Georgia vs Tennessee: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 96.3), has no income tax, and has a 40% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.7 points apart, too close to call: Georgia leads 3 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 8.
- Violent crime rate is 40% lower in Georgia (297 vs. 492 in Tennessee).
- Total tax burden is 25% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 8.47% in Georgia).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 21% lower in Georgia ($11,066 vs. $13,926 in Tennessee).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -1.7 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | -1.7 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,859 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | +$2,859 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$3,291 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$3,291-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.09 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.09 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -195 (-40%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -195-40% | 328 | GA |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,994 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$7,994+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.3 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,433 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -9,433 | -33 | TN |
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 Tennessee better to live in?
Georgia scores 55.4 and Tennessee scores 57.1 out of 100, a 1.7-point gap this site treats as even. Georgia leads 3 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 8, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +8.3 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 45.8#26 · B | +8.3 pts | GA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +19 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 52.2#45 · D | +19 pts | GA |
| Health12% of scoregap +10.8 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 28.7#46 · D | +10.8 pts | GA |
| Education12% of scoregap -18.6 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 71.7#8 · A | -18.6 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -4.8 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 77.9#17 · B+ | -4.8 pts | TN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -6.4 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 76.1#3 · A+ | -6.4 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -5.4 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 56.9#5 · A+ | -5.4 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -4.2 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 42.9#40 · C | -4.2 pts | TN |
| Livability7% of scoregap -18.9 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 47.0#9 · A | -18.9 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -5.7 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 13.3#38 · C | -5.7 pts | TN |
| Environment4% of scoregap -4.1 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 36.2#33 · C+ | -4.1 pts | TN |
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper: cost of living index 91.9 vs 96.3 in Georgia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,859 more a year in Georgia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.7 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +2.7 pts+3% | 100 | TN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.55¢ (+12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +1.55¢+12% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.58 (+72%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$8.58+72% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.13 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | -$0.13-4% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,860 (-21%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | -$2,860-21% | $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 | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,723 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | -$3,723 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$3,142 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | -$3,142 | TN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$2,859 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | +$2,859 | GA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,175 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | -$3,175 | TN |
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 | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$608 | $22,819 | $22,211 | +$608 | Even |
| ChildcareGap -$5,720 | $22,132 | $27,852 | -$5,720 | GA |
| UtilitiesGap +$211 | $4,622 | $4,411 | +$211 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$304 | $11,139 | $10,835 | +$304 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$409 | $9,271 | $9,680 | -$409 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,146 | $7,817 | $5,671 | +$2,146 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Tennessee?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 8.47%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.09 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.09 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.39 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +5.39 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.25 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.12 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -2.12 pts | 6.66% | GA |
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 Tennessee?
Typical home values are about the same: $330,817 in Georgia and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $85,549 in Tennessee; the median household earns $79,991 and $71,997.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$3,291 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$3,291-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.2 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.2% | TN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$40 (+2%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | +$40+2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$4,946 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$4,946+6% | $100,006 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-11%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -0.5x-11% | 4.6x | GA |
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 | TN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $1,719 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +24.8% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cold |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | Nashville |
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 Tennessee?
Georgia pays more: median household income $79,991 vs $71,997, with unemployment at 3.4% in Georgia and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 2.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$7,994 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$7,994+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,476 (+4%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | +$2,476+4% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Population growthGap 0 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | 0 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 | TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | GA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | GA |
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | GA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | GA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | GA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | GA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | GA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | TN |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | TN |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | Even |
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | 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 Tennessee?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,637 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -195 (-40%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -195-40% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -227 (-14%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -227-14% | 1,535 | GA |
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
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #34), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 90.4%. Georgia scores higher for health (#40 vs #46); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 73.8 in Tennessee.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.3 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.2 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 34.03% | GA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 7.6% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+13%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | +5 pts+13% | 38.8 | TN |
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
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
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, Tennessee #8. Health: Georgia #40, Tennessee #46.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Tennessee, or from Tennessee to Georgia?
8,430 households moved from Georgia to Tennessee and 7,832 moved from Tennessee to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 598 households for Tennessee. Movers to Tennessee reported an average income of $73,311; movers to Georgia reported $66,775. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 10,786 people (±2,605) moving from Georgia to Tennessee and 10,017 (±2,556) 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 | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +34,456 (+30%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +34,456+30% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +43,889 (+49%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +43,889+49% | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,433 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -9,433 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.0 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -2.0 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,261 (-12%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | -$9,261-12% | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,212 (+3%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$2,212+3% | GA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.4 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -3.4 | TN |
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 Tennessee?
Georgia is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Tennessee is the better fit for remote workers and small business; 3 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 | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +3 places | #33score 60.1 | #30score 62.5 | +3 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -1 places | #27score 60.4 | #28score 60.3 | -1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +6 places | #20score 54.6 | #14score 59.5 | +6 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +1 places | #17score 58.9 | #16score 60 | +1 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +5 places | #13score 66.7 | #8score 73.5 | +5 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -4 places | #40score 29.7 | #44score 28.8 | -4 places | GA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#33 vs #30)
- RetireesEven (#27 vs #28)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #20)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#17 vs #16)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #13)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsGeorgia (#40 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and Tennessee?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and Tennessee has 20; the largest are Atlanta and Nashville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Nashville690,130 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Franklinscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Brentwood62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Jacksoncost index 85.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Lebanon97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Lebanon+5.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and Tennessee compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and Tennessee AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -11.6 (-46%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -11.6-46% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap -1.1 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.9 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | +2.9 min | 25.2 min | TN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | GA |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.9 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 | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.2 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -20 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -20 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$60 (+4%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$60+4% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +4.66% | TN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia AAA, Tennessee 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 Tennessee: 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 18 of 51, Tennessee on 23, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | TennesseeTN | GapGA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,987,672 (+55%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | +3,987,672+55% | 6.8 million | GA |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,994 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$7,994+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap 0 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | 0 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,476 (+4%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | +$2,476+4% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -195 (-40%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -195-40% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -227 (-14%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -227-14% | 1,535 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.3 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 240#12 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 215#23 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.2 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 34.03% | GA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 7.6% | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$3,291 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$3,291-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.2 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.2% | TN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$40 (+2%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | +$40+2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$4,946 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$4,946+6% | $100,006 | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-11%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -0.5x-11% | 4.6x | GA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.55¢ (+12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +1.55¢+12% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.58 (+72%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$8.58+72% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.13 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | -$0.13-4% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.7 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +2.7 pts+3% | 100 | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,860 (-21%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | -$2,860-21% | $15,633 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.09 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.09 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.39 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +5.39 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.25 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.12 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -2.12 pts | 6.66% | GA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.2 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -20 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -20 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$60 (+4%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$60+4% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +4.66% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+13%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | +5 pts+13% | 38.8 | TN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -11.6 (-46%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -11.6-46% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap -1.1 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.9 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | +2.9 min | 25.2 min | TN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | GA |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 92.67% | GA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +34,456 (+30%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +34,456+30% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +43,889 (+49%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +43,889+49% | 78,715 | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,433 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -9,433 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.0 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -2.0 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,261 (-12%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | -$9,261-12% | $77,690 | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,212 (+3%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$2,212+3% | $77,024 | GA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.4 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -3.4 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,859 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | +$2,859 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,723 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | -$3,723 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,175 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | -$3,175 | +$35,970 | TN |
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 Tennessee numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Georgia (55.4, #26) and Tennessee (57.1, #24) are within 2 composite points. Georgia leads 3 categories, Tennessee leads 8, and 0 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Tennessee is cheaper day to day
Tennessee's cost of living index is 91.9 against 96.3 in Georgia (US = 100). The typical home costs $330,817 in Georgia and $334,108 in Tennessee. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Tennessee 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); Tennessee collects 6.38% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Georgia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,991 in Georgia and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 3.4% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 492 in Tennessee.
Moves between the two run about even
10,786 people moved from Georgia to Tennessee and 10,017 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Families and retirees: a split decision
For families, Georgia ranks #33 of 50 and Tennessee #30; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and Tennessee #28.
Georgia vs Tennessee: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or Tennessee better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 96.3), has no income tax, and has a 40% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.7 points apart, too close to call: Georgia leads 3 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 8.
Is Georgia cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper than Georgia: cost of living index 91.9 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 -$5,659 in Tennessee. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $334,108 in Tennessee.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Tennessee?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.47% in Georgia. Georgia's top income tax rate is 5.39%, its effective property tax rate 0.83% and its combined sales tax 7.49%; Tennessee's are zero, 0.58% and 9.61%.
Is Georgia safer than Tennessee?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and Tennessee #46. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,637 in Tennessee. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Brentwood, TN.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or Tennessee?
Typical home values are about the same: $330,817 in Georgia and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $85,549 in Tennessee, against median incomes of $79,991 and $71,997.
Do people earn more in Georgia or Tennessee?
Georgia pays more: median household income is $79,991 vs $71,997 in Tennessee, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 2, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Tennessee or from Tennessee to Georgia?
8,430 households moved from Georgia to Tennessee and 7,832 moved from Tennessee to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 598 households for Tennessee. Movers to Tennessee reported an average income of $73,311; movers to Georgia reported $66,775. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 10,786 people (±2,605) moving from Georgia to Tennessee and 10,017 (±2,556) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or Tennessee?
Georgia and Tennessee are close for retirees: #27 and #28 of 50 on the retiree index. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$39,960 in Tennessee.
Which is better for families, Georgia or Tennessee?
Georgia and Tennessee are close for families: #33 and #30 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $13,926 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 90.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Which has better schools, Georgia or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education: #8 of 50 vs #34 for Georgia. Eighth graders average 269 in NAEP math in Georgia and 276 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 84.1% in Georgia and 90.4% in Tennessee, and the education category scores are 53.1 and 71.7 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Valdosta and Lebanon have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Georgia vs Tennessee.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (8,430 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).