Michigan vs Indiana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Michigan ranks #45 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 96.2), carries a 0.8-point higher tax burden, and has a 39% lower violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 39% lower in Indiana (254 vs. 416 in Michigan).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 19% lower in Michigan ($14,064 vs. $17,461 in Indiana).
- Residential electricity price is 19% lower in Indiana (16.23¢/kWh vs. 20.01¢/kWh in Michigan).
| Measure | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -16.5 pts | 42.7#45 of 50 · D | 59.2#22 of 50 · B | -16.5 pts | — | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.9 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +2.9 pts+3% | 100 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$4,541 · US -$11,758 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | +$4,541 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$6,197 (+2%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$6,197+2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.84 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.84 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +162 (+64%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +162+64% | 328 | IN |
| Median household incomeGap +$430 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$430+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.7 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -6.7 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -7,502 · US -33 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -7,502 | -33 | IN |
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 Michigan or Indiana better to live in?
Indiana scores higher overall: 59.2 to 42.7 out of 100, #22 of 50 against #45. Michigan leads 4 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -21 | 15% | 21.9#50 · F | 42.9#30 · C+ | -21 pts | IN |
| Safety12% of scoregap -16 | 12% | 63.9#31 · C+ | 79.9#11 · B+ | -16 pts | IN |
| Health12% of scoregap +15.1 | 12% | 55.4#27 · C+ | 40.3#39 · C | +15.1 pts | MI |
| Education12% of scoregap -31.3 | 12% | 42.2#44 · D | 73.5#7 · A | -31.3 pts | IN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -2.4 | 10% | 73.3#22 · B | 75.7#19 · B | -2.4 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -9.1 | 8% | 56.2#32 · C+ | 65.3#16 · B+ | -9.1 pts | IN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -18.4 | 7% | 24.3#41 · C | 42.7#21 · B | -18.4 pts | IN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +7.3 | 7% | 49.4#27 · C+ | 42.1#44 · D | +7.3 pts | MI |
| Livability7% of scoregap -5.3 | 7% | 24.7#41 · C | 30.0#30 · C+ | -5.3 pts | IN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +8 | 6% | 17.8#32 · C+ | 9.8#44 · D | +8 pts | MI |
| Environment4% of scoregap +3.6 | 4% | 42.0#23 · B | 38.4#28 · C+ | +3.6 pts | MI |
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 Michigan cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper: cost of living index 93.3 vs 96.2 in Michigan (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $4,541 more a year in Michigan after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.9 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +2.9 pts+3% | 100 | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.5 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96#16 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +0.5 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.78¢ (+23%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | +3.78¢+23% | 17.84¢/kWh | IN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.57 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | -$0.57-5% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.03 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.03+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,397 (-19%) · US $15,633 | $14,064#21 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$3,397-19% | $15,633 | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,022 | +$34,427costs $40,573 | +$36,449costs $38,552 | -$2,022 | IN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$2,243 | +$26,692costs $48,308 | +$28,935costs $46,065 | -$2,243 | IN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$4,541 | -$5,634costs $80,634 | -$10,175costs $85,175 | +$4,541 | MI |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,025 | +$39,007costs $35,994 | +$41,032costs $33,968 | -$2,025 | IN |
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 | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$1,968 | $19,753 | $17,785 | +$1,968 | IN |
| ChildcareGap -$6,794 | $28,128 | $34,922 | -$6,794 | MI |
| UtilitiesGap +$140 | $4,618 | $4,478 | +$140 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$56 | $10,812 | $10,756 | +$56 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$94 | $9,743 | $9,649 | +$94 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$5 | $7,580 | $7,585 | -$5 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Michigan or Indiana?
Michigan collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.25% vs 9.09%. Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.84 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.84 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.63 pts · US 5.46% | 6.65%#36 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | +1.63 pts | 5.46% | IN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.58 pts · US 1.02% | 1.35%#37 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.58 pts | 1.02% | IN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#13 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | -1 pts | 6.66% | MI |
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 Michigan or Indiana?
Typical home values are about the same: $266,292 in Michigan and $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $73,945 of income in Michigan and $70,704 in Indiana; the median household earns $72,389 and $71,959.
| Measure | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$6,197 (+2%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$6,197+2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1 pts · US +1.2% | +4%#7 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$28 (-2%) · US $1,948 | $1,524#16 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | -$28-2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$3,241 (+5%) · US $100,006 | $73,945#12 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$3,241+5% | $100,006 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#15 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| MI | IN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,370 | $1,338 |
| Income needed vs. median | +2% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +24.1% | +28.9% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Detroit | Indianapolis |
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 Michigan or Indiana?
Median household income is about the same, $72,389 in Michigan and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 5.2% and 3.7%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Michigan's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0.
| Measure | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$430 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$430+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.5 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#48 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 3.95% | IN |
| GDP per capitaGap -$3,892 (-7%) · US $64,333 | $55,326#40 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | -$3,892-7% | $64,333 | IN |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.28 pts · US +0.51% | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | -0.28 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | MI | IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $248,727$233,803 in Detroit | $233,118$214,469 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Civil Engineers | $107,310$100,871 in Detroit | $95,698$88,042 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Software Developers | $143,840$135,210 in Detroit | $133,348$122,680 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Lawyers | $152,435$143,289 in Detroit | $144,667$133,094 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,498$69,088 in Detroit | $67,846$62,418 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,529$56,897 in Detroit | $54,926$50,532 in Indianapolis | MI |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,373$100,931 in Detroit | $102,621$94,411 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $113,783$106,956 in Detroit | $109,830$101,044 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Secondary School Teachers | $73,631$69,213 in Detroit | $70,046$64,442 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Accountants & Auditors | $82,872$77,900 in Detroit | $79,365$73,016 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $60,091$56,486 in Detroit | $56,825$52,279 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Construction Laborers | $48,624$45,707 in Detroit | $45,954$42,278 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Electricians | $68,769$64,643 in Detroit | $66,653$61,321 in Indianapolis | MI |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,851$33,700 in Detroit | $33,860$31,151 in Indianapolis | MI |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,151$57,482 in Detroit | $59,445$54,689 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,057$77,134 in Detroit | $80,465$74,028 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,641$48,543 in Detroit | $50,742$46,683 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $73,448$69,041 in Detroit | $74,259$68,318 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $89,989$84,590 in Detroit | $90,771$83,509 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,364$55,802 in Detroit | $59,879$55,089 in Indianapolis | 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 Michigan safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan (FBI). Property crime runs 1,259 and 1,052 per 100,000.
| Measure | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +162 (+64%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +162+64% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +206 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,259#13 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +206+20% | 1,535 | IN |
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.
- Rochester Hills, MI62 violent per 100K
- Carmel, IN51 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Michigan or Indiana?
Indiana scores higher for education (#7 of 50 vs #44), with high school graduation rates of 81% and 87.7%. Michigan scores higher for health (#27 vs #39); life expectancy is 76.8 years in Michigan and 75.4 in Indiana.
| Measure | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 270#31 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 255#33 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.7 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -6.7 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.3 pts · US 34.03% | 36.1%#33 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 34.03% | MI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.4 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#8 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#27 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
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).
- Farmington Hills, MIeducation score 94.2
- Fishers, INeducation score 98
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: Michigan #44, Indiana #7. Health: Michigan #27, Indiana #39.
Are more people moving from Michigan to Indiana, or from Indiana to Michigan?
4,718 households moved from Michigan to Indiana and 5,153 moved from Indiana to Michigan in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 435 households for Michigan. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $62,523; movers to Michigan reported $65,703. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,283 people (±1,726) moving from Michigan to Indiana and 8,855 (±1,871) 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 | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +2,428 (+3%) | 71,800#20 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +2,428+3% | MI |
| Households moving outIRSGap +9,930 (+14%) | 80,570#33 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +9,930+14% | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -7,502 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -7,502 | IN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.7 | -0.9#38 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | -0.7 | IN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$9,796 (+15%) | $74,145#30 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$9,796+15% | MI |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,129 (+15%) | $77,943#18 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$10,129+15% | MI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.6 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -1.6 | IN |
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, Michigan or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +23 places | #41score 53.5 | #18score 71.9 | +23 places | IN |
| RetireesGap +8 places | #30score 59.7 | #22score 62.8 | +8 places | IN |
| Remote WorkersGap +21 places | #43score 41.5 | #22score 53.9 | +21 places | IN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +24 places | #47score 37.5 | #23score 54.1 | +24 places | IN |
| Small BusinessGap +27 places | #45score 36.9 | #18score 63 | +27 places | IN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -1 places | #32score 36.1 | #33score 34.9 | -1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIndiana (#18 vs #41)
- RetireesIndiana (#22 vs #30)
- Remote WorkersIndiana (#22 vs #43)
- Young ProfessionalsIndiana (#23 vs #47)
- Small BusinessIndiana (#18 vs #45)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#32 vs #33)
Which cities stand out in Michigan and Indiana?
Michigan has 24 tracked cities and Indiana has 21; the largest are Detroit and Indianapolis. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MichiganMI | IndianaIN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Detroit638,530 people | Indianapolis885,860 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Troyscore 69.5 | Carmelscore 73.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Rochester Hills62 violent per 100K | Carmel51 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Battle Creekcost index 90.5 | Terre Hautecost index 87.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ann Arborwalkability 13.5 of 20 | Bloomingtonwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lansingcounty median AQI 38 | Bloomingtoncounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Farmington Hills94.2% graduation rate | Fishers98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Rochester Hillsmedian income $120,694 | Carmelmedian income $141,505 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Rapids+0.9% growth | Westfield+5.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Michigan and Indiana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Michigan carries AA credit rating and Indiana AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#33 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -6.4 (-38%) · US 29.6 | 10.5#7 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | -6.4-38% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap +11.3 pts · US 17.16% | 13.4%#18 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +11.3 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.3 min · US 25.2 min | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | -0.3 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#28 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.6 pts · US 12.28% | 11.2%#33 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 12.28% | MI |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#27 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 92.67% | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#39 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | IN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1 pts · US 12.39% | 13.5%#13 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | +1 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 68%#35 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | IN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$840 (+36%) · US $3,506 | $3,180#31 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | +$840+36% | $3,506 | IN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.5 pts · US +4.66% | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +4.66% | IN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Michigan AA, Indiana 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).
Michigan vs Indiana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Michigan is ahead on 16 of 51, Indiana on 20, and 15 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MichiganMI | IndianaIN | GapMI−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,154,551 (+45%) · US 6.8 million | 10.1 million#10 of 50 | 7 million#17 of 50 | +3,154,551+45% | 6.8 million | MI |
| Median household incomeGap +$430 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$430+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.5 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#48 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 3.95% | IN |
| Population growthGap -0.28 pts · US +0.51% | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | -0.28 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$3,892 (-7%) · US $64,333 | $55,326#40 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | -$3,892-7% | $64,333 | IN |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +162 (+64%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +162+64% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +206 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,259#13 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +206+20% | 1,535 | IN |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.7 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -6.7 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 235#34 of 50 | 240#9 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 270#31 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -11 · US 214 | 209#44 of 50 | 220#6 of 50 | -11 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 255#33 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.3 pts · US 34.03% | 36.1%#33 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 34.03% | MI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.4 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#8 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$6,197 (+2%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$6,197+2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1 pts · US +1.2% | +4%#7 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$28 (-2%) · US $1,948 | $1,524#16 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | -$28-2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$3,241 (+5%) · US $100,006 | $73,945#12 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$3,241+5% | $100,006 | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.9 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +2.9 pts+3% | 100 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#15 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.78¢ (+23%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | +3.78¢+23% | 17.84¢/kWh | IN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.57 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | -$0.57-5% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.03 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.03+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.5 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96#16 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +0.5 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,397 (-19%) · US $15,633 | $14,064#21 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$3,397-19% | $15,633 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.84 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.84 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.63 pts · US 5.46% | 6.65%#36 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | +1.63 pts | 5.46% | IN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.58 pts · US 1.02% | 1.35%#37 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.58 pts | 1.02% | IN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#13 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | -1 pts | 6.66% | MI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#39 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | IN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1 pts · US 12.39% | 13.5%#13 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | +1 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 68%#35 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | IN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$840 (+36%) · US $3,506 | $3,180#31 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | +$840+36% | $3,506 | IN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.5 pts · US +4.66% | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +4.66% | IN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#27 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#33 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -6.4 (-38%) · US 29.6 | 10.5#7 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | -6.4-38% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap +11.3 pts · US 17.16% | 13.4%#18 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +11.3 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.3 min · US 25.2 min | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | -0.3 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#28 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.6 pts · US 12.28% | 11.2%#33 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 12.28% | MI |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#27 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 92.67% | MI |
| Households moving inIRSGap +2,428 (+3%) · US 78,682 | 71,800#20 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +2,428+3% | 78,682 | MI |
| Households moving outIRSGap +9,930 (+14%) · US 78,715 | 80,570#33 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +9,930+14% | 78,715 | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -7,502 · US -33 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -7,502 | -33 | IN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.7 · US +0.4 | -0.9#38 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | -0.7 | +0.4 | IN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$9,796 (+15%) · US $77,690 | $74,145#30 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$9,796+15% | $77,690 | MI |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,129 (+15%) · US $77,024 | $77,943#18 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$10,129+15% | $77,024 | MI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.6 · US +1.1 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -1.6 | +1.1 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$4,541 · US -$11,758 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | +$4,541 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,022 · US +$31,418 | +$34,427#18 of 50 | +$36,449#10 of 50 | -$2,022 | +$31,418 | IN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,025 · US +$35,970 | +$39,007#19 of 50 | +$41,032#9 of 50 | -$2,025 | +$35,970 | IN |
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 Michigan and Indiana numbers say when read together.
Indiana ranks higher overall
Indiana leads 6 of the 11 categories to Michigan's 4, with 1 even; Michigan is ahead on health and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Michigan is ahead on 16 and Indiana on 20.
Indiana is cheaper day to day
Indiana's cost of living index is 93.3 against 96.2 in Michigan (US = 100). The typical home costs $266,292 in Michigan and $260,095 in Indiana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,634 a year after typical costs in Michigan and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Michigan takes a smaller share in taxes
Michigan collects 8.25% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Indiana collects 9.09% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Indiana is safer
Median household income is $72,389 in Michigan and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 5.2% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 416 per 100,000 residents in Michigan and 254 in Indiana.
Moves between the two run about even
7,283 people moved from Michigan to Indiana and 8,855 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Indiana fits families and retirees better
For families, Michigan ranks #41 of 50 and Indiana #18; for retirees, Michigan ranks #30 and Indiana #22.
Michigan vs Indiana: frequently asked questions
Is Michigan or Indiana better to live in?
Michigan ranks #45 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 96.2), carries a 0.8-point higher tax burden, and has a 39% lower violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Michigan cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper than Michigan: cost of living index 93.3 vs 96.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,634 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Michigan, and -$10,175 in Indiana. The typical home value is $266,292 in Michigan and $260,095 in Indiana.
Which has lower taxes, Michigan or Indiana?
Michigan has the lower tax burden: 8.25% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.09% in Indiana. Michigan's top income tax rate is 6.65%, its effective property tax rate 1.35% and its combined sales tax 6%; Indiana's are 5.02%, 0.77% and 7%.
Is Michigan safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan, per the FBI. Michigan ranks #40 of 50 for violent crime and Indiana #21. Property crime is 1,259 per 100,000 in Michigan and 1,052 in Indiana. The safest tracked cities are Rochester Hills, MI, and Carmel, IN.
Are homes more expensive in Michigan or Indiana?
Typical home values are about the same: $266,292 in Michigan and $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $73,945 of household income in Michigan and $70,704 in Indiana, against median incomes of $72,389 and $71,959.
Do people earn more in Michigan or Indiana?
Michigan and Indiana pay about the same: median household income is $72,389 vs $71,959, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.2% in Michigan and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Michigan's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from Michigan to Indiana or from Indiana to Michigan?
4,718 households moved from Michigan to Indiana and 5,153 moved from Indiana to Michigan in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 435 households for Michigan. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $62,523; movers to Michigan reported $65,703. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,283 people (±1,726) moving from Michigan to Indiana and 8,855 (±1,871) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Michigan or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for retirees: #22 of 50 on the retiree index vs #30 for Michigan. Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,007 left after typical costs in Michigan and +$41,032 in Indiana.
Which is better for families, Michigan or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for families: #18 of 50 on the families index vs #41 for Michigan. Center-based infant care costs $14,064 a year in Michigan and $17,461 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 81% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,634 after typical costs in Michigan and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Is Indiana better than Michigan?
Yes: Indiana ranks higher than Michigan overall, #22 of 50 vs #45, with a composite score of 59.2 to 42.7. Indiana leads 6 of 11 categories and Michigan leads 4, including health and outdoor access. 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 Michigan vs Indiana.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (5,153 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).