Florida vs Rhode Island: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Rhode Island #19 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 102.3); Florida has no income tax and has a 48% higher violent crime rate. Rhode Island scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Residential electricity price is 48% lower in Florida (15.24¢/kWh vs. 29.46¢/kWh in Rhode Island).
- Violent crime rate is 48% lower in Rhode Island (144 vs. 275 in Florida).
- Total tax burden is 36% lower in Florida (6.49% vs. 10.08% in Rhode Island).
| Measure | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -2.1 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 62.0#19 of 50 · B | -2.1 pts | — | RI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +1.1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$23,659 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$34,145#42 of 50 | +$23,659 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$135,763 (-27%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | -$135,763-27% | $368,697 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.59 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | -3.59 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +131 (+91%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | +131+91% | 328 | RI |
| Median household incomeGap -$5,769 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | -$5,769-7% | $80,903 | RI |
| High school graduation rateGap +4 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +4 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | RI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +55,478 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | +55,478 | -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 Rhode Island better to live in?
Rhode Island scores higher overall: 62 to 59.9 out of 100, #19 of 50 against #21. Florida leads 5 of 11 categories, Rhode Island leads 6, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +3.6 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 41.4#35 · C | +3.6 pts | FL |
| Safety12% of scoregap -17.7 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 90.8#3 · A+ | -17.7 pts | RI |
| Health12% of scoregap -16 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 76.5#6 · A | -16 pts | RI |
| Education12% of scoregap +7.6 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 53.5#33 · C+ | +7.6 pts | FL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +16.5 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 45.4#43 · D | +16.5 pts | FL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +27.2 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 43.0#45 · D | +27.2 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +17 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 27.9#38 · C | +17 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -9.3 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 52.9#19 · B | -9.3 pts | RI |
| Livability7% of scoregap -21.3 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 48.2#7 · A | -21.3 pts | RI |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -9.6 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 37.4#17 · B+ | -9.6 pts | RI |
| Environment4% of scoregap -19.4 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 53.4#10 · A | -19.4 pts | RI |
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 Rhode Island?
Florida and Rhode Island cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 103.4 vs 102.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $23,659 more a year in Florida after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +1.1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 97.2#30 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -14.22¢ (-48%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 29.46¢/kWh#47 of 50 | -14.22¢-48% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.82 (+18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $21.66/Mcf#46 of 50 | +$3.82+18% | $15.83/Mcf | RI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.26 (-8%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.34/gal#38 of 50 | -$0.26-8% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,742 (-25%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $18,972#38 of 50 | -$4,742-25% | $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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$9,918 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$23,466costs $51,534 | +$9,918 | FL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$12,000 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$12,059costs $62,941 | +$12,000 | FL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$23,659 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$34,145costs $109,145 | +$23,659 | FL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$10,586 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$26,413costs $48,588 | +$10,586 | FL |
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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$12,265 | $25,862 | $38,127 | -$12,265 | FL |
| ChildcareGap -$9,484 | $28,460 | $37,944 | -$9,484 | FL |
| UtilitiesGap +$53 | $4,963 | $4,910 | +$53 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$101 | $11,049 | $10,948 | +$101 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$817 | $9,680 | $10,497 | -$817 | FL |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,247 | $5,472 | $6,719 | -$1,247 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Rhode Island?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 10.08%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Rhode Island has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.59 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | -3.59 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.99 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 5.99%#32 of 50 | -5.99 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.57 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.39%#38 of 50 | -0.57 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.02 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 7%#25 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 Rhode Island?
Homes cost 36% more in Rhode Island: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $511,233 in Rhode Island. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $139,686 in Rhode Island; the median household earns $77,735 and $83,504.
| Measure | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$135,763 (-27%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | -$135,763-27% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.9 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.4%#13 of 50 | -4.9 pts | +1.2% | RI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$499 (+23%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $2,167#38 of 50 | +$499+23% | $1,948 | RI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$31,406 (-22%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $139,686#44 of 50 | -$31,406-22% | $100,006 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.3x (-21%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 6.1x#45 of 50 | -1.3x-21% | 4.6x | FL |
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 | RI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $2,630 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +67% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +33.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Miami | Providence |
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island pays more: median household income $83,504 vs $77,735, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 4.5% in Rhode Island. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 3 after adjusting for local costs and Rhode Island's in 10.
| Measure | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$5,769 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | -$5,769-7% | $80,903 | RI |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.5%#38 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,712 (-3%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $62,367#24 of 50 | -$1,712-3% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.6 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.9%#26 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.48 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.37%#31 of 50 | +0.48 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 | RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $230,643$232,949 in Providence | RI |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $133,650$134,986 in Providence | RI |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $99,044$100,034 in Providence | RI |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $71,962$72,682 in Providence | RI |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $45,732$46,189 in Providence | RI |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $102,402$103,426 in Providence | FL |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $59,125$59,716 in Providence | RI |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $56,064$56,625 in Providence | RI |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $64,685$65,332 in Providence | RI |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $67,652$68,329 in Providence | RI |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $99,493$100,488 in Providence | FL |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $150,708$152,215 in Providence | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $56,037$56,597 in Providence | RI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $69,039$69,729 in Providence | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $46,438$46,902 in Providence | FL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $57,200$57,772 in Providence | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $84,974$85,824 in Providence | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $81,887$82,706 in Providence | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $34,961$35,311 in Providence | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $73,593$74,329 in Providence | 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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is safer: 144 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 911 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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +131 (+91%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | +131+91% | 328 | RI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +491 (+54%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 911#3 of 50 | +491+54% | 1,535 | RI |
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
- Westerly, RI26 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Rhode Island?
Florida scores higher for education (#23 of 50 vs #33), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 83.3%. Rhode Island scores higher for health (#6 vs #19); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 79.2 in Rhode Island.
| Measure | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 270#32 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 258#23 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +4 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +4 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | RI |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 31.1%#12 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +6.3 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 4.6%#5 of 50 | +6.3 pts | 7.6% | RI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+17%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 35#12 of 50 | +6 pts+17% | 38.8 | RI |
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
- Westerly, RIeducation score 87
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, Rhode Island #33. Health: Florida #19, Rhode Island #6.
Are more people moving from Florida to Rhode Island, or from Rhode Island to Florida?
1,475 households moved from Florida to Rhode Island and 2,235 moved from Rhode Island to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 760 households for Florida. Movers to Rhode Island reported an average income of $79,772; movers to Florida reported $121,392. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,738 people (±1,851) moving from Florida to Rhode Island and 2,205 (±1,011) 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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +336,115 (+1,868%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 17,997#45 of 50 | +336,115+1,868% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +280,637 (+1,548%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 18,126#8 of 50 | +280,637+1,548% | RI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +55,478 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | +55,478 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.5 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -0.1#29 of 50 | +2.5 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$39,944 (+48%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $82,595#15 of 50 | +$39,944+48% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,800 (-5%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $79,934#16 of 50 | -$3,800-5% | RI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -1.4#39 of 50 | +2.4 | 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 Rhode Island?
Florida is the better fit for young professionals and small business; Rhode Island is the better fit for families, retirees, and 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 | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +8 places | #24score 65.4 | #16score 73.6 | +8 places | RI |
| RetireesGap +4 places | #18score 66.2 | #14score 68.6 | +4 places | RI |
| Remote WorkersGap -3 places | #27score 51.6 | #30score 49.3 | -3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -6 places | #24score 53.9 | #30score 51.4 | -6 places | FL |
| Small BusinessGap -21 places | #19score 62.4 | #40score 43.3 | -21 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +16 places | #26score 44.3 | #10score 62.8 | +16 places | RI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesRhode Island (#16 vs #24)
- RetireesRhode Island (#14 vs #18)
- Remote WorkersEven (#27 vs #30)
- Young ProfessionalsFlorida (#24 vs #30)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #40)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsRhode Island (#10 vs #26)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Rhode Island?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Rhode Island has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Providence. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Providence191,767 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Westerlyscore 70.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Westerly26 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Providencecost index 101.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Providencewalkability 15.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Warwickcounty median AQI 31 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Westerly87% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Cumberland Hillmedian income $130,506 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Warwick+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Rhode Island compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Rhode Island AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 12%#34 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | RI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +20.1 (+838%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 2.4#2 of 50 | +20.1+838% | 29.6 | RI |
| Public land shareGap +21.9 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 4.4%#37 of 50 | +21.9 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 26.3 min#29 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | RI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 2.1%#15 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 2.29% | RI |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 11.6%#31 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 93.4%#17 of 50 | +0.9 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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 90#31 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.2 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 5.5%#44 of 50 | +6.2 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +24 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 58%#46 of 50 | +24 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,280 (-63%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $5,240#44 of 50 | -$3,280-63% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +3.1%#38 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +4.66% | FL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Rhode Island 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).
Florida vs Rhode Island: 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 28 of 51, Rhode Island on 14, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | Rhode IslandRI | GapFL−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +22,347,997 (+2,005%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 1.1 million#44 of 50 | +22,347,997+2,005% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$5,769 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | -$5,769-7% | $80,903 | RI |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.5%#38 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.48 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.37%#31 of 50 | +0.48 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,712 (-3%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $62,367#24 of 50 | -$1,712-3% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.6 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.9%#26 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +131 (+91%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | +131+91% | 328 | RI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +491 (+54%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 911#3 of 50 | +491+54% | 1,535 | RI |
| High school graduation rateGap +4 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +4 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 237#28 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 270#32 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 216#13 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 258#23 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | RI |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 31.1%#12 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +6.3 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 4.6%#5 of 50 | +6.3 pts | 7.6% | RI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$135,763 (-27%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | -$135,763-27% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.9 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +3.4%#13 of 50 | -4.9 pts | +1.2% | RI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$499 (+23%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $2,167#38 of 50 | +$499+23% | $1,948 | RI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$31,406 (-22%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $139,686#44 of 50 | -$31,406-22% | $100,006 | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +1.1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.3x (-21%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 6.1x#45 of 50 | -1.3x-21% | 4.6x | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -14.22¢ (-48%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 29.46¢/kWh#47 of 50 | -14.22¢-48% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.82 (+18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $21.66/Mcf#46 of 50 | +$3.82+18% | $15.83/Mcf | RI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.26 (-8%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.34/gal#38 of 50 | -$0.26-8% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 97.2#30 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,742 (-25%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $18,972#38 of 50 | -$4,742-25% | $15,633 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.59 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | -3.59 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.99 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 5.99%#32 of 50 | -5.99 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.57 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.39%#38 of 50 | -0.57 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.02 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 7%#25 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 90#31 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.2 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 5.5%#44 of 50 | +6.2 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +24 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 58%#46 of 50 | +24 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,280 (-63%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $5,240#44 of 50 | -$3,280-63% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +3.1%#38 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +4.66% | FL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+17%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 35#12 of 50 | +6 pts+17% | 38.8 | RI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 12%#34 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | RI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +20.1 (+838%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 2.4#2 of 50 | +20.1+838% | 29.6 | RI |
| Public land shareGap +21.9 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 4.4%#37 of 50 | +21.9 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 26.3 min#29 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | RI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 2.1%#15 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 2.29% | RI |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 11.6%#31 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 93.4%#17 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +336,115 (+1,868%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 17,997#45 of 50 | +336,115+1,868% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +280,637 (+1,548%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 18,126#8 of 50 | +280,637+1,548% | 78,715 | RI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +55,478 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | +55,478 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.5 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -0.1#29 of 50 | +2.5 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$39,944 (+48%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $82,595#15 of 50 | +$39,944+48% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,800 (-5%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $79,934#16 of 50 | -$3,800-5% | $77,024 | RI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -1.4#39 of 50 | +2.4 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$23,659 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$34,145#42 of 50 | +$23,659 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$9,918 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$23,466#43 of 50 | +$9,918 | +$31,418 | FL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$10,586 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$26,413#42 of 50 | +$10,586 | +$35,970 | FL |
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 Rhode Island numbers say when read together.
Rhode Island ranks higher overall
Rhode Island leads 6 of the 11 categories to Florida's 5, with 0 even; Florida is ahead on fiscal health and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 28 and Rhode Island on 14.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 103.4 in Florida and 102.3 in Rhode Island, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $375,470 and $511,233. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$34,145 in Rhode Island.
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); Rhode Island collects 10.08% (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Rhode Island pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $83,504 in Rhode Island, with unemployment at 3.9% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 144 in Rhode Island.
Moves between the two run about even
2,738 people moved from Florida to Rhode Island and 2,205 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Rhode Island fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Rhode Island #16; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Rhode Island #14.
Florida vs Rhode Island: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Rhode Island better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Rhode Island #19 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 102.3); Florida has no income tax and has a 48% higher violent crime rate. Rhode Island scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Florida cheaper than Rhode Island?
Florida and Rhode Island cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 103.4 vs 102.3 (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 -$34,145 in Rhode Island. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $511,233 in Rhode Island.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Rhode Island?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.08% in Rhode Island. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Rhode Island's are 5.99%, 1.39% and 7%.
Is Florida safer than Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is safer: 144 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Rhode Island #4. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 911 in Rhode Island. 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 Westerly, RI.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Rhode Island?
Homes are 36% more expensive in Rhode Island: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $511,233 in Rhode Island. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $139,686 in Rhode Island, against median incomes of $77,735 and $83,504.
Do people earn more in Florida or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island pays more: median household income is $83,504 vs $77,735 in Florida, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 4.5% in Rhode Island. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 3 after adjusting for local costs and Rhode Island's in 10, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Rhode Island or from Rhode Island to Florida?
1,475 households moved from Florida to Rhode Island and 2,235 moved from Rhode Island to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 760 households for Florida. Movers to Rhode Island reported an average income of $79,772; movers to Florida reported $121,392. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,738 people (±1,851) moving from Florida to Rhode Island and 2,205 (±1,011) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is the better fit for retirees: #14 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; Rhode Island has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$26,413 in Rhode Island.
Which is better for families, Florida or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is the better fit for families: #16 of 50 on the families index vs #24 for Florida. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $18,972 in Rhode Island. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 83.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$34,145 in Rhode Island.
Is Rhode Island better than Florida?
Yes: Rhode Island ranks higher than Florida overall, #19 of 50 vs #21, with a composite score of 62 to 59.9. Rhode Island leads 6 of 11 categories and Florida leads 5, including fiscal health and growth. 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 Rhode Island.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,235 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).