Kentucky vs Mississippi: Which Is Better to Live In?
Kentucky ranks #41 of 50 overall and Mississippi #46 as of the latest release. Mississippi is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87 vs 90.2), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 7% higher violent crime rate. Kentucky scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 50% lower in Mississippi ($6,492 vs. $13,075 in Kentucky).
- Typical home value is 15% lower in Mississippi ($197,606 vs. $232,577 in Kentucky).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 10% lower in Kentucky ($1,348 vs. $1,506 in Mississippi).
| Measure | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +2.9 pts | 44.8#41 of 50 · C | 41.9#46 of 50 · D | +2.9 pts | — | KY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.2 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 90.2#12 of 50 | 87#2 of 50 | +3.2 pts+4% | 100 | MS |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$17,303 · US -$11,758 | -$344#10 of 50 | +$16,959#1 of 50 | -$17,303 | -$11,758 | MS |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$34,971 (+18%) · US $368,697 | $232,577#6 of 50 | $197,606#2 of 50 | +$34,971+18% | $368,697 | MS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.13 pts · US 8.74% | 8.93%#29 of 50 | 9.06%#32 of 50 | -0.13 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -15 (-7%) · US 328 | 212#9 of 50 | 227#15 of 50 | -15-7% | 328 | KY |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,399 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $64,526#46 of 50 | $59,127#50 of 50 | +$5,399+9% | $80,903 | KY |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#5 of 50 | 88.9%#12 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.6#48 of 50 | 72.6#49 of 50 | +1.0 yrs | 76.9 | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,283 · US -33 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -3,125#37 of 50 | +5,283 | -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 Kentucky or Mississippi better to live in?
Kentucky scores higher overall: 44.8 to 41.9 out of 100, #41 of 50 against #46. Kentucky leads 5 of 11 categories, Mississippi leads 4, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -6.7 | 15% | 23.7#49 · F | 30.4#43 · D | -6.7 pts | MS |
| Safety12% of scoregap +1.2 | 12% | 80.2#10 · A | 79.0#14 · B+ | +1.2 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +15 | 12% | 33.1#43 · D | 18.1#50 · F | +15 pts | KY |
| Education12% of scoregap +4.7 | 12% | 67.6#10 · A | 62.9#22 · B | +4.7 pts | KY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -8.9 | 10% | 83.0#11 · B+ | 91.9#1 · A+ | -8.9 pts | MS |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -5.4 | 8% | 38.4#47 · D | 43.8#43 · D | -5.4 pts | MS |
| Growth7% of scoregap +4 | 7% | 34.9#30 · C+ | 30.9#35 · C | +4 pts | KY |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +15.2 | 7% | 44.8#37 · C | 29.6#50 · F | +15.2 pts | KY |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.8 | 7% | 18.3#49 · F | 17.5#50 · F | +0.8 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -4.8 | 6% | 9.9#43 · D | 14.7#35 · C | -4.8 pts | MS |
| Environment4% of scoregap +6.2 | 4% | 28.9#40 · C | 22.7#48 · D | +6.2 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 Kentucky cheaper than Mississippi?
Mississippi is cheaper: cost of living index 87 vs 90.2 in Kentucky (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $17,303 more a year in Mississippi after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.2 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 90.2#12 of 50 | 87#2 of 50 | +3.2 pts+4% | 100 | MS |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96#15 of 50 | 96.2#20 of 50 | -0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.79¢ (-6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | 14.03¢/kWh#18 of 50 | -0.79¢-6% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.41 (-14%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | $16.64/Mcf#30 of 50 | -$2.41-14% | $15.83/Mcf | KY |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.27 (+9%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | $2.90/gal#3 of 50 | +$0.27+9% | $3.32/gal | MS |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,583 (+101%) · US $15,633 | $13,075#15 of 50 | $6,492#1 of 50 | +$6,583+101% | $15,633 | MS |
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 | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,345 | +$36,838costs $38,162 | +$39,183costs $35,817 | -$2,345 | MS |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$3,340 | +$29,709costs $45,290 | +$33,049costs $41,951 | -$3,340 | MS |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$17,303 | -$344costs $75,344 | +$16,959costs $58,041 | -$17,303 | MS |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,896 | +$41,684costs $33,316 | +$44,580costs $30,419 | -$2,896 | MS |
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 | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,481 | $15,973 | $13,492 | +$2,481 | MS |
| ChildcareGap +$13,166 | $26,150 | $12,984 | +$13,166 | MS |
| UtilitiesGap +$154 | $4,330 | $4,176 | +$154 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$23 | $10,812 | $10,835 | -$23 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$849 | $9,963 | $9,114 | +$849 | MS |
| State and local taxesGap +$676 | $8,116 | $7,440 | +$676 | MS |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Kentucky or Mississippi?
Kentucky and Mississippi collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.93% vs 9.06%. Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Mississippi has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.13 pts · US 8.74% | 8.93%#29 of 50 | 9.06%#32 of 50 | -0.13 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.8 pts · US 5.46% | 6.2%#35 of 50 | 4.4%#18 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 5.46% | MS |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.04 pts · US 1.02% | 0.8%#22 of 50 | 0.76%#19 of 50 | +0.04 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.06 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#12 of 50 | 7.06%#28 of 50 | -1.06 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 Kentucky or Mississippi?
Homes cost 18% more in Kentucky: a typical home value of $232,577 in Kentucky vs $197,606 in Mississippi. Buying the typical home takes about $63,057 of income in Kentucky and $55,591 in Mississippi; the median household earns $64,526 and $59,127.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$34,971 (+18%) · US $368,697 | $232,577#6 of 50 | $197,606#2 of 50 | +$34,971+18% | $368,697 | MS |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.7 pts · US +1.2% | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.3%#24 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +1.2% | MS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$158 (-10%) · US $1,948 | $1,348#7 of 50 | $1,506#14 of 50 | -$158-10% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$7,466 (+13%) · US $100,006 | $63,057#4 of 50 | $55,591#2 of 50 | +$7,466+13% | $100,006 | MS |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+9%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 3.3x#4 of 50 | +0.3x+9% | 4.6x | MS |
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.
| KY | MS | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,197 | $1,017 |
| Income needed vs. median | -2% | -6% |
| Five-year change | +25.1% | +12.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Louisville | Jackson |
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 Kentucky or Mississippi?
Kentucky pays more: median household income $64,526 vs $59,127, with unemployment at 4.6% in Kentucky and 3.8% in Mississippi. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Kentucky's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Mississippi's in 1.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,399 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $64,526#46 of 50 | $59,127#50 of 50 | +$5,399+9% | $80,903 | KY |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#42 of 50 | 3.8%#22 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | MS |
| GDP per capitaGap +$11,943 (+31%) · US $64,333 | $50,825#45 of 50 | $38,882#50 of 50 | +$11,943+31% | $64,333 | KY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.5%#47 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | KY |
| Population growthGap +0.36 pts · US +0.51% | +0.5%#23 of 50 | +0.14%#40 of 50 | +0.36 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 | KY | MS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $149,011$134,110 in Louisville | $128,178$111,515 in Jackson | KY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $111,147$100,032 in Louisville | $90,516$78,749 in Jackson | KY |
| Registered Nurses | $91,587$82,428 in Louisville | $74,982$65,234 in Jackson | KY |
| Civil Engineers | $102,343$92,109 in Louisville | $87,501$76,126 in Jackson | KY |
| Software Developers | $132,426$119,183 in Louisville | $119,353$103,837 in Jackson | KY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,118$73,006 in Louisville | $68,097$59,244 in Jackson | KY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,852$68,267 in Louisville | $65,301$56,812 in Jackson | KY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,440$60,696 in Louisville | $57,247$49,805 in Jackson | KY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,624$60,862 in Louisville | $58,220$50,651 in Jackson | KY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $230,688$207,619 in Louisville | $238,010$207,069 in Jackson | MS |
| Mental Health Counselors | $54,301$48,871 in Louisville | $47,391$41,230 in Jackson | KY |
| Construction Laborers | $44,696$40,226 in Louisville | $37,998$33,058 in Jackson | KY |
| General & Operations Managers | $98,924$89,032 in Louisville | $92,276$80,280 in Jackson | KY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $57,318$51,586 in Louisville | $50,851$44,240 in Jackson | KY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $59,164$53,248 in Louisville | $52,748$45,891 in Jackson | KY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,396$31,856 in Louisville | $29,298$25,489 in Jackson | KY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,420$48,978 in Louisville | $48,469$42,168 in Jackson | KY |
| Electricians | $60,249$54,224 in Louisville | $54,908$47,770 in Jackson | KY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $47,671$42,904 in Louisville | $42,891$37,315 in Jackson | KY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $67,671$60,904 in Louisville | $64,775$56,354 in Jackson | KY |
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 Kentucky safer than Mississippi?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 227 in Mississippi (FBI). Property crime runs 1,262 and 1,264 per 100,000.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -15 (-7%) · US 328 | 212#9 of 50 | 227#15 of 50 | -15-7% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -2 (0%) · US 1,535 | 1,262#14 of 50 | 1,264#15 of 50 | -20% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- Independence, KY49 violent per 100K
- Madison, MS21 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Kentucky or Mississippi?
Kentucky scores higher for education (#10 of 50 vs #22), with high school graduation rates of 90.1% and 88.9%. Kentucky scores higher for health (#43 vs #50); life expectancy is 73.6 years in Kentucky and 72.6 in Mississippi.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 271#28 of 50 | 269#35 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 258#22 of 50 | 254#41 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#5 of 50 | 88.9%#12 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.6#48 of 50 | 72.6#49 of 50 | +1.0 yrs | 76.9 | KY |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.2 pts · US 34.03% | 37.2%#40 of 50 | 40.4%#49 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 34.03% | KY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.9 pts · US 7.6% | 6.8%#21 of 50 | 9.7%#41 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 7.6% | KY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 41#34 of 50 | 43#43 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).
- Bowling Green, KYeducation score 96
- Pearl, MSeducation 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: Kentucky #10, Mississippi #22. Health: Kentucky #43, Mississippi #50.
Are more people moving from Kentucky to Mississippi, or from Mississippi to Kentucky?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 215 people (±217) moving from Kentucky to Mississippi and 545 (±380) 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 | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +18,501 (+61%) | 48,859#27 of 50 | 30,358#37 of 50 | +18,501+61% | KY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +13,218 (+39%) | 46,701#22 of 50 | 33,483#17 of 50 | +13,218+39% | MS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,283 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -3,125#37 of 50 | +5,283 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.6 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -1.1#40 of 50 | +1.6 | KY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$3,605 (+6%) | $60,483#44 of 50 | $56,878#49 of 50 | +$3,605+6% | KY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$12,123 (+23%) | $65,674#39 of 50 | $53,551#50 of 50 | +$12,123+23% | KY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.9 | +1.6#21 of 50 | -0.3#36 of 50 | +1.9 | 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, Kentucky or Mississippi?
Kentucky is the better fit for families; Mississippi is the better fit for remote workers; 4 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -6 places | #25score 65.1 | #31score 61.9 | -6 places | KY |
| RetireesGap -2 places | #46score 47.3 | #48score 44.6 | -2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +5 places | #46score 39.5 | #41score 43.2 | +5 places | MS |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -2 places | #44score 39.5 | #46score 37.9 | -2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +2 places | #43score 39.1 | #41score 41.3 | +2 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -3 places | #43score 28.9 | #46score 26.6 | -3 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesKentucky (#25 vs #31)
- RetireesEven (#46 vs #48)
- Remote WorkersMississippi (#41 vs #46)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#44 vs #46)
- Small BusinessEven (#43 vs #41)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#43 vs #46)
Which cities stand out in Kentucky and Mississippi?
Kentucky has 20 tracked cities and Mississippi has 20; the largest are Louisville and Jackson. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Louisville631,818 people | Jackson146,631 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Independencescore 64.4 | Madisonscore 68.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Independence49 violent per 100K | Madison21 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Richmondcost index 85.3 | Tupelocost index 83.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Covingtonwalkability 13.4 of 20 | Jacksonwalkability 10.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Florencecounty median AQI 38 | Meridiancounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Bowling Green96% graduation rate | Pearl96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Independencemedian income $102,361 | Madisonmedian income $119,338 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Elizabethtown+2.8% growth | Gulfport+2.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Kentucky and Mississippi compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Kentucky carries A credit rating and Mississippi AA-.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 9%#41 of 50 | 5%#49 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | KY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.8 (-8%) · US 29.6 | 33.6#31 of 50 | 36.4#33 of 50 | -2.8-8% | 29.6 | KY |
| Public land shareGap -1.1 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#36 of 50 | 6.5%#28 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 17.16% | MS |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | 26.4 min#32 of 50 | -1.9 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#37 of 50 | 0.3%#48 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.3 pts · US 12.28% | 9.5%#40 of 50 | 6.2%#50 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 12.28% | KY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.6 pts · US 92.67% | 90.9%#42 of 50 | 88.3%#50 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 92.67% | KY |
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 | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 75#49 of 50 | 85#44 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | MS |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#32 of 50 | 8.6%#34 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 47%#49 of 50 | 60%#44 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | MS |
| State debt per capitaGap +$280 (+9%) · US $3,506 | $3,420#33 of 50 | $3,140#30 of 50 | +$280+9% | $3,506 | MS |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap 0 pts · US +4.66% | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +3.8%#33 of 50 | 0 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Kentucky A, Mississippi AA-), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Kentucky vs Mississippi: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Kentucky is ahead on 23 of 51, Mississippi on 16, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | KentuckyKY | MississippiMS | GapKY−MS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,652,704 (+56%) · US 6.8 million | 4.6 million#26 of 50 | 3 million#35 of 50 | +1,652,704+56% | 6.8 million | KY |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,399 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $64,526#46 of 50 | $59,127#50 of 50 | +$5,399+9% | $80,903 | KY |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#42 of 50 | 3.8%#22 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | MS |
| Population growthGap +0.36 pts · US +0.51% | +0.5%#23 of 50 | +0.14%#40 of 50 | +0.36 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$11,943 (+31%) · US $64,333 | $50,825#45 of 50 | $38,882#50 of 50 | +$11,943+31% | $64,333 | KY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.5%#47 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | KY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -15 (-7%) · US 328 | 212#9 of 50 | 227#15 of 50 | -15-7% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -2 (0%) · US 1,535 | 1,262#14 of 50 | 1,264#15 of 50 | -20% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#5 of 50 | 88.9%#12 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 238#25 of 50 | 239#16 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 271#28 of 50 | 269#35 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 218#11 of 50 | 219#9 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 258#22 of 50 | 254#41 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.6#48 of 50 | 72.6#49 of 50 | +1.0 yrs | 76.9 | KY |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.2 pts · US 34.03% | 37.2%#40 of 50 | 40.4%#49 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 34.03% | KY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.9 pts · US 7.6% | 6.8%#21 of 50 | 9.7%#41 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 7.6% | KY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$34,971 (+18%) · US $368,697 | $232,577#6 of 50 | $197,606#2 of 50 | +$34,971+18% | $368,697 | MS |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.7 pts · US +1.2% | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.3%#24 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +1.2% | MS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$158 (-10%) · US $1,948 | $1,348#7 of 50 | $1,506#14 of 50 | -$158-10% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$7,466 (+13%) · US $100,006 | $63,057#4 of 50 | $55,591#2 of 50 | +$7,466+13% | $100,006 | MS |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.2 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 90.2#12 of 50 | 87#2 of 50 | +3.2 pts+4% | 100 | MS |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+9%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 3.3x#4 of 50 | +0.3x+9% | 4.6x | MS |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.79¢ (-6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | 14.03¢/kWh#18 of 50 | -0.79¢-6% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.41 (-14%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | $16.64/Mcf#30 of 50 | -$2.41-14% | $15.83/Mcf | KY |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.27 (+9%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | $2.90/gal#3 of 50 | +$0.27+9% | $3.32/gal | MS |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96#15 of 50 | 96.2#20 of 50 | -0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,583 (+101%) · US $15,633 | $13,075#15 of 50 | $6,492#1 of 50 | +$6,583+101% | $15,633 | MS |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.13 pts · US 8.74% | 8.93%#29 of 50 | 9.06%#32 of 50 | -0.13 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.8 pts · US 5.46% | 6.2%#35 of 50 | 4.4%#18 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 5.46% | MS |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.04 pts · US 1.02% | 0.8%#22 of 50 | 0.76%#19 of 50 | +0.04 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.06 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#12 of 50 | 7.06%#28 of 50 | -1.06 pts | 6.66% | KY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 75#49 of 50 | 85#44 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | MS |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#32 of 50 | 8.6%#34 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 47%#49 of 50 | 60%#44 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | MS |
| State debt per capitaGap +$280 (+9%) · US $3,506 | $3,420#33 of 50 | $3,140#30 of 50 | +$280+9% | $3,506 | MS |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap 0 pts · US +4.66% | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +3.8%#33 of 50 | 0 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 41#34 of 50 | 43#43 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | KY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 9%#41 of 50 | 5%#49 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | KY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.8 (-8%) · US 29.6 | 33.6#31 of 50 | 36.4#33 of 50 | -2.8-8% | 29.6 | KY |
| Public land shareGap -1.1 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#36 of 50 | 6.5%#28 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 17.16% | MS |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | 26.4 min#32 of 50 | -1.9 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#37 of 50 | 0.3%#48 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.3 pts · US 12.28% | 9.5%#40 of 50 | 6.2%#50 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 12.28% | KY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.6 pts · US 92.67% | 90.9%#42 of 50 | 88.3%#50 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 92.67% | KY |
| Households moving inIRSGap +18,501 (+61%) · US 78,682 | 48,859#27 of 50 | 30,358#37 of 50 | +18,501+61% | 78,682 | KY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +13,218 (+39%) · US 78,715 | 46,701#22 of 50 | 33,483#17 of 50 | +13,218+39% | 78,715 | MS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,283 · US -33 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -3,125#37 of 50 | +5,283 | -33 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.6 · US +0.4 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -1.1#40 of 50 | +1.6 | +0.4 | KY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$3,605 (+6%) · US $77,690 | $60,483#44 of 50 | $56,878#49 of 50 | +$3,605+6% | $77,690 | KY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$12,123 (+23%) · US $77,024 | $65,674#39 of 50 | $53,551#50 of 50 | +$12,123+23% | $77,024 | KY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.9 · US +1.1 | +1.6#21 of 50 | -0.3#36 of 50 | +1.9 | +1.1 | KY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$17,303 · US -$11,758 | -$344#10 of 50 | +$16,959#1 of 50 | -$17,303 | -$11,758 | MS |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,345 · US +$31,418 | +$36,838#6 of 50 | +$39,183#3 of 50 | -$2,345 | +$31,418 | MS |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,896 · US +$35,970 | +$41,684#7 of 50 | +$44,580#2 of 50 | -$2,896 | +$35,970 | MS |
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 Kentucky and Mississippi numbers say when read together.
Kentucky ranks higher overall
Kentucky leads 5 of the 11 categories to Mississippi's 4, with 2 even; Mississippi is ahead on affordability and economy. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Kentucky is ahead on 23 and Mississippi on 16.
Mississippi is cheaper day to day
Mississippi's cost of living index is 87 against 90.2 in Kentucky (US = 100). The typical home costs $232,577 in Kentucky and $197,606 in Mississippi. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$344 a year after typical costs in Kentucky and +$16,959 in Mississippi.
Tax burdens are close
Kentucky collects 8.93% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Mississippi collects 9.06% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Kentucky pays more and is safer
Median household income is $64,526 in Kentucky and $59,127 in Mississippi, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 212 per 100,000 residents in Kentucky and 227 in Mississippi.
Moves between the two run about even
215 people moved from Kentucky to Mississippi and 545 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Kentucky is the better fit for families
For families, Kentucky ranks #25 of 50 and Mississippi #31; for retirees, Kentucky ranks #46 and Mississippi #48.
Kentucky vs Mississippi: frequently asked questions
Is Kentucky or Mississippi better to live in?
Kentucky ranks #41 of 50 overall and Mississippi #46 as of the latest release. Mississippi is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87 vs 90.2), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 7% higher violent crime rate. Kentucky scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Kentucky cheaper than Mississippi?
Mississippi is cheaper than Kentucky: cost of living index 87 vs 90.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$344 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Kentucky, and +$16,959 in Mississippi. The typical home value is $232,577 in Kentucky and $197,606 in Mississippi.
Which has lower taxes, Kentucky or Mississippi?
Kentucky and Mississippi have similar tax burdens: 8.93% vs 9.06% of income in state and local taxes. Kentucky's top income tax rate is 6.2%, its effective property tax rate 0.8% and its combined sales tax 6%; Mississippi's are 4.4%, 0.76% and 7.06%.
Is Kentucky safer than Mississippi?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 227 in Mississippi, per the FBI. Kentucky ranks #9 of 50 for violent crime and Mississippi #15. Property crime is 1,262 per 100,000 in Kentucky and 1,264 in Mississippi. The safest tracked cities are Independence, KY, and Madison, MS.
Are homes more expensive in Kentucky or Mississippi?
Homes are 18% more expensive in Kentucky: the typical home value is $232,577 in Kentucky and $197,606 in Mississippi. Buying the typical home takes about $63,057 of household income in Kentucky and $55,591 in Mississippi, against median incomes of $64,526 and $59,127.
Do people earn more in Kentucky or Mississippi?
Kentucky pays more: median household income is $64,526 vs $59,127 in Mississippi, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Kentucky and 3.8% in Mississippi. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Kentucky's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Mississippi's in 1.
Are more people moving from Kentucky to Mississippi or from Mississippi to Kentucky?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 215 people (±217) moving from Kentucky to Mississippi and 545 (±380) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Kentucky or Mississippi?
Kentucky and Mississippi are close for retirees: #46 and #48 of 50 on the retiree index. Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Mississippi has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,684 left after typical costs in Kentucky and +$44,580 in Mississippi.
Which is better for families, Kentucky or Mississippi?
Kentucky is the better fit for families: #25 of 50 on the families index vs #31 for Mississippi. Center-based infant care costs $13,075 a year in Kentucky and $6,492 in Mississippi. High school graduation rates are 90.1% and 88.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$344 after typical costs in Kentucky and +$16,959 in Mississippi.
Is Mississippi better than Kentucky?
No: Kentucky ranks higher than Mississippi overall, #41 of 50 vs #46, with a composite score of 44.8 to 41.9. Kentucky leads 5 of 11 categories and Mississippi leads 4, including affordability and economy. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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