Illinois vs Tennessee: Which Is Better to Live In?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 100), has no income tax, and has a 49% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 49% lower in Illinois (251 vs. 492 in Tennessee).
- Total tax burden is 38% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 10.22% in Illinois).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 29% lower in Tennessee ($13,926 vs. $19,601 in Illinois).
| Measure | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -9.5 pts | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | -9.5 pts | — | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +8.1 pts+9% | 100 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$18,175 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$18,175 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$36,535 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$36,535-11% | $368,697 | IL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.84 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +3.84 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -241 (-49%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -241-49% | 328 | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,214 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$11,214+16% | $80,903 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +3.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.7 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -52,713 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -52,713 | -33 | TN |
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 Tennessee better to live in?
Tennessee scores higher overall: 57.1 to 47.6 out of 100, #24 of 50 against #39. Illinois leads 3 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 8, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -6 | 15% | 39.8#37 · C | 45.8#26 · B | -6 pts | TN |
| Safety12% of scoregap +21.2 | 12% | 73.4#22 · B | 52.2#45 · D | +21.2 pts | IL |
| Health12% of scoregap +30.1 | 12% | 58.8#24 · B | 28.7#46 · D | +30.1 pts | IL |
| Education12% of scoregap -5.8 | 12% | 65.9#13 · B+ | 71.7#8 · A | -5.8 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -16.1 | 10% | 61.8#32 · C+ | 77.9#17 · B+ | -16.1 pts | TN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -54.2 | 8% | 21.9#50 · F | 76.1#3 · A+ | -54.2 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -36.9 | 7% | 20.0#45 · D | 56.9#5 · A+ | -36.9 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +11.3 | 7% | 54.2#17 · B+ | 42.9#40 · C | +11.3 pts | IL |
| Livability7% of scoregap -15.6 | 7% | 31.4#28 · C+ | 47.0#9 · A | -15.6 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -7.5 | 6% | 5.8#49 · F | 13.3#38 · C | -7.5 pts | TN |
| Environment4% of scoregap -5.2 | 4% | 31.0#39 · C | 36.2#33 · C+ | -5.2 pts | TN |
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper: cost of living index 91.9 vs 100 in Illinois (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $18,175 more a year in Tennessee after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +8.1 pts+9% | 100 | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +7.6 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +7.6 pts+8% | 100 | TN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.51¢ (+34%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +4.51¢+34% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.59 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | -$0.59-5% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,675 (+41%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$5,675+41% | $15,633 | TN |
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 | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$5,567 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | -$5,567 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$6,269 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | -$6,269 | TN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$18,175 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | -$18,175 | TN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$5,944 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | -$5,944 | TN |
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 | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,124 | $24,335 | $22,211 | +$2,124 | TN |
| ChildcareGap +$11,350 | $39,202 | $27,852 | +$11,350 | TN |
| UtilitiesGap +$389 | $4,800 | $4,411 | +$389 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$856 | $11,691 | $10,835 | +$856 | TN |
| TransportationGap +$314 | $9,994 | $9,680 | +$314 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$3,141 | $8,812 | $5,671 | +$3,141 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Tennessee?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 10.22%. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.84 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +3.84 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.95 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +4.95 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.53 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +1.53 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.65 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -0.65 pts | 6.66% | IL |
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 Tennessee?
Homes cost 12% more in Tennessee: a typical home value of $297,573 in Illinois vs $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of income in Illinois and $85,549 in Tennessee; the median household earns $83,211 and $71,997.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$36,535 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$36,535-11% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +4.6 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$397 (+22%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | +$397+22% | $1,948 | TN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$7,893 (+9%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$7,893+9% | $100,006 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1x (-22%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -1x-22% | 4.6x | IL |
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 | TN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,531 | $1,719 |
| Income needed vs. median | +12% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +29.1% | +24.8% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | Chicago | Nashville |
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 Tennessee?
Illinois pays more: median household income $83,211 vs $71,997, with unemployment at 4.6% in Illinois and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 1.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$11,214 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$11,214+16% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,960 (+21%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | +$12,960+21% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | -0.8 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Population growthGap -0.75 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.75 pts | +0.51% | TN |
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 | TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | IL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | IL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | IL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | IL |
| Electricians | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | IL |
| Software Developers | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | IL |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | IL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | IL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | IL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | IL |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | IL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | IL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | IL |
| Civil Engineers | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | IL |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | IL |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | IL |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | TN |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | 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 Tennessee?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,508 and 1,637 per 100,000.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -241 (-49%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -241-49% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -129 (-8%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -129-8% | 1,535 | IL |
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
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Illinois or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #13), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 90.4%. Illinois scores higher for health (#24 vs #46); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Illinois and 73.8 in Tennessee.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +3.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.7 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.4 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 34.03% | IL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 7.6% | IL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | TN |
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
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
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, Tennessee #8. Health: Illinois #24, Tennessee #46.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Tennessee, or from Tennessee to Illinois?
5,141 households moved from Illinois to Tennessee and 2,901 moved from Tennessee to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,240 households for Tennessee. Movers to Tennessee reported an average income of $103,437; movers to Illinois reported $63,991. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 10,866 people (±3,232) moving from Illinois to Tennessee and 3,992 (±1,354) the other way, a net gain of about 6,874 people for Tennessee beyond the margin of error.
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 | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +3,509 (+3%) | 117,297#12 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +3,509+3% | Even |
| Households moving outIRSGap +56,222 (+63%) | 145,906#46 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +56,222+63% | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -52,713 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -52,713 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -5.5 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$610 (-1%) | $78,820#26 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | -$610-1% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$34,367 (+49%) | $104,443#5 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$34,367+49% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.9 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -8.9 | TN |
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 Tennessee?
Illinois is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; Tennessee is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -7 places | #23score 66.1 | #30score 62.5 | -7 places | IL |
| RetireesGap +19 places | #47score 46.6 | #28score 60.3 | +19 places | TN |
| Remote WorkersGap +34 places | #48score 31.9 | #14score 59.5 | +34 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +26 places | #42score 41.6 | #16score 60 | +26 places | TN |
| Small BusinessGap +40 places | #48score 30.3 | #8score 73.5 | +40 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -5 places | #39score 29.9 | #44score 28.8 | -5 places | IL |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIllinois (#23 vs #30)
- RetireesTennessee (#28 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsTennessee (#16 vs #42)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIllinois (#39 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in Illinois and Tennessee?
Illinois has 29 tracked cities and Tennessee has 20; the largest are Chicago and Nashville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Chicago2,711,226 people | Nashville690,130 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Napervillescore 73.2 | Franklinscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Orland Park9 violent per 100K | Brentwood62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Decaturcost index 88.4 | Jacksoncost index 85.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Lebanon97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Napervillemedian income $155,105 | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wheaton+1.3% growth | Lebanon+5.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Illinois and Tennessee compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Illinois carries BBB+ credit rating and Tennessee AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.2 (+25%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | +6.2+25% | 29.6 | TN |
| Public land shareGap -4.8 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | -4.8 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | TN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.5 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.4 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 | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -35 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -35 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -12.3 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -12.3 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -52 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -52 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,120 (+314%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$5,120+314% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.3 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -8.3 pts | +4.66% | TN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Illinois BBB+, Tennessee AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Illinois vs Tennessee: 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 16 of 51, Tennessee on 29, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IllinoisIL | TennesseeTN | GapIL−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,404,065 (+74%) · US 6.8 million | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | +5,404,065+74% | 6.8 million | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,214 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$11,214+16% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| Population growthGap -0.75 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.75 pts | +0.51% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,960 (+21%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | +$12,960+21% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | -0.8 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -241 (-49%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -241-49% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -129 (-8%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -129-8% | 1,535 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 236#33 of 50 | 240#12 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 214#29 of 50 | 215#23 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.7 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.4 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 34.03% | IL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 7.6% | IL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$36,535 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$36,535-11% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +4.6 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$397 (+22%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | +$397+22% | $1,948 | TN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$7,893 (+9%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$7,893+9% | $100,006 | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +8.1 pts+9% | 100 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1x (-22%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -1x-22% | 4.6x | IL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.51¢ (+34%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +4.51¢+34% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.59 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | -$0.59-5% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +7.6 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +7.6 pts+8% | 100 | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,675 (+41%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$5,675+41% | $15,633 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.84 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +3.84 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.95 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +4.95 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.53 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +1.53 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.65 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -0.65 pts | 6.66% | IL |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -35 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -35 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -12.3 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -12.3 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -52 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -52 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,120 (+314%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$5,120+314% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.3 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -8.3 pts | +4.66% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | TN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.2 (+25%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | +6.2+25% | 29.6 | TN |
| Public land shareGap -4.8 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | -4.8 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | TN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.5 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +3,509 (+3%) · US 78,682 | 117,297#12 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +3,509+3% | 78,682 | Even |
| Households moving outIRSGap +56,222 (+63%) · US 78,715 | 145,906#46 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +56,222+63% | 78,715 | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -52,713 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -52,713 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 · US +0.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -5.5 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$610 (-1%) · US $77,690 | $78,820#26 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | -$610-1% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$34,367 (+49%) · US $77,024 | $104,443#5 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$34,367+49% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.9 · US +1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -8.9 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$18,175 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$18,175 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$5,567 · US +$31,418 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | -$5,567 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$5,944 · US +$35,970 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | -$5,944 | +$35,970 | TN |
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 Tennessee numbers say when read together.
Tennessee ranks higher overall
Tennessee leads 8 of the 11 categories to Illinois's 3, with 0 even; Illinois is ahead on health and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Illinois is ahead on 16 and Tennessee on 29.
Tennessee is cheaper day to day
Tennessee's cost of living index is 91.9 against 100 in Illinois (US = 100). The typical home costs $297,573 in Illinois and $334,108 in Tennessee. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 a year after typical costs in Illinois and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Tennessee 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); Tennessee collects 6.38% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Illinois pays more and is safer
Median household income is $83,211 in Illinois and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 492 in Tennessee.
People move to Tennessee on net
10,866 people moved to Tennessee from Illinois in the latest Census release, against 3,992 going the other way.
Illinois for families, Tennessee for retirees
For families, Illinois ranks #23 of 50 and Tennessee #30; for retirees, Illinois ranks #47 and Tennessee #28.
Illinois vs Tennessee: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois or Tennessee better to live in?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 100), has no income tax, and has a 49% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Illinois cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper than Illinois: cost of living index 91.9 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 -$5,659 in Tennessee. The typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $334,108 in Tennessee.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Tennessee?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% 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%; Tennessee's are zero, 0.58% and 9.61%.
Is Illinois safer than Tennessee?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Illinois ranks #20 of 50 for violent crime and Tennessee #46. Property crime is 1,508 per 100,000 in Illinois and 1,637 in Tennessee. The safest tracked cities are Orland Park, IL, and Brentwood, TN.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or Tennessee?
Homes are 12% more expensive in Tennessee: the typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of household income in Illinois and $85,549 in Tennessee, against median incomes of $83,211 and $71,997.
Do people earn more in Illinois or Tennessee?
Illinois pays more: median household income is $83,211 vs $71,997 in Tennessee, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Illinois and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 1, with 3 even.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Tennessee or from Tennessee to Illinois?
5,141 households moved from Illinois to Tennessee and 2,901 moved from Tennessee to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,240 households for Tennessee. Movers to Tennessee reported an average income of $103,437; movers to Illinois reported $63,991. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 10,866 people (±3,232) moving from Illinois to Tennessee and 3,992 (±1,354) the other way, a net gain of about 6,874 people for Tennessee beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Illinois or Tennessee?
Tennessee is the better fit for retirees: #28 of 50 on the retiree index vs #47 for Illinois. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$34,016 left after typical costs in Illinois and +$39,960 in Tennessee.
Which is better for families, Illinois or Tennessee?
Illinois is the better fit for families: #23 of 50 on the families index vs #30 for Tennessee. Center-based infant care costs $19,601 a year in Illinois and $13,926 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 90.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 after typical costs in Illinois and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Is Tennessee better than Illinois?
Yes: Tennessee ranks higher than Illinois overall, #24 of 50 vs #39, with a composite score of 57.1 to 47.6. Tennessee leads 8 of 11 categories and Illinois leads 3, including health and safety. 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 Tennessee.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (5,141 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).