Georgia vs Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. Georgia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 101.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 31% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 36% lower in Georgia ($11,066 vs. $17,264 in Virginia).
- Violent crime rate is 31% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 297 in Georgia).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 24% lower in Georgia ($1,853 vs. $2,433 in Virginia).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -12.3 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | -12.3 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.8 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -4.8 pts-5% | 100 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$19,150 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$19,150 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$83,845 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$83,845-20% | $368,697 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.39 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -0.39 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +91 (+44%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +91+44% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$12,099 (-13%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$12,099-13% | $80,903 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -5 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -5 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,250 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | +14,250 | -33 | GA |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Georgia or Virginia better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 55.4 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #26. Georgia leads 3 of 11 categories, Virginia leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -10.5 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 64.6#7 · A | -10.5 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -8.1 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 79.3#13 · B+ | -8.1 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap -21.9 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 61.4#17 · B+ | -21.9 pts | VA |
| Education12% of scoregap -12.3 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 65.4#14 · B+ | -12.3 pts | VA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +12.6 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 60.5#34 · C+ | +12.6 pts | GA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +6.9 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 62.8#20 · B | +6.9 pts | GA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +6.4 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 45.1#19 · B | +6.4 pts | GA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -9.1 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 47.8#29 · C+ | -9.1 pts | VA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.8 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 27.3#35 · C | +0.8 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -12.5 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 20.1#30 · C+ | -12.5 pts | VA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -15.9 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 48.0#15 · B+ | -15.9 pts | VA |
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 Virginia?
Georgia is cheaper: cost of living index 96.3 vs 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $19,150 more a year in Georgia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.8 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -4.8 pts-5% | 100 | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.5 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | -1.5 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.55¢ (-4%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | -0.55¢-4% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.63 (+22%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | +$3.63+22% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.14 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | -$0.14-5% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,198 (-36%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | -$6,198-36% | $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 | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,783 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$3,783 | GA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$5,172 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$5,172 | GA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$19,150 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | +$19,150 | GA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$4,522 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$4,522 | GA |
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 | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$5,494 | $22,819 | $28,313 | -$5,494 | GA |
| ChildcareGap -$12,396 | $22,132 | $34,528 | -$12,396 | GA |
| UtilitiesGap -$231 | $4,622 | $4,853 | -$231 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$169 | $11,139 | $11,308 | -$169 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$440 | $9,271 | $9,711 | -$440 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$420 | $7,817 | $8,237 | -$420 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Virginia?
Georgia and Virginia collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.47% vs 8.86%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.39 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -0.39 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.36 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | -0.36 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.07 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | +0.07 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.72 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +1.72 pts | 6.66% | VA |
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 Virginia?
Homes cost 25% more in Virginia: a typical home value of $330,817 in Georgia vs $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $109,920 in Virginia; the median household earns $79,991 and $92,090.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$83,845 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$83,845-20% | $368,697 | GA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.7 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$580 (-24%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$580-24% | $1,948 | GA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$19,425 (-18%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$19,425-18% | $100,006 | GA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-9%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | -0.4x-9% | 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 | VA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $2,133 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +23.4% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | Washington |
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 Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income $92,090 vs $79,991, with unemployment at 3.4% in Georgia and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 19.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$12,099 (-13%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$12,099-13% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$2,771 (-4%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | -$2,771-4% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Population growthGap +0.19 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.19 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 | VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | VA |
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | VA |
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | VA |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | 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 Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 297 in Georgia (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,354 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +91 (+44%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +91+44% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +56 (+4%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +56+4% | 1,535 | Even |
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
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or Virginia?
Virginia scores higher for education (#14 of 50 vs #34), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 89.1%. Virginia scores higher for health (#17 vs #40); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 77.5 in Virginia.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -5 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -5 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap +3.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.1 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+22%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +8 pts+22% | 38.8 | VA |
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
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
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, Virginia #14. Health: Georgia #40, Virginia #17.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Virginia, or from Virginia to Georgia?
4,876 households moved from Georgia to Virginia and 5,099 moved from Virginia to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 223 households for Georgia. Movers to Virginia reported an average income of $69,784; movers to Georgia reported $78,602. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 9,219 people (±3,137) moving from Georgia to Virginia and 10,298 (±3,734) 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 | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +12,635 (+9%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | +12,635+9% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap -1,615 (-1%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | -1,615-1% | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,250 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | +14,250 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.3 | +1.3#16 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +1.3 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,158 (-15%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | -$12,158-15% | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$17,040 (-19%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | -$17,040-19% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.7 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +1.7 | GA |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Georgia or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +16 places | #33score 60.1 | #17score 72.9 | +16 places | VA |
| RetireesGap +12 places | #27score 60.4 | #15score 68.4 | +12 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap +4 places | #20score 54.6 | #16score 58.3 | +4 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +4 places | #17score 58.9 | #13score 63.4 | +4 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap +1 places | #13score 66.7 | #12score 68 | +1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +17 places | #40score 29.7 | #23score 48 | +17 places | VA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #33)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #27)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #20)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #17)
- Small BusinessEven (#13 vs #12)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #40)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and Virginia?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and Virginia has 20; the largest are Atlanta and Virginia Beach. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Virginia Beach456,349 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Restonscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Leesburg95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | McLeanmedian income $250,001 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Suffolk+1.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and Virginia AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | GA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.9 (+144%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +7.9+144% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -4.4 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.1 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | +1.1 min | 25.2 min | VA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | GA |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.5 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | +7.5 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -3 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -3 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,140 (-40%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | -$1,140-40% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.1 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +4.66% | GA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia AAA, Virginia 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 Virginia: 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 20 of 51, Virginia on 19, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | VirginiaVA | GapGA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,422,641 (+27%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | +2,422,641+27% | 6.8 million | GA |
| Median household incomeGap -$12,099 (-13%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$12,099-13% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.19 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.19 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$2,771 (-4%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | -$2,771-4% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +91 (+44%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +91+44% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +56 (+4%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +56+4% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -5 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -5 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 238#24 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 214#31 of 50 | +0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap +3.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.1 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$83,845 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$83,845-20% | $368,697 | GA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.7 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$580 (-24%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$580-24% | $1,948 | GA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$19,425 (-18%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$19,425-18% | $100,006 | GA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.8 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -4.8 pts-5% | 100 | GA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-9%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | -0.4x-9% | 4.6x | GA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.55¢ (-4%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | -0.55¢-4% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.63 (+22%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | +$3.63+22% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.14 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | -$0.14-5% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.5 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | -1.5 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,198 (-36%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | -$6,198-36% | $15,633 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.39 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -0.39 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.36 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | -0.36 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.07 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | +0.07 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.72 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +1.72 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.5 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | +7.5 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -3 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -3 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,140 (-40%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | -$1,140-40% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.1 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +4.66% | GA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+22%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +8 pts+22% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | GA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.9 (+144%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +7.9+144% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -4.4 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.1 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | +1.1 min | 25.2 min | VA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | GA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +12,635 (+9%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | +12,635+9% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap -1,615 (-1%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | -1,615-1% | 78,715 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,250 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | +14,250 | -33 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.3 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +1.3 | +0.4 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,158 (-15%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | -$12,158-15% | $77,690 | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$17,040 (-19%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | -$17,040-19% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.7 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +1.7 | +1.1 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$19,150 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$19,150 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,783 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$3,783 | +$31,418 | GA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$4,522 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$4,522 | +$35,970 | GA |
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 Virginia numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 7 of the 11 categories to Georgia's 3, with 1 even; Georgia is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Georgia is ahead on 20 and Virginia on 19.
Georgia is cheaper day to day
Georgia's cost of living index is 96.3 against 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). The typical home costs $330,817 in Georgia and $414,662 in Virginia. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Tax burdens are close
Georgia collects 8.47% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); Virginia collects 8.86% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Virginia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,991 in Georgia and $92,090 in Virginia, with unemployment at 3.4% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 206 in Virginia.
Moves between the two run about even
9,219 people moved from Georgia to Virginia and 10,298 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, Georgia ranks #33 of 50 and Virginia #17; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and Virginia #15.
Georgia vs Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or Virginia better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. Georgia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 101.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 31% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Georgia cheaper than Virginia?
Georgia is cheaper than Virginia: cost of living index 96.3 vs 101.1 (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 -$21,950 in Virginia. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $414,662 in Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Virginia?
Georgia and Virginia have similar tax burdens: 8.47% vs 8.86% of income in state and local taxes. Georgia's top income tax rate is 5.39%, its effective property tax rate 0.83% and its combined sales tax 7.49%; Virginia's are 5.75%, 0.76% and 5.77%.
Is Georgia safer than Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 297 in Georgia, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and Virginia #8. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,354 in Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Virginia Beach, VA.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or Virginia?
Homes are 25% more expensive in Virginia: the typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $109,920 in Virginia, against median incomes of $79,991 and $92,090.
Do people earn more in Georgia or Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income is $92,090 vs $79,991 in Georgia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 19, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Virginia or from Virginia to Georgia?
4,876 households moved from Georgia to Virginia and 5,099 moved from Virginia to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 223 households for Georgia. Movers to Virginia reported an average income of $69,784; movers to Georgia reported $78,602. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 9,219 people (±3,137) moving from Georgia to Virginia and 10,298 (±3,734) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #27 for Georgia. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$32,263 in Virginia.
Which is better for families, Georgia or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #33 for Georgia. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $17,264 in Virginia. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Is Virginia better than Georgia?
Yes: Virginia ranks higher than Georgia overall, #15 of 50 vs #26, with a composite score of 67.7 to 55.4. Virginia leads 7 of 11 categories and Georgia leads 3, including affordability and fiscal health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Georgia vs Virginia.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (5,099 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).