 2 even; Florida is ahead on growth and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 19 and Iowa on 22.
Iowa is cheaper day to day
Iowa's cost of living index is 87.8 against 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $239,547 in Iowa. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$2,317 in Iowa.
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); Iowa collects 9.23% (low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
Iowa is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $75,501 in Iowa, with unemployment at 3.9% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 234 in Iowa.
Moves between the two run about even
2,158 people moved from Florida to Iowa and 1,724 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Iowa fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Iowa #3; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Iowa #8.
Florida vs Iowa: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Iowa better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Iowa #14 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 103.4), carries a 2.7-point higher tax burden, and has a 15% lower violent crime rate. Iowa scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Florida cheaper than Iowa?
Iowa is cheaper than Florida: cost of living index 87.8 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 -$2,317 in Iowa. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $239,547 in Iowa.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Iowa?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.23% in Iowa. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Iowa's are 3.8%, 1.49% and 6.94%.
Is Florida safer than Iowa?
Iowa is safer: 234 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Iowa #16. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,172 in Iowa. 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 Bettendorf, IA.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Iowa?
Homes are 57% more expensive in Florida: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $239,547 in Iowa. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $70,437 in Iowa, against median incomes of $77,735 and $75,501.
Do people earn more in Florida or Iowa?
Florida and Iowa pay about the same: median household income is $77,735 vs $75,501, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 3.5% in Iowa. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Iowa's in 12, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Iowa or from Iowa to Florida?
1,754 households moved from Florida to Iowa and 2,080 moved from Iowa to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 326 households for Florida. Movers to Iowa reported an average income of $71,743; movers to Florida reported $108,243. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,158 people (±854) moving from Florida to Iowa and 1,724 (±999) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Iowa?
Iowa is the better fit for retirees: #8 of 50 on the retiree index vs #18 for Florida. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$40,466 in Iowa.
Which is better for families, Florida or Iowa?
Iowa is the better fit for families: #3 of 50 on the families index vs #24 for Florida. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $13,253 in Iowa. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 89.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$2,317 in Iowa.
Is Iowa better than Florida?
Yes: Iowa ranks higher than Florida overall, #14 of 50 vs #21, with a composite score of 69.2 to 59.9. Iowa leads 6 of 11 categories and Florida leads 3, including growth and outdoor access. 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 Florida vs Iowa.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,080 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).