Georgia vs Washington: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Georgia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 107), collects a similar share of income in taxes. Washington scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 52% lower in Georgia ($11,066 vs. $23,136 in Washington).
- Typical home value is 44% lower in Georgia ($330,817 vs. $591,879 in Washington).
- Property crime rate is 29% lower in Georgia (1,409 vs. 1,975 in Washington).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -6.4 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | -6.4 pts | — | WA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10.7 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -10.7 pts-10% | 100 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$45,093 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$45,093 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$261,062 (-44%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$261,062-44% | $368,697 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.14 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.14 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +13 (+5%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | +13+5% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap -$19,398 (-20%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$19,398-20% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.5 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 85.62% | GA |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,832 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +4,832 | -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 Washington better to live in?
Washington scores higher overall: 61.8 to 55.4 out of 100, #20 of 50 against #26. Georgia leads 4 of 11 categories, Washington leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +1.8 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 52.3#16 · B+ | +1.8 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +7.3 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 63.9#30 · C+ | +7.3 pts | GA |
| Health12% of scoregap -28.7 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 68.2#13 · B+ | -28.7 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.3 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 57.4#29 · C+ | -4.3 pts | WA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +34 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 39.1#46 · D | +34 pts | GA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +5.4 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 64.3#17 · B+ | +5.4 pts | GA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +10.7 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 40.8#24 · B | +10.7 pts | GA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -19.9 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 58.6#8 · A | -19.9 pts | WA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -5.8 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 33.9#25 · B | -5.8 pts | WA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -27.8 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 35.4#19 · B | -27.8 pts | WA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -41 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 73.1#3 · A+ | -41 pts | WA |
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 Washington?
Georgia is cheaper: cost of living index 96.3 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $45,093 more a year in Georgia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10.7 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -10.7 pts-10% | 100 | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -5.5 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -5.5 pts-5% | 100 | GA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.62¢ (+12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +1.62¢+12% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.80 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | +$2.80+16% | $15.83/Mcf | WA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.12 (-28%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$1.12-28% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$12,070 (-52%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$12,070-52% | $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 | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$10,053 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$10,053 | GA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$15,831 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$15,831 | GA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$45,093 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | +$45,093 | GA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$13,118 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$13,118 | 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 | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$18,304 | $22,819 | $41,123 | -$18,304 | GA |
| ChildcareGap -$24,140 | $22,132 | $46,272 | -$24,140 | GA |
| UtilitiesGap -$514 | $4,622 | $5,136 | -$514 | GA |
| GroceriesGap -$620 | $11,139 | $11,759 | -$620 | GA |
| TransportationGap -$3,520 | $9,271 | $12,791 | -$3,520 | GA |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,005 | $7,817 | $5,812 | +$2,005 | WA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Washington?
Georgia and Washington collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.47% vs 8.61%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.14 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.14 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.39 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +5.39 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | -0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.02 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -2.02 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 Washington?
Homes cost 79% more in Washington: a typical home value of $330,817 in Georgia vs $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $155,542 in Washington; the median household earns $79,991 and $99,389.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$261,062 (-44%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$261,062-44% | $368,697 | GA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.2 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$425 (-19%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$425-19% | $1,948 | GA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$65,047 (-42%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$65,047-42% | $100,006 | GA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.9x (-32%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -1.9x-32% | 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 | WA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $3,045 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +57% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +11.1% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | Seattle |
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 Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $79,991, with unemployment at 3.4% in Georgia and 4.7% in Washington. 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 Washington's in 12.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$19,398 (-20%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$19,398-20% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$26,320 (-29%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$26,320-29% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.04 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.04 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 | WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | WA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | WA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | WA |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | WA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | WA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | WA |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | WA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | WA |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | WA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | WA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | WA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | WA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | Even |
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | 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 Washington?
Violent crime is about the same: 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 284 in Washington (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,975 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +13 (+5%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | +13+5% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -566 (-29%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -566-29% | 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
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or Washington?
Washington scores higher for education (#29 of 50 vs #34), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 83.6%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #40); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 78.4 in Washington.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap 0 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | 0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.5 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 85.62% | GA |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +3.9 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.5 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +17 pts (+61%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +17 pts+61% | 38.8 | WA |
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
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
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, Washington #29. Health: Georgia #40, Washington #13.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Washington, or from Washington to Georgia?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 5,613 people (±2,048) moving from Georgia to Washington and 3,488 (±1,075) 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 | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +26,060 (+21%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +26,060+21% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +21,228 (+19%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +21,228+19% | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,832 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +4,832 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.1 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +0.1 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$19,721 (-22%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$19,721-22% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$27,834 (-28%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$27,834-28% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | +1.2 | GA |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Georgia or Washington?
Georgia is the better fit for young professionals and small business; Washington is the better fit for retirees 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 | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +1 places | #33score 60.1 | #32score 61 | +1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +10 places | #27score 60.4 | #17score 66.7 | +10 places | WA |
| Remote WorkersGap +1 places | #20score 54.6 | #19score 54.8 | +1 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -10 places | #17score 58.9 | #27score 53.3 | -10 places | GA |
| Small BusinessGap -10 places | #13score 66.7 | #23score 58.8 | -10 places | GA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +27 places | #40score 29.7 | #13score 57.4 | +27 places | WA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#33 vs #32)
- RetireesWashington (#17 vs #27)
- Remote WorkersEven (#20 vs #19)
- Young ProfessionalsGeorgia (#17 vs #27)
- Small BusinessGeorgia (#13 vs #23)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWashington (#13 vs #40)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and Washington?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and Washington has 26; the largest are Atlanta and Seattle. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Seattle754,195 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Redmondscore 71.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Kirkland67 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Yakimacost index 95.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Pascocounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Kirkland+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and Washington compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and Washington AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -62 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -62 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.1 (-68%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -28.1-68% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap -22.4 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -22.4 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.2 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | +2.2 min | 25.2 min | WA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -3 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.5 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 92.67% | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.6 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,960 (-54%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$1,960-54% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.8 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +2.8 pts | +4.66% | GA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia AAA, Washington AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Georgia vs Washington: 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 22 of 51, Washington on 18, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | WashingtonWA | GapGA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,301,728 (+41%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 8 million#13 of 50 | +3,301,728+41% | 6.8 million | GA |
| Median household incomeGap -$19,398 (-20%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$19,398-20% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| Population growthGap -0.04 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.04 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$26,320 (-29%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$26,320-29% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +13 (+5%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | +13+5% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -566 (-29%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -566-29% | 1,535 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.5 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 85.62% | GA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 238#26 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 216#19 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap 0 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | 0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +3.9 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.5 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$261,062 (-44%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$261,062-44% | $368,697 | GA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.2 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$425 (-19%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$425-19% | $1,948 | GA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$65,047 (-42%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$65,047-42% | $100,006 | GA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10.7 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -10.7 pts-10% | 100 | GA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.9x (-32%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -1.9x-32% | 4.6x | GA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.62¢ (+12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +1.62¢+12% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.80 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | +$2.80+16% | $15.83/Mcf | WA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.12 (-28%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$1.12-28% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -5.5 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -5.5 pts-5% | 100 | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$12,070 (-52%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$12,070-52% | $15,633 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.14 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.14 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.39 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +5.39 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | -0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.02 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -2.02 pts | 6.66% | GA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.6 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,960 (-54%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$1,960-54% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.8 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +2.8 pts | +4.66% | GA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +17 pts (+61%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +17 pts+61% | 38.8 | WA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -62 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -62 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.1 (-68%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -28.1-68% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap -22.4 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -22.4 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.2 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | +2.2 min | 25.2 min | WA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -3 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.5 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +26,060 (+21%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +26,060+21% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +21,228 (+19%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +21,228+19% | 78,715 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,832 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +4,832 | -33 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.1 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +0.1 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$19,721 (-22%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$19,721-22% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$27,834 (-28%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$27,834-28% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | +1.2 | +1.1 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$45,093 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$45,093 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$10,053 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$10,053 | +$31,418 | GA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$13,118 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$13,118 | +$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 Washington numbers say when read together.
Washington ranks higher overall
Washington leads 6 of the 11 categories to Georgia's 4, with 1 even; Georgia is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Georgia is ahead on 22 and Washington on 18.
Georgia is cheaper day to day
Georgia's cost of living index is 96.3 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $330,817 in Georgia and $591,879 in Washington. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and -$47,893 in Washington.
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); Washington collects 8.61% (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more
Median household income is $79,991 in Georgia and $99,389 in Washington, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 284 in Washington.
Moves between the two run about even
5,613 people moved from Georgia to Washington and 3,488 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Washington is the better fit for retirees
For families, Georgia ranks #33 of 50 and Washington #32; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and Washington #17.
Georgia vs Washington: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or Washington better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Georgia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 107), collects a similar share of income in taxes. Washington scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Georgia cheaper than Washington?
Georgia is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 96.3 vs 107 (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 -$47,893 in Washington. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $591,879 in Washington.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Washington?
Georgia and Washington have similar tax burdens: 8.47% vs 8.61% 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%; Washington's are zero, 0.88% and 9.51%.
Is Georgia safer than Washington?
Georgia and Washington have similar violent crime rates: 297 vs 284 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and Washington #25. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,975 in Washington. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Kirkland, WA.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or Washington?
Homes are 79% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $155,542 in Washington, against median incomes of $79,991 and $99,389.
Do people earn more in Georgia or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $79,991 in Georgia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 4.7% in Washington. 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 Washington's in 12, with 8 even.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Washington or from Washington to Georgia?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 5,613 people (±2,048) moving from Georgia to Washington and 3,488 (±1,075) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or Washington?
Washington is the better fit for retirees: #17 of 50 on the retiree index vs #27 for Georgia. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$23,667 in Washington.
Which is better for families, Georgia or Washington?
Georgia and Washington are close for families: #33 and #32 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $23,136 in Washington. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 83.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and -$47,893 in Washington.
Is Washington better than Georgia?
Yes: Washington ranks higher than Georgia overall, #20 of 50 vs #26, with a composite score of 61.8 to 55.4. Washington leads 6 of 11 categories and Georgia leads 4, including affordability and growth. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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