Georgia vs Michigan: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Michigan #45 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 96.2); Georgia collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 29% lower violent crime rate. Georgia scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 29% lower in Georgia (297 vs. 416 in Michigan).
- Residential electricity price is 26% lower in Georgia (14.73¢/kWh vs. 20.01¢/kWh in Michigan).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 21% lower in Georgia ($11,066 vs. $14,064 in Michigan).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +12.7 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 42.7#45 of 50 · D | +12.7 pts | — | GA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,834 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | +$2,834 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$64,525 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$64,525+24% | $368,697 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.22 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +0.22 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -119 (-29%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -119-29% | 328 | GA |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,602 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$7,602+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 85.62% | GA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +23,441 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +23,441 | -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 Michigan better to live in?
Georgia scores higher overall: 55.4 to 42.7 out of 100, #26 of 50 against #45. Georgia leads 6 of 11 categories, Michigan leads 4, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +32.2 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 21.9#50 · F | +32.2 pts | GA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +7.3 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 63.9#31 · C+ | +7.3 pts | GA |
| Health12% of scoregap -15.9 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 55.4#27 · C+ | -15.9 pts | MI |
| Education12% of scoregap +10.9 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 42.2#44 · D | +10.9 pts | GA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -0.2 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 73.3#22 · B | -0.2 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +13.5 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 56.2#32 · C+ | +13.5 pts | GA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +27.2 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 24.3#41 · C | +27.2 pts | GA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -10.7 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 49.4#27 · C+ | -10.7 pts | MI |
| Livability7% of scoregap +3.4 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 24.7#41 · C | +3.4 pts | GA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -10.2 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 17.8#32 · C+ | -10.2 pts | MI |
| Environment4% of scoregap -9.9 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 42.0#23 · B | -9.9 pts | MI |
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 Michigan?
Georgia and Michigan cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 96.3 vs 96.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,834 more a year in Georgia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.9 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 96#16 of 50 | +2.9 pts+3% | 100 | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap -5.28¢ (-26%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | -5.28¢-26% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.50 (+87%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | +$9.50+87% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.15 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | -$0.15-5% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,998 (-21%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $14,064#21 of 50 | -$2,998-21% | $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 | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,242 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$34,427costs $40,573 | -$2,242 | MI |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$2,442 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$26,692costs $48,308 | -$2,442 | MI |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$2,834 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | -$5,634costs $80,634 | +$2,834 | GA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,222 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$39,007costs $35,994 | -$2,222 | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$3,066 | $22,819 | $19,753 | +$3,066 | MI |
| ChildcareGap -$5,996 | $22,132 | $28,128 | -$5,996 | GA |
| UtilitiesGap +$4 | $4,622 | $4,618 | +$4 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$327 | $11,139 | $10,812 | +$327 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$472 | $9,271 | $9,743 | -$472 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$237 | $7,817 | $7,580 | +$237 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Michigan?
Georgia and Michigan collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.47% vs 8.25%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.22 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +0.22 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.26 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 6.65%#36 of 50 | -1.26 pts | 5.46% | GA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.52 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 1.35%#37 of 50 | -0.52 pts | 1.02% | GA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.49 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 6%#13 of 50 | +1.49 pts | 6.66% | MI |
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 Michigan?
Homes cost 24% more in Georgia: a typical home value of $330,817 in Georgia vs $266,292 in Michigan. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $73,945 in Michigan; the median household earns $79,991 and $72,389.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$64,525 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$64,525+24% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +4%#7 of 50 | -4.5 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$329 (+22%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,524#16 of 50 | +$329+22% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$16,550 (+22%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $73,945#12 of 50 | +$16,550+22% | $100,006 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+11%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 3.7x#15 of 50 | +0.4x+11% | 4.6x | MI |
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 | MI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $1,370 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +24.1% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | Detroit |
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 Michigan?
Georgia pays more: median household income $79,991 vs $72,389, with unemployment at 3.4% in Georgia and 5.2% in Michigan. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 6 after adjusting for local costs and Michigan's in 4.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$7,602 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$7,602+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 5.2%#48 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$8,343 (+15%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $55,326#40 of 50 | +$8,343+15% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Population growthGap +0.6 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +0.51% | GA |
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 | MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $248,727$233,803 in Detroit | MI |
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $152,435$143,289 in Detroit | GA |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $89,989$84,590 in Detroit | GA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $82,872$77,900 in Detroit | GA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $73,448$69,041 in Detroit | GA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $73,631$69,213 in Detroit | MI |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $61,151$57,482 in Detroit | GA |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $68,769$64,643 in Detroit | MI |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $48,624$45,707 in Detroit | MI |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $59,364$55,802 in Detroit | GA |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $107,373$100,931 in Detroit | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $82,057$77,134 in Detroit | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $113,783$106,956 in Detroit | Even |
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $143,840$135,210 in Detroit | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $51,641$48,543 in Detroit | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $107,310$100,871 in Detroit | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $35,851$33,700 in Detroit | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $60,091$56,486 in Detroit | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $60,529$56,897 in Detroit | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $73,498$69,088 in Detroit | 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 Michigan?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,259 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -119 (-29%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -119-29% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +151 (+12%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,259#13 of 50 | +151+12% | 1,535 | MI |
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
- Rochester Hills, MI62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or Michigan?
Georgia scores higher for education (#34 of 50 vs #44), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 81%. Michigan scores higher for health (#27 vs #40); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 76.8 in Michigan.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 270#31 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 255#33 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 85.62% | GA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 36.1%#33 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 34.03% | GA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +6.9 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 5.1%#8 of 50 | +6.9 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+13%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 40#27 of 50 | +5 pts+13% | 38.8 | MI |
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
- Farmington Hills, MIeducation score 94.2
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, Michigan #44. Health: Georgia #40, Michigan #27.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Michigan, or from Michigan to Georgia?
2,278 households moved from Georgia to Michigan and 2,816 moved from Michigan to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 538 households for Georgia. Movers to Michigan reported an average income of $53,301; movers to Georgia reported $69,837. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,948 people (±2,418) moving from Georgia to Michigan and 3,434 (±1,408) 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 | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +76,444 (+106%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 71,800#20 of 50 | +76,444+106% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +53,003 (+66%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 80,570#33 of 50 | +53,003+66% | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +23,441 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +23,441 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.2 | +1.3#16 of 50 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +2.2 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,976 (-5%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $74,145#30 of 50 | -$3,976-5% | MI |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$5,655 (-7%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $77,943#18 of 50 | -$5,655-7% | MI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.2 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +2.2 | 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 Michigan?
Georgia is the better fit for families, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Michigan is the better fit for 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 | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -8 places | #33score 60.1 | #41score 53.5 | -8 places | GA |
| RetireesGap -3 places | #27score 60.4 | #30score 59.7 | -3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -23 places | #20score 54.6 | #43score 41.5 | -23 places | GA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -30 places | #17score 58.9 | #47score 37.5 | -30 places | GA |
| Small BusinessGap -32 places | #13score 66.7 | #45score 36.9 | -32 places | GA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +8 places | #40score 29.7 | #32score 36.1 | +8 places | MI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesGeorgia (#33 vs #41)
- RetireesEven (#27 vs #30)
- Remote WorkersGeorgia (#20 vs #43)
- Young ProfessionalsGeorgia (#17 vs #47)
- Small BusinessGeorgia (#13 vs #45)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMichigan (#32 vs #40)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and Michigan?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and Michigan has 24; the largest are Atlanta and Detroit. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Detroit638,530 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Troyscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Rochester Hills62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Battle Creekcost index 90.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Ann Arborwalkability 13.5 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Lansingcounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Farmington Hills94.2% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | Rochester Hillsmedian income $120,694 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Grand Rapids+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and Michigan compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and Michigan AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 13%#33 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | MI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +2.9 (+28%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 10.5#7 of 50 | +2.9+28% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap -7.3 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 13.4%#18 of 50 | -7.3 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.1 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | +5.1 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 1%#28 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 11.2%#33 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 92.8%#27 of 50 | +0.6 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 | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 90#39 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2.9 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 13.5%#13 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +9 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 68%#35 of 50 | +9 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,490 (-47%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $3,180#31 of 50 | -$1,490-47% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +4.66% | GA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia AAA, Michigan 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).
Georgia vs Michigan: 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 24 of 51, Michigan on 20, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MichiganMI | GapGA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,174,864 (+12%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 10.1 million#10 of 50 | +1,174,864+12% | 6.8 million | GA |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,602 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$7,602+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 5.2%#48 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| Population growthGap +0.6 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +0.51% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$8,343 (+15%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $55,326#40 of 50 | +$8,343+15% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -119 (-29%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -119-29% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +151 (+12%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,259#13 of 50 | +151+12% | 1,535 | MI |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 85.62% | GA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 235#34 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 270#31 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 209#44 of 50 | +5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 255#33 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 36.1%#33 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 34.03% | GA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +6.9 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 5.1%#8 of 50 | +6.9 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$64,525 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$64,525+24% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +4%#7 of 50 | -4.5 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$329 (+22%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,524#16 of 50 | +$329+22% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$16,550 (+22%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $73,945#12 of 50 | +$16,550+22% | $100,006 | MI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+11%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 3.7x#15 of 50 | +0.4x+11% | 4.6x | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap -5.28¢ (-26%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | -5.28¢-26% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.50 (+87%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | +$9.50+87% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.15 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | -$0.15-5% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.9 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 96#16 of 50 | +2.9 pts+3% | 100 | MI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,998 (-21%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $14,064#21 of 50 | -$2,998-21% | $15,633 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.22 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +0.22 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.26 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 6.65%#36 of 50 | -1.26 pts | 5.46% | GA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.52 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 1.35%#37 of 50 | -0.52 pts | 1.02% | GA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.49 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 6%#13 of 50 | +1.49 pts | 6.66% | MI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 90#39 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2.9 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 13.5%#13 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +9 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 68%#35 of 50 | +9 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,490 (-47%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $3,180#31 of 50 | -$1,490-47% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +4.66% | GA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+13%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 40#27 of 50 | +5 pts+13% | 38.8 | MI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 13%#33 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | MI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +2.9 (+28%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 10.5#7 of 50 | +2.9+28% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap -7.3 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 13.4%#18 of 50 | -7.3 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.1 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | +5.1 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 1%#28 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 11.2%#33 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 92.8%#27 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | GA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +76,444 (+106%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 71,800#20 of 50 | +76,444+106% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +53,003 (+66%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 80,570#33 of 50 | +53,003+66% | 78,715 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +23,441 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +23,441 | -33 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.2 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +2.2 | +0.4 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,976 (-5%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $74,145#30 of 50 | -$3,976-5% | $77,690 | MI |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$5,655 (-7%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $77,943#18 of 50 | -$5,655-7% | $77,024 | MI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.2 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +2.2 | +1.1 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,834 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | +$2,834 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,242 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$34,427#18 of 50 | -$2,242 | +$31,418 | MI |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,222 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$39,007#19 of 50 | -$2,222 | +$35,970 | MI |
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 Michigan numbers say when read together.
Georgia ranks higher overall
Georgia leads 6 of the 11 categories to Michigan's 4, with 1 even; Michigan is ahead on health and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Georgia is ahead on 24 and Michigan on 20.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 96.3 in Georgia and 96.2 in Michigan, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $330,817 and $266,292. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and -$5,634 in Michigan.
Tax burdens are close
Georgia collects 8.47% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); Michigan collects 8.25% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Georgia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,991 in Georgia and $72,389 in Michigan, with unemployment at 3.4% and 5.2%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 416 in Michigan.
Moves between the two run about even
3,948 people moved from Georgia to Michigan and 3,434 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Georgia is the better fit for families
For families, Georgia ranks #33 of 50 and Michigan #41; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and Michigan #30.
Georgia vs Michigan: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or Michigan better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Michigan #45 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 96.2); Georgia collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 29% lower violent crime rate. Georgia scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Georgia cheaper than Michigan?
Georgia and Michigan cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 96.3 vs 96.2 (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 -$5,634 in Michigan. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $266,292 in Michigan.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Michigan?
Georgia and Michigan have similar tax burdens: 8.47% vs 8.25% of income in state and local taxes. Georgia's top income tax rate is 5.39%, its effective property tax rate 0.83% and its combined sales tax 7.49%; Michigan's are 6.65%, 1.35% and 6%.
Is Georgia safer than Michigan?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and Michigan #40. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,259 in Michigan. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Rochester Hills, MI.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or Michigan?
Homes are 24% more expensive in Georgia: the typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $266,292 in Michigan. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $73,945 in Michigan, against median incomes of $79,991 and $72,389.
Do people earn more in Georgia or Michigan?
Georgia pays more: median household income is $79,991 vs $72,389 in Michigan, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 5.2% in Michigan. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 6 after adjusting for local costs and Michigan's in 4, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Michigan or from Michigan to Georgia?
2,278 households moved from Georgia to Michigan and 2,816 moved from Michigan to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 538 households for Georgia. Movers to Michigan reported an average income of $53,301; movers to Georgia reported $69,837. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,948 people (±2,418) moving from Georgia to Michigan and 3,434 (±1,408) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or Michigan?
Georgia and Michigan are close for retirees: #27 and #30 of 50 on the retiree index. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$39,007 in Michigan.
Which is better for families, Georgia or Michigan?
Georgia is the better fit for families: #33 of 50 on the families index vs #41 for Michigan. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $14,064 in Michigan. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 81%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and -$5,634 in Michigan.
Is Michigan better than Georgia?
No: Georgia ranks higher than Michigan overall, #26 of 50 vs #45, with a composite score of 55.4 to 42.7. Georgia leads 6 of 11 categories and Michigan leads 4, including health and transportation. 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 Michigan.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (2,816 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).