Florida vs Vermont: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Vermont #8 as of the latest release. Vermont is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 98 vs 103.4), carries a 5-point higher tax burden, and has a 22% lower violent crime rate. Vermont scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
- Total tax burden is 44% lower in Florida (6.49% vs. 11.53% in Vermont).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 34% lower in Florida ($14,230 vs. $21,670 in Vermont).
- Residential electricity price is 34% lower in Florida (15.24¢/kWh vs. 22.92¢/kWh in Vermont).
| Measure | FloridaFL | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -14.1 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 74.0#8 of 50 · A | -14.1 pts | — | VT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.4 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | +5.4 pts+6% | 100 | VT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$22,159 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$32,645#41 of 50 | +$22,159 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$23,583 (-6%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | -$23,583-6% | $368,697 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.04 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -5.04 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +61 (+28%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +61+28% | 328 | VT |
| Median household incomeGap -$4,995 (-6%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | -$4,995-6% | $80,903 | VT |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +55,648 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | +55,648 | -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 Vermont better to live in?
Vermont scores higher overall: 74 to 59.9 out of 100, #8 of 50 against #21. Florida leads 4 of 11 categories, Vermont leads 7, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | VermontVT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -21.5 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 66.5#4 · A+ | -21.5 pts | VT |
| Safety12% of scoregap -4.6 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 77.7#17 · B+ | -4.6 pts | VT |
| Health12% of scoregap -14.6 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 75.1#8 · A | -14.6 pts | VT |
| Education12% of scoregap +8.7 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 52.4#35 · C | +8.7 pts | FL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +6.2 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 55.7#37 · C | +6.2 pts | FL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +19.1 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 51.1#38 · C | +19.1 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +15 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 29.9#36 · C | +15 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -15.6 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 59.2#6 · A | -15.6 pts | VT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -21.6 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 48.5#6 · A | -21.6 pts | VT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -27.8 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 55.6#4 · A+ | -27.8 pts | VT |
| Environment4% of scoregap -42.3 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 76.3#2 · A+ | -42.3 pts | VT |
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 Vermont?
Vermont is cheaper: cost of living index 98 vs 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $22,159 more a year in Florida after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.4 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | +5.4 pts+6% | 100 | VT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.8 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 97.3#31 of 50 | +0.8 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -7.68¢ (-34%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 22.92¢/kWh#41 of 50 | -7.68¢-34% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.48 (+42%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $18.00/Mcf#39 of 50 | +$7.48+42% | $15.83/Mcf | VT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.28 (-8%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.36/gal#41 of 50 | -$0.28-8% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$7,440 (-34%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $21,670#44 of 50 | -$7,440-34% | $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 | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$6,068 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$27,316costs $47,684 | +$6,068 | FL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$6,474 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$17,585costs $57,415 | +$6,474 | FL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$22,159 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$32,645costs $107,645 | +$22,159 | FL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$5,742 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$31,257costs $43,743 | +$5,742 | 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 | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$5,455 | $25,862 | $31,317 | -$5,455 | FL |
| ChildcareGap -$14,880 | $28,460 | $43,340 | -$14,880 | FL |
| UtilitiesGap +$259 | $4,963 | $4,704 | +$259 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$90 | $11,049 | $10,959 | +$90 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$880 | $9,680 | $10,560 | -$880 | FL |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,293 | $5,472 | $6,765 | -$1,293 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Vermont?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 11.53%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Vermont has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.04 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -5.04 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -8.75 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 8.75%#42 of 50 | -8.75 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.96 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.78%#46 of 50 | -0.96 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.59 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 6.39%#19 of 50 | +0.59 pts | 6.66% | VT |
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 Vermont?
Homes cost 6% more in Vermont: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $399,053 in Vermont. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $114,846 in Vermont; the median household earns $77,735 and $82,730.
| Measure | FloridaFL | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$23,583 (-6%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | -$23,583-6% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1%#36 of 50 | -2.5 pts | +1.2% | VT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$351 (+15%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $2,315#42 of 50 | +$351+15% | $1,948 | VT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$6,566 (-6%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $114,846#35 of 50 | -$6,566-6% | $100,006 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.8x#32 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
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 | VT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $2,053 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +39% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +18.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Miami | Burlington |
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 Vermont?
Vermont pays more: median household income $82,730 vs $77,735, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 2.7% in Vermont. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Vermont's in 3.
| Measure | FloridaFL | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$4,995 (-6%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | -$4,995-6% | $80,903 | VT |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 2.7%#4 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | VT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,498 (+8%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $56,157#38 of 50 | +$4,498+8% | $64,333 | FL |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.5%#35 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +1.14 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | -0.29%#50 of 50 | +1.14 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 | VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $222,619$215,940 in Burlington | VT |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $74,581$72,344 in Burlington | FL |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $98,267$95,319 in Burlington | FL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $54,488$52,853 in Burlington | FL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $104,421$101,288 in Burlington | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $31,977$31,018 in Burlington | FL |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $43,605$42,297 in Burlington | VT |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $94,861$92,015 in Burlington | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $56,852$55,146 in Burlington | VT |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $51,323$49,783 in Burlington | FL |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $124,500$120,765 in Burlington | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $71,124$68,990 in Burlington | FL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $62,471$60,597 in Burlington | FL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $68,154$66,109 in Burlington | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $65,330$63,370 in Burlington | Even |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $149,081$144,609 in Burlington | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $52,637$51,058 in Burlington | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $86,787$84,183 in Burlington | Even |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $60,122$58,318 in Burlington | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $47,763$46,330 in Burlington | 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 Vermont?
Vermont is safer: 214 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,419 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 | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +61 (+28%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +61+28% | 328 | VT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -18 (-1%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,419#24 of 50 | -18-1% | 1,535 | Even |
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
- Middlebury, VT54 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Vermont?
Florida scores higher for education (#23 of 50 vs #35), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 82.8%. Vermont scores higher for health (#8 vs #19); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 78.3 in Vermont.
| Measure | FloridaFL | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 276#21 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 257#25 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | VT |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.6 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 29%#5 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 34.03% | VT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +6.7 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 4.2%#3 of 50 | +6.7 pts | 7.6% | VT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+21%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 34#7 of 50 | +7 pts+21% | 38.8 | VT |
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
- No city school data
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, Vermont #35. Health: Florida #19, Vermont #8.
Are more people moving from Florida to Vermont, or from Vermont to Florida?
778 households moved from Florida to Vermont and 1,043 moved from Vermont to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 265 households for Florida. Movers to Vermont reported an average income of $86,179; movers to Florida reported $102,656. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 259 people (±183) moving from Florida to Vermont and 872 (±476) the other way, a net gain of about 613 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 | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +342,835 (+3,040%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 11,277#50 of 50 | +342,835+3,040% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +287,187 (+2,481%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 11,576#1 of 50 | +287,187+2,481% | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +55,648 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | +55,648 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -0.5#32 of 50 | +2.9 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$40,440 (+49%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $82,099#18 of 50 | +$40,440+49% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$4,198 (+6%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $71,936#28 of 50 | +$4,198+6% | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -1.1#37 of 50 | +2.1 | 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 Vermont?
Vermont is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, 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 | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +11 places | #24score 65.4 | #13score 78.7 | +11 places | VT |
| RetireesGap +13 places | #18score 66.2 | #5score 78.9 | +13 places | VT |
| Remote WorkersGap +20 places | #27score 51.6 | #7score 70.3 | +20 places | VT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +14 places | #24score 53.9 | #10score 65.8 | +14 places | VT |
| Small BusinessGap -3 places | #19score 62.4 | #22score 59.3 | -3 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +23 places | #26score 44.3 | #3score 81.1 | +23 places | VT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVermont (#13 vs #24)
- RetireesVermont (#5 vs #18)
- Remote WorkersVermont (#7 vs #27)
- Young ProfessionalsVermont (#10 vs #24)
- Small BusinessEven (#19 vs #22)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVermont (#3 vs #26)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Vermont?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Vermont has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Burlington. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | VermontVT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Burlington44,675 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Middleburyscore 76.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Middlebury54 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Rutlandcost index 96.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Benningtonwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Brattleborocounty median AQI 15 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | — |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Shelburnemedian income $109,583 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Essex Junction+2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Vermont compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Vermont AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -89 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 99%#1 of 50 | -89 pts | 29.34% | VT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.1 (+37%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 16.4#13 of 50 | +6.1+37% | 29.6 | VT |
| Public land shareGap +8.4 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 17.9%#14 of 50 | +8.4 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 23.9 min#17 of 50 | +5 min | 25.2 min | VT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 1.4%#19 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.5 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 16%#6 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 12.28% | VT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 92.7%#28 of 50 | +1.6 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 | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#21 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.8 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 13.5%#12 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 12.39% | VT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 68%#34 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,420 (-55%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $4,380#41 of 50 | -$2,420-55% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +4.2%#30 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +4.66% | FL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Vermont 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 Vermont: 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 26 of 51, Vermont on 17, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | VermontVT | GapFL−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +22,817,855 (+3,540%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 644,663#49 of 50 | +22,817,855+3,540% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$4,995 (-6%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | -$4,995-6% | $80,903 | VT |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 2.7%#4 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | VT |
| Population growthGap +1.14 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | -0.29%#50 of 50 | +1.14 pts | +0.51% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,498 (+8%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $56,157#38 of 50 | +$4,498+8% | $64,333 | FL |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.5%#35 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +61 (+28%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +61+28% | 328 | VT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -18 (-1%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,419#24 of 50 | -18-1% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 235#36 of 50 | +9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 276#21 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 213#36 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 257#25 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | VT |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.6 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 29%#5 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 34.03% | VT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +6.7 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 4.2%#3 of 50 | +6.7 pts | 7.6% | VT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$23,583 (-6%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | -$23,583-6% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1%#36 of 50 | -2.5 pts | +1.2% | VT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$351 (+15%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $2,315#42 of 50 | +$351+15% | $1,948 | VT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$6,566 (-6%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $114,846#35 of 50 | -$6,566-6% | $100,006 | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.4 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | +5.4 pts+6% | 100 | VT |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.8x#32 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -7.68¢ (-34%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 22.92¢/kWh#41 of 50 | -7.68¢-34% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.48 (+42%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $18.00/Mcf#39 of 50 | +$7.48+42% | $15.83/Mcf | VT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.28 (-8%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.36/gal#41 of 50 | -$0.28-8% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.8 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 97.3#31 of 50 | +0.8 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$7,440 (-34%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $21,670#44 of 50 | -$7,440-34% | $15,633 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.04 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -5.04 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -8.75 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 8.75%#42 of 50 | -8.75 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.96 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.78%#46 of 50 | -0.96 pts | 1.02% | FL |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.59 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 6.39%#19 of 50 | +0.59 pts | 6.66% | VT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#21 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.8 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 13.5%#12 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 12.39% | VT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 68%#34 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,420 (-55%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $4,380#41 of 50 | -$2,420-55% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +4.2%#30 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +4.66% | FL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+21%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 34#7 of 50 | +7 pts+21% | 38.8 | VT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -89 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 99%#1 of 50 | -89 pts | 29.34% | VT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.1 (+37%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 16.4#13 of 50 | +6.1+37% | 29.6 | VT |
| Public land shareGap +8.4 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 17.9%#14 of 50 | +8.4 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 23.9 min#17 of 50 | +5 min | 25.2 min | VT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 1.4%#19 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.5 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 16%#6 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 12.28% | VT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 92.7%#28 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +342,835 (+3,040%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 11,277#50 of 50 | +342,835+3,040% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +287,187 (+2,481%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 11,576#1 of 50 | +287,187+2,481% | 78,715 | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +55,648 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | +55,648 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -0.5#32 of 50 | +2.9 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$40,440 (+49%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $82,099#18 of 50 | +$40,440+49% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$4,198 (+6%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $71,936#28 of 50 | +$4,198+6% | $77,024 | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.1 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -1.1#37 of 50 | +2.1 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$22,159 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$32,645#41 of 50 | +$22,159 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$6,068 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$27,316#34 of 50 | +$6,068 | +$31,418 | FL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$5,742 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$31,257#35 of 50 | +$5,742 | +$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 Vermont numbers say when read together.
Vermont ranks higher overall
Vermont leads 7 of the 11 categories to Florida's 4, with 0 even; Florida is ahead on fiscal health and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 26 and Vermont on 17.
Vermont is cheaper day to day
Vermont's cost of living index is 98 against 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $399,053 in Vermont. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$32,645 in Vermont.
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); Vermont collects 11.53% (high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
Vermont pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $82,730 in Vermont, with unemployment at 3.9% and 2.7%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 214 in Vermont.
People move to Florida on net
872 people moved to Florida from Vermont in the latest Census release, against 259 going the other way.
Vermont fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Vermont #13; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Vermont #5.
Florida vs Vermont: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Vermont better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Vermont #8 as of the latest release. Vermont is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 98 vs 103.4), carries a 5-point higher tax burden, and has a 22% lower violent crime rate. Vermont scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Florida cheaper than Vermont?
Vermont is cheaper than Florida: cost of living index 98 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 -$32,645 in Vermont. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $399,053 in Vermont.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Vermont?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 11.53% in Vermont. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Vermont's are 8.75%, 1.78% and 6.39%.
Is Florida safer than Vermont?
Vermont is safer: 214 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Vermont #10. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,419 in Vermont. 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 Middlebury, VT.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Vermont?
Homes are 6% more expensive in Vermont: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $399,053 in Vermont. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $114,846 in Vermont, against median incomes of $77,735 and $82,730.
Do people earn more in Florida or Vermont?
Vermont pays more: median household income is $82,730 vs $77,735 in Florida, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 2.7% in Vermont. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Vermont's in 3, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Vermont or from Vermont to Florida?
778 households moved from Florida to Vermont and 1,043 moved from Vermont to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 265 households for Florida. Movers to Vermont reported an average income of $86,179; movers to Florida reported $102,656. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 259 people (±183) moving from Florida to Vermont and 872 (±476) the other way, a net gain of about 613 people for Florida beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Vermont?
Vermont is the better fit for retirees: #5 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; Vermont has high 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 +$31,257 in Vermont.
Which is better for families, Florida or Vermont?
Vermont is the better fit for families: #13 of 50 on the families index vs #24 for Florida. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $21,670 in Vermont. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 82.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$32,645 in Vermont.
Is Vermont better than Florida?
Yes: Vermont ranks higher than Florida overall, #8 of 50 vs #21, with a composite score of 74 to 59.9. Vermont leads 7 of 11 categories and Florida leads 4, including fiscal health and growth. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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