Pennsylvania vs Indiana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 97.6), carries a 0.5-point higher tax burden, and has a 11% higher violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Property crime rate is 21% lower in Indiana (1,052 vs. 1,324 in Pennsylvania).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 19% lower in Indiana ($1,552 vs. $1,911 in Pennsylvania).
- Residential electricity price is 16% lower in Indiana (16.23¢/kWh vs. 19.30¢/kWh in Pennsylvania).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -2.3 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 59.2#22 of 50 · B | -2.3 pts | — | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.3 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +4.3 pts+5% | 100 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,450 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | -$1,450 | -$11,758 | IN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$30,306 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$30,306+12% | $368,697 | IN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -28 (-11%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | -28-11% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,586 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$5,586+8% | $80,903 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +1.9 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -10,827 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -10,827 | -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 Pennsylvania or Indiana better to live in?
Indiana scores higher overall: 59.2 to 56.9 out of 100, #22 of 50 against #25. Pennsylvania leads 4 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -3.7 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 42.9#30 · C+ | -3.7 pts | IN |
| Safety12% of scoregap -1.8 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 79.9#11 · B+ | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +19.3 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 40.3#39 · C | +19.3 pts | PA |
| Education12% of scoregap -8.1 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 73.5#7 · A | -8.1 pts | IN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -9 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 75.7#19 · B | -9 pts | IN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -19.7 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 65.3#16 · B+ | -19.7 pts | IN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -15.9 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 42.7#21 · B | -15.9 pts | IN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +13.8 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 42.1#44 · D | +13.8 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +4.4 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 30.0#30 · C+ | +4.4 pts | PA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +10 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 9.8#44 · D | +10 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -0.4 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 38.4#28 · C+ | -0.4 pts | Even |
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 Pennsylvania cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper: cost of living index 93.3 vs 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $1,450 more a year in Indiana after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.3 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +4.3 pts+5% | 100 | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.9 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +3.9 pts+4% | 100 | IN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.07¢ (+19%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | +3.07¢+19% | 17.84¢/kWh | IN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.55 (+31%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$3.55+31% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.33 (+11%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.33+11% | $3.32/gal | IN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,159 (-12%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$2,159-12% | $15,633 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,247 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$36,449costs $38,552 | -$3,247 | IN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,554 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$28,935costs $46,065 | -$4,554 | IN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$1,450 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$10,175costs $85,175 | -$1,450 | IN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,903 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$41,032costs $33,968 | -$3,903 | 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$3,931 | $21,716 | $17,785 | +$3,931 | IN |
| ChildcareGap -$4,318 | $30,604 | $34,922 | -$4,318 | PA |
| UtilitiesGap +$207 | $4,685 | $4,478 | +$207 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$439 | $11,195 | $10,756 | +$439 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$1,037 | $10,686 | $9,649 | +$1,037 | IN |
| State and local taxesGap +$154 | $7,739 | $7,585 | +$154 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Indiana?
Pennsylvania collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 9.09%. Pennsylvania 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.84 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | +1.84 pts | 5.46% | IN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.64 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.64 pts | 1.02% | IN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.66 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | -0.66 pts | 6.66% | PA |
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 Pennsylvania or Indiana?
Homes cost 12% more in Pennsylvania: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $70,704 in Indiana; the median household earns $77,545 and $71,959.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$30,306 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$30,306+12% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.2% | IN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$359 (+23%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$359+23% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$12,190 (+17%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$12,190+17% | $100,006 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 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.
| PA | IN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $1,338 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +28.9% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | 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 Pennsylvania or Indiana?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income $77,545 vs $71,959, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 15 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,586 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$5,586+8% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | IN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,567 (+9%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$5,567+9% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.46 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | -0.46 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 | PA | IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $144,667$133,094 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $95,698$88,042 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $233,118$214,469 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $109,830$101,044 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $133,348$122,680 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $67,846$62,418 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $79,365$73,016 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $70,046$64,442 in Indianapolis | PA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $102,621$94,411 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $33,860$31,151 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $59,879$55,089 in Indianapolis | PA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $59,445$54,689 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $90,771$83,509 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $45,954$42,278 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $54,926$50,532 in Indianapolis | PA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $74,259$68,318 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $56,825$52,279 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $66,653$61,321 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $50,742$46,683 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $80,465$74,028 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 Pennsylvania safer than Indiana?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 254 in Indiana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,052 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -28 (-11%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | -28-11% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +272 (+26%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +272+26% | 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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Carmel, IN51 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or Indiana?
Indiana scores higher for education (#7 of 50 vs #15), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 87.7%. Pennsylvania scores higher for health (#21 vs #39); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 75.4 in Indiana.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +1.9 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 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).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- 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: Pennsylvania #15, Indiana #7. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Indiana #39.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Indiana, or from Indiana to Pennsylvania?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,772 people (±1,932) moving from Pennsylvania to Indiana and 3,507 (±1,627) 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +54,253 (+78%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +54,253+78% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +65,080 (+92%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +65,080+92% | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -10,827 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -10,827 | IN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.7 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | -0.7 | IN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$12,017 (+19%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$12,017+19% | PA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$17,828 (+26%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$17,828+26% | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.0 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -2.0 | 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, Pennsylvania or Indiana?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Indiana is the better fit for 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +1 places | #19score 71.8 | #18score 71.9 | +1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +4 places | #26score 61.5 | #22score 62.8 | +4 places | IN |
| Remote WorkersGap +16 places | #38score 46 | #22score 53.9 | +16 places | IN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +10 places | #33score 49.4 | #23score 54.1 | +10 places | IN |
| Small BusinessGap +20 places | #38score 46.1 | #18score 63 | +20 places | IN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -6 places | #27score 43.3 | #33score 34.9 | -6 places | PA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#19 vs #18)
- RetireesIndiana (#22 vs #26)
- Remote WorkersIndiana (#22 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsIndiana (#23 vs #33)
- Small BusinessIndiana (#18 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #33)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Indiana?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Indiana has 21; the largest are Philadelphia and Indianapolis. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Indianapolis885,860 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Carmelscore 73.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Carmel51 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Terre Hautecost index 87.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Bloomingtonwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Bloomingtoncounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Fishers98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Carmelmedian income $141,505 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Westfield+5.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Indiana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Indiana AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -9 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -9 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.5 (-21%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | -3.5-21% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap +3.5 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 17.16% | PA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +2.5 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.6 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.2 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | IN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -8 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -20 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | -20 pts | 74.3% | IN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,780 (+76%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | +$1,780+76% | $3,506 | IN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -3.3 pts | +4.66% | IN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania 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).
Pennsylvania vs Indiana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Pennsylvania is ahead on 15 of 51, Indiana on 27, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | IndianaIN | GapPA−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,086,099 (+87%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 7 million#17 of 50 | +6,086,099+87% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,586 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$5,586+8% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | IN |
| Population growthGap -0.46 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | -0.46 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,567 (+9%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$5,567+9% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -28 (-11%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | -28-11% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +272 (+26%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +272+26% | 1,535 | IN |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 240#9 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 220#6 of 50 | -4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +1.9 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$30,306 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$30,306+12% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.2% | IN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$359 (+23%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$359+23% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$12,190 (+17%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$12,190+17% | $100,006 | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.3 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +4.3 pts+5% | 100 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.07¢ (+19%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | +3.07¢+19% | 17.84¢/kWh | IN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.55 (+31%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$3.55+31% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.33 (+11%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.33+11% | $3.32/gal | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.9 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +3.9 pts+4% | 100 | IN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,159 (-12%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$2,159-12% | $15,633 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.84 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | +1.84 pts | 5.46% | IN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.64 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +0.64 pts | 1.02% | IN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.66 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | -0.66 pts | 6.66% | PA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | IN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -8 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -20 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | -20 pts | 74.3% | IN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,780 (+76%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | +$1,780+76% | $3,506 | IN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -3.3 pts | +4.66% | IN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -9 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -9 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.5 (-21%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | -3.5-21% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap +3.5 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 17.16% | PA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +2.5 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.6 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.2 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +54,253 (+78%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +54,253+78% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +65,080 (+92%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +65,080+92% | 78,715 | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -10,827 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -10,827 | -33 | IN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.7 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | -0.7 | +0.4 | IN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$12,017 (+19%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$12,017+19% | $77,690 | PA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$17,828 (+26%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$17,828+26% | $77,024 | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.0 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -2.0 | +1.1 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,450 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | -$1,450 | -$11,758 | IN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,247 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$36,449#10 of 50 | -$3,247 | +$31,418 | IN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,903 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$41,032#9 of 50 | -$3,903 | +$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 Pennsylvania and Indiana numbers say when read together.
Indiana ranks higher overall
Indiana leads 5 of the 11 categories to Pennsylvania's 4, with 2 even; Pennsylvania is ahead on health and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 15 and Indiana on 27.
Indiana is cheaper day to day
Indiana's cost of living index is 93.3 against 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $260,095 in Indiana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Pennsylvania takes a smaller share in taxes
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% 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).
Pennsylvania pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 254 in Indiana.
Moves between the two run about even
3,772 people moved from Pennsylvania to Indiana and 3,507 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Indiana is the better fit for retirees
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Indiana #18; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Indiana #22.
Pennsylvania vs Indiana: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Indiana better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 97.6), carries a 0.5-point higher tax burden, and has a 11% higher violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper than Pennsylvania: cost of living index 93.3 vs 97.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$10,175 in Indiana. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $260,095 in Indiana.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Indiana?
Pennsylvania has the lower tax burden: 8.58% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.09% in Indiana. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; Indiana's are 5.02%, 0.77% and 7%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Indiana?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 254 in Indiana, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Indiana #21. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,052 in Indiana. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Carmel, IN.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Indiana?
Homes are 12% more expensive in Pennsylvania: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $70,704 in Indiana, against median incomes of $77,545 and $71,959.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Indiana?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income is $77,545 vs $71,959 in Indiana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 15 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0, with 5 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Indiana or from Indiana to Pennsylvania?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,772 people (±1,932) moving from Pennsylvania to Indiana and 3,507 (±1,627) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for retirees: #22 of 50 on the retiree index vs #26 for Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania 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 +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$41,032 in Indiana.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Indiana?
Pennsylvania and Indiana are close for families: #19 and #18 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $17,461 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 87% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Is Indiana better than Pennsylvania?
Yes: Indiana ranks higher than Pennsylvania overall, #22 of 50 vs #25, with a composite score of 59.2 to 56.9. Indiana leads 5 of 11 categories and Pennsylvania leads 4, including health and transportation. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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