Ohio vs Kentucky: Which Is Better to Live In?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. Kentucky is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.2 vs 92.8), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 23% lower violent crime rate. Ohio scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 23% lower in Kentucky (212 vs. 276 in Ohio).
- Residential electricity price is 22% lower in Kentucky (13.24¢/kWh vs. 16.96¢/kWh in Ohio).
- Property crime rate is 12% lower in Kentucky (1,262 vs. 1,429 in Ohio).
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +7.3 pts | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | 44.8#41 of 50 · C | +7.3 pts | — | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | KY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$2,974 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | -$2,974 | -$11,758 | KY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$16,226 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$16,226+7% | $368,697 | KY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.43 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | +0.43 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +64 (+30%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +64+30% | 328 | KY |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,686 (+12%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$7,686+12% | $80,903 | OH |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -10,152 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -10,152 | -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 Ohio or Kentucky better to live in?
Ohio scores higher overall: 52.1 to 44.8 out of 100, #33 of 50 against #41. Ohio leads 6 of 11 categories, Kentucky leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +6.6 | 15% | 30.3#44 · D | 23.7#49 · F | +6.6 pts | OH |
| Safety12% of scoregap -7.6 | 12% | 72.6#24 · B | 80.2#10 · A | -7.6 pts | KY |
| Health12% of scoregap +11.7 | 12% | 44.8#35 · C | 33.1#43 · D | +11.7 pts | OH |
| Education12% of scoregap -0.2 | 12% | 67.4#11 · B+ | 67.6#10 · A | -0.2 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -4.6 | 10% | 78.4#15 · B+ | 83.0#11 · B+ | -4.6 pts | KY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +18.2 | 8% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 38.4#47 · D | +18.2 pts | OH |
| Growth7% of scoregap -3.9 | 7% | 31.0#34 · C+ | 34.9#30 · C+ | -3.9 pts | KY |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +7.3 | 7% | 52.1#23 · B | 44.8#37 · C | +7.3 pts | OH |
| Livability7% of scoregap +11.5 | 7% | 29.8#31 · C+ | 18.3#49 · F | +11.5 pts | OH |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +0.1 | 6% | 10.0#42 · C | 9.9#43 · D | +0.1 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +6.3 | 4% | 35.2#34 · C+ | 28.9#40 · C | +6.3 pts | OH |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Ohio cheaper than Kentucky?
Kentucky is cheaper: cost of living index 90.2 vs 92.8 in Ohio (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,974 more a year in Kentucky after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | KY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | -2.3 pts-2% | 100 | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.72¢ (+28%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | +3.72¢+28% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.38 (-3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | -$0.38-3% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.08 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | +$0.08+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$861 (+7%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | +$861+7% | $15,633 | KY |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$179 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | +$36,838costs $38,162 | -$179 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$824 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | +$29,709costs $45,290 | -$824 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$2,974 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | -$344costs $75,344 | -$2,974 | KY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$487 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | +$41,684costs $33,316 | -$487 | Even |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,682 | $18,655 | $15,973 | +$2,682 | KY |
| ChildcareGap +$1,722 | $27,872 | $26,150 | +$1,722 | KY |
| UtilitiesGap +$124 | $4,454 | $4,330 | +$124 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$259 | $10,553 | $10,812 | -$259 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$251 | $10,214 | $9,963 | +$251 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,547 | $6,569 | $8,116 | -$1,547 | OH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Kentucky?
Ohio and Kentucky collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 9.36% vs 8.93%. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.43 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | +0.43 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.2 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.63 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | +0.63 pts | 1.02% | KY |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.29 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | +1.29 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 Ohio or Kentucky?
Homes cost 7% more in Ohio: a typical home value of $248,803 in Ohio vs $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of income in Ohio and $63,057 in Kentucky; the median household earns $72,212 and $64,526.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$16,226 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$16,226+7% | $368,697 | KY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.8 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +3.8 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$174 (+13%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$174+13% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,060 (+13%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$8,060+13% | $100,006 | KY |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.2x (-6%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | -0.2x-6% | 4.6x | OH |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| OH | KY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,280 | $1,197 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +29.2% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Cincinnati | 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 Ohio or Kentucky?
Ohio pays more: median household income $72,212 vs $64,526, with unemployment at 4.6% in Ohio and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 17 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 1.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$7,686 (+12%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$7,686+12% | $80,903 | OH |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,674 (+15%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$7,674+15% | $64,333 | OH |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.16 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | -0.16 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | OH | KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | $132,426$119,183 in Louisville | OH |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | $230,688$207,619 in Louisville | OH |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | $98,924$89,032 in Louisville | OH |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | $67,671$60,904 in Louisville | OH |
| Lawyers | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | $149,011$134,110 in Louisville | OH |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | $81,118$73,006 in Louisville | OH |
| Electricians | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | $60,249$54,224 in Louisville | OH |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | $75,852$68,267 in Louisville | OH |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | $59,164$53,248 in Louisville | OH |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | $47,671$42,904 in Louisville | OH |
| Civil Engineers | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | $102,343$92,109 in Louisville | KY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | $54,301$48,871 in Louisville | OH |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | $57,318$51,586 in Louisville | OH |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | $67,624$60,862 in Louisville | OH |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | $54,420$48,978 in Louisville | OH |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | $67,440$60,696 in Louisville | OH |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | $111,147$100,032 in Louisville | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | $44,696$40,226 in Louisville | OH |
| Registered Nurses | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | $91,587$82,428 in Louisville | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | $35,396$31,856 in Louisville | OH |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Ohio safer than Kentucky?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 276 in Ohio (FBI). Property crime runs 1,429 and 1,262 per 100,000.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +64 (+30%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +64+30% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +167 (+13%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +167+13% | 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.
- Lakewood, OH81 violent per 100K
- Independence, KY49 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Ohio or Kentucky?
Ohio and Kentucky are close on education (#11 and #10 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 86.2% and 90.1%. Ohio scores higher for health (#35 vs #43); life expectancy is 75.6 years in Ohio and 73.6 in Kentucky.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.3 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 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).
- Dublin, OHeducation score 93.5
- 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: Ohio #11, Kentucky #10. Health: Ohio #35, Kentucky #43.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Kentucky, or from Kentucky to Ohio?
6,769 households moved from Ohio to Kentucky and 6,362 moved from Kentucky to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 407 households for Kentucky. Movers to Kentucky reported an average income of $61,059; movers to Ohio reported $56,992. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 14,376 people (±3,608) moving from Ohio to Kentucky and 13,444 (±3,027) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +43,825 (+90%) | 92,684#16 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | +43,825+90% | OH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +53,977 (+116%) | 100,678#37 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +53,977+116% | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -10,152 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -10,152 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.2 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -1.2 | KY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,754 (+11%) | $67,237#35 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | +$6,754+11% | OH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$12,434 (+19%) | $78,108#17 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | +$12,434+19% | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.6 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | -0.6 | 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, Ohio or Kentucky?
Ohio is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -4 places | #21score 67.5 | #25score 65.1 | -4 places | OH |
| RetireesGap -17 places | #29score 59.9 | #46score 47.3 | -17 places | OH |
| Remote WorkersGap -10 places | #36score 46.5 | #46score 39.5 | -10 places | OH |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -8 places | #36score 46.4 | #44score 39.5 | -8 places | OH |
| Small BusinessGap -10 places | #33score 49.7 | #43score 39.1 | -10 places | OH |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -6 places | #37score 32.6 | #43score 28.9 | -6 places | OH |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesOhio (#21 vs #25)
- RetireesOhio (#29 vs #46)
- Remote WorkersOhio (#36 vs #46)
- Young ProfessionalsOhio (#36 vs #44)
- Small BusinessOhio (#33 vs #43)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsOhio (#37 vs #43)
Which cities stand out in Ohio and Kentucky?
Ohio has 20 tracked cities and Kentucky has 20; the largest are Columbus and Louisville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OhioOH | KentuckyKY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Columbus914,802 people | Louisville631,818 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Dublinscore 71.5 | Independencescore 64.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lakewood81 violent per 100K | Independence49 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Youngstowncost index 87.4 | Richmondcost index 85.3 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 | Covingtonwalkability 13.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Loraincounty median AQI 39 | Florencecounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Dublin93.5% graduation rate | Bowling Green96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dublinmedian income $160,296 | Independencemedian income $102,361 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Columbus+0.8% growth | Elizabethtown+2.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Ohio and Kentucky compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Ohio carries AA+ credit rating and Kentucky A.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -3 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | -3 pts | 29.34% | KY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -25.3 (-75%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | -25.3-75% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -3.9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 17.16% | KY |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | -0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.4 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 12.28% | OH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | OH |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +20 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | +20 pts | 92.7 | OH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.1 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap +29 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | +29 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap -$440 (-13%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | -$440-13% | $3,506 | OH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +4.66% | OH |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Ohio 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).
Ohio vs Kentucky: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Ohio is ahead on 15 of 51, Kentucky on 18, and 18 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OhioOH | KentuckyKY | GapOH−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +7,293,646 (+158%) · US 6.8 million | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | 4.6 million#26 of 50 | +7,293,646+158% | 6.8 million | OH |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,686 (+12%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$7,686+12% | $80,903 | OH |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.16 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | -0.16 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,674 (+15%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$7,674+15% | $64,333 | OH |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +64 (+30%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | +64+30% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +167 (+13%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +167+13% | 1,535 | KY |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 239#13 of 50 | 238#25 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 216#14 of 50 | 218#11 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.3 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$16,226 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$16,226+7% | $368,697 | KY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.8 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +3.8 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$174 (+13%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$174+13% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,060 (+13%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$8,060+13% | $100,006 | KY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | KY |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.2x (-6%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | -0.2x-6% | 4.6x | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.72¢ (+28%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | +3.72¢+28% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.38 (-3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | -$0.38-3% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.08 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | +$0.08+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | -2.3 pts-2% | 100 | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$861 (+7%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | +$861+7% | $15,633 | KY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.43 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | +0.43 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.2 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.63 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | +0.63 pts | 1.02% | KY |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.29 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | +1.29 pts | 6.66% | KY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +20 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | +20 pts | 92.7 | OH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.1 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap +29 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | +29 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap -$440 (-13%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | -$440-13% | $3,506 | OH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +4.66% | OH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 41#34 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | KY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -3 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | -3 pts | 29.34% | KY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -25.3 (-75%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | -25.3-75% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -3.9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 17.16% | KY |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | -0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.4 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 12.28% | OH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | OH |
| Households moving inIRSGap +43,825 (+90%) · US 78,682 | 92,684#16 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | +43,825+90% | 78,682 | OH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +53,977 (+116%) · US 78,715 | 100,678#37 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +53,977+116% | 78,715 | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -10,152 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -10,152 | -33 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.2 · US +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -1.2 | +0.4 | KY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,754 (+11%) · US $77,690 | $67,237#35 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | +$6,754+11% | $77,690 | OH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$12,434 (+19%) · US $77,024 | $78,108#17 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | +$12,434+19% | $77,024 | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.6 · US +1.1 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | -0.6 | +1.1 | KY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$2,974 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | -$2,974 | -$11,758 | KY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$179 · US +$31,418 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | +$36,838#6 of 50 | -$179 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$487 · US +$35,970 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | +$41,684#7 of 50 | -$487 | +$35,970 | Even |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Ohio and Kentucky numbers say when read together.
Ohio ranks higher overall
Ohio leads 6 of the 11 categories to Kentucky's 3, with 2 even; Kentucky is ahead on safety and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Ohio is ahead on 15 and Kentucky on 18.
Kentucky is cheaper day to day
Kentucky's cost of living index is 90.2 against 92.8 in Ohio (US = 100). The typical home costs $248,803 in Ohio and $232,577 in Kentucky. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 a year after typical costs in Ohio and -$344 in Kentucky.
Tax burdens are close
Ohio collects 9.36% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Kentucky collects 8.93% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Ohio pays more
Median household income is $72,212 in Ohio and $64,526 in Kentucky, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4.6%. Violent crime runs 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 212 in Kentucky.
Moves between the two run about even
14,376 people moved from Ohio to Kentucky and 13,444 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Ohio fits families and retirees better
For families, Ohio ranks #21 of 50 and Kentucky #25; for retirees, Ohio ranks #29 and Kentucky #46.
Ohio vs Kentucky: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio or Kentucky better to live in?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. Kentucky is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.2 vs 92.8), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 23% lower violent crime rate. Ohio scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Ohio cheaper than Kentucky?
Kentucky is cheaper than Ohio: cost of living index 90.2 vs 92.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$3,318 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Ohio, and -$344 in Kentucky. The typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $232,577 in Kentucky.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Kentucky?
Ohio and Kentucky have similar tax burdens: 9.36% vs 8.93% of income in state and local taxes. Ohio's top income tax rate is 6%, its effective property tax rate 1.43% and its combined sales tax 7.29%; Kentucky's are 6.2%, 0.8% and 6%.
Is Ohio safer than Kentucky?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 276 in Ohio, per the FBI. Ohio ranks #24 of 50 for violent crime and Kentucky #9. Property crime is 1,429 per 100,000 in Ohio and 1,262 in Kentucky. The safest tracked cities are Lakewood, OH, and Independence, KY.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or Kentucky?
Homes are 7% more expensive in Ohio: the typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of household income in Ohio and $63,057 in Kentucky, against median incomes of $72,212 and $64,526.
Do people earn more in Ohio or Kentucky?
Ohio pays more: median household income is $72,212 vs $64,526 in Kentucky, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Ohio and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 17 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 1, with 2 even.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Kentucky or from Kentucky to Ohio?
6,769 households moved from Ohio to Kentucky and 6,362 moved from Kentucky to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 407 households for Kentucky. Movers to Kentucky reported an average income of $61,059; movers to Ohio reported $56,992. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 14,376 people (±3,608) moving from Ohio to Kentucky and 13,444 (±3,027) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Ohio or Kentucky?
Ohio is the better fit for retirees: #29 of 50 on the retiree index vs #46 for Kentucky. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,197 left after typical costs in Ohio and +$41,684 in Kentucky.
Which is better for families, Ohio or Kentucky?
Ohio is the better fit for families: #21 of 50 on the families index vs #25 for Kentucky. Center-based infant care costs $13,936 a year in Ohio and $13,075 in Kentucky. High school graduation rates are 86.2% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 after typical costs in Ohio and -$344 in Kentucky.
Is Kentucky better than Ohio?
No: Ohio ranks higher than Kentucky overall, #33 of 50 vs #41, with a composite score of 52.1 to 44.8. Ohio leads 6 of 11 categories and Kentucky leads 3, including safety and affordability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Ohio vs Kentucky.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (6,769 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).