Illinois vs Washington: Which Is Better to Live In?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Illinois is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 107), carries a 1.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 12% lower violent crime rate. Washington scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical home value is 50% lower in Illinois ($297,573 vs. $591,879 in Washington).
- Residential electricity price is 26% lower in Washington (13.11¢/kWh vs. 17.69¢/kWh in Illinois).
- Property crime rate is 24% lower in Illinois (1,508 vs. 1,975 in Washington).
| Measure | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -14.2 pts | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | -14.2 pts | — | WA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -7 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -7 pts-7% | 100 | IL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$24,059 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$24,059 | -$11,758 | IL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$294,306 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$294,306-50% | $368,697 | IL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.61 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | +1.61 pts | 8.74% | WA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -33 (-12%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -33-12% | 328 | IL |
| Median household incomeGap -$16,178 (-16%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$16,178-16% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -38,448 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -38,448 | -33 | WA |
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 Washington better to live in?
Washington scores higher overall: 61.8 to 47.6 out of 100, #20 of 50 against #39. Illinois leads 3 of 11 categories, Washington leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -12.5 | 15% | 39.8#37 · C | 52.3#16 · B+ | -12.5 pts | WA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +9.5 | 12% | 73.4#22 · B | 63.9#30 · C+ | +9.5 pts | IL |
| Health12% of scoregap -9.4 | 12% | 58.8#24 · B | 68.2#13 · B+ | -9.4 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap +8.5 | 12% | 65.9#13 · B+ | 57.4#29 · C+ | +8.5 pts | IL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +22.7 | 10% | 61.8#32 · C+ | 39.1#46 · D | +22.7 pts | IL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -42.4 | 8% | 21.9#50 · F | 64.3#17 · B+ | -42.4 pts | WA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -20.8 | 7% | 20.0#45 · D | 40.8#24 · B | -20.8 pts | WA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -4.4 | 7% | 54.2#17 · B+ | 58.6#8 · A | -4.4 pts | WA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -2.5 | 7% | 31.4#28 · C+ | 33.9#25 · B | -2.5 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -29.6 | 6% | 5.8#49 · F | 35.4#19 · B | -29.6 pts | WA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -42.1 | 4% | 31.0#39 · C | 73.1#3 · A+ | -42.1 pts | WA |
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 Washington?
Illinois is cheaper: cost of living index 100 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $24,059 more a year in Illinois after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -7 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -7 pts-7% | 100 | IL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.6 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -0.6 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.58¢ (+35%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +4.58¢+35% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$6.37 (-36%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | -$6.37-36% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.89 (-22%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.89-22% | $3.32/gal | IL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,535 (-15%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$3,535-15% | $15,633 | IL |
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 | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$8,209 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$8,209 | IL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$12,704 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$12,704 | IL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$24,059 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | +$24,059 | IL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$10,349 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$10,349 | 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 | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$16,788 | $24,335 | $41,123 | -$16,788 | IL |
| ChildcareGap -$7,070 | $39,202 | $46,272 | -$7,070 | IL |
| UtilitiesGap -$336 | $4,800 | $5,136 | -$336 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$68 | $11,691 | $11,759 | -$68 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$2,797 | $9,994 | $12,791 | -$2,797 | IL |
| State and local taxesGap +$3,000 | $8,812 | $5,812 | +$3,000 | WA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Washington?
Washington collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.61% vs 10.22%. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.61 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | +1.61 pts | 8.74% | WA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.95 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +4.95 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.23 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | +1.23 pts | 1.02% | WA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.55 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -0.55 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 Washington?
Homes cost 99% more in Washington: a typical home value of $297,573 in Illinois vs $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of income in Illinois and $155,542 in Washington; the median household earns $83,211 and $99,389.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$294,306 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$294,306-50% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +5.6 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$68 (-3%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$68-3% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$62,100 (-40%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$62,100-40% | $100,006 | IL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.4x (-40%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -2.4x-40% | 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 | WA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,531 | $3,045 |
| Income needed vs. median | +12% | +57% |
| Five-year change | +29.1% | +11.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Chicago | Seattle |
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 Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $83,211, with unemployment at 4.6% in Illinois and 4.7% in Washington. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Washington's in 6.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$16,178 (-16%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$16,178-16% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$15,836 (-18%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$15,836-18% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Population growthGap -0.79 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.79 pts | +0.51% | WA |
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 | WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | WA |
| Lawyers | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | IL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | IL |
| Electricians | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | IL |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | IL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | WA |
| Registered Nurses | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | WA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | WA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | IL |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | WA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | WA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | IL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | IL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | IL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | IL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | 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 Washington?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 284 in Washington (FBI). Property crime runs 1,508 and 1,975 per 100,000.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -33 (-12%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -33-12% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -467 (-24%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -467-24% | 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
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Illinois or Washington?
Illinois scores higher for education (#13 of 50 vs #29), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 83.6%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #24); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Illinois and 78.4 in Washington.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.7 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +15 pts (+54%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +15 pts+54% | 38.8 | WA |
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
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
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, Washington #29. Health: Illinois #24, Washington #13.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Washington, or from Washington to Illinois?
2,734 households moved from Illinois to Washington in the latest IRS release (average income $102,815); the flow from Washington to Illinois is too small to appear among Illinois's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,719 people (±2,534) moving from Illinois to Washington and 4,302 (±1,779) 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 | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -4,887 (-4%) | 117,297#12 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | -4,887-4% | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +33,561 (+30%) | 145,906#46 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +33,561+30% | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -38,448 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -38,448 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -3.4 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$11,070 (-12%) | $78,820#26 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$11,070-12% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$4,321 (+4%) | $104,443#5 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | +$4,321+4% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.3 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -4.3 | WA |
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 Washington?
Illinois is the better fit for families; Washington is the better fit for 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 | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -9 places | #23score 66.1 | #32score 61 | -9 places | IL |
| RetireesGap +30 places | #47score 46.6 | #17score 66.7 | +30 places | WA |
| Remote WorkersGap +29 places | #48score 31.9 | #19score 54.8 | +29 places | WA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +15 places | #42score 41.6 | #27score 53.3 | +15 places | WA |
| Small BusinessGap +25 places | #48score 30.3 | #23score 58.8 | +25 places | WA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +26 places | #39score 29.9 | #13score 57.4 | +26 places | WA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIllinois (#23 vs #32)
- RetireesWashington (#17 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersWashington (#19 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsWashington (#27 vs #42)
- Small BusinessWashington (#23 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWashington (#13 vs #39)
Which cities stand out in Illinois and Washington?
Illinois has 29 tracked cities and Washington has 26; the largest are Chicago and Seattle. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Chicago2,711,226 people | Seattle754,195 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Napervillescore 73.2 | Redmondscore 71.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Orland Park9 violent per 100K | Kirkland67 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Decaturcost index 88.4 | Yakimacost index 95.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 | Pascocounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Napervillemedian income $155,105 | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wheaton+1.3% growth | Kirkland+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Illinois and Washington compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Illinois carries BBB+ credit rating and Washington AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -54 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -54 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -10.3 (-25%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -10.3-25% | 29.6 | IL |
| Public land shareGap -26.1 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -26.1 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.1 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | +1.1 min | 25.2 min | WA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.8 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.8 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 92.67% | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -30 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | -30 pts | 92.7 | WA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8.9 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | -8.9 pts | 12.39% | WA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -37 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -37 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,100 (+85%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | +$3,100+85% | $3,506 | WA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.9 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | -4.9 pts | +4.66% | WA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Illinois BBB+, Washington AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Illinois vs Washington: 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 18 of 51, Washington on 25, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IllinoisIL | WashingtonWA | GapIL−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,718,121 (+59%) · US 6.8 million | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | 8 million#13 of 50 | +4,718,121+59% | 6.8 million | IL |
| Median household incomeGap -$16,178 (-16%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$16,178-16% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.79 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.79 pts | +0.51% | WA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$15,836 (-18%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$15,836-18% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -33 (-12%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -33-12% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -467 (-24%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -467-24% | 1,535 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 236#33 of 50 | 238#26 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 214#29 of 50 | 216#19 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.7 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$294,306 (-50%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$294,306-50% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +5.6 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$68 (-3%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$68-3% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$62,100 (-40%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$62,100-40% | $100,006 | IL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -7 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -7 pts-7% | 100 | IL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.4x (-40%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -2.4x-40% | 4.6x | IL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.58¢ (+35%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +4.58¢+35% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$6.37 (-36%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | -$6.37-36% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.89 (-22%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.89-22% | $3.32/gal | IL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.6 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -0.6 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,535 (-15%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$3,535-15% | $15,633 | IL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.61 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | +1.61 pts | 8.74% | WA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.95 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +4.95 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.23 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | +1.23 pts | 1.02% | WA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.55 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -0.55 pts | 6.66% | IL |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -30 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | -30 pts | 92.7 | WA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8.9 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | -8.9 pts | 12.39% | WA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -37 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -37 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,100 (+85%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | +$3,100+85% | $3,506 | WA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.9 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | -4.9 pts | +4.66% | WA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +15 pts (+54%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +15 pts+54% | 38.8 | WA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -54 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -54 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -10.3 (-25%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -10.3-25% | 29.6 | IL |
| Public land shareGap -26.1 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -26.1 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.1 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | +1.1 min | 25.2 min | WA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.8 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.8 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap -4,887 (-4%) · US 78,682 | 117,297#12 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | -4,887-4% | 78,682 | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +33,561 (+30%) · US 78,715 | 145,906#46 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +33,561+30% | 78,715 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -38,448 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -38,448 | -33 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.4 · US +0.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -3.4 | +0.4 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$11,070 (-12%) · US $77,690 | $78,820#26 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$11,070-12% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$4,321 (+4%) · US $77,024 | $104,443#5 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | +$4,321+4% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.3 · US +1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -4.3 | +1.1 | WA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$24,059 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$24,059 | -$11,758 | IL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$8,209 · US +$31,418 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$8,209 | +$31,418 | IL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$10,349 · US +$35,970 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$10,349 | +$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 Washington numbers say when read together.
Washington ranks higher overall
Washington leads 7 of the 11 categories to Illinois's 3, with 1 even; Illinois is ahead on affordability and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Illinois is ahead on 18 and Washington on 25.
Illinois is cheaper day to day
Illinois's cost of living index is 100 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $297,573 in Illinois and $591,879 in Washington. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 a year after typical costs in Illinois and -$47,893 in Washington.
Washington 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); Washington collects 8.61% (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more
Median household income is $83,211 in Illinois and $99,389 in Washington, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 284 in Washington.
Moves between the two run about even
5,719 people moved from Illinois to Washington and 4,302 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Illinois for families, Washington for retirees
For families, Illinois ranks #23 of 50 and Washington #32; for retirees, Illinois ranks #47 and Washington #17.
Illinois vs Washington: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois or Washington better to live in?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Illinois is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 107), carries a 1.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 12% lower violent crime rate. Washington scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Illinois cheaper than Washington?
Illinois is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 100 vs 107 (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 -$47,893 in Washington. The typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $591,879 in Washington.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Washington?
Washington has the lower tax burden: 8.61% 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%; Washington's are zero, 0.88% and 9.51%.
Is Illinois safer than Washington?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 284 in Washington, per the FBI. Illinois ranks #20 of 50 for violent crime and Washington #25. Property crime is 1,508 per 100,000 in Illinois and 1,975 in Washington. The safest tracked cities are Orland Park, IL, and Kirkland, WA.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or Washington?
Homes are 99% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of household income in Illinois and $155,542 in Washington, against median incomes of $83,211 and $99,389.
Do people earn more in Illinois or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $83,211 in Illinois, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Illinois and 4.7% in Washington. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Washington's in 6, with 5 even.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Washington or from Washington to Illinois?
2,734 households moved from Illinois to Washington in the latest IRS release (average income $102,815); the flow from Washington to Illinois is too small to appear among Illinois's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,719 people (±2,534) moving from Illinois to Washington and 4,302 (±1,779) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Illinois or Washington?
Washington is the better fit for retirees: #17 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; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$34,016 left after typical costs in Illinois and +$23,667 in Washington.
Which is better for families, Illinois or Washington?
Illinois is the better fit for families: #23 of 50 on the families index vs #32 for Washington. Center-based infant care costs $19,601 a year in Illinois and $23,136 in Washington. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 83.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 after typical costs in Illinois and -$47,893 in Washington.
Is Washington better than Illinois?
Yes: Washington ranks higher than Illinois overall, #20 of 50 vs #39, with a composite score of 61.8 to 47.6. Washington leads 7 of 11 categories and Illinois leads 3, including affordability 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 Washington.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (2,734 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).