Florida vs Washington: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Florida is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 107), has a 2.1-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 1.9 points apart, too close to call: Florida leads 5 of 11 categories, Washington leads 6.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 38% lower in Florida ($14,230 vs. $23,136 in Washington).
- Typical home value is 37% lower in Florida ($375,470 vs. $591,879 in Washington).
- Property crime rate is 29% lower in Florida (1,402 vs. 1,975 in Washington).
| Measure | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -1.9 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | -1.9 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.6 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -3.6 pts-3% | 100 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$37,407 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$37,407 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$216,409 (-37%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$216,409-37% | $368,697 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.12 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -2.12 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -9 (-3%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -9-3% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap -$21,654 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$21,654-22% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -0.5 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +45,510 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +45,510 | -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 Washington better to live in?
Florida scores 59.9 and Washington scores 61.8 out of 100, a 1.9-point gap this site treats as even. Florida leads 5 of 11 categories, Washington leads 6, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -7.3 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 52.3#16 · B+ | -7.3 pts | WA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +9.2 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 63.9#30 · C+ | +9.2 pts | FL |
| Health12% of scoregap -7.7 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 68.2#13 · B+ | -7.7 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap +3.7 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 57.4#29 · C+ | +3.7 pts | FL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +22.8 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 39.1#46 · D | +22.8 pts | FL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +5.9 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 64.3#17 · B+ | +5.9 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +4.1 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 40.8#24 · B | +4.1 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -15 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 58.6#8 · A | -15 pts | WA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -7 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 33.9#25 · B | -7 pts | WA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -7.6 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 35.4#19 · B | -7.6 pts | WA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -39.1 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 73.1#3 · A+ | -39.1 pts | WA |
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 Washington?
Florida is cheaper: cost of living index 103.4 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $37,407 more a year in Florida after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.6 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -3.6 pts-3% | 100 | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.3 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -6.3 pts-6% | 100 | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.13¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +2.13¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.86 (+45%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | +$7.86+45% | $15.83/Mcf | WA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.99 (-24%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.99-24% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$8,906 (-38%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$8,906-38% | $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 | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$11,252 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$11,252 | FL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$15,640 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$15,640 | FL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$37,407 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | +$37,407 | FL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$13,332 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$13,332 | 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 | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$15,261 | $25,862 | $41,123 | -$15,261 | FL |
| ChildcareGap -$17,812 | $28,460 | $46,272 | -$17,812 | FL |
| UtilitiesGap -$173 | $4,963 | $5,136 | -$173 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$710 | $11,049 | $11,759 | -$710 | FL |
| TransportationGap -$3,111 | $9,680 | $12,791 | -$3,111 | FL |
| State and local taxesGap -$340 | $5,472 | $5,812 | -$340 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Washington?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 8.61%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.12 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -2.12 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | -0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.53 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -2.53 pts | 6.66% | FL |
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 Washington?
Homes cost 58% more in Washington: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $155,542 in Washington; the median household earns $77,735 and $99,389.
| Measure | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$216,409 (-37%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$216,409-37% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.2% | WA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$388 (+17%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | +$388+17% | $1,948 | WA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$47,262 (-30%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$47,262-30% | $100,006 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.2x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -1.2x-20% | 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 | WA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $3,045 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +57% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +11.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Miami | Seattle |
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 Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $77,735, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 4.7% in Washington. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Washington's in 20.
| Measure | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$21,654 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$21,654-22% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$29,334 (-33%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$29,334-33% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.07 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.07 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 | WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | WA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | WA |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | WA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | WA |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | WA |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | WA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | WA |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | WA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | WA |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | WA |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | WA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | WA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | WA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | WA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | WA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | WA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | WA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | WA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | WA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | WA |
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 Washington?
Violent crime is about the same: 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 284 in Washington (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,975 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 | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -9 (-3%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -9-3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -573 (-29%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -573-29% | 1,535 | FL |
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
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Washington?
Florida scores higher for education (#23 of 50 vs #29), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 83.6%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #19); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 78.4 in Washington.
| Measure | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -0.5 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +13 pts (+46%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +13 pts+46% | 38.8 | WA |
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
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
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, Washington #29. Health: Florida #19, Washington #13.
Are more people moving from Florida to Washington, or from Washington to Florida?
5,333 households moved from Florida to Washington and 5,661 moved from Washington to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 328 households for Florida. Movers to Washington reported an average income of $81,289; movers to Florida reported $131,677. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,419 people (±2,973) moving from Florida to Washington and 10,574 (±3,473) 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 | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +231,928 (+190%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +231,928+190% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +186,418 (+166%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +186,418+166% | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +45,510 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +45,510 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +1.2 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$32,649 (+36%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | +$32,649+36% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$23,988 (-24%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$23,988-24% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -0.2 | Even |
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 Washington?
Florida is the better fit for families and small business; Washington is the better fit for remote workers and outdoor enthusiasts; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -8 places | #24score 65.4 | #32score 61 | -8 places | FL |
| RetireesGap +1 places | #18score 66.2 | #17score 66.7 | +1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +8 places | #27score 51.6 | #19score 54.8 | +8 places | WA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -3 places | #24score 53.9 | #27score 53.3 | -3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -4 places | #19score 62.4 | #23score 58.8 | -4 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +13 places | #26score 44.3 | #13score 57.4 | +13 places | WA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesFlorida (#24 vs #32)
- RetireesEven (#18 vs #17)
- Remote WorkersWashington (#19 vs #27)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#24 vs #27)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #23)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWashington (#13 vs #26)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Washington?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Washington has 26; the largest are Jacksonville and Seattle. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Seattle754,195 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Redmondscore 71.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Kirkland67 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Yakimacost index 95.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Pascocounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Kirkland+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Washington compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Washington AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -64 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -64 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -19.0 (-46%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -19.0-46% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap -2.2 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | +1.7 min | 25.2 min | WA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2.9 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 92.67% | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,690 (-46%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$1,690-46% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +2 pts | +4.66% | FL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Washington 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 Washington: 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 24 of 51, Washington on 16, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | WashingtonWA | GapFL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +15,461,498 (+193%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 8 million#13 of 50 | +15,461,498+193% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$21,654 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$21,654-22% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| Population growthGap -0.07 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.07 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$29,334 (-33%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$29,334-33% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -9 (-3%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -9-3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -573 (-29%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -573-29% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 238#26 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 216#19 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -0.5 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$216,409 (-37%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$216,409-37% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.2% | WA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$388 (+17%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | +$388+17% | $1,948 | WA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$47,262 (-30%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$47,262-30% | $100,006 | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.6 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -3.6 pts-3% | 100 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.2x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -1.2x-20% | 4.6x | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.13¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +2.13¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.86 (+45%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | +$7.86+45% | $15.83/Mcf | WA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.99 (-24%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.99-24% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.3 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -6.3 pts-6% | 100 | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$8,906 (-38%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$8,906-38% | $15,633 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.12 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -2.12 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | -0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.53 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -2.53 pts | 6.66% | FL |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,690 (-46%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$1,690-46% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +2 pts | +4.66% | FL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +13 pts (+46%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +13 pts+46% | 38.8 | WA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -64 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -64 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -19.0 (-46%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -19.0-46% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap -2.2 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | +1.7 min | 25.2 min | WA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2.9 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +231,928 (+190%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +231,928+190% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +186,418 (+166%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +186,418+166% | 78,715 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +45,510 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +45,510 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +1.2 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$32,649 (+36%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | +$32,649+36% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$23,988 (-24%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$23,988-24% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -0.2 | +1.1 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$37,407 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$37,407 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$11,252 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$11,252 | +$31,418 | FL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$13,332 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$13,332 | +$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 Washington numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Florida (59.9, #21) and Washington (61.8, #20) are within 2 composite points. Florida leads 5 categories, Washington leads 6, and 0 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Florida is cheaper day to day
Florida's cost of living index is 103.4 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $591,879 in Washington. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$47,893 in Washington.
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); Washington collects 8.61% (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $99,389 in Washington, with unemployment at 3.9% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 284 in Washington.
Moves between the two run about even
8,419 people moved from Florida to Washington and 10,574 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Florida is the better fit for families
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Washington #32; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Washington #17.
Florida vs Washington: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Washington better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Florida is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 107), has a 2.1-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 1.9 points apart, too close to call: Florida leads 5 of 11 categories, Washington leads 6.
Is Florida cheaper than Washington?
Florida is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 103.4 vs 107 (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 -$47,893 in Washington. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $591,879 in Washington.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Washington?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.61% in Washington. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Washington's are zero, 0.88% and 9.51%.
Is Florida safer than Washington?
Florida and Washington have similar violent crime rates: 275 vs 284 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Washington #25. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,975 in Washington. 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 Kirkland, WA.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Washington?
Homes are 58% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $155,542 in Washington, against median incomes of $77,735 and $99,389.
Do people earn more in Florida or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $77,735 in Florida, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 4.7% in Washington. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Washington's in 20.
Are more people moving from Florida to Washington or from Washington to Florida?
5,333 households moved from Florida to Washington and 5,661 moved from Washington to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 328 households for Florida. Movers to Washington reported an average income of $81,289; movers to Florida reported $131,677. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,419 people (±2,973) moving from Florida to Washington and 10,574 (±3,473) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Washington?
Florida and Washington are close for retirees: #18 and #17 of 50 on the retiree index. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$23,667 in Washington.
Which is better for families, Florida or Washington?
Florida is the better fit for families: #24 of 50 on the families index vs #32 for Washington. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $23,136 in Washington. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 83.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$47,893 in Washington.
Which has better schools, Florida or Washington?
Florida scores higher for education: #23 of 50 vs #29 for Washington. Eighth graders average 267 in NAEP math in Florida and 274 in Washington. High school graduation rates are 87.3% in Florida and 83.6% in Washington, and the education category scores are 61.1 and 57.4 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Sanford and Sammamish have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Florida vs Washington.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (5,661 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).