Virginia vs Hawaii: Which Is Better to Live In?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 110), has a 5.1-point lower tax burden. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 6.
- Residential electricity price is 62% lower in Virginia (15.28¢/kWh vs. 40.59¢/kWh in Hawaii).
- Typical home value is 50% lower in Virginia ($414,662 vs. $833,340 in Hawaii).
- Total tax burden is 36% lower in Virginia (8.86% vs. 13.92% in Hawaii).
| Measure | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +2.9 pts | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | 64.8#17 of 50 · B+ | +2.9 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.9 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -8.9 pts-8% | 100 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$46,785 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$46,785 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$418,678 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$418,678-50% | $368,697 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.06 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1 (0%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +10% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap -$8,655 (-9%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$8,655-9% | $80,903 | HI |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,018 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +3,018 | -33 | VA |
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 Virginia or Hawaii better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 64.8 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #17. Virginia leads 5 of 11 categories, Hawaii leads 6, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -21.7 | 15% | 64.6#7 · A | 86.3#1 · A+ | -21.7 pts | HI |
| Safety12% of scoregap +3.6 | 12% | 79.3#13 · B+ | 75.7#21 · B | +3.6 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap -27.2 | 12% | 61.4#17 · B+ | 88.6#2 · A+ | -27.2 pts | HI |
| Education12% of scoregap +6.3 | 12% | 65.4#14 · B+ | 59.1#28 · C+ | +6.3 pts | VA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +56.1 | 10% | 60.5#34 · C+ | 4.4#50 · F | +56.1 pts | VA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +26.3 | 8% | 62.8#20 · B | 36.5#48 · D | +26.3 pts | VA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +19.8 | 7% | 45.1#19 · B | 25.3#40 · C | +19.8 pts | VA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -6.6 | 7% | 47.8#29 · C+ | 54.4#16 · B+ | -6.6 pts | HI |
| Livability7% of scoregap -7.2 | 7% | 27.3#35 · C | 34.5#20 · B | -7.2 pts | HI |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -16.2 | 6% | 20.1#30 · C+ | 36.3#18 · B+ | -16.2 pts | HI |
| Environment4% of scoregap -8.9 | 4% | 48.0#15 · B+ | 56.9#8 · A | -8.9 pts | HI |
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 Virginia cheaper than Hawaii?
Virginia is cheaper: cost of living index 101.1 vs 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $46,785 more a year in Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.9 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -8.9 pts-8% | 100 | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -11.2 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -11.2 pts-10% | 100 | VA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -25.31¢ (-62%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -25.31¢-62% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$35.59 (-68%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$35.59-68% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.64 (-35%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$1.64-35% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$7,832 (-31%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$7,832-31% | $15,633 | VA |
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 | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$18,680 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$9,722costs $65,279 | +$18,680 | VA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$24,847 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | -$5,769costs $80,769 | +$24,847 | VA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$46,785 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | -$68,735costs $143,735 | +$46,785 | VA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$21,161 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$11,102costs $63,899 | +$21,161 | VA |
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 | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$24,503 | $28,313 | $52,816 | -$24,503 | VA |
| ChildcareGap -$15,664 | $34,528 | $50,192 | -$15,664 | VA |
| UtilitiesGap -$427 | $4,853 | $5,280 | -$427 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$1,262 | $11,308 | $12,570 | -$1,262 | VA |
| TransportationGap -$5,155 | $9,711 | $14,866 | -$5,155 | VA |
| State and local taxesGap +$226 | $8,237 | $8,011 | +$226 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Hawaii?
Virginia collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.86% vs 13.92%. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.06 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.25 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -5.25 pts | 5.46% | VA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.49 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.27 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | +1.27 pts | 6.66% | HI |
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 Virginia or Hawaii?
Homes cost 101% more in Hawaii: a typical home value of $414,662 in Virginia vs $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of income in Virginia and $202,402 in Hawaii; the median household earns $92,090 and $100,745.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$418,678 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$418,678-50% | $368,697 | VA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$587 (-19%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$587-19% | $1,948 | VA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$92,482 (-46%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$92,482-46% | $100,006 | VA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -3.8x (-46%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -3.8x-46% | 4.6x | VA |
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.
| VA | HI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,133 | $4,288 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +101% |
| Five-year change | +23.4% | +16.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Washington | Urban Honolulu |
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 Virginia or Hawaii?
Hawaii pays more: median household income $100,745 vs $92,090, with unemployment at 3.4% in Virginia and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 0.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$8,655 (-9%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$8,655-9% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,401 (+7%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | +$4,401+7% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | VA |
| Population growthGap +0.84 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +0.84 pts | +0.51% | VA |
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 | VA | HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | $222,456$242,477 in Honolulu | VA |
| Software Developers | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | $130,870$142,648 in Honolulu | VA |
| Lawyers | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | $147,403$160,669 in Honolulu | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | $95,783$104,403 in Honolulu | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | $104,027$113,389 in Honolulu | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | $103,999$113,359 in Honolulu | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | $72,942$79,507 in Honolulu | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | $57,100$62,239 in Honolulu | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | $70,704$77,067 in Honolulu | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | $52,646$57,384 in Honolulu | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | $63,497$69,212 in Honolulu | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | $51,849$56,515 in Honolulu | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | $80,939$88,223 in Honolulu | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | $65,250$71,123 in Honolulu | VA |
| Electricians | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | $63,566$69,287 in Honolulu | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | $45,961$50,097 in Honolulu | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | $53,672$58,503 in Honolulu | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | $100,764$109,833 in Honolulu | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | $44,856$48,893 in Honolulu | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | $37,595$40,979 in Honolulu | VA |
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 Virginia safer than Hawaii?
Violent crime is about the same: 206 per 100,000 residents in Virginia and 205 in Hawaii (FBI). Property crime runs 1,354 and 1,604 per 100,000.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1 (0%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +10% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -250 (-16%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | -250-16% | 1,535 | VA |
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.
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
- No city crime data
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Virginia or Hawaii?
Virginia scores higher for education (#14 of 50 vs #28), with high school graduation rates of 89.1% and 86%. Hawaii scores higher for health (#2 vs #17); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Virginia and 80.0 in Hawaii.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap +5.3 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +13 pts (+54%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +13 pts+54% | 38.8 | HI |
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).
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
- Honolulu, HIeducation score 86
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: Virginia #14, Hawaii #28. Health: Virginia #17, Hawaii #2.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Hawaii, or from Hawaii to Virginia?
1,026 households moved from Virginia to Hawaii and 1,169 moved from Hawaii to Virginia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 143 households for Virginia. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $81,441; movers to Virginia reported $83,885. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,143 people (±1,389) moving from Virginia to Hawaii and 3,917 (±2,352) 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 | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +110,583 (+442%) | 135,609#7 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +110,583+442% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +107,565 (+389%) | 135,188#44 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +107,565+389% | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,018 | +421#25 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +3,018 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.8 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +1.8 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,244 (+5%) | $82,327#17 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | +$4,244+5% | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$18,465 (+26%) | $89,328#9 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$18,465+26% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.9 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +6.9 | VA |
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, Virginia or Hawaii?
Virginia is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Hawaii is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -10 places | #17score 72.9 | #27score 63 | -10 places | VA |
| RetireesGap -24 places | #15score 68.4 | #39score 54.4 | -24 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap -29 places | #16score 58.3 | #45score 40.3 | -29 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -12 places | #13score 63.4 | #25score 53.7 | -12 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap -22 places | #12score 68 | #34score 48.7 | -22 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +9 places | #23score 48 | #14score 56.7 | +9 places | HI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #27)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #39)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #45)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #25)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #34)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsHawaii (#14 vs #23)
Which cities stand out in Virginia and Hawaii?
Virginia has 20 tracked cities and Hawaii has 20; the largest are Virginia Beach and Honolulu. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Virginia Beach456,349 people | Honolulu345,482 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Restonscore 75.8 | East Honoluluscore 68.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K | — |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 | Hilocost index 106.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 | Mililani Maukawalkability 14.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 | Kahuluicounty median AQI 21 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Leesburg95% graduation rate | Honolulu86% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | McLeanmedian income $250,001 | East Honolulumedian income $159,518 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Suffolk+1.6% growth | Honolulu-0.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Virginia and Hawaii compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Virginia carries AAA credit rating and Hawaii AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -20 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | -20 pts | 29.34% | HI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -48.5 (-90%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -48.5-90% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -4.6 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | -4.6 pts | 17.16% | HI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | +1.6 min | 25.2 min | HI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.3 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +6.9 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | -0.2 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 | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.1 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.39% | VA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +21 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +21 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,750 (-57%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$3,750-57% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +2.4 pts | +4.66% | VA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Virginia AAA, Hawaii 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).
Virginia vs Hawaii: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Virginia is ahead on 33 of 51, Hawaii on 11, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | VirginiaVA | HawaiiHI | GapVA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +7,447,287 (+520%) · US 6.8 million | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | 1.4 million#40 of 50 | +7,447,287+520% | 6.8 million | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$8,655 (-9%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$8,655-9% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| Population growthGap +0.84 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +0.84 pts | +0.51% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,401 (+7%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | +$4,401+7% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | VA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1 (0%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +10% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -250 (-16%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | -250-16% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 238#24 of 50 | 239#15 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 214#31 of 50 | 216#16 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap +5.3 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$418,678 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$418,678-50% | $368,697 | VA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$587 (-19%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$587-19% | $1,948 | VA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$92,482 (-46%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$92,482-46% | $100,006 | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.9 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -8.9 pts-8% | 100 | VA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -3.8x (-46%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -3.8x-46% | 4.6x | VA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -25.31¢ (-62%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -25.31¢-62% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$35.59 (-68%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$35.59-68% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.64 (-35%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$1.64-35% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -11.2 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -11.2 pts-10% | 100 | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$7,832 (-31%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$7,832-31% | $15,633 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.06 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.25 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -5.25 pts | 5.46% | VA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.49 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.27 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | +1.27 pts | 6.66% | HI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.1 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.39% | VA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +21 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +21 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,750 (-57%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$3,750-57% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +2.4 pts | +4.66% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +13 pts (+54%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +13 pts+54% | 38.8 | HI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -20 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | -20 pts | 29.34% | HI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -48.5 (-90%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -48.5-90% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -4.6 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | -4.6 pts | 17.16% | HI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | +1.6 min | 25.2 min | HI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.3 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +6.9 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +110,583 (+442%) · US 78,682 | 135,609#7 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +110,583+442% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +107,565 (+389%) · US 78,715 | 135,188#44 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +107,565+389% | 78,715 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,018 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +3,018 | -33 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.8 · US +0.4 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +1.8 | +0.4 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,244 (+5%) · US $77,690 | $82,327#17 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | +$4,244+5% | $77,690 | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$18,465 (+26%) · US $77,024 | $89,328#9 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$18,465+26% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.9 · US +1.1 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +6.9 | +1.1 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$46,785 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$46,785 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$18,680 · US +$31,418 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$9,722#50 of 50 | +$18,680 | +$31,418 | VA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$21,161 · US +$35,970 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$11,102#50 of 50 | +$21,161 | +$35,970 | VA |
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 Virginia and Hawaii numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 5 of the 11 categories to Hawaii's 6, with 0 even; Hawaii is ahead on health and economy. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Virginia is ahead on 33 and Hawaii on 11.
Virginia is cheaper day to day
Virginia's cost of living index is 101.1 against 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). The typical home costs $414,662 in Virginia and $833,340 in Hawaii. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 a year after typical costs in Virginia and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Virginia takes a smaller share in taxes
Virginia collects 8.86% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Hawaii collects 13.92% (high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Hawaii pays more
Median household income is $92,090 in Virginia and $100,745 in Hawaii, with unemployment at 3.4% and 2.4%. Violent crime runs 206 per 100,000 residents in Virginia and 205 in Hawaii.
Moves between the two run about even
3,143 people moved from Virginia to Hawaii and 3,917 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, Virginia ranks #17 of 50 and Hawaii #27; for retirees, Virginia ranks #15 and Hawaii #39.
Virginia vs Hawaii: frequently asked questions
Is Virginia or Hawaii better to live in?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 110), has a 5.1-point lower tax burden. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 6.
Is Virginia cheaper than Hawaii?
Virginia is cheaper than Hawaii: cost of living index 101.1 vs 110 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$21,950 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Virginia, and -$68,735 in Hawaii. The typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $833,340 in Hawaii.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Hawaii?
Virginia has the lower tax burden: 8.86% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.92% in Hawaii. Virginia's top income tax rate is 5.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.76% and its combined sales tax 5.77%; Hawaii's are 11%, 0.27% and 4.5%.
Is Virginia safer than Hawaii?
Virginia and Hawaii have similar violent crime rates: 206 vs 205 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Virginia ranks #8 of 50 for violent crime and Hawaii #7. Property crime is 1,354 per 100,000 in Virginia and 1,604 in Hawaii.
Are homes more expensive in Virginia or Hawaii?
Homes are 101% more expensive in Hawaii: the typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of household income in Virginia and $202,402 in Hawaii, against median incomes of $92,090 and $100,745.
Do people earn more in Virginia or Hawaii?
Hawaii pays more: median household income is $100,745 vs $92,090 in Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Virginia and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 0.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Hawaii or from Hawaii to Virginia?
1,026 households moved from Virginia to Hawaii and 1,169 moved from Hawaii to Virginia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 143 households for Virginia. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $81,441; movers to Virginia reported $83,885. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,143 people (±1,389) moving from Virginia to Hawaii and 3,917 (±2,352) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Virginia or Hawaii?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #39 for Hawaii. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$32,263 left after typical costs in Virginia and +$11,102 in Hawaii.
Which is better for families, Virginia or Hawaii?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #27 for Hawaii. Center-based infant care costs $17,264 a year in Virginia and $25,096 in Hawaii. High school graduation rates are 89.1% and 86%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 after typical costs in Virginia and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Is Hawaii better than Virginia?
No: Virginia ranks higher than Hawaii overall, #15 of 50 vs #17, with a composite score of 67.7 to 64.8. Virginia leads 5 of 11 categories and Hawaii leads 6, including health and economy. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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