Ohio vs Indiana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 93.3); Ohio collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 8% higher violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
- Property crime rate is 26% lower in Indiana (1,052 vs. 1,429 in Ohio).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 20% lower in Ohio ($13,936 vs. $17,461 in Indiana).
- Violent crime rate is 8% lower in Indiana (254 vs. 276 in Ohio).
| Measure | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -7.1 pts | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | 59.2#22 of 50 · B | -7.1 pts | — | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.5 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | -0.5 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$6,857 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | +$6,857 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$11,292 (-4%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | -$11,292-4% | $368,697 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.27 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | +0.27 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +21 (+8%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +21+8% | 328 | IN |
| Median household incomeGap +$253 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$2530% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.5 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -6,726 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -6,726 | -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 Ohio or Indiana better to live in?
Indiana scores higher overall: 59.2 to 52.1 out of 100, #22 of 50 against #33. Ohio leads 2 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 6, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OhioOH | IndianaIN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -12.6 | 15% | 30.3#44 · D | 42.9#30 · C+ | -12.6 pts | IN |
| Safety12% of scoregap -7.3 | 12% | 72.6#24 · B | 79.9#11 · B+ | -7.3 pts | IN |
| Health12% of scoregap +4.5 | 12% | 44.8#35 · C | 40.3#39 · C | +4.5 pts | OH |
| Education12% of scoregap -6.1 | 12% | 67.4#11 · B+ | 73.5#7 · A | -6.1 pts | IN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +2.7 | 10% | 78.4#15 · B+ | 75.7#19 · B | +2.7 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -8.7 | 8% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 65.3#16 · B+ | -8.7 pts | IN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -11.7 | 7% | 31.0#34 · C+ | 42.7#21 · B | -11.7 pts | IN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +10 | 7% | 52.1#23 · B | 42.1#44 · D | +10 pts | OH |
| Livability7% of scoregap -0.2 | 7% | 29.8#31 · C+ | 30.0#30 · C+ | -0.2 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +0.2 | 6% | 10.0#42 · C | 9.8#44 · D | +0.2 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -3.2 | 4% | 35.2#34 · C+ | 38.4#28 · C+ | -3.2 pts | IN |
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 Ohio cheaper than Indiana?
Ohio and Indiana cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 92.8 vs 93.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $6,857 more a year in Ohio after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.5 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | -0.5 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.8 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | -1.8 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.73¢ (+4%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | +0.73¢+4% | 17.84¢/kWh | IN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.36 (+21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$2.36+21% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.18 (+6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.18+6% | $3.32/gal | IN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,525 (-20%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$3,525-20% | $15,633 | OH |
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 | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$210 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | +$36,449costs $38,552 | +$210 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$50 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | +$28,935costs $46,065 | -$50 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$6,857 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | -$10,175costs $85,175 | +$6,857 | OH |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$165 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | +$41,032costs $33,968 | +$165 | Even |
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 | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$870 | $18,655 | $17,785 | +$870 | IN |
| ChildcareGap -$7,050 | $27,872 | $34,922 | -$7,050 | OH |
| UtilitiesGap -$24 | $4,454 | $4,478 | -$24 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$203 | $10,553 | $10,756 | -$203 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$565 | $10,214 | $9,649 | +$565 | IN |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,016 | $6,569 | $7,585 | -$1,016 | OH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Indiana?
Ohio and Indiana collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 9.36% vs 9.09%. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.27 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | +0.27 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.98 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | +0.98 pts | 5.46% | IN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.66 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.66 pts | 1.02% | IN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.29 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Ohio or Indiana?
Homes cost 5% more in Indiana: a typical home value of $248,803 in Ohio vs $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of income in Ohio and $70,704 in Indiana; the median household earns $72,212 and $71,959.
| Measure | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$11,292 (-4%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | -$11,292-4% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.4 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$30 (-2%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | -$30-2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$413 (+1%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$413+1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.2x (-6%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | -0.2x-6% | 4.6x | OH |
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.
| OH | IN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,280 | $1,338 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +29.2% | +28.9% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Cincinnati | 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 Ohio or Indiana?
Median household income is about the same, $72,212 in Ohio and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.7%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 8 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0.
| Measure | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$253 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$2530% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | IN |
| GDP per capitaGap -$719 (-1%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | -$719-1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.91% | IN |
| Population growthGap -0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | -0.22 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 | OH | IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | $133,348$122,680 in Indianapolis | OH |
| Lawyers | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | $144,667$133,094 in Indianapolis | OH |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | $79,365$73,016 in Indianapolis | OH |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | $233,118$214,469 in Indianapolis | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | $102,621$94,411 in Indianapolis | OH |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | $59,445$54,689 in Indianapolis | OH |
| Civil Engineers | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | $95,698$88,042 in Indianapolis | OH |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | $33,860$31,151 in Indianapolis | OH |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | $54,926$50,532 in Indianapolis | OH |
| Registered Nurses | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | $90,771$83,509 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | $67,846$62,418 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Electricians | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | $66,653$61,321 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | $74,259$68,318 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | $109,830$101,044 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | $45,954$42,278 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | $50,742$46,683 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | $80,465$74,028 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | $59,879$55,089 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | $70,046$64,442 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | $56,825$52,279 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 Ohio safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 276 in Ohio (FBI). Property crime runs 1,429 and 1,052 per 100,000.
| Measure | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +21 (+8%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +21+8% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +377 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +377+36% | 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.
- Lakewood, OH81 violent per 100K
- Carmel, IN51 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Ohio or Indiana?
Indiana scores higher for education (#7 of 50 vs #11), with high school graduation rates of 86.2% and 87.7%. Ohio scores higher for health (#35 vs #39); life expectancy is 75.6 years in Ohio and 75.4 in Indiana.
| Measure | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.5 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | OH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 7.6% | OH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | IN |
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).
- Dublin, OHeducation score 93.5
- 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: Ohio #11, Indiana #7. Health: Ohio #35, Indiana #39.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Indiana, or from Indiana to Ohio?
5,279 households moved from Ohio to Indiana and 5,172 moved from Indiana to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 107 households for Indiana. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $60,951; movers to Ohio reported $59,512. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,600 people (±2,893) moving from Ohio to Indiana and 10,916 (±2,649) 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 | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +23,312 (+34%) | 92,684#16 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +23,312+34% | OH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +30,038 (+43%) | 100,678#37 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +30,038+43% | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -6,726 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -6,726 | IN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.5 | -0.7#35 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | -0.5 | IN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,888 (+4%) | $67,237#35 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$2,888+4% | OH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,294 (+15%) | $78,108#17 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$10,294+15% | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.8 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -0.8 | 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, Ohio or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 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 | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +3 places | #21score 67.5 | #18score 71.9 | +3 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +7 places | #29score 59.9 | #22score 62.8 | +7 places | IN |
| Remote WorkersGap +14 places | #36score 46.5 | #22score 53.9 | +14 places | IN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +13 places | #36score 46.4 | #23score 54.1 | +13 places | IN |
| Small BusinessGap +15 places | #33score 49.7 | #18score 63 | +15 places | IN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +4 places | #37score 32.6 | #33score 34.9 | +4 places | IN |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#21 vs #18)
- RetireesIndiana (#22 vs #29)
- Remote WorkersIndiana (#22 vs #36)
- Young ProfessionalsIndiana (#23 vs #36)
- Small BusinessIndiana (#18 vs #33)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIndiana (#33 vs #37)
Which cities stand out in Ohio and Indiana?
Ohio has 20 tracked cities and Indiana has 21; the largest are Columbus and Indianapolis. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OhioOH | IndianaIN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Columbus914,802 people | Indianapolis885,860 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Dublinscore 71.5 | Carmelscore 73.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lakewood81 violent per 100K | Carmel51 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Youngstowncost index 87.4 | Terre Hautecost index 87.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 | Bloomingtonwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Loraincounty median AQI 39 | Bloomingtoncounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Dublin93.5% graduation rate | Fishers98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dublinmedian income $160,296 | Carmelmedian income $141,505 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Columbus+0.8% growth | Westfield+5.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Ohio and Indiana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Ohio carries AA+ credit rating and Indiana AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -9 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -9 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -8.6 (-51%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | -8.6-51% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -0.6 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 17.16% | IN |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.8 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | -0.8 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.3 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 12.28% | OH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +0.2 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 | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | IN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | IN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$640 (+27%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | +$640+27% | $3,506 | IN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +4.66% | IN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Ohio 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).
Ohio vs Indiana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Ohio is ahead on 10 of 51, Indiana on 21, and 20 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OhioOH | IndianaIN | GapOH−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,927,177 (+71%) · US 6.8 million | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | 7 million#17 of 50 | +4,927,177+71% | 6.8 million | OH |
| Median household incomeGap +$253 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$2530% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | IN |
| Population growthGap -0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | -0.22 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$719 (-1%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | -$719-1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.91% | IN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +21 (+8%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +21+8% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +377 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +377+36% | 1,535 | IN |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.5 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 239#13 of 50 | 240#9 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 214 | 216#14 of 50 | 220#6 of 50 | -4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | OH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 7.6% | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$11,292 (-4%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | -$11,292-4% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.4 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$30 (-2%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | -$30-2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$413 (+1%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$413+1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.5 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | -0.5 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.2x (-6%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | -0.2x-6% | 4.6x | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.73¢ (+4%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | +0.73¢+4% | 17.84¢/kWh | IN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.36 (+21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$2.36+21% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.18 (+6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.18+6% | $3.32/gal | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.8 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | -1.8 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,525 (-20%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$3,525-20% | $15,633 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.27 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | +0.27 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.98 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | +0.98 pts | 5.46% | IN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.66 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.66 pts | 1.02% | IN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.29 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | IN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | IN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$640 (+27%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | +$640+27% | $3,506 | IN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +4.66% | IN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | IN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -9 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -9 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -8.6 (-51%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | -8.6-51% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -0.6 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 17.16% | IN |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.8 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | -0.8 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.3 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 12.28% | OH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +23,312 (+34%) · US 78,682 | 92,684#16 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +23,312+34% | 78,682 | OH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +30,038 (+43%) · US 78,715 | 100,678#37 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +30,038+43% | 78,715 | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -6,726 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -6,726 | -33 | IN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.5 · US +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | -0.5 | +0.4 | IN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,888 (+4%) · US $77,690 | $67,237#35 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$2,888+4% | $77,690 | OH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,294 (+15%) · US $77,024 | $78,108#17 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$10,294+15% | $77,024 | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.8 · US +1.1 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -0.8 | +1.1 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$6,857 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | +$6,857 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$210 · US +$31,418 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | +$36,449#10 of 50 | +$210 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$165 · US +$35,970 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | +$41,032#9 of 50 | +$165 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Ohio and Indiana numbers say when read together.
Indiana ranks higher overall
Indiana leads 6 of the 11 categories to Ohio's 2, with 3 even; Ohio is ahead on transportation and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Ohio is ahead on 10 and Indiana on 21.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 92.8 in Ohio and 93.3 in Indiana, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $248,803 and $260,095. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 a year after typical costs in Ohio and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Tax burdens are close
Ohio collects 9.36% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales 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 $72,212 in Ohio and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 254 in Indiana.
Moves between the two run about even
11,600 people moved from Ohio to Indiana and 10,916 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Indiana is the better fit for retirees
For families, Ohio ranks #21 of 50 and Indiana #18; for retirees, Ohio ranks #29 and Indiana #22.
Ohio vs Indiana: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio or Indiana better to live in?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 93.3); Ohio collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 8% higher violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Ohio cheaper than Indiana?
Ohio and Indiana cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 92.8 vs 93.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$3,318 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Ohio, and -$10,175 in Indiana. The typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $260,095 in Indiana.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Indiana?
Ohio and Indiana have similar tax burdens: 9.36% vs 9.09% of income in state and local taxes. Ohio's top income tax rate is 6%, its effective property tax rate 1.43% and its combined sales tax 7.29%; Indiana's are 5.02%, 0.77% and 7%.
Is Ohio safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 276 in Ohio, per the FBI. Ohio ranks #24 of 50 for violent crime and Indiana #21. Property crime is 1,429 per 100,000 in Ohio and 1,052 in Indiana. The safest tracked cities are Lakewood, OH, and Carmel, IN.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or Indiana?
Homes are 5% more expensive in Indiana: the typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of household income in Ohio and $70,704 in Indiana, against median incomes of $72,212 and $71,959.
Do people earn more in Ohio or Indiana?
Ohio and Indiana pay about the same: median household income is $72,212 vs $71,959, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Ohio and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 8 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0, with 12 even.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Indiana or from Indiana to Ohio?
5,279 households moved from Ohio to Indiana and 5,172 moved from Indiana to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 107 households for Indiana. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $60,951; movers to Ohio reported $59,512. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,600 people (±2,893) moving from Ohio to Indiana and 10,916 (±2,649) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Ohio or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for retirees: #22 of 50 on the retiree index vs #29 for Ohio. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales 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 +$41,197 left after typical costs in Ohio and +$41,032 in Indiana.
Which is better for families, Ohio or Indiana?
Ohio and Indiana are close for families: #21 and #18 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $13,936 a year in Ohio and $17,461 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 86.2% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 after typical costs in Ohio and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Is Indiana better than Ohio?
Yes: Indiana ranks higher than Ohio overall, #22 of 50 vs #33, with a composite score of 59.2 to 52.1. Indiana leads 6 of 11 categories and Ohio leads 2, including transportation and health. 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 Ohio vs Indiana.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (5,279 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).