Tennessee vs Indiana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 93.3); Tennessee has no income tax and has a 48% higher violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 2 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 48% lower in Indiana (254 vs. 492 in Tennessee).
- Property crime rate is 36% lower in Indiana (1,052 vs. 1,637 in Tennessee).
- Total tax burden is 30% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 9.09% in Indiana).
| Measure | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -2.1 pts | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | 59.2#22 of 50 · B | -2.1 pts | — | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | -1.4 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$4,516 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | +$4,516 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$74,013 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$74,013+28% | $368,697 | IN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.71 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -2.71 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +238 (+94%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +238+94% | 328 | IN |
| Median household incomeGap +$38 (0%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$380% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.7 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +25,372 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +25,372 | -33 | TN |
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 Tennessee or Indiana better to live in?
Indiana scores higher overall: 59.2 to 57.1 out of 100, #22 of 50 against #24. Tennessee leads 4 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 2, and 5 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +2.9 | 15% | 45.8#26 · B | 42.9#30 · C+ | +2.9 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -27.7 | 12% | 52.2#45 · D | 79.9#11 · B+ | -27.7 pts | IN |
| Health12% of scoregap -11.6 | 12% | 28.7#46 · D | 40.3#39 · C | -11.6 pts | IN |
| Education12% of scoregap -1.8 | 12% | 71.7#8 · A | 73.5#7 · A | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +2.2 | 10% | 77.9#17 · B+ | 75.7#19 · B | +2.2 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +10.8 | 8% | 76.1#3 · A+ | 65.3#16 · B+ | +10.8 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap +14.2 | 7% | 56.9#5 · A+ | 42.7#21 · B | +14.2 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +0.8 | 7% | 42.9#40 · C | 42.1#44 · D | +0.8 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +17 | 7% | 47.0#9 · A | 30.0#30 · C+ | +17 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +3.5 | 6% | 13.3#38 · C | 9.8#44 · D | +3.5 pts | TN |
| Environment4% of scoregap -2.2 | 4% | 36.2#33 · C+ | 38.4#28 · C+ | -2.2 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 Tennessee cheaper than Indiana?
Tennessee and Indiana cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 91.9 vs 93.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $4,516 more a year in Tennessee after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | -1.4 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -3.05¢ (-19%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | -3.05¢-19% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.35 (+3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$0.35+3% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,535 (-20%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$3,535-20% | $15,633 | TN |
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 | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$541 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | +$36,449costs $38,552 | -$541 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$1,543 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | +$28,935costs $46,065 | -$1,543 | IN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$4,516 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | -$10,175costs $85,175 | +$4,516 | TN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$1,072 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | +$41,032costs $33,968 | -$1,072 | 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 | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$4,426 | $22,211 | $17,785 | +$4,426 | IN |
| ChildcareGap -$7,070 | $27,852 | $34,922 | -$7,070 | TN |
| UtilitiesGap -$67 | $4,411 | $4,478 | -$67 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$79 | $10,835 | $10,756 | +$79 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$31 | $9,680 | $9,649 | +$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,914 | $5,671 | $7,585 | -$1,914 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or Indiana?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 9.09%. Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.71 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -2.71 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.02 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | -5.02 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.19 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | -0.19 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.61 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | +2.61 pts | 6.66% | IN |
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 Tennessee or Indiana?
Homes cost 28% more in Tennessee: a typical home value of $334,108 in Tennessee vs $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of income in Tennessee and $70,704 in Indiana; the median household earns $71,997 and $71,959.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$74,013 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$74,013+28% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.3 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +1.2% | IN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$261 (+17%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$261+17% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$14,845 (+21%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$14,845+21% | $100,006 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1x (+28%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +1x+28% | 4.6x | IN |
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.
| TN | IN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,719 | $1,338 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +24.8% | +28.9% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Nashville | 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 Tennessee or Indiana?
Median household income is about the same, $71,997 in Tennessee and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 3.5% and 3.7%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 2.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$38 (0%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$380% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,975 (+3%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$1,975+3% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.32 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | +0.32 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 | TN | IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | $144,667$133,094 in Indianapolis | TN |
| Civil Engineers | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | $95,698$88,042 in Indianapolis | TN |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | $102,621$94,411 in Indianapolis | TN |
| Registered Nurses | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | $90,771$83,509 in Indianapolis | TN |
| Software Developers | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | $133,348$122,680 in Indianapolis | TN |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | $54,926$50,532 in Indianapolis | TN |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | $33,860$31,151 in Indianapolis | TN |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | $109,830$101,044 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Accountants & Auditors | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | $79,365$73,016 in Indianapolis | TN |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | $59,445$54,689 in Indianapolis | TN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | $70,046$64,442 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | $74,259$68,318 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | $233,118$214,469 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | $67,846$62,418 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | $80,465$74,028 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | $56,825$52,279 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Electricians | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | $66,653$61,321 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | $59,879$55,089 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | $45,954$42,278 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | $50,742$46,683 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 Tennessee safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,637 and 1,052 per 100,000.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +238 (+94%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +238+94% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +584 (+56%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +584+56% | 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.
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
- Carmel, IN51 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Tennessee or Indiana?
Tennessee and Indiana are close on education (#8 and #7 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 90.4% and 87.7%. Indiana scores higher for health (#39 vs #46); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Tennessee and 75.4 in Indiana.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.7 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | IN |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.8 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 34.03% | TN |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.2 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 7.6% | IN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 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).
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
- 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: Tennessee #8, Indiana #7. Health: Tennessee #46, Indiana #39.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to Indiana, or from Indiana to Tennessee?
2,157 households moved from Tennessee to Indiana and 2,684 moved from Indiana to Tennessee in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 527 households for Tennessee. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $63,722; movers to Tennessee reported $61,524. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,460 people (±1,890) moving from Tennessee to Indiana and 6,707 (±3,441) 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 | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +44,416 (+64%) | 113,788#13 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +44,416+64% | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +19,044 (+27%) | 89,684#34 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +19,044+27% | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +25,372 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +25,372 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | +3.5 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$15,081 (+23%) | $79,430#24 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$15,081+23% | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,262 (+3%) | $70,076#32 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$2,262+3% | TN |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.0 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | +4.0 | TN |
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, Tennessee or Indiana?
Tennessee is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Indiana is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +12 places | #30score 62.5 | #18score 71.9 | +12 places | IN |
| RetireesGap +6 places | #28score 60.3 | #22score 62.8 | +6 places | IN |
| Remote WorkersGap -8 places | #14score 59.5 | #22score 53.9 | -8 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -7 places | #16score 60 | #23score 54.1 | -7 places | TN |
| Small BusinessGap -10 places | #8score 73.5 | #18score 63 | -10 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +11 places | #44score 28.8 | #33score 34.9 | +11 places | IN |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIndiana (#18 vs #30)
- RetireesIndiana (#22 vs #28)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #22)
- Young ProfessionalsTennessee (#16 vs #23)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #18)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIndiana (#33 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in Tennessee and Indiana?
Tennessee has 20 tracked cities and Indiana has 21; the largest are Nashville and Indianapolis. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Nashville690,130 people | Indianapolis885,860 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Franklinscore 69.5 | Carmelscore 73.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Brentwood62 violent per 100K | Carmel51 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Jacksoncost index 85.5 | Terre Hautecost index 87.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 | Bloomingtonwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 | Bloomingtoncounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Lebanon97% graduation rate | Fishers98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 | Carmelmedian income $141,505 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Lebanon+5.6% growth | Westfield+5.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Tennessee and Indiana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Tennessee carries AAA credit rating and Indiana AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +8.1 (+48%) · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | +8.1+48% | 29.6 | IN |
| Public land shareGap +5.1 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +1.9 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.1 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 92.67% | TN |
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 | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +15 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | +15 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$710 (-30%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | -$710-30% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Tennessee AAA, 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).
Tennessee vs Indiana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Tennessee is ahead on 19 of 51, Indiana on 13, and 19 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TennesseeTN | IndianaIN | GapTN−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +341,743 (+5%) · US 6.8 million | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | 7 million#17 of 50 | +341,743+5% | 6.8 million | TN |
| Median household incomeGap +$38 (0%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$380% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.32 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | +0.32 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,975 (+3%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$1,975+3% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +238 (+94%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +238+94% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +584 (+56%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +584+56% | 1,535 | IN |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.7 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 240#12 of 50 | 240#9 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 214 | 215#23 of 50 | 220#6 of 50 | -5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | IN |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.8 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 34.03% | TN |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.2 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 7.6% | IN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$74,013 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$74,013+28% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.3 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +1.2% | IN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$261 (+17%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$261+17% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$14,845 (+21%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$14,845+21% | $100,006 | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | -1.4 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1x (+28%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +1x+28% | 4.6x | IN |
| Residential electricity priceGap -3.05¢ (-19%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | -3.05¢-19% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.35 (+3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$0.35+3% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,535 (-20%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$3,535-20% | $15,633 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.71 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -2.71 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.02 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | -5.02 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.19 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | -0.19 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.61 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | +2.61 pts | 6.66% | IN |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +15 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | +15 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$710 (-30%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | -$710-30% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +8.1 (+48%) · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | +8.1+48% | 29.6 | IN |
| Public land shareGap +5.1 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +1.9 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.1 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 92.67% | TN |
| Households moving inIRSGap +44,416 (+64%) · US 78,682 | 113,788#13 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +44,416+64% | 78,682 | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +19,044 (+27%) · US 78,715 | 89,684#34 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +19,044+27% | 78,715 | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +25,372 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +25,372 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 · US +0.4 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | +3.5 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$15,081 (+23%) · US $77,690 | $79,430#24 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$15,081+23% | $77,690 | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,262 (+3%) · US $77,024 | $70,076#32 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$2,262+3% | $77,024 | TN |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.0 · US +1.1 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | +4.0 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$4,516 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | +$4,516 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$541 · US +$31,418 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | +$36,449#10 of 50 | -$541 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$1,072 · US +$35,970 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | +$41,032#9 of 50 | -$1,072 | +$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 Tennessee and Indiana numbers say when read together.
Indiana ranks higher overall
Indiana leads 2 of the 11 categories to Tennessee's 4, with 5 even; Tennessee is ahead on livability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Tennessee is ahead on 19 and Indiana on 13.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 91.9 in Tennessee and 93.3 in Indiana, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $334,108 and $260,095. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 a year after typical costs in Tennessee and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Tennessee collects 6.38% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Indiana collects 9.09% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Indiana is safer
Median household income is $71,997 in Tennessee and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 3.5% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 492 per 100,000 residents in Tennessee and 254 in Indiana.
Moves between the two run about even
4,460 people moved from Tennessee to Indiana and 6,707 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Indiana fits families and retirees better
For families, Tennessee ranks #30 of 50 and Indiana #18; for retirees, Tennessee ranks #28 and Indiana #22.
Tennessee vs Indiana: frequently asked questions
Is Tennessee or Indiana better to live in?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 93.3); Tennessee has no income tax and has a 48% higher violent crime rate. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 2 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Tennessee cheaper than Indiana?
Tennessee and Indiana cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 91.9 vs 93.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,659 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Tennessee, and -$10,175 in Indiana. The typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $260,095 in Indiana.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or Indiana?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.09% in Indiana. Tennessee's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.58% and its combined sales tax 9.61%; Indiana's are 5.02%, 0.77% and 7%.
Is Tennessee safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Tennessee ranks #46 of 50 for violent crime and Indiana #21. Property crime is 1,637 per 100,000 in Tennessee and 1,052 in Indiana. The safest tracked cities are Brentwood, TN, and Carmel, IN.
Are homes more expensive in Tennessee or Indiana?
Homes are 28% more expensive in Tennessee: the typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of household income in Tennessee and $70,704 in Indiana, against median incomes of $71,997 and $71,959.
Do people earn more in Tennessee or Indiana?
Tennessee and Indiana pay about the same: median household income is $71,997 vs $71,959, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.5% in Tennessee and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 2, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to Indiana or from Indiana to Tennessee?
2,157 households moved from Tennessee to Indiana and 2,684 moved from Indiana to Tennessee in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 527 households for Tennessee. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $63,722; movers to Tennessee reported $61,524. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,460 people (±1,890) moving from Tennessee to Indiana and 6,707 (±3,441) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Tennessee or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for retirees: #22 of 50 on the retiree index vs #28 for Tennessee. Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,960 left after typical costs in Tennessee and +$41,032 in Indiana.
Which is better for families, Tennessee or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for families: #18 of 50 on the families index vs #30 for Tennessee. Center-based infant care costs $13,926 a year in Tennessee and $17,461 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 90.4% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 after typical costs in Tennessee and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Is Indiana better than Tennessee?
Yes: Indiana ranks higher than Tennessee overall, #22 of 50 vs #24, with a composite score of 59.2 to 57.1. Indiana leads 2 of 11 categories and Tennessee leads 4, including livability and growth. 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 Tennessee vs Indiana.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,684 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).