Louisiana vs Kentucky: Which Is Better to Live In?
Louisiana ranks #50 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. Louisiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.2 vs 90.2), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 59% higher violent crime rate. Kentucky scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 59% lower in Kentucky (212 vs. 515 in Louisiana).
- Property crime rate is 36% lower in Kentucky (1,262 vs. 1,966 in Louisiana).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 16% lower in Kentucky ($1,348 vs. $1,598 in Louisiana).
| Measure | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -14.8 pts | 30.0#50 of 50 · F | 44.8#41 of 50 · C | -14.8 pts | — | KY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 88.2#5 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | -2 pts-2% | 100 | LA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$7,637 · US -$11,758 | +$7,293#5 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | +$7,637 | -$11,758 | LA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$15,538 (-7%) · US $368,697 | $217,039#3 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | -$15,538-7% | $368,697 | LA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.01 pts · US 8.74% | 8.94%#30 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | +0.01 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +303 (+143%) · US 328 | 515#47 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +303+143% | 328 | KY |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,540 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $60,986#48 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | -$3,540-5% | $80,903 | KY |
| High school graduation rateGap -7 pts · US 85.62% | 83.1%#38 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -7 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#47 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -12,287 · US -33 | -10,129#43 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -12,287 | -33 | KY |
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 Louisiana or Kentucky better to live in?
Kentucky scores higher overall: 44.8 to 30 out of 100, #41 of 50 against #50. Louisiana leads 2 of 11 categories, Kentucky leads 6, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +1.2 | 15% | 24.9#48 · D | 23.7#49 · F | +1.2 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -34.7 | 12% | 45.5#48 · D | 80.2#10 · A | -34.7 pts | KY |
| Health12% of scoregap -3.2 | 12% | 29.9#44 · D | 33.1#43 · D | -3.2 pts | KY |
| Education12% of scoregap -19.3 | 12% | 48.3#41 · C | 67.6#10 · A | -19.3 pts | KY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +5.7 | 10% | 88.7#3 · A+ | 83.0#11 · B+ | +5.7 pts | LA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +4.7 | 8% | 43.1#44 · D | 38.4#47 · D | +4.7 pts | LA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -13.8 | 7% | 21.1#44 · D | 34.9#30 · C+ | -13.8 pts | KY |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -8.4 | 7% | 36.4#48 · D | 44.8#37 · C | -8.4 pts | KY |
| Livability7% of scoregap +2 | 7% | 20.3#47 · D | 18.3#49 · F | +2 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +0.4 | 6% | 10.3#41 · C | 9.9#43 · D | +0.4 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -12.9 | 4% | 16.0#50 · F | 28.9#40 · C | -12.9 pts | KY |
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 Louisiana cheaper than Kentucky?
Louisiana is cheaper: cost of living index 88.2 vs 90.2 in Kentucky (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $7,637 more a year in Louisiana after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 88.2#5 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | -2 pts-2% | 100 | LA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.7#4 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | -2.3 pts-2% | 100 | LA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.67¢ (-5%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.57¢/kWh#4 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | -0.67¢-5% | 17.84¢/kWh | LA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.15 (+22%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.38/Mcf#35 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | +$3.15+22% | $15.83/Mcf | KY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.27 (-9%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.90/gal#4 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | -$0.27-9% | $3.32/gal | LA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,942 (-15%) · US $15,633 | $11,133#11 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | -$1,942-15% | $15,633 | LA |
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 | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,402 | +$39,240costs $35,760 | +$36,838costs $38,162 | +$2,402 | LA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$3,248 | +$32,957costs $42,043 | +$29,709costs $45,290 | +$3,248 | LA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$7,637 | +$7,293costs $67,708 | -$344costs $75,344 | +$7,637 | LA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,913 | +$44,597costs $30,403 | +$41,684costs $33,316 | +$2,913 | LA |
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 | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$1,610 | $14,363 | $15,973 | -$1,610 | LA |
| ChildcareGap -$3,884 | $22,266 | $26,150 | -$3,884 | LA |
| UtilitiesGap -$96 | $4,234 | $4,330 | -$96 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$259 | $10,553 | $10,812 | -$259 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$849 | $9,114 | $9,963 | -$849 | LA |
| State and local taxesGap -$938 | $7,178 | $8,116 | -$938 | LA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Louisiana or Kentucky?
Louisiana and Kentucky collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.94% vs 8.93%. Louisiana has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.01 pts · US 8.74% | 8.94%#30 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | +0.01 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.2 pts · US 5.46% | 3%#12 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 5.46% | LA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.25 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#9 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | -0.25 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +4.11 pts · US 6.66% | 10.11%#50 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | +4.11 pts | 6.66% | KY |
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 Louisiana or Kentucky?
Homes cost 7% more in Kentucky: a typical home value of $217,039 in Louisiana vs $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $64,285 of income in Louisiana and $63,057 in Kentucky; the median household earns $60,986 and $64,526.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$15,538 (-7%) · US $368,697 | $217,039#3 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | -$15,538-7% | $368,697 | LA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2.1%#26 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.5 pts | +1.2% | LA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$250 (+19%) · US $1,948 | $1,598#21 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$250+19% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$1,228 (+2%) · US $100,006 | $64,285#6 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$1,228+2% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#11 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 0x0% | 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.
| LA | KY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,117 | $1,197 |
| Income needed vs. median | +5% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +1.1% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | New Orleans | Louisville |
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 Louisiana or Kentucky?
Kentucky pays more: median household income $64,526 vs $60,986, with unemployment at 4.3% in Louisiana and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Louisiana's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 4.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$3,540 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $60,986#48 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | -$3,540-5% | $80,903 | KY |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#36 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$6,633 (+13%) · US $64,333 | $57,458#36 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$6,633+13% | $64,333 | LA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +0.8%#45 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.91% | KY |
| Population growthGap -0.43 pts · US +0.51% | +0.07%#44 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | -0.43 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 | LA | KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $240,041$211,236 in New Orleans | $230,688$207,619 in Louisville | LA |
| Civil Engineers | $93,240$82,051 in New Orleans | $102,343$92,109 in Louisville | KY |
| Software Developers | $141,252$124,302 in New Orleans | $132,426$119,183 in Louisville | LA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,424$94,533 in New Orleans | $98,924$89,032 in Louisville | LA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $74,014$65,132 in New Orleans | $67,671$60,904 in Louisville | LA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $105,259$92,628 in New Orleans | $111,147$100,032 in Louisville | KY |
| Lawyers | $144,611$127,258 in New Orleans | $149,011$134,110 in Louisville | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $78,886$69,420 in New Orleans | $75,852$68,267 in Louisville | LA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $65,197$57,373 in New Orleans | $67,624$60,862 in Louisville | KY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,564$29,536 in New Orleans | $35,396$31,856 in Louisville | KY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $79,319$69,801 in New Orleans | $81,118$73,006 in Louisville | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $55,973$49,256 in New Orleans | $54,420$48,978 in Louisville | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,788$49,093 in New Orleans | $57,318$51,586 in Louisville | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,964$43,088 in New Orleans | $47,671$42,904 in Louisville | Even |
| Electricians | $60,933$53,621 in New Orleans | $60,249$54,224 in Louisville | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $92,147$81,089 in New Orleans | $91,587$82,428 in Louisville | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,775$47,322 in New Orleans | $54,301$48,871 in Louisville | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,943$59,790 in New Orleans | $67,440$60,696 in Louisville | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,126$39,711 in New Orleans | $44,696$40,226 in Louisville | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $59,427$52,296 in New Orleans | $59,164$53,248 in Louisville | 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 Louisiana safer than Kentucky?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 515 in Louisiana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,966 and 1,262 per 100,000.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +303 (+143%) · US 328 | 515#47 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +303+143% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +705 (+56%) · US 1,535 | 1,966#45 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +705+56% | 1,535 | KY |
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.
- Slidell, LA275 violent per 100K
- Independence, KY49 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Louisiana or Kentucky?
Kentucky scores higher for education (#10 of 50 vs #41), with high school graduation rates of 83.1% and 90.1%. Kentucky scores higher for health (#43 vs #44); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Louisiana and 73.6 in Kentucky.
| Measure | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 267#42 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 257#28 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -7 pts · US 85.62% | 83.1%#38 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -7 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#47 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +2 pts · US 34.03% | 39.2%#48 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | +2 pts | 34.03% | KY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#29 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 7.6% | KY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#44 of 50 | 41#34 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | KY |
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).
- Ruston, LAeducation score 98
- Bowling Green, KYeducation score 96
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: Louisiana #41, Kentucky #10. Health: Louisiana #44, Kentucky #43.
Are more people moving from Louisiana to Kentucky, or from Kentucky to Louisiana?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 503 people (±242) moving from Louisiana to Kentucky and 396 (±304) 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 | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -11,839 (-24%) | 37,020#32 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | -11,839-24% | KY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +448 (+1%) | 47,149#23 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +448+1% | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -12,287 | -10,129#43 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -12,287 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.7 | -2.2#48 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -2.7 | KY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$2,294 (-4%) | $58,189#48 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | -$2,294-4% | KY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,031 (-5%) | $62,643#46 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | -$3,031-5% | KY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 | -3.1#44 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | -4.7 | KY |
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, Louisiana or Kentucky?
Kentucky is the better fit for families, retirees, 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 | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +22 places | #47score 44.5 | #25score 65.1 | +22 places | KY |
| RetireesGap +4 places | #50score 39.5 | #46score 47.3 | +4 places | KY |
| Remote WorkersGap +1 places | #47score 32.3 | #46score 39.5 | +1 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +5 places | #49score 30 | #44score 39.5 | +5 places | KY |
| Small BusinessGap +6 places | #49score 29.9 | #43score 39.1 | +6 places | KY |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +7 places | #50score 14.3 | #43score 28.9 | +7 places | KY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesKentucky (#25 vs #47)
- RetireesKentucky (#46 vs #50)
- Remote WorkersEven (#47 vs #46)
- Young ProfessionalsKentucky (#44 vs #49)
- Small BusinessKentucky (#43 vs #49)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsKentucky (#43 vs #50)
Which cities stand out in Louisiana and Kentucky?
Louisiana has 20 tracked cities and Kentucky has 20; the largest are New Orleans and Louisville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New Orleans371,853 people | Louisville631,818 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Prairievillescore 58.2 | Independencescore 64.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Slidell275 violent per 100K | Independence49 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | New Iberiacost index 82.5 | Richmondcost index 85.3 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | New Orleanswalkability 13.7 of 20 | Covingtonwalkability 13.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Prairievillecounty median AQI 33 | Florencecounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Ruston98% graduation rate | Bowling Green96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Prairievillemedian income $104,923 | Independencemedian income $102,361 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Lake Charles+1.5% growth | Elizabethtown+2.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Louisiana and Kentucky compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Louisiana carries AA- credit rating and Kentucky A.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -4 pts · US 29.34% | 5%#50 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | -4 pts | 29.34% | KY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.4 (+55%) · US 29.6 | 52.0#45 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | +18.4+55% | 29.6 | KY |
| Public land shareGap -1.2 pts · US 17.16% | 4.2%#38 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 17.16% | KY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 26.2 min#28 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | +1.7 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.9%#29 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.5 pts · US 12.28% | 8%#48 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 12.28% | KY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 90.5%#47 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | -0.4 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 | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#46 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | LA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US 12.39% | 4.2%#47 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 12.39% | KY |
| Pension funded ratioGap +17 pts · US 74.3% | 64%#40 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | +17 pts | 74.3% | LA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$470 (+14%) · US $3,506 | $3,890#37 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | +$470+14% | $3,506 | KY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +1.5%#45 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +4.66% | KY |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Louisiana AA-, Kentucky A), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Louisiana vs Kentucky: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Louisiana is ahead on 14 of 51, Kentucky on 24, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | LouisianaLA | KentuckyKY | GapLA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +11,325 (0%) · US 6.8 million | 4.6 million#25 of 50 | 4.6 million#26 of 50 | +11,3250% | 6.8 million | Even |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,540 (-5%) · US $80,903 | $60,986#48 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | -$3,540-5% | $80,903 | KY |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#36 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.43 pts · US +0.51% | +0.07%#44 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | -0.43 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$6,633 (+13%) · US $64,333 | $57,458#36 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$6,633+13% | $64,333 | LA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +0.8%#45 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.91% | KY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +303 (+143%) · US 328 | 515#47 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +303+143% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +705 (+56%) · US 1,535 | 1,966#45 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +705+56% | 1,535 | KY |
| High school graduation rateGap -7 pts · US 85.62% | 83.1%#38 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -7 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 235#37 of 50 | 238#25 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 267#42 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 216#15 of 50 | 218#11 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 257#28 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#47 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +2 pts · US 34.03% | 39.2%#48 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | +2 pts | 34.03% | KY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 7.7%#29 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 7.6% | KY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$15,538 (-7%) · US $368,697 | $217,039#3 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | -$15,538-7% | $368,697 | LA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2.1%#26 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.5 pts | +1.2% | LA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$250 (+19%) · US $1,948 | $1,598#21 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$250+19% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$1,228 (+2%) · US $100,006 | $64,285#6 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$1,228+2% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 88.2#5 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | -2 pts-2% | 100 | LA |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#11 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.67¢ (-5%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.57¢/kWh#4 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | -0.67¢-5% | 17.84¢/kWh | LA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.15 (+22%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.38/Mcf#35 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | +$3.15+22% | $15.83/Mcf | KY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.27 (-9%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.90/gal#4 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | -$0.27-9% | $3.32/gal | LA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.7#4 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | -2.3 pts-2% | 100 | LA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,942 (-15%) · US $15,633 | $11,133#11 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | -$1,942-15% | $15,633 | LA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.01 pts · US 8.74% | 8.94%#30 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | +0.01 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.2 pts · US 5.46% | 3%#12 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 5.46% | LA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.25 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#9 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | -0.25 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +4.11 pts · US 6.66% | 10.11%#50 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | +4.11 pts | 6.66% | KY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#46 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | LA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US 12.39% | 4.2%#47 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 12.39% | KY |
| Pension funded ratioGap +17 pts · US 74.3% | 64%#40 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | +17 pts | 74.3% | LA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$470 (+14%) · US $3,506 | $3,890#37 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | +$470+14% | $3,506 | KY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +1.5%#45 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +4.66% | KY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#44 of 50 | 41#34 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | KY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -4 pts · US 29.34% | 5%#50 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | -4 pts | 29.34% | KY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.4 (+55%) · US 29.6 | 52.0#45 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | +18.4+55% | 29.6 | KY |
| Public land shareGap -1.2 pts · US 17.16% | 4.2%#38 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 17.16% | KY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 26.2 min#28 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | +1.7 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.9%#29 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.5 pts · US 12.28% | 8%#48 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 12.28% | KY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 90.5%#47 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap -11,839 (-24%) · US 78,682 | 37,020#32 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | -11,839-24% | 78,682 | KY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +448 (+1%) · US 78,715 | 47,149#23 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +448+1% | 78,715 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -12,287 · US -33 | -10,129#43 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -12,287 | -33 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.7 · US +0.4 | -2.2#48 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -2.7 | +0.4 | KY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$2,294 (-4%) · US $77,690 | $58,189#48 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | -$2,294-4% | $77,690 | KY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,031 (-5%) · US $77,024 | $62,643#46 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | -$3,031-5% | $77,024 | KY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 · US +1.1 | -3.1#44 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | -4.7 | +1.1 | KY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$7,637 · US -$11,758 | +$7,293#5 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | +$7,637 | -$11,758 | LA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,402 · US +$31,418 | +$39,240#1 of 50 | +$36,838#6 of 50 | +$2,402 | +$31,418 | LA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,913 · US +$35,970 | +$44,597#1 of 50 | +$41,684#7 of 50 | +$2,913 | +$35,970 | LA |
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 Louisiana and Kentucky numbers say when read together.
Kentucky ranks higher overall
Kentucky leads 6 of the 11 categories to Louisiana's 2, with 3 even; Louisiana is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Louisiana is ahead on 14 and Kentucky on 24.
Louisiana is cheaper day to day
Louisiana's cost of living index is 88.2 against 90.2 in Kentucky (US = 100). The typical home costs $217,039 in Louisiana and $232,577 in Kentucky. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$7,293 a year after typical costs in Louisiana and -$344 in Kentucky.
Tax burdens are close
Louisiana collects 8.94% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Kentucky collects 8.93% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Kentucky pays more and is safer
Median household income is $60,986 in Louisiana and $64,526 in Kentucky, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.6%. Violent crime runs 515 per 100,000 residents in Louisiana and 212 in Kentucky.
Moves between the two run about even
503 people moved from Louisiana to Kentucky and 396 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Kentucky fits families and retirees better
For families, Louisiana ranks #47 of 50 and Kentucky #25; for retirees, Louisiana ranks #50 and Kentucky #46.
Louisiana vs Kentucky: frequently asked questions
Is Louisiana or Kentucky better to live in?
Louisiana ranks #50 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. Louisiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.2 vs 90.2), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 59% higher violent crime rate. Kentucky scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Louisiana cheaper than Kentucky?
Louisiana is cheaper than Kentucky: cost of living index 88.2 vs 90.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have +$7,293 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Louisiana, and -$344 in Kentucky. The typical home value is $217,039 in Louisiana and $232,577 in Kentucky.
Which has lower taxes, Louisiana or Kentucky?
Louisiana and Kentucky have similar tax burdens: 8.94% vs 8.93% of income in state and local taxes. Louisiana's top income tax rate is 3%, its effective property tax rate 0.55% and its combined sales tax 10.11%; Kentucky's are 6.2%, 0.8% and 6%.
Is Louisiana safer than Kentucky?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 515 in Louisiana, per the FBI. Louisiana ranks #47 of 50 for violent crime and Kentucky #9. Property crime is 1,966 per 100,000 in Louisiana and 1,262 in Kentucky. The safest tracked cities are Slidell, LA, and Independence, KY.
Are homes more expensive in Louisiana or Kentucky?
Homes are 7% more expensive in Kentucky: the typical home value is $217,039 in Louisiana and $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $64,285 of household income in Louisiana and $63,057 in Kentucky, against median incomes of $60,986 and $64,526.
Do people earn more in Louisiana or Kentucky?
Kentucky pays more: median household income is $64,526 vs $60,986 in Louisiana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Louisiana and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Louisiana's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 4, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from Louisiana to Kentucky or from Kentucky to Louisiana?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 503 people (±242) moving from Louisiana to Kentucky and 396 (±304) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Louisiana or Kentucky?
Kentucky is the better fit for retirees: #46 of 50 on the retiree index vs #50 for Louisiana. Louisiana has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$44,597 left after typical costs in Louisiana and +$41,684 in Kentucky.
Which is better for families, Louisiana or Kentucky?
Kentucky is the better fit for families: #25 of 50 on the families index vs #47 for Louisiana. Center-based infant care costs $11,133 a year in Louisiana and $13,075 in Kentucky. High school graduation rates are 83.1% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$7,293 after typical costs in Louisiana and -$344 in Kentucky.
Is Kentucky better than Louisiana?
Yes: Kentucky ranks higher than Louisiana overall, #41 of 50 vs #50, with a composite score of 44.8 to 30. Kentucky leads 6 of 11 categories and Louisiana leads 2, including affordability and fiscal 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 Louisiana vs Kentucky.