Pennsylvania vs Illinois: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Illinois #39 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 100), has a 1.6-point lower tax burden, and has a 10% lower violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 0.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 22% lower in Pennsylvania ($15,302 vs. $19,601 in Illinois).
- Total tax burden is 16% lower in Pennsylvania (8.58% vs. 10.22% in Illinois).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 14% lower in Pennsylvania ($1,911 vs. $2,210 in Illinois).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +9.3 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | +9.3 pts | — | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 100#33 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$12,209 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | +$12,209 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$7,172 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $297,573#17 of 50 | -$7,172-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.64 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.22%#44 of 50 | -1.64 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -24 (-10%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 251#20 of 50 | -24-10% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$5,666 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $83,211#18 of 50 | -$5,666-7% | $80,903 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 87.3%#20 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 77.5#23 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +16,514 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +16,514 | -33 | PA |
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 Pennsylvania or Illinois better to live in?
Pennsylvania scores higher overall: 56.9 to 47.6 out of 100, #25 of 50 against #39. Pennsylvania leads 7 of 11 categories, Illinois leads 0, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -0.6 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 39.8#37 · C | -0.6 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +4.7 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 73.4#22 · B | +4.7 pts | PA |
| Health12% of scoregap +0.8 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 58.8#24 · B | +0.8 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -0.5 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 65.9#13 · B+ | -0.5 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +4.9 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 61.8#32 · C+ | +4.9 pts | PA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +23.7 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 21.9#50 · F | +23.7 pts | PA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +6.8 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 20.0#45 · D | +6.8 pts | PA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1.7 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 54.2#17 · B+ | +1.7 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +3 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 31.4#28 · C+ | +3 pts | PA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +14 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 5.8#49 · F | +14 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +7 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 31.0#39 · C | +7 pts | PA |
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 Pennsylvania cheaper than Illinois?
Pennsylvania is cheaper: cost of living index 97.6 vs 100 in Illinois (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $12,209 more a year in Pennsylvania after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 100#33 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | PA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -4.4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 103.8#43 of 50 | -4.4 pts-4% | 100 | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.61¢ (+9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | +1.61¢+9% | 17.84¢/kWh | IL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.79 (+34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | +$3.79+34% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.22 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | +$0.22+7% | $3.32/gal | IL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,299 (-22%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $19,601#39 of 50 | -$4,299-22% | $15,633 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,861 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$2,861 | PA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$3,258 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$3,258 | PA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$12,209 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | +$12,209 | PA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$3,113 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$3,113 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$2,619 | $21,716 | $24,335 | -$2,619 | PA |
| ChildcareGap -$8,598 | $30,604 | $39,202 | -$8,598 | PA |
| UtilitiesGap -$115 | $4,685 | $4,800 | -$115 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$496 | $11,195 | $11,691 | -$496 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$692 | $10,686 | $9,994 | +$692 | IL |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,073 | $7,739 | $8,812 | -$1,073 | PA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Illinois?
Pennsylvania collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 10.22%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.64 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.22%#44 of 50 | -1.64 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.91 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 4.95%#22 of 50 | +1.91 pts | 5.46% | IL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.7 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 2.11%#49 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 1.02% | PA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.62 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 8.96%#43 of 50 | -2.62 pts | 6.66% | PA |
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 Pennsylvania or Illinois?
Typical home values are about the same: $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $297,573 in Illinois. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $93,442 in Illinois; the median household earns $77,545 and $83,211.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$7,172 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $297,573#17 of 50 | -$7,172-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.9 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +5.3%#3 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$299 (-14%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $2,210#40 of 50 | -$299-14% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$10,548 (-11%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $93,442#24 of 50 | -$10,548-11% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 3.6x#9 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 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.
| PA | IL | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $1,531 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +12% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +29.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | Chicago |
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 Pennsylvania or Illinois?
Illinois pays more: median household income $83,211 vs $77,545, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.6% in Illinois. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Illinois's in 11.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$5,666 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $83,211#18 of 50 | -$5,666-7% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.6%#41 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$9,368 (-13%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $74,153#8 of 50 | -$9,368-13% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.03 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.13%#41 of 50 | -0.03 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 | PA | IL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | IL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | IL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | IL |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | IL |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | IL |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | IL |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | IL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | IL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | IL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | IL |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | PA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | PA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | IL |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | 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 Pennsylvania safer than Illinois?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 251 in Illinois (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,508 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -24 (-10%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 251#20 of 50 | -24-10% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -184 (-12%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,508#28 of 50 | -184-12% | 1,535 | PA |
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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Orland Park, IL9 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or Illinois?
Pennsylvania and Illinois are close on education (#15 and #13 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 87.3%. They are close on health (#21 and #24); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 77.5 in Illinois.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 277#16 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 262#7 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 87.3%#20 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 77.5#23 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap 0 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 0 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.9%#24 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-7%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 43#42 of 50 | -3 pts-7% | 38.8 | PA |
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).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- No city school data
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: Pennsylvania #15, Illinois #13. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Illinois #24.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Illinois, or from Illinois to Pennsylvania?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 4,420 people (±1,679) moving from Pennsylvania to Illinois and 5,267 (±1,510) 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +6,328 (+5%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 117,297#12 of 50 | +6,328+5% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap -10,186 (-7%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 145,906#46 of 50 | -10,186-7% | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +16,514 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +16,514 | PA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.3 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +1.3 | PA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$2,454 (-3%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $78,820#26 of 50 | -$2,454-3% | IL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$18,801 (-18%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $104,443#5 of 50 | -$18,801-18% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 | -0.2#33 of 50 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +2.9 | PA |
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, Pennsylvania or Illinois?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -4 places | #19score 71.8 | #23score 66.1 | -4 places | PA |
| RetireesGap -21 places | #26score 61.5 | #47score 46.6 | -21 places | PA |
| Remote WorkersGap -10 places | #38score 46 | #48score 31.9 | -10 places | PA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -9 places | #33score 49.4 | #42score 41.6 | -9 places | PA |
| Small BusinessGap -10 places | #38score 46.1 | #48score 30.3 | -10 places | PA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -12 places | #27score 43.3 | #39score 29.9 | -12 places | PA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesPennsylvania (#19 vs #23)
- RetireesPennsylvania (#26 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersPennsylvania (#38 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsPennsylvania (#33 vs #42)
- Small BusinessPennsylvania (#38 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #39)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Illinois?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Illinois has 29; the largest are Philadelphia and Chicago. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Chicago2,711,226 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Napervillescore 73.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Orland Park9 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Decaturcost index 88.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | — |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Napervillemedian income $155,105 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Wheaton+1.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Illinois compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Illinois BBB+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -14 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 20%#24 of 50 | -14 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.8 (-57%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 31.2#29 of 50 | -17.8-57% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap +3.2 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 2.4%#42 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 17.16% | PA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.2 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | -1.2 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2.8 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 7%#4 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.2 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 13.6%#18 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.9%#24 of 50 | -0.8 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +20 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 65#50 of 50 | +20 pts | 92.7 | PA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.6 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 0.9%#50 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 12.39% | PA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +17 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 45%#50 of 50 | +17 pts | 74.3% | PA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,630 (-39%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $6,750#46 of 50 | -$2,630-39% | $3,506 | PA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4.6 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +4.6 pts | +4.66% | PA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania AA-, Illinois BBB+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Pennsylvania vs Illinois: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Pennsylvania is ahead on 26 of 51, Illinois on 12, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IllinoisIL | GapPA−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +340,291 (+3%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | +340,291+3% | 6.8 million | Even |
| Median household incomeGap -$5,666 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $83,211#18 of 50 | -$5,666-7% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.6%#41 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.03 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.13%#41 of 50 | -0.03 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$9,368 (-13%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $74,153#8 of 50 | -$9,368-13% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -24 (-10%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 251#20 of 50 | -24-10% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -184 (-12%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,508#28 of 50 | -184-12% | 1,535 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 87.3%#20 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 236#33 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 277#16 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 214#29 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 262#7 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 77.5#23 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap 0 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 0 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.9%#24 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$7,172 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $297,573#17 of 50 | -$7,172-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.9 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +5.3%#3 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$299 (-14%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $2,210#40 of 50 | -$299-14% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$10,548 (-11%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $93,442#24 of 50 | -$10,548-11% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 100#33 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 3.6x#9 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.61¢ (+9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | +1.61¢+9% | 17.84¢/kWh | IL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.79 (+34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | +$3.79+34% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.22 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | +$0.22+7% | $3.32/gal | IL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -4.4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 103.8#43 of 50 | -4.4 pts-4% | 100 | PA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,299 (-22%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $19,601#39 of 50 | -$4,299-22% | $15,633 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.64 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.22%#44 of 50 | -1.64 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.91 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 4.95%#22 of 50 | +1.91 pts | 5.46% | IL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.7 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 2.11%#49 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 1.02% | PA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.62 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 8.96%#43 of 50 | -2.62 pts | 6.66% | PA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +20 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 65#50 of 50 | +20 pts | 92.7 | PA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.6 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 0.9%#50 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 12.39% | PA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +17 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 45%#50 of 50 | +17 pts | 74.3% | PA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,630 (-39%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $6,750#46 of 50 | -$2,630-39% | $3,506 | PA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4.6 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +4.6 pts | +4.66% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-7%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 43#42 of 50 | -3 pts-7% | 38.8 | PA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -14 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 20%#24 of 50 | -14 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.8 (-57%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 31.2#29 of 50 | -17.8-57% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap +3.2 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 2.4%#42 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 17.16% | PA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.2 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | -1.2 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2.8 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 7%#4 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.2 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 13.6%#18 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.9%#24 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 92.67% | IL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +6,328 (+5%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 117,297#12 of 50 | +6,328+5% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap -10,186 (-7%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 145,906#46 of 50 | -10,186-7% | 78,715 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +16,514 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +16,514 | -33 | PA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.3 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +1.3 | +0.4 | PA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$2,454 (-3%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $78,820#26 of 50 | -$2,454-3% | $77,690 | IL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$18,801 (-18%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $104,443#5 of 50 | -$18,801-18% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +2.9 | +1.1 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$12,209 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | +$12,209 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,861 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$2,861 | +$31,418 | PA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$3,113 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$3,113 | +$35,970 | PA |
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 Pennsylvania and Illinois numbers say when read together.
Pennsylvania ranks higher overall
Pennsylvania leads 7 of the 11 categories to Illinois's 0, with 4 even. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 26 and Illinois on 12.
Pennsylvania is cheaper day to day
Pennsylvania's cost of living index is 97.6 against 100 in Illinois (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $297,573 in Illinois. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$23,834 in Illinois.
Pennsylvania takes a smaller share in taxes
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Illinois collects 10.22% (high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack).
Illinois pays more
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $83,211 in Illinois, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.6%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 251 in Illinois.
Moves between the two run about even
4,420 people moved from Pennsylvania to Illinois and 5,267 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Pennsylvania fits families and retirees better
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Illinois #23; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Illinois #47.
Pennsylvania vs Illinois: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Illinois better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Illinois #39 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 100), has a 1.6-point lower tax burden, and has a 10% lower violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 0.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Illinois?
Pennsylvania is cheaper than Illinois: cost of living index 97.6 vs 100 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$23,834 in Illinois. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $297,573 in Illinois.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Illinois?
Pennsylvania has the lower tax burden: 8.58% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.22% in Illinois. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; Illinois's are 4.95%, 2.11% and 8.96%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Illinois?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 251 in Illinois, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Illinois #20. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,508 in Illinois. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Orland Park, IL.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Illinois?
Typical home values are about the same: $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $297,573 in Illinois. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $93,442 in Illinois, against median incomes of $77,545 and $83,211.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Illinois?
Illinois pays more: median household income is $83,211 vs $77,545 in Pennsylvania, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.6% in Illinois. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Illinois's in 11, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Illinois or from Illinois to Pennsylvania?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 4,420 people (±1,679) moving from Pennsylvania to Illinois and 5,267 (±1,510) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Illinois?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for retirees: #26 of 50 on the retiree index vs #47 for Illinois. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$34,016 in Illinois.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Illinois?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families: #19 of 50 on the families index vs #23 for Illinois. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $19,601 in Illinois. High school graduation rates are 87% and 87.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$23,834 in Illinois.
Is Illinois better than Pennsylvania?
No: Pennsylvania ranks higher than Illinois overall, #25 of 50 vs #39, with a composite score of 56.9 to 47.6. Pennsylvania leads 7 of 11 categories and Illinois leads 0. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: most-searched matchup.