Illinois vs Kentucky: Which Is Better to Live In?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. Kentucky is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.2 vs 100), has a 1.3-point lower tax burden, and has a 15% lower violent crime rate. Illinois scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 39% lower in Kentucky ($1,348 vs. $2,210 in Illinois).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 33% lower in Kentucky ($13,075 vs. $19,601 in Illinois).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 33% lower in Kentucky ($63,057 vs. $93,442 in Illinois).
| Measure | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +2.8 pts | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | 44.8#41 of 50 · C | +2.8 pts | — | IL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.8 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +9.8 pts+11% | 100 | KY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$23,490 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | -$23,490 | -$11,758 | KY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$64,996 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$64,996+28% | $368,697 | KY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.29 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | +1.29 pts | 8.74% | KY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +39 (+18%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +39+18% | 328 | KY |
| Median household incomeGap +$18,685 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$18,685+29% | $80,903 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +3.9 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -30,767 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -30,767 | -33 | KY |
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 Illinois or Kentucky better to live in?
Illinois scores higher overall: 47.6 to 44.8 out of 100, #39 of 50 against #41. Illinois leads 4 of 11 categories, Kentucky leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +16.1 | 15% | 39.8#37 · C | 23.7#49 · F | +16.1 pts | IL |
| Safety12% of scoregap -6.8 | 12% | 73.4#22 · B | 80.2#10 · A | -6.8 pts | KY |
| Health12% of scoregap +25.7 | 12% | 58.8#24 · B | 33.1#43 · D | +25.7 pts | IL |
| Education12% of scoregap -1.7 | 12% | 65.9#13 · B+ | 67.6#10 · A | -1.7 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -21.2 | 10% | 61.8#32 · C+ | 83.0#11 · B+ | -21.2 pts | KY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -16.5 | 8% | 21.9#50 · F | 38.4#47 · D | -16.5 pts | KY |
| Growth7% of scoregap -14.9 | 7% | 20.0#45 · D | 34.9#30 · C+ | -14.9 pts | KY |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +9.4 | 7% | 54.2#17 · B+ | 44.8#37 · C | +9.4 pts | IL |
| Livability7% of scoregap +13.1 | 7% | 31.4#28 · C+ | 18.3#49 · F | +13.1 pts | IL |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -4.1 | 6% | 5.8#49 · F | 9.9#43 · D | -4.1 pts | KY |
| Environment4% of scoregap +2.1 | 4% | 31.0#39 · C | 28.9#40 · C | +2.1 pts | Even |
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 Illinois cheaper than Kentucky?
Kentucky is cheaper: cost of living index 90.2 vs 100 in Illinois (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $23,490 more a year in Kentucky after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.8 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +9.8 pts+11% | 100 | KY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +7.8 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | +7.8 pts+8% | 100 | KY |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.45¢ (+34%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | +4.45¢+34% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.98 (-21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | -$2.98-21% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,526 (+50%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | +$6,526+50% | $15,633 | KY |
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 | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$6,497 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$36,838costs $38,162 | -$6,497 | KY |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,586 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$29,709costs $45,290 | -$8,586 | KY |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$23,490 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$344costs $75,344 | -$23,490 | KY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,668 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$41,684costs $33,316 | -$7,668 | KY |
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 | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$8,362 | $24,335 | $15,973 | +$8,362 | KY |
| ChildcareGap +$13,052 | $39,202 | $26,150 | +$13,052 | KY |
| UtilitiesGap +$470 | $4,800 | $4,330 | +$470 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$879 | $11,691 | $10,812 | +$879 | KY |
| TransportationGap +$31 | $9,994 | $9,963 | +$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$696 | $8,812 | $8,116 | +$696 | KY |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Kentucky?
Kentucky collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.93% vs 10.22%. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.29 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | +1.29 pts | 8.74% | KY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.25 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -1.25 pts | 5.46% | IL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.31 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | +1.31 pts | 1.02% | KY |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.96 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | +2.96 pts | 6.66% | KY |
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 Illinois or Kentucky?
Homes cost 28% more in Illinois: a typical home value of $297,573 in Illinois vs $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of income in Illinois and $63,057 in Kentucky; the median household earns $83,211 and $64,526.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$64,996 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$64,996+28% | $368,697 | KY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.7 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +5.7 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$862 (+64%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$862+64% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$30,385 (+48%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$30,385+48% | $100,006 | KY |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
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.
| IL | KY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,531 | $1,197 |
| Income needed vs. median | +12% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +29.1% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Chicago | Louisville |
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 Illinois or Kentucky?
Illinois pays more: median household income $83,211 vs $64,526, with unemployment at 4.6% in Illinois and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 17 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 0.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$18,685 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$18,685+29% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$23,328 (+46%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$23,328+46% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.37 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | -0.37 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | IL | KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | $149,011$134,110 in Louisville | IL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | $230,688$207,619 in Louisville | IL |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | $98,924$89,032 in Louisville | IL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | $75,852$68,267 in Louisville | IL |
| Electricians | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | $60,249$54,224 in Louisville | IL |
| Software Developers | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | $132,426$119,183 in Louisville | IL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | $67,671$60,904 in Louisville | IL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | $54,420$48,978 in Louisville | IL |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | $54,301$48,871 in Louisville | IL |
| Civil Engineers | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | $102,343$92,109 in Louisville | IL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | $81,118$73,006 in Louisville | IL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | $67,440$60,696 in Louisville | IL |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | $57,318$51,586 in Louisville | IL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | $111,147$100,032 in Louisville | IL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | $67,624$60,862 in Louisville | IL |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | $47,671$42,904 in Louisville | IL |
| Registered Nurses | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | $91,587$82,428 in Louisville | IL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | $59,164$53,248 in Louisville | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | $44,696$40,226 in Louisville | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | $35,396$31,856 in Louisville | 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 Illinois safer than Kentucky?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 251 in Illinois (FBI). Property crime runs 1,508 and 1,262 per 100,000.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +39 (+18%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +39+18% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +246 (+19%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +246+19% | 1,535 | KY |
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.
- Orland Park, IL9 violent per 100K
- Independence, KY49 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Illinois or Kentucky?
Illinois and Kentucky are close on education (#13 and #10 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 90.1%. Illinois scores higher for health (#24 vs #43); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Illinois and 73.6 in Kentucky.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +3.9 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap -3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | -3 pts | 34.03% | IL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 41#34 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | KY |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- No city school data
- Bowling Green, KYeducation score 96
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: Illinois #13, Kentucky #10. Health: Illinois #24, Kentucky #43.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Kentucky, or from Kentucky to Illinois?
2,010 households moved from Illinois to Kentucky and 1,741 moved from Kentucky to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 269 households for Kentucky. Movers to Kentucky reported an average income of $63,920; movers to Illinois reported $62,079. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,102 people (±1,145) moving from Illinois to Kentucky and 2,394 (±710) 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 | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +68,438 (+140%) | 117,297#12 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | +68,438+140% | IL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +99,205 (+212%) | 145,906#46 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +99,205+212% | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -30,767 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -30,767 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.7 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -2.7 | KY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$18,337 (+30%) | $78,820#26 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | +$18,337+30% | IL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$38,769 (+59%) | $104,443#5 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | +$38,769+59% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | -4.7 | KY |
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, Illinois or Kentucky?
Illinois is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Kentucky is the better fit for small business; 4 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -2 places | #23score 66.1 | #25score 65.1 | -2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +1 places | #47score 46.6 | #46score 47.3 | +1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #48score 31.9 | #46score 39.5 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -2 places | #42score 41.6 | #44score 39.5 | -2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +5 places | #48score 30.3 | #43score 39.1 | +5 places | KY |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -4 places | #39score 29.9 | #43score 28.9 | -4 places | IL |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#23 vs #25)
- RetireesEven (#47 vs #46)
- Remote WorkersEven (#48 vs #46)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#42 vs #44)
- Small BusinessKentucky (#43 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIllinois (#39 vs #43)
Which cities stand out in Illinois and Kentucky?
Illinois has 29 tracked cities and Kentucky has 20; the largest are Chicago and Louisville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Chicago2,711,226 people | Louisville631,818 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Napervillescore 73.2 | Independencescore 64.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Orland Park9 violent per 100K | Independence49 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Decaturcost index 88.4 | Richmondcost index 85.3 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 | Covingtonwalkability 13.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 | Florencecounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Bowling Green96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Napervillemedian income $155,105 | Independencemedian income $102,361 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wheaton+1.3% growth | Elizabethtown+2.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Illinois and Kentucky compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Illinois carries BBB+ credit rating and Kentucky A.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +11 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | +11 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.4 (-7%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | -2.4-7% | 29.6 | IL |
| Public land shareGap -3 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | -3 pts | 17.16% | KY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | +3.8 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.4 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.1 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | +2 pts | 92.67% | IL |
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 | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | KY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | -8 pts | 12.39% | KY |
| Pension funded ratioGap -2 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | -2 pts | 74.3% | KY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,330 (+97%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | +$3,330+97% | $3,506 | KY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.9 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | -5.9 pts | +4.66% | KY |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Illinois BBB+, Kentucky A), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Illinois vs Kentucky: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Illinois is ahead on 14 of 51, Kentucky on 27, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IllinoisIL | KentuckyKY | GapIL−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +8,112,277 (+176%) · US 6.8 million | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | 4.6 million#26 of 50 | +8,112,277+176% | 6.8 million | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$18,685 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$18,685+29% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.37 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | -0.37 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$23,328 (+46%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$23,328+46% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +39 (+18%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +39+18% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +246 (+19%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +246+19% | 1,535 | KY |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 236#33 of 50 | 238#25 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 214 | 214#29 of 50 | 218#11 of 50 | -4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +3.9 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap -3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | -3 pts | 34.03% | IL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$64,996 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$64,996+28% | $368,697 | KY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.7 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +5.7 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$862 (+64%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$862+64% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$30,385 (+48%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$30,385+48% | $100,006 | KY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.8 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +9.8 pts+11% | 100 | KY |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.45¢ (+34%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | +4.45¢+34% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.98 (-21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | -$2.98-21% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +7.8 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | +7.8 pts+8% | 100 | KY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,526 (+50%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | +$6,526+50% | $15,633 | KY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.29 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | +1.29 pts | 8.74% | KY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.25 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -1.25 pts | 5.46% | IL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.31 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | +1.31 pts | 1.02% | KY |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.96 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | +2.96 pts | 6.66% | KY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | KY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | -8 pts | 12.39% | KY |
| Pension funded ratioGap -2 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | -2 pts | 74.3% | KY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,330 (+97%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | +$3,330+97% | $3,506 | KY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.9 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | -5.9 pts | +4.66% | KY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 41#34 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | KY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +11 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | +11 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.4 (-7%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | -2.4-7% | 29.6 | IL |
| Public land shareGap -3 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | -3 pts | 17.16% | KY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | +3.8 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.4 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.1 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | +2 pts | 92.67% | IL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +68,438 (+140%) · US 78,682 | 117,297#12 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | +68,438+140% | 78,682 | IL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +99,205 (+212%) · US 78,715 | 145,906#46 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +99,205+212% | 78,715 | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -30,767 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -30,767 | -33 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.7 · US +0.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -2.7 | +0.4 | KY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$18,337 (+30%) · US $77,690 | $78,820#26 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | +$18,337+30% | $77,690 | IL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$38,769 (+59%) · US $77,024 | $104,443#5 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | +$38,769+59% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 · US +1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | -4.7 | +1.1 | KY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$23,490 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | -$23,490 | -$11,758 | KY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$6,497 · US +$31,418 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$36,838#6 of 50 | -$6,497 | +$31,418 | KY |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,668 · US +$35,970 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$41,684#7 of 50 | -$7,668 | +$35,970 | KY |
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 Illinois and Kentucky numbers say when read together.
Illinois ranks higher overall
Illinois leads 4 of the 11 categories to Kentucky's 5, with 2 even; Kentucky is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Illinois is ahead on 14 and Kentucky on 27.
Kentucky is cheaper day to day
Kentucky's cost of living index is 90.2 against 100 in Illinois (US = 100). The typical home costs $297,573 in Illinois and $232,577 in Kentucky. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 a year after typical costs in Illinois and -$344 in Kentucky.
Kentucky takes a smaller share in taxes
Illinois collects 10.22% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack); Kentucky collects 8.93% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Illinois pays more
Median household income is $83,211 in Illinois and $64,526 in Kentucky, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4.6%. Violent crime runs 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 212 in Kentucky.
Moves between the two run about even
3,102 people moved from Illinois to Kentucky and 2,394 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Families and retirees: a split decision
For families, Illinois ranks #23 of 50 and Kentucky #25; for retirees, Illinois ranks #47 and Kentucky #46.
Illinois vs Kentucky: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois or Kentucky better to live in?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. Kentucky is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.2 vs 100), has a 1.3-point lower tax burden, and has a 15% lower violent crime rate. Illinois scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Illinois cheaper than Kentucky?
Kentucky is cheaper than Illinois: cost of living index 90.2 vs 100 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$23,834 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Illinois, and -$344 in Kentucky. The typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $232,577 in Kentucky.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Kentucky?
Kentucky has the lower tax burden: 8.93% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.22% in Illinois. Illinois's top income tax rate is 4.95%, its effective property tax rate 2.11% and its combined sales tax 8.96%; Kentucky's are 6.2%, 0.8% and 6%.
Is Illinois safer than Kentucky?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 251 in Illinois, per the FBI. Illinois ranks #20 of 50 for violent crime and Kentucky #9. Property crime is 1,508 per 100,000 in Illinois and 1,262 in Kentucky. The safest tracked cities are Orland Park, IL, and Independence, KY.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or Kentucky?
Homes are 28% more expensive in Illinois: the typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of household income in Illinois and $63,057 in Kentucky, against median incomes of $83,211 and $64,526.
Do people earn more in Illinois or Kentucky?
Illinois pays more: median household income is $83,211 vs $64,526 in Kentucky, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Illinois and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 17 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 0, with 3 even.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Kentucky or from Kentucky to Illinois?
2,010 households moved from Illinois to Kentucky and 1,741 moved from Kentucky to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 269 households for Kentucky. Movers to Kentucky reported an average income of $63,920; movers to Illinois reported $62,079. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,102 people (±1,145) moving from Illinois to Kentucky and 2,394 (±710) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Illinois or Kentucky?
Illinois and Kentucky are close for retirees: #47 and #46 of 50 on the retiree index. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$34,016 left after typical costs in Illinois and +$41,684 in Kentucky.
Which is better for families, Illinois or Kentucky?
Illinois and Kentucky are close for families: #23 and #25 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $19,601 a year in Illinois and $13,075 in Kentucky. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 after typical costs in Illinois and -$344 in Kentucky.
Is Kentucky better than Illinois?
No: Illinois ranks higher than Kentucky overall, #39 of 50 vs #41, with a composite score of 47.6 to 44.8. Illinois leads 4 of 11 categories and Kentucky leads 5, 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 Illinois vs Kentucky.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,010 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).