Texas vs Georgia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Georgia #26 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 96.3); Texas has no income tax and has a 14% higher violent crime rate. Georgia scores higher overall, leading 3 of 11 categories to 3.
- Property crime rate is 21% lower in Georgia (1,409 vs. 1,786 in Texas).
- Violent crime rate is 14% lower in Georgia (297 vs. 345 in Texas).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 10% lower in Texas ($1,659 vs. $1,853 in Georgia).
| Measure | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -3.2 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | -3.2 pts | — | GA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.8 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 96.3#25 of 50 | +0.8 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,656 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | +$2,656 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$31,450 (-10%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $330,817#22 of 50 | -$31,450-10% | $368,697 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.7 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.47%#20 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +48 (+16%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 297#26 of 50 | +48+16% | 328 | GA |
| Median household incomeGap -$270 (0%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $79,991#23 of 50 | -$2700% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 84.1%#33 of 50 | +5.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 75.9#36 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +41,802 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +41,802 | -33 | TX |
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 Texas or Georgia better to live in?
Georgia scores higher overall: 55.4 to 52.2 out of 100, #26 of 50 against #32. Texas leads 3 of 11 categories, Georgia leads 3, and 5 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -11.6 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 54.1#14 · B+ | -11.6 pts | GA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -9.4 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 71.2#26 · B | -9.4 pts | GA |
| Health12% of scoregap -1.8 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 39.5#40 · C | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +7.6 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 53.1#34 · C+ | +7.6 pts | TX |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +1.3 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 73.1#23 · B | +1.3 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +2.5 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 69.7#12 · B+ | +2.5 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +0.2 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 51.5#10 · A | +0.2 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +5 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 38.7#47 · D | +5 pts | TX |
| Livability7% of scoregap -4.5 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 28.1#33 · C+ | -4.5 pts | GA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -2.9 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 7.6#46 · D | -2.9 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +8.7 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 32.1#38 · C | +8.7 pts | TX |
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 Texas cheaper than Georgia?
Texas and Georgia cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 97.1 vs 96.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,656 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.8 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 96.3#25 of 50 | +0.8 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.8 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 98.9#38 of 50 | -0.8 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.74¢ (+5%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | +0.74¢+5% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.00 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | -$1.00-5% | $15.83/Mcf | TX |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.07 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | -$0.07-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$172 (-2%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $11,066#10 of 50 | -$172-2% | $15,633 | Even |
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 | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,356 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$3,356 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,744 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$2,744 | TX |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$2,656 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | +$2,656 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,721 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$2,721 | TX |
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 | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$226 | $23,045 | $22,819 | +$226 | Even |
| ChildcareGap -$344 | $21,788 | $22,132 | -$344 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap +$39 | $4,661 | $4,622 | +$39 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$90 | $11,049 | $11,139 | -$90 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$220 | $9,051 | $9,271 | -$220 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,266 | $5,551 | $7,817 | -$2,266 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Georgia?
Texas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 8.47%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.7 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.47%#20 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.39 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 5.39%#25 of 50 | -5.39 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.8 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.83%#24 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 1.02% | GA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.71 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 7.49%#32 of 50 | +0.71 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 Texas or Georgia?
Homes cost 11% more in Georgia: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $330,817 in Georgia. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $90,495 in Georgia; the median household earns $79,721 and $79,991.
| Measure | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$31,450 (-10%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $330,817#22 of 50 | -$31,450-10% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | -0.5%#45 of 50 | -1.1 pts | +1.2% | GA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$194 (-10%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,853#30 of 50 | -$194-10% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$2,434 (-3%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $90,495#23 of 50 | -$2,434-3% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-7%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.1x#20 of 50 | -0.3x-7% | 4.6x | TX |
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.
| TX | GA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $1,702 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +13% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +22.2% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Dallas | 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 Texas or Georgia?
Median household income is about the same, $79,721 in Texas and $79,991 in Georgia, with unemployment at 4.2% and 3.4%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 12 after adjusting for local costs and Georgia's in 1.
| Measure | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$270 (0%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $79,991#23 of 50 | -$2700% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 3.4%#13 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,151 (+8%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $63,669#22 of 50 | +$5,151+8% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +0.37 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.37 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 | TX | GA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | TX |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | TX |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | TX |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | TX |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | TX |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | TX |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | TX |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | TX |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | TX |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | GA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $65,046$63,095 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 Texas safer than Georgia?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,409 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +48 (+16%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 297#26 of 50 | +48+16% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +377 (+27%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,409#21 of 50 | +377+27% | 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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 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, Texas or Georgia?
Texas scores higher for education (#24 of 50 vs #34), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 84.1%. They are close on health (#41 and #40); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 75.9 in Georgia.
| Measure | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 269#37 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 259#18 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 84.1%#33 of 50 | +5.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 75.9#36 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.2 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 35.4%#31 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.7 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 12%#49 of 50 | +4.7 pts | 7.6% | GA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-4%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 45#47 of 50 | -2 pts-4% | 38.8 | TX |
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).
- No city school data
- 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: Texas #24, Georgia #34. Health: Texas #41, Georgia #40.
Are more people moving from Texas to Georgia, or from Georgia to Texas?
9,120 households moved from Texas to Georgia and 10,897 moved from Georgia to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,777 households for Texas. Movers to Georgia reported an average income of $72,432; movers to Texas reported $68,672. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 20,968 people (±3,871) moving from Texas to Georgia and 19,481 (±3,551) 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 | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +158,996 (+107%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 148,244#6 of 50 | +158,996+107% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +117,194 (+88%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 133,573#43 of 50 | +117,194+88% | GA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +41,802 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +41,802 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.5 | +1.8#12 of 50 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +0.5 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$13,463 (+19%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $70,169#34 of 50 | +$13,463+19% | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$8,071 (+11%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $72,288#27 of 50 | +$8,071+11% | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.3 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +2.4#16 of 50 | -0.3 | Even |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Texas or Georgia?
Georgia is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +2 places | #35score 57.5 | #33score 60.1 | +2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +6 places | #33score 58.8 | #27score 60.4 | +6 places | GA |
| Remote WorkersGap +5 places | #25score 52 | #20score 54.6 | +5 places | GA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +11 places | #28score 53 | #17score 58.9 | +11 places | GA |
| Small BusinessGap +2 places | #15score 64.3 | #13score 66.7 | +2 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +5 places | #45score 26.6 | #40score 29.7 | +5 places | GA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#35 vs #33)
- RetireesGeorgia (#27 vs #33)
- Remote WorkersGeorgia (#20 vs #25)
- Young ProfessionalsGeorgia (#17 vs #28)
- Small BusinessEven (#15 vs #13)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsGeorgia (#40 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and Georgia?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and Georgia has 20; the largest are Houston and Atlanta. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Atlanta505,268 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Johns Creekscore 73.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Albanycost index 87.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | Gainesville+2.4% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and Georgia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and Georgia AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +25 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 12%#35 of 50 | +25 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +10.6 (+79%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 13.4#10 of 50 | +10.6+79% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap -4.3 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 6.1%#29 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 17.16% | GA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | -1.9 min | 25.2 min | TX |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 1.2%#22 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -2 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 14.9%#12 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 93.4%#18 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 100#12 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 16.4%#7 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -1 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 77%#21 of 50 | -1 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$160 (+9%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $1,690#6 of 50 | +$160+9% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +5.6%#19 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, 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).
Texas vs Georgia: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Texas is ahead on 21 of 51, Georgia on 13, and 17 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | GeorgiaGA | GapTX−GA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +20,407,073 (+181%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | +20,407,073+181% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap -$270 (0%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $79,991#23 of 50 | -$2700% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 3.4%#13 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| Population growthGap +0.37 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.37 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,151 (+8%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $63,669#22 of 50 | +$5,151+8% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +48 (+16%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 297#26 of 50 | +48+16% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +377 (+27%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,409#21 of 50 | +377+27% | 1,535 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 84.1%#33 of 50 | +5.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 236#32 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 269#37 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 214#28 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 259#18 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 75.9#36 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.2 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 35.4%#31 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.7 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 12%#49 of 50 | +4.7 pts | 7.6% | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$31,450 (-10%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $330,817#22 of 50 | -$31,450-10% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | -0.5%#45 of 50 | -1.1 pts | +1.2% | GA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$194 (-10%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,853#30 of 50 | -$194-10% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$2,434 (-3%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $90,495#23 of 50 | -$2,434-3% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.8 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 96.3#25 of 50 | +0.8 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-7%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.1x#20 of 50 | -0.3x-7% | 4.6x | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.74¢ (+5%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | +0.74¢+5% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.00 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | -$1.00-5% | $15.83/Mcf | TX |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.07 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | -$0.07-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.8 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 98.9#38 of 50 | -0.8 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$172 (-2%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $11,066#10 of 50 | -$172-2% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.7 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.47%#20 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.39 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 5.39%#25 of 50 | -5.39 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.8 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.83%#24 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 1.02% | GA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.71 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 7.49%#32 of 50 | +0.71 pts | 6.66% | GA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 100#12 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 16.4%#7 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -1 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 77%#21 of 50 | -1 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$160 (+9%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $1,690#6 of 50 | +$160+9% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +5.6%#19 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-4%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 45#47 of 50 | -2 pts-4% | 38.8 | TX |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +25 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 12%#35 of 50 | +25 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +10.6 (+79%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 13.4#10 of 50 | +10.6+79% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap -4.3 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 6.1%#29 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 17.16% | GA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | -1.9 min | 25.2 min | TX |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 1.2%#22 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -2 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 14.9%#12 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 93.4%#18 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +158,996 (+107%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 148,244#6 of 50 | +158,996+107% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +117,194 (+88%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 133,573#43 of 50 | +117,194+88% | 78,715 | GA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +41,802 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +41,802 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.5 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +0.5 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$13,463 (+19%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $70,169#34 of 50 | +$13,463+19% | $77,690 | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$8,071 (+11%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $72,288#27 of 50 | +$8,071+11% | $77,024 | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.3 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +2.4#16 of 50 | -0.3 | +1.1 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,656 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | +$2,656 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,356 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$3,356 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,721 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$2,721 | +$35,970 | TX |
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 Texas and Georgia numbers say when read together.
Georgia ranks higher overall
Georgia leads 3 of the 11 categories to Texas's 3, with 5 even; Texas is ahead on environment and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 21 and Georgia on 13.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 97.1 in Texas and 96.3 in Georgia, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $299,367 and $330,817. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$2,800 in Georgia.
Texas takes a smaller share in taxes
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); Georgia collects 8.47% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Georgia is safer
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $79,991 in Georgia, with unemployment at 4.2% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 297 in Georgia.
Moves between the two run about even
20,968 people moved from Texas to Georgia and 19,481 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Georgia is the better fit for retirees
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and Georgia #33; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and Georgia #27.
Texas vs Georgia: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or Georgia better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Georgia #26 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 96.3); Texas has no income tax and has a 14% higher violent crime rate. Georgia scores higher overall, leading 3 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Texas cheaper than Georgia?
Texas and Georgia cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 97.1 vs 96.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and -$2,800 in Georgia. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $330,817 in Georgia.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Georgia?
Texas has the lower tax burden: 7.77% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.47% in Georgia. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; Georgia's are 5.39%, 0.83% and 7.49%.
Is Texas safer than Georgia?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and Georgia #26. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,409 in Georgia. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Johns Creek, GA.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or Georgia?
Homes are 11% more expensive in Georgia: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $330,817 in Georgia. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $90,495 in Georgia, against median incomes of $79,721 and $79,991.
Do people earn more in Texas or Georgia?
Texas and Georgia pay about the same: median household income is $79,721 vs $79,991, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 3.4% in Georgia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 12 after adjusting for local costs and Georgia's in 1, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Texas to Georgia or from Georgia to Texas?
9,120 households moved from Texas to Georgia and 10,897 moved from Georgia to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,777 households for Texas. Movers to Georgia reported an average income of $72,432; movers to Texas reported $68,672. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 20,968 people (±3,871) moving from Texas to Georgia and 19,481 (±3,551) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or Georgia?
Georgia is the better fit for retirees: #27 of 50 on the retiree index vs #33 for Texas. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax 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 +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$36,785 in Georgia.
Which is better for families, Texas or Georgia?
Texas and Georgia are close for families: #35 and #33 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $11,066 in Georgia. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 84.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$2,800 in Georgia.
Is Georgia better than Texas?
Yes: Georgia ranks higher than Texas overall, #26 of 50 vs #32, with a composite score of 55.4 to 52.2. Georgia leads 3 of 11 categories and Texas leads 3, including environment and education. 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 Texas vs Georgia.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (10,897 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).