Illinois vs Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 101.1); Illinois carries a 1.4-point higher tax burden and has a 18% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
- Typical home value is 28% lower in Illinois ($297,573 vs. $414,662 in Virginia).
- Violent crime rate is 18% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 251 in Illinois).
- Residential electricity price is 14% lower in Virginia (15.28¢/kWh vs. 17.69¢/kWh in Illinois).
| Measure | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -20.1 pts | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | -20.1 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.1 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -1.1 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,884 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$1,884 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$117,089 (-28%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$117,089-28% | $368,697 | IL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.36 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | +1.36 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +45 (+22%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +45+22% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$8,879 (-10%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$8,879-10% | $80,903 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -29,030 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -29,030 | -33 | VA |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Illinois or Virginia better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 47.6 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #39. Illinois leads 2 of 11 categories, Virginia leads 6, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -24.8 | 15% | 39.8#37 · C | 64.6#7 · A | -24.8 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -5.9 | 12% | 73.4#22 · B | 79.3#13 · B+ | -5.9 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap -2.6 | 12% | 58.8#24 · B | 61.4#17 · B+ | -2.6 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +0.5 | 12% | 65.9#13 · B+ | 65.4#14 · B+ | +0.5 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +1.3 | 10% | 61.8#32 · C+ | 60.5#34 · C+ | +1.3 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -40.9 | 8% | 21.9#50 · F | 62.8#20 · B | -40.9 pts | VA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -25.1 | 7% | 20.0#45 · D | 45.1#19 · B | -25.1 pts | VA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +6.4 | 7% | 54.2#17 · B+ | 47.8#29 · C+ | +6.4 pts | IL |
| Livability7% of scoregap +4.1 | 7% | 31.4#28 · C+ | 27.3#35 · C | +4.1 pts | IL |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -14.3 | 6% | 5.8#49 · F | 20.1#30 · C+ | -14.3 pts | VA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -17 | 4% | 31.0#39 · C | 48.0#15 · B+ | -17 pts | VA |
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 Virginia?
Illinois and Virginia cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 100 vs 101.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $1,884 more a year in Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.1 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -1.1 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | +3.4 pts+3% | 100 | VA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.41¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | +2.41¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.54 (-33%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | -$5.54-33% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,337 (+14%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | +$2,337+14% | $15,633 | VA |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,939 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$1,939 | IL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,045 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$2,045 | IL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$1,884 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | -$1,884 | VA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,753 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$1,753 | IL |
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 | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$3,978 | $24,335 | $28,313 | -$3,978 | IL |
| ChildcareGap +$4,674 | $39,202 | $34,528 | +$4,674 | VA |
| UtilitiesGap -$53 | $4,800 | $4,853 | -$53 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$383 | $11,691 | $11,308 | +$383 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$283 | $9,994 | $9,711 | +$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$575 | $8,812 | $8,237 | +$575 | VA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Virginia?
Virginia collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.86% vs 10.22%. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.36 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | +1.36 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.8 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 5.46% | IL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.35 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | +1.35 pts | 1.02% | VA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.19 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +3.19 pts | 6.66% | VA |
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 Virginia?
Homes cost 39% more in Virginia: a typical home value of $297,573 in Illinois vs $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of income in Illinois and $109,920 in Virginia; the median household earns $83,211 and $92,090.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$117,089 (-28%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$117,089-28% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.1 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +3.1 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$223 (-9%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$223-9% | $1,948 | IL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$16,478 (-15%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$16,478-15% | $100,006 | IL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | -0.9x-20% | 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 | VA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,531 | $2,133 |
| Income needed vs. median | +12% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +29.1% | +23.4% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Chicago | Washington |
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 Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income $92,090 vs $83,211, with unemployment at 4.6% in Illinois and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 3 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 13.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$8,879 (-10%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$8,879-10% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,713 (+12%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | +$7,713+12% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +1.91% | VA |
| Population growthGap -0.56 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.56 pts | +0.51% | VA |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | IL | VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | VA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | VA |
| Lawyers | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | IL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | IL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | VA |
| Electricians | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | IL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | 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 Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 251 in Illinois (FBI). Property crime runs 1,508 and 1,354 per 100,000.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +45 (+22%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +45+22% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +154 (+11%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +154+11% | 1,535 | VA |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Orland Park, IL9 violent per 100K
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Illinois or Virginia?
Illinois and Virginia are close on education (#13 and #14 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 89.1%. They are close on health (#24 and #17); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Illinois and 77.5 in Virginia.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap 0 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 0 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+16%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +6 pts+16% | 38.8 | VA |
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
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
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, Virginia #14. Health: Illinois #24, Virginia #17.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Virginia, or from Virginia to Illinois?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 6,488 people (±1,960) moving from Illinois to Virginia and 4,974 (±2,291) 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 | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -18,312 (-14%) | 117,297#12 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | -18,312-14% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +10,718 (+8%) | 145,906#46 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | +10,718+8% | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -29,030 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -29,030 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.2 | -2.2#47 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -2.2 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,507 (-4%) | $78,820#26 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | -$3,507-4% | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$15,115 (+17%) | $104,443#5 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | +$15,115+17% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.8 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -3.8 | VA |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Illinois or Virginia?
Virginia 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 | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +6 places | #23score 66.1 | #17score 72.9 | +6 places | VA |
| RetireesGap +32 places | #47score 46.6 | #15score 68.4 | +32 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap +32 places | #48score 31.9 | #16score 58.3 | +32 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +29 places | #42score 41.6 | #13score 63.4 | +29 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap +36 places | #48score 30.3 | #12score 68 | +36 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +16 places | #39score 29.9 | #23score 48 | +16 places | VA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #23)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #42)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #39)
Which cities stand out in Illinois and Virginia?
Illinois has 29 tracked cities and Virginia has 20; the largest are Chicago and Virginia Beach. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Chicago2,711,226 people | Virginia Beach456,349 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Napervillescore 73.2 | Restonscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Orland Park9 violent per 100K | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Decaturcost index 88.4 | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Leesburg95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Napervillemedian income $155,105 | McLeanmedian income $250,001 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wheaton+1.3% growth | Suffolk+1.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Illinois and Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Illinois carries BBB+ credit rating and Virginia AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +10 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | +10 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +25.7 (+467%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +25.7+467% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -8.1 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -8.1 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap 0 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 0 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +4 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | +4 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.2 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | +0.1 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 | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -35 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | -35 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | -8 pts | 12.39% | VA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -35 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -35 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,920 (+139%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | +$3,920+139% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.6 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | -6.6 pts | +4.66% | VA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Illinois BBB+, Virginia 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 Virginia: 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 13 of 51, Virginia on 28, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IllinoisIL | VirginiaVA | GapIL−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,839,034 (+43%) · US 6.8 million | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | +3,839,034+43% | 6.8 million | IL |
| Median household incomeGap -$8,879 (-10%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$8,879-10% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap -0.56 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.56 pts | +0.51% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,713 (+12%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | +$7,713+12% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +1.91% | VA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +45 (+22%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +45+22% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +154 (+11%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +154+11% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 236#33 of 50 | 238#24 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 214 | 214#29 of 50 | 214#31 of 50 | +0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap 0 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 0 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$117,089 (-28%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$117,089-28% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.1 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +3.1 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$223 (-9%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$223-9% | $1,948 | IL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$16,478 (-15%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$16,478-15% | $100,006 | IL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.1 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -1.1 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | -0.9x-20% | 4.6x | IL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.41¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | +2.41¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.54 (-33%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | -$5.54-33% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | +3.4 pts+3% | 100 | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,337 (+14%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | +$2,337+14% | $15,633 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.36 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | +1.36 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.8 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 5.46% | IL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.35 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | +1.35 pts | 1.02% | VA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.19 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +3.19 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -35 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | -35 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | -8 pts | 12.39% | VA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -35 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -35 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,920 (+139%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | +$3,920+139% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.6 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | -6.6 pts | +4.66% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+16%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +6 pts+16% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +10 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | +10 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +25.7 (+467%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +25.7+467% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -8.1 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -8.1 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap 0 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 0 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +4 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | +4 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.2 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap -18,312 (-14%) · US 78,682 | 117,297#12 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | -18,312-14% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +10,718 (+8%) · US 78,715 | 145,906#46 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | +10,718+8% | 78,715 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -29,030 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -29,030 | -33 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.2 · US +0.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -2.2 | +0.4 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,507 (-4%) · US $77,690 | $78,820#26 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | -$3,507-4% | $77,690 | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$15,115 (+17%) · US $77,024 | $104,443#5 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | +$15,115+17% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.8 · US +1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -3.8 | +1.1 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,884 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$1,884 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,939 · US +$31,418 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$1,939 | +$31,418 | IL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,753 · US +$35,970 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$1,753 | +$35,970 | IL |
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 Virginia numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 6 of the 11 categories to Illinois's 2, with 3 even; Illinois is ahead on transportation and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Illinois is ahead on 13 and Virginia on 28.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 100 in Illinois and 101.1 in Virginia, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $297,573 and $414,662. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 a year after typical costs in Illinois and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Virginia 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); Virginia collects 8.86% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Virginia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $83,211 in Illinois and $92,090 in Virginia, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 206 in Virginia.
Moves between the two run about even
6,488 people moved from Illinois to Virginia and 4,974 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, Illinois ranks #23 of 50 and Virginia #17; for retirees, Illinois ranks #47 and Virginia #15.
Illinois vs Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois or Virginia better to live in?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 101.1); Illinois carries a 1.4-point higher tax burden and has a 18% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Illinois cheaper than Virginia?
Illinois and Virginia cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 100 vs 101.1 (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 -$21,950 in Virginia. The typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $414,662 in Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Virginia?
Virginia has the lower tax burden: 8.86% 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%; Virginia's are 5.75%, 0.76% and 5.77%.
Is Illinois safer than Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 251 in Illinois, per the FBI. Illinois ranks #20 of 50 for violent crime and Virginia #8. Property crime is 1,508 per 100,000 in Illinois and 1,354 in Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Orland Park, IL, and Virginia Beach, VA.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or Virginia?
Homes are 39% more expensive in Virginia: the typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of household income in Illinois and $109,920 in Virginia, against median incomes of $83,211 and $92,090.
Do people earn more in Illinois or Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income is $92,090 vs $83,211 in Illinois, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Illinois and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 3 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 13, with 4 even.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Virginia or from Virginia to Illinois?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 6,488 people (±1,960) moving from Illinois to Virginia and 4,974 (±2,291) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Illinois or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 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; Virginia 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 +$32,263 in Virginia.
Which is better for families, Illinois or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #23 for Illinois. Center-based infant care costs $19,601 a year in Illinois and $17,264 in Virginia. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 after typical costs in Illinois and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Is Virginia better than Illinois?
Yes: Virginia ranks higher than Illinois overall, #15 of 50 vs #39, with a composite score of 67.7 to 47.6. Virginia leads 6 of 11 categories and Illinois leads 2, including transportation and livability. 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.