Georgia vs Indiana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 96.3), carries a 0.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 14% lower violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 37% lower in Georgia ($11,066 vs. $17,461 in Indiana).
- Property crime rate is 25% lower in Indiana (1,052 vs. 1,409 in Georgia).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 22% lower in Indiana ($70,704 vs. $90,495 in Georgia).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -3.8 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 59.2#22 of 50 · B | -3.8 pts | — | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$7,375 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | +$7,375 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$70,722 (+27%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$70,722+27% | $368,697 | IN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.62 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.62 pts | 8.74% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +42 (+17%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +42+17% | 328 | IN |
| Median household incomeGap +$8,032 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$8,032+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.6 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +15,939 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +15,939 | -33 | GA |
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 Georgia or Indiana better to live in?
Indiana scores higher overall: 59.2 to 55.4 out of 100, #22 of 50 against #26. Georgia leads 3 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 4, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +11.2 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 42.9#30 · C+ | +11.2 pts | GA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -8.7 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 79.9#11 · B+ | -8.7 pts | IN |
| Health12% of scoregap -0.8 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 40.3#39 · C | -0.8 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -20.4 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 73.5#7 · A | -20.4 pts | IN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -2.6 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 75.7#19 · B | -2.6 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +4.4 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 65.3#16 · B+ | +4.4 pts | GA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +8.8 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 42.7#21 · B | +8.8 pts | GA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -3.4 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 42.1#44 · D | -3.4 pts | IN |
| Livability7% of scoregap -1.9 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 30.0#30 · C+ | -1.9 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -2.2 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 9.8#44 · D | -2.2 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -6.3 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 38.4#28 · C+ | -6.3 pts | IN |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Georgia cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper: cost of living index 93.3 vs 96.3 in Georgia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $7,375 more a year in Georgia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.4 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +3.4 pts+4% | 100 | IN |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.50¢ (-9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | -1.50¢-9% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.93 (+78%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$8.93+78% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.12 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | -$0.12-4% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,395 (-37%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$6,395-37% | $15,633 | GA |
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 | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$4,264 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$36,449costs $38,552 | -$4,264 | IN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,685 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$28,935costs $46,065 | -$4,685 | IN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$7,375 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | -$10,175costs $85,175 | +$7,375 | GA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$4,247 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$41,032costs $33,968 | -$4,247 | IN |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$5,034 | $22,819 | $17,785 | +$5,034 | IN |
| ChildcareGap -$12,790 | $22,132 | $34,922 | -$12,790 | GA |
| UtilitiesGap +$144 | $4,622 | $4,478 | +$144 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$383 | $11,139 | $10,756 | +$383 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$378 | $9,271 | $9,649 | -$378 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$232 | $7,817 | $7,585 | +$232 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Indiana?
Georgia collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.47% vs 9.09%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.62 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.62 pts | 8.74% | GA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.37 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | +0.37 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.49 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | +0.49 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 Georgia or Indiana?
Homes cost 27% more in Georgia: a typical home value of $330,817 in Georgia vs $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $70,704 in Indiana; the median household earns $79,991 and $71,959.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$70,722 (+27%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$70,722+27% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | -3.5 pts | +1.2% | IN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$301 (+19%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$301+19% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$19,791 (+28%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$19,791+28% | $100,006 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.5x (+14%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +0.5x+14% | 4.6x | IN |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| GA | IN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $1,338 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +28.9% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | Indianapolis |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Georgia or Indiana?
Georgia pays more: median household income $79,991 vs $71,959, with unemployment at 3.4% in Georgia and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 13 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$8,032 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$8,032+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,451 (+8%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$4,451+8% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Population growthGap +0.32 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | +0.32 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 | GA | IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $144,667$133,094 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $95,698$88,042 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $133,348$122,680 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $79,365$73,016 in Indianapolis | GA |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $102,621$94,411 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $54,926$50,532 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $67,846$62,418 in Indianapolis | GA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $59,445$54,689 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $90,771$83,509 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $74,259$68,318 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $56,825$52,279 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $59,879$55,089 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $109,830$101,044 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $233,118$214,469 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $33,860$31,151 in Indianapolis | GA |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $66,653$61,321 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $45,954$42,278 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $70,046$64,442 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $80,465$74,028 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $50,742$46,683 in Indianapolis | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Georgia safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 297 in Georgia (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,052 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +42 (+17%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +42+17% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +357 (+34%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +357+34% | 1,535 | IN |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Johns Creek, GA40 violent per 100K
- Carmel, IN51 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or Indiana?
Indiana scores higher for education (#7 of 50 vs #34), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 87.7%. They are close on health (#40 and #39); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 75.4 in Indiana.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -10 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.6 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Adults with obesityGap -3 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -3 pts | 34.03% | GA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.5 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 7.6% | IN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+10%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | +4 pts+10% | 38.8 | IN |
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).
- Valdosta, GAeducation score 92.3
- Fishers, INeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Georgia #34, Indiana #7. Health: Georgia #40, Indiana #39.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Indiana, or from Indiana to Georgia?
1,700 households moved from Georgia to Indiana and 2,053 moved from Indiana to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 353 households for Georgia. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $55,665; movers to Georgia reported $63,233. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,140 people (±2,513) moving from Georgia to Indiana and 2,189 (±1,082) the other way, a net gain of about 2,951 people for Indiana 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 | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +78,872 (+114%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +78,872+114% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +62,933 (+89%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +62,933+89% | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +15,939 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +15,939 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.5 | +1.3#16 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | +1.5 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,820 (+9%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$5,820+9% | GA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$4,474 (+7%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$4,474+7% | GA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.6 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | +0.6 | GA |
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, Georgia or Indiana?
Georgia is the better fit for young professionals and small business; Indiana 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 | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +15 places | #33score 60.1 | #18score 71.9 | +15 places | IN |
| RetireesGap +5 places | #27score 60.4 | #22score 62.8 | +5 places | IN |
| Remote WorkersGap -2 places | #20score 54.6 | #22score 53.9 | -2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -6 places | #17score 58.9 | #23score 54.1 | -6 places | GA |
| Small BusinessGap -5 places | #13score 66.7 | #18score 63 | -5 places | GA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +7 places | #40score 29.7 | #33score 34.9 | +7 places | IN |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIndiana (#18 vs #33)
- RetireesIndiana (#22 vs #27)
- Remote WorkersEven (#20 vs #22)
- Young ProfessionalsGeorgia (#17 vs #23)
- Small BusinessGeorgia (#13 vs #18)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIndiana (#33 vs #40)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and Indiana?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and Indiana has 21; the largest are Atlanta and Indianapolis. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Indianapolis885,860 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Carmelscore 73.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Carmel51 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Terre Hautecost index 87.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Bloomingtonwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Bloomingtoncounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Fishers98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | Carmelmedian income $141,505 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Westfield+5.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and Indiana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and Indiana AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -3 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -3 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.5 (-21%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | -3.5-21% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap +4 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +4 pts | 17.16% | GA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.8 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +4.8 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | GA |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.3 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 92.67% | GA |
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 | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.9 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | IN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$650 (-28%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | -$650-28% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.2 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia AAA, Indiana AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Georgia vs Indiana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Georgia is ahead on 22 of 51, Indiana on 18, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | IndianaIN | GapGA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,329,415 (+62%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 7 million#17 of 50 | +4,329,415+62% | 6.8 million | GA |
| Median household incomeGap +$8,032 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$8,032+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.32 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | +0.32 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,451 (+8%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$4,451+8% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +42 (+17%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +42+17% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +357 (+34%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +357+34% | 1,535 | IN |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.6 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 240#9 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -10 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 220#6 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Adults with obesityGap -3 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -3 pts | 34.03% | GA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.5 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 7.6% | IN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$70,722 (+27%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$70,722+27% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | -3.5 pts | +1.2% | IN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$301 (+19%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$301+19% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$19,791 (+28%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$19,791+28% | $100,006 | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +3 pts+3% | 100 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.5x (+14%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +0.5x+14% | 4.6x | IN |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.50¢ (-9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | -1.50¢-9% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.93 (+78%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$8.93+78% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.12 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | -$0.12-4% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.4 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +3.4 pts+4% | 100 | IN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,395 (-37%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$6,395-37% | $15,633 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.62 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.62 pts | 8.74% | GA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.37 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | +0.37 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.49 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.9 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | IN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$650 (-28%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | -$650-28% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.2 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+10%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | +4 pts+10% | 38.8 | IN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -3 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -3 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.5 (-21%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | -3.5-21% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap +4 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +4 pts | 17.16% | GA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.8 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +4.8 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | GA |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.3 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 92.67% | GA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +78,872 (+114%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +78,872+114% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +62,933 (+89%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +62,933+89% | 78,715 | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +15,939 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +15,939 | -33 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.5 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | +1.5 | +0.4 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,820 (+9%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$5,820+9% | $77,690 | GA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$4,474 (+7%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$4,474+7% | $77,024 | GA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.6 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | +0.6 | +1.1 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$7,375 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | +$7,375 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$4,264 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$36,449#10 of 50 | -$4,264 | +$31,418 | IN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$4,247 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$41,032#9 of 50 | -$4,247 | +$35,970 | IN |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Georgia and Indiana numbers say when read together.
Indiana ranks higher overall
Indiana leads 4 of the 11 categories to Georgia's 3, with 4 even; Georgia is ahead on economy and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Georgia is ahead on 22 and Indiana on 18.
Indiana is cheaper day to day
Indiana's cost of living index is 93.3 against 96.3 in Georgia (US = 100). The typical home costs $330,817 in Georgia and $260,095 in Indiana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Georgia takes a smaller share in taxes
Georgia collects 8.47% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); Indiana collects 9.09% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Georgia pays more
Median household income is $79,991 in Georgia and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 3.4% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 254 in Indiana.
People move to Indiana on net
5,140 people moved to Indiana from Georgia in the latest Census release, against 2,189 going the other way.
Indiana fits families and retirees better
For families, Georgia ranks #33 of 50 and Indiana #18; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and Indiana #22.
Georgia vs Indiana: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or Indiana better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 96.3), carries a 0.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 14% lower violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Georgia cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper than Georgia: cost of living index 93.3 vs 96.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$2,800 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Georgia, and -$10,175 in Indiana. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $260,095 in Indiana.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Indiana?
Georgia has the lower tax burden: 8.47% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.09% in Indiana. Georgia's top income tax rate is 5.39%, its effective property tax rate 0.83% and its combined sales tax 7.49%; Indiana's are 5.02%, 0.77% and 7%.
Is Georgia safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 297 in Georgia, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and Indiana #21. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,052 in Indiana. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Carmel, IN.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or Indiana?
Homes are 27% more expensive in Georgia: the typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $70,704 in Indiana, against median incomes of $79,991 and $71,959.
Do people earn more in Georgia or Indiana?
Georgia pays more: median household income is $79,991 vs $71,959 in Indiana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 13 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Indiana or from Indiana to Georgia?
1,700 households moved from Georgia to Indiana and 2,053 moved from Indiana to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 353 households for Georgia. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $55,665; movers to Georgia reported $63,233. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,140 people (±2,513) moving from Georgia to Indiana and 2,189 (±1,082) the other way, a net gain of about 2,951 people for Indiana beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for retirees: #22 of 50 on the retiree index vs #27 for Georgia. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$41,032 in Indiana.
Which is better for families, Georgia or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for families: #18 of 50 on the families index vs #33 for Georgia. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $17,461 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Is Indiana better than Georgia?
Yes: Indiana ranks higher than Georgia overall, #22 of 50 vs #26, with a composite score of 59.2 to 55.4. Indiana leads 4 of 11 categories and Georgia leads 3, including economy 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 Georgia vs Indiana.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,053 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).