Pennsylvania vs Georgia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Georgia #26 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 96.3); Pennsylvania collects a similar share of income in taxes. Overall they are 1.5 points apart, too close to call: Pennsylvania leads 7 of 11 categories, Georgia leads 4.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 28% lower in Georgia ($11,066 vs. $15,302 in Pennsylvania).
- Residential electricity price is 24% lower in Georgia (14.73¢/kWh vs. 19.30¢/kWh in Pennsylvania).
- Violent crime rate is 24% lower in Pennsylvania (227 vs. 297 in Georgia).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +1.5 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | +1.5 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.3 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 96.3#25 of 50 | +1.3 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$8,825 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$8,825 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$40,416 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $330,817#22 of 50 | -$40,416-12% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.11 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.47%#20 of 50 | +0.11 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -70 (-24%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 297#26 of 50 | -70-24% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$2,446 (-3%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $79,991#23 of 50 | -$2,446-3% | $80,903 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 84.1%#33 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.9#36 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -26,766 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -26,766 | -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 Pennsylvania or Georgia better to live in?
Pennsylvania scores 56.9 and Georgia scores 55.4 out of 100, a 1.5-point gap this site treats as even. Pennsylvania leads 7 of 11 categories, Georgia leads 4, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -14.9 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 54.1#14 · B+ | -14.9 pts | GA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +6.9 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 71.2#26 · B | +6.9 pts | PA |
| Health12% of scoregap +20.1 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 39.5#40 · C | +20.1 pts | PA |
| Education12% of scoregap +12.3 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 53.1#34 · C+ | +12.3 pts | PA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -6.4 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 73.1#23 · B | -6.4 pts | GA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -24.1 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 69.7#12 · B+ | -24.1 pts | GA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -24.7 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 51.5#10 · A | -24.7 pts | GA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +17.2 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 38.7#47 · D | +17.2 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +6.3 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 28.1#33 · C+ | +6.3 pts | PA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +12.2 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 7.6#46 · D | +12.2 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +5.9 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 32.1#38 · C | +5.9 pts | PA |
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 Pennsylvania cheaper than Georgia?
Pennsylvania and Georgia cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 97.6 vs 96.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $8,825 more a year in Georgia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.3 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 96.3#25 of 50 | +1.3 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.5 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 98.9#38 of 50 | +0.5 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.57¢ (+31%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | +4.57¢+31% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.38 (-26%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | -$5.38-26% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.45 (+15%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | +$0.45+15% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,236 (+38%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $11,066#10 of 50 | +$4,236+38% | $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 | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,017 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$1,017 | PA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$131 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$131 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$8,825 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | -$8,825 | GA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$344 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$344 | Even |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$1,103 | $21,716 | $22,819 | -$1,103 | PA |
| ChildcareGap +$8,472 | $30,604 | $22,132 | +$8,472 | GA |
| UtilitiesGap +$63 | $4,685 | $4,622 | +$63 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$56 | $11,195 | $11,139 | +$56 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$1,415 | $10,686 | $9,271 | +$1,415 | GA |
| State and local taxesGap -$78 | $7,739 | $7,817 | -$78 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Pennsylvania and Georgia collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 8.47%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.11 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.47%#20 of 50 | +0.11 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.47 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 5.39%#25 of 50 | +1.47 pts | 5.46% | GA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.58 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.83%#24 of 50 | +0.58 pts | 1.02% | GA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.15 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 7.49%#32 of 50 | -1.15 pts | 6.66% | PA |
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 Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Homes cost 14% more in Georgia: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $330,817 in Georgia. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $90,495 in Georgia; the median household earns $77,545 and $79,991.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$40,416 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $330,817#22 of 50 | -$40,416-12% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.9 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +2.9 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$58 (+3%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,853#30 of 50 | +$58+3% | $1,948 | GA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$7,601 (-8%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $90,495#23 of 50 | -$7,601-8% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-10%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.1x#20 of 50 | -0.4x-10% | 4.6x | PA |
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.
| PA | GA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $1,702 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +13% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +22.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | Atlanta |
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 Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Georgia pays more: median household income $79,991 vs $77,545, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.4% in Georgia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Georgia's in 3.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$2,446 (-3%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $79,991#23 of 50 | -$2,446-3% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.4%#13 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,116 (+2%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $63,669#22 of 50 | +$1,116+2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +3.2%#6 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Population growthGap -0.78 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.88%#10 of 50 | -0.78 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 | PA | GA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | PA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | PA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | PA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | PA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | GA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | GA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | PA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | PA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | Even |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | PA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | GA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | Even |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | 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 Pennsylvania safer than Georgia?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 297 in Georgia (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,409 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -70 (-24%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 297#26 of 50 | -70-24% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -86 (-6%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,409#21 of 50 | -86-6% | 1,535 | PA |
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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Johns Creek, GA40 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Pennsylvania scores higher for education (#15 of 50 vs #34), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 84.1%. Pennsylvania scores higher for health (#21 vs #40); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 75.9 in Georgia.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 269#37 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 259#18 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 84.1%#33 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.9#36 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 35.4%#31 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -6.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 12%#49 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-11%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 45#47 of 50 | -5 pts-11% | 38.8 | PA |
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).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- Valdosta, GAeducation score 92.3
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: Pennsylvania #15, Georgia #34. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Georgia #40.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Georgia, or from Georgia to Pennsylvania?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 7,365 people (±2,340) moving from Pennsylvania to Georgia and 5,227 (±2,144) 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -24,619 (-17%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 148,244#6 of 50 | -24,619-17% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +2,147 (+2%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 133,573#43 of 50 | +2,147+2% | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -26,766 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -26,766 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.2 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +1.3#16 of 50 | -2.2 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,197 (+9%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $70,169#34 of 50 | +$6,197+9% | PA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,354 (+18%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $72,288#27 of 50 | +$13,354+18% | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.6 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +2.4#16 of 50 | -2.6 | 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, Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; Georgia is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -14 places | #19score 71.8 | #33score 60.1 | -14 places | PA |
| RetireesGap -1 places | #26score 61.5 | #27score 60.4 | -1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +18 places | #38score 46 | #20score 54.6 | +18 places | GA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +16 places | #33score 49.4 | #17score 58.9 | +16 places | GA |
| Small BusinessGap +25 places | #38score 46.1 | #13score 66.7 | +25 places | GA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -13 places | #27score 43.3 | #40score 29.7 | -13 places | PA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesPennsylvania (#19 vs #33)
- RetireesEven (#26 vs #27)
- Remote WorkersGeorgia (#20 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsGeorgia (#17 vs #33)
- Small BusinessGeorgia (#13 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #40)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Georgia?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Georgia has 20; the largest are Philadelphia and Atlanta. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Atlanta505,268 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Johns Creekscore 73.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Albanycost index 87.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Gainesville+2.4% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Georgia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Georgia AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -6 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 12%#35 of 50 | -6 pts | 29.34% | GA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap 0.0 (0%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 0.00% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap -0.5 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 6.1%#29 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 17.16% | GA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.3 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | -2.3 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 1.2%#22 of 50 | +3 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.1 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 14.9%#12 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 93.4%#18 of 50 | -1.3 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#12 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -11.9 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 16.4%#7 of 50 | -11.9 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -15 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 77%#21 of 50 | -15 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,430 (+144%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $1,690#6 of 50 | +$2,430+144% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.1 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +5.6%#19 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +4.66% | GA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania AA-, Georgia 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).
Pennsylvania vs Georgia: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Pennsylvania is ahead on 18 of 51, Georgia on 23, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | GeorgiaGA | GapPA−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,756,684 (+16%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | +1,756,684+16% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$2,446 (-3%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $79,991#23 of 50 | -$2,446-3% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.4%#13 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| Population growthGap -0.78 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.88%#10 of 50 | -0.78 pts | +0.51% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,116 (+2%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $63,669#22 of 50 | +$1,116+2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +3.2%#6 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -70 (-24%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 297#26 of 50 | -70-24% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -86 (-6%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,409#21 of 50 | -86-6% | 1,535 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 84.1%#33 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 236#32 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 269#37 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 214#28 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 259#18 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.9#36 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 35.4%#31 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -6.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 12%#49 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$40,416 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $330,817#22 of 50 | -$40,416-12% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.9 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +2.9 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$58 (+3%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,853#30 of 50 | +$58+3% | $1,948 | GA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$7,601 (-8%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $90,495#23 of 50 | -$7,601-8% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.3 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 96.3#25 of 50 | +1.3 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-10%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.1x#20 of 50 | -0.4x-10% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.57¢ (+31%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | +4.57¢+31% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.38 (-26%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | -$5.38-26% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.45 (+15%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | +$0.45+15% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.5 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 98.9#38 of 50 | +0.5 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,236 (+38%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $11,066#10 of 50 | +$4,236+38% | $15,633 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.11 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.47%#20 of 50 | +0.11 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.47 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 5.39%#25 of 50 | +1.47 pts | 5.46% | GA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.58 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.83%#24 of 50 | +0.58 pts | 1.02% | GA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.15 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 7.49%#32 of 50 | -1.15 pts | 6.66% | PA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#12 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -11.9 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 16.4%#7 of 50 | -11.9 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -15 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 77%#21 of 50 | -15 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,430 (+144%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $1,690#6 of 50 | +$2,430+144% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.1 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +5.6%#19 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +4.66% | GA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-11%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 45#47 of 50 | -5 pts-11% | 38.8 | PA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -6 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 12%#35 of 50 | -6 pts | 29.34% | GA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap 0.0 (0%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 0.00% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap -0.5 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 6.1%#29 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 17.16% | GA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.3 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | -2.3 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 1.2%#22 of 50 | +3 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.1 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 14.9%#12 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 93.4%#18 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | GA |
| Households moving inIRSGap -24,619 (-17%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 148,244#6 of 50 | -24,619-17% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +2,147 (+2%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 133,573#43 of 50 | +2,147+2% | 78,715 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -26,766 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -26,766 | -33 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.2 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +1.3#16 of 50 | -2.2 | +0.4 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,197 (+9%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $70,169#34 of 50 | +$6,197+9% | $77,690 | PA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,354 (+18%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $72,288#27 of 50 | +$13,354+18% | $77,024 | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.6 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +2.4#16 of 50 | -2.6 | +1.1 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$8,825 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$8,825 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,017 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$1,017 | +$31,418 | PA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$344 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$344 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Pennsylvania and Georgia numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Pennsylvania (56.9, #25) and Georgia (55.4, #26) are within 2 composite points. Pennsylvania leads 7 categories, Georgia leads 4, and 0 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 97.6 in Pennsylvania and 96.3 in Georgia, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $290,401 and $330,817. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$2,800 in Georgia.
Tax burdens are close
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Georgia collects 8.47% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Georgia pays more
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $79,991 in Georgia, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 297 in Georgia.
Moves between the two run about even
7,365 people moved from Pennsylvania to Georgia and 5,227 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Georgia #33; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Georgia #27.
Pennsylvania vs Georgia: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Georgia better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Georgia #26 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 96.3); Pennsylvania collects a similar share of income in taxes. Overall they are 1.5 points apart, too close to call: Pennsylvania leads 7 of 11 categories, Georgia leads 4.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Georgia?
Pennsylvania and Georgia cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 97.6 vs 96.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$2,800 in Georgia. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $330,817 in Georgia.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Pennsylvania and Georgia have similar tax burdens: 8.58% vs 8.47% of income in state and local taxes. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; Georgia's are 5.39%, 0.83% and 7.49%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Georgia?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 297 in Georgia, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Georgia #26. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,409 in Georgia. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Johns Creek, GA.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Homes are 14% more expensive in Georgia: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $330,817 in Georgia. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $90,495 in Georgia, against median incomes of $77,545 and $79,991.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Georgia pays more: median household income is $79,991 vs $77,545 in Pennsylvania, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.4% in Georgia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Georgia's in 3, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Georgia or from Georgia to Pennsylvania?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 7,365 people (±2,340) moving from Pennsylvania to Georgia and 5,227 (±2,144) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Pennsylvania and Georgia are close for retirees: #26 and #27 of 50 on the retiree index. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$36,785 in Georgia.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families: #19 of 50 on the families index vs #33 for Georgia. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $11,066 in Georgia. High school graduation rates are 87% and 84.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$2,800 in Georgia.
Which has better schools, Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Pennsylvania scores higher for education: #15 of 50 vs #34 for Georgia. Eighth graders average 276 in NAEP math in Pennsylvania and 269 in Georgia. High school graduation rates are 87% in Pennsylvania and 84.1% in Georgia, and the education category scores are 65.4 and 53.1 out of 100. Among tracked cities, State College and Valdosta have the strongest school metrics.
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Why this pair is featured: most-searched matchup.