Virginia vs Kentucky: Which Is Better to Live In?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. Kentucky is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.2 vs 101.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 45% lower in Kentucky ($1,348 vs. $2,433 in Virginia).
- Typical home value is 44% lower in Kentucky ($232,577 vs. $414,662 in Virginia).
- Median household income is 43% higher in Virginia ($92,090 vs. $64,526 in Kentucky).
| Measure | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +22.9 pts | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | 44.8#41 of 50 · C | +22.9 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.9 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +10.9 pts+12% | 100 | KY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$21,606 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | -$21,606 | -$11,758 | KY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$182,085 (+78%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$182,085+78% | $368,697 | KY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.07 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | -0.07 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -6 (-3%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | -6-3% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$27,564 (+43%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$27,564+43% | $80,903 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -1 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +3.9 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,737 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -1,737 | -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 Virginia or Kentucky better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 44.8 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #41. Virginia leads 8 of 11 categories, Kentucky leads 1, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +40.9 | 15% | 64.6#7 · A | 23.7#49 · F | +40.9 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -0.9 | 12% | 79.3#13 · B+ | 80.2#10 · A | -0.9 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +28.3 | 12% | 61.4#17 · B+ | 33.1#43 · D | +28.3 pts | VA |
| Education12% of scoregap -2.2 | 12% | 65.4#14 · B+ | 67.6#10 · A | -2.2 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -22.5 | 10% | 60.5#34 · C+ | 83.0#11 · B+ | -22.5 pts | KY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +24.4 | 8% | 62.8#20 · B | 38.4#47 · D | +24.4 pts | VA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +10.2 | 7% | 45.1#19 · B | 34.9#30 · C+ | +10.2 pts | VA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +3 | 7% | 47.8#29 · C+ | 44.8#37 · C | +3 pts | VA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +9 | 7% | 27.3#35 · C | 18.3#49 · F | +9 pts | VA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +10.2 | 6% | 20.1#30 · C+ | 9.9#43 · D | +10.2 pts | VA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +19.1 | 4% | 48.0#15 · B+ | 28.9#40 · C | +19.1 pts | VA |
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 Virginia cheaper than Kentucky?
Kentucky is cheaper: cost of living index 90.2 vs 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $21,606 more a year in Kentucky after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.9 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +10.9 pts+12% | 100 | KY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | KY |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.04¢ (+15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | +2.04¢+15% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.56 (+18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | +$2.56+18% | $15.83/Mcf | KY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.08 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | -$0.08-3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,189 (+32%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | +$4,189+32% | $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 | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$8,436 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$36,838costs $38,162 | -$8,436 | KY |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$10,631 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$29,709costs $45,290 | -$10,631 | KY |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$21,606 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | -$344costs $75,344 | -$21,606 | KY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$9,421 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$41,684costs $33,316 | -$9,421 | KY |
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 | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$12,340 | $28,313 | $15,973 | +$12,340 | KY |
| ChildcareGap +$8,378 | $34,528 | $26,150 | +$8,378 | KY |
| UtilitiesGap +$523 | $4,853 | $4,330 | +$523 | KY |
| GroceriesGap +$496 | $11,308 | $10,812 | +$496 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$252 | $9,711 | $9,963 | -$252 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$121 | $8,237 | $8,116 | +$121 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Kentucky?
Virginia and Kentucky collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.86% vs 8.93%. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.07 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | -0.07 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.45 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -0.45 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.04 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.23 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | -0.23 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Virginia or Kentucky?
Homes cost 78% more in Virginia: a typical home value of $414,662 in Virginia vs $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of income in Virginia and $63,057 in Kentucky; the median household earns $92,090 and $64,526.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$182,085 (+78%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$182,085+78% | $368,697 | KY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.6 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,085 (+80%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$1,085+80% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$46,863 (+74%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$46,863+74% | $100,006 | KY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | +0.9x+25% | 4.6x | KY |
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.
| VA | KY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,133 | $1,197 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +23.4% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Washington | 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 Virginia or Kentucky?
Virginia pays more: median household income $92,090 vs $64,526, with unemployment at 3.4% in Virginia and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 0.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$27,564 (+43%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$27,564+43% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$15,615 (+31%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$15,615+31% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | VA |
| Population growthGap +0.19 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | +0.19 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 | VA | KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | $230,688$207,619 in Louisville | VA |
| Software Developers | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | $132,426$119,183 in Louisville | VA |
| Lawyers | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | $149,011$134,110 in Louisville | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | $98,924$89,032 in Louisville | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | $102,343$92,109 in Louisville | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | $67,671$60,904 in Louisville | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | $111,147$100,032 in Louisville | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | $91,587$82,428 in Louisville | VA |
| Electricians | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | $60,249$54,224 in Louisville | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | $75,852$68,267 in Louisville | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | $59,164$53,248 in Louisville | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | $81,118$73,006 in Louisville | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | $54,420$48,978 in Louisville | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | $67,440$60,696 in Louisville | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | $67,624$60,862 in Louisville | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | $57,318$51,586 in Louisville | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | $47,671$42,904 in Louisville | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | $54,301$48,871 in Louisville | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | $35,396$31,856 in Louisville | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | $44,696$40,226 in Louisville | VA |
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 Virginia safer than Kentucky?
Violent crime is about the same: 206 per 100,000 residents in Virginia and 212 in Kentucky (FBI). Property crime runs 1,354 and 1,262 per 100,000.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -6 (-3%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | -6-3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +92 (+7%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +92+7% | 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.
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
- Independence, KY49 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Virginia or Kentucky?
Virginia and Kentucky are close on education (#14 and #10 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 89.1% and 90.1%. Virginia scores higher for health (#17 vs #43); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Virginia and 73.6 in Kentucky.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -1 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap +3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +3.9 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.9 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-10%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 41#34 of 50 | -4 pts-10% | 38.8 | VA |
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).
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
- 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: Virginia #14, Kentucky #10. Health: Virginia #17, Kentucky #43.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Kentucky, or from Kentucky to Virginia?
1,202 households moved from Kentucky to Virginia in the latest IRS release (average income $58,873); the flow from Virginia to Kentucky is too small to appear among Kentucky's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,797 people (±1,159) moving from Virginia to Kentucky and 4,259 (±1,694) 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 | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +86,750 (+178%) | 135,609#7 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | +86,750+178% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +88,487 (+189%) | 135,188#44 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +88,487+189% | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,737 | +421#25 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -1,737 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.5 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -0.5 | KY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$21,844 (+36%) | $82,327#17 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | +$21,844+36% | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$23,654 (+36%) | $89,328#9 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | +$23,654+36% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.9 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | -0.9 | 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, Virginia or Kentucky?
Virginia 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 | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -8 places | #17score 72.9 | #25score 65.1 | -8 places | VA |
| RetireesGap -31 places | #15score 68.4 | #46score 47.3 | -31 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap -30 places | #16score 58.3 | #46score 39.5 | -30 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -31 places | #13score 63.4 | #44score 39.5 | -31 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap -31 places | #12score 68 | #43score 39.1 | -31 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -20 places | #23score 48 | #43score 28.9 | -20 places | VA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #25)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #46)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #46)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #44)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #43)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #43)
Which cities stand out in Virginia and Kentucky?
Virginia has 20 tracked cities and Kentucky has 20; the largest are Virginia Beach and Louisville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Virginia Beach456,349 people | Louisville631,818 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Restonscore 75.8 | Independencescore 64.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K | Independence49 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 | Richmondcost index 85.3 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 | Covingtonwalkability 13.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 | Florencecounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Leesburg95% graduation rate | Bowling Green96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | McLeanmedian income $250,001 | Independencemedian income $102,361 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Suffolk+1.6% growth | Elizabethtown+2.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Virginia and Kentucky compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Virginia carries AAA credit rating and Kentucky A.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | VA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.1 (-84%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | -28.1-84% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap +5.1 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | +3.8 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.4 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.3 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | +6.3 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.9 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 92.67% | VA |
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 | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +25 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | +25 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap 0 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | 0 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap +33 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | +33 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$590 (-17%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | -$590-17% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +4.66% | VA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Virginia AAA, 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).
Virginia vs Kentucky: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Virginia is ahead on 20 of 51, Kentucky on 18, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | VirginiaVA | KentuckyKY | GapVA−KY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,273,243 (+93%) · US 6.8 million | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | 4.6 million#26 of 50 | +4,273,243+93% | 6.8 million | VA |
| Median household incomeGap +$27,564 (+43%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $64,526#46 of 50 | +$27,564+43% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4.6%#42 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap +0.19 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.5%#23 of 50 | +0.19 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$15,615 (+31%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $50,825#45 of 50 | +$15,615+31% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | VA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -6 (-3%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 212#9 of 50 | -6-3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +92 (+7%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,262#14 of 50 | +92+7% | 1,535 | KY |
| High school graduation rateGap -1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 90.1%#5 of 50 | -1 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 237 | 238#24 of 50 | 238#25 of 50 | +0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 271#28 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 214 | 214#31 of 50 | 218#11 of 50 | -4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 258#22 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 73.6#48 of 50 | +3.9 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.9 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 37.2%#40 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 6.8%#21 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$182,085 (+78%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $232,577#6 of 50 | +$182,085+78% | $368,697 | KY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.6 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,085 (+80%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,348#7 of 50 | +$1,085+80% | $1,948 | KY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$46,863 (+74%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $63,057#4 of 50 | +$46,863+74% | $100,006 | KY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.9 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 90.2#12 of 50 | +10.9 pts+12% | 100 | KY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 3.6x#10 of 50 | +0.9x+25% | 4.6x | KY |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.04¢ (+15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | +2.04¢+15% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.56 (+18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | +$2.56+18% | $15.83/Mcf | KY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.08 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | -$0.08-3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 96#15 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | KY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,189 (+32%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $13,075#15 of 50 | +$4,189+32% | $15,633 | KY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.07 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.93%#29 of 50 | -0.07 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.45 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 6.2%#35 of 50 | -0.45 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.04 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.8%#22 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.23 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 6%#12 of 50 | -0.23 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +25 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 75#49 of 50 | +25 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap 0 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 8.9%#32 of 50 | 0 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap +33 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 47%#49 of 50 | +33 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$590 (-17%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $3,420#33 of 50 | -$590-17% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +4.66% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-10%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 41#34 of 50 | -4 pts-10% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 9%#41 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | VA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.1 (-84%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 33.6#31 of 50 | -28.1-84% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap +5.1 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 5.4%#36 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | +3.8 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.4 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 0.6%#37 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.3 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 9.5%#40 of 50 | +6.3 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.9 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 90.9%#42 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 92.67% | VA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +86,750 (+178%) · US 78,682 | 135,609#7 of 50 | 48,859#27 of 50 | +86,750+178% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +88,487 (+189%) · US 78,715 | 135,188#44 of 50 | 46,701#22 of 50 | +88,487+189% | 78,715 | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,737 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +2,158#21 of 50 | -1,737 | -33 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.5 · US +0.4 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +0.5#21 of 50 | -0.5 | +0.4 | KY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$21,844 (+36%) · US $77,690 | $82,327#17 of 50 | $60,483#44 of 50 | +$21,844+36% | $77,690 | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$23,654 (+36%) · US $77,024 | $89,328#9 of 50 | $65,674#39 of 50 | +$23,654+36% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.9 · US +1.1 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +1.6#21 of 50 | -0.9 | +1.1 | KY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$21,606 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$344#10 of 50 | -$21,606 | -$11,758 | KY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$8,436 · US +$31,418 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$36,838#6 of 50 | -$8,436 | +$31,418 | KY |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$9,421 · US +$35,970 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$41,684#7 of 50 | -$9,421 | +$35,970 | KY |
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 Virginia and Kentucky numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 8 of the 11 categories to Kentucky's 1, with 2 even; Kentucky is ahead on affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Virginia is ahead on 20 and Kentucky on 18.
Kentucky is cheaper day to day
Kentucky's cost of living index is 90.2 against 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). The typical home costs $414,662 in Virginia and $232,577 in Kentucky. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 a year after typical costs in Virginia and -$344 in Kentucky.
Tax burdens are close
Virginia collects 8.86% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property 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).
Virginia pays more
Median household income is $92,090 in Virginia and $64,526 in Kentucky, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.6%. Violent crime runs 206 per 100,000 residents in Virginia and 212 in Kentucky.
Moves between the two run about even
2,797 people moved from Virginia to Kentucky and 4,259 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, Virginia ranks #17 of 50 and Kentucky #25; for retirees, Virginia ranks #15 and Kentucky #46.
Virginia vs Kentucky: frequently asked questions
Is Virginia or Kentucky better to live in?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Kentucky #41 as of the latest release. Kentucky is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.2 vs 101.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Virginia cheaper than Kentucky?
Kentucky is cheaper than Virginia: cost of living index 90.2 vs 101.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$21,950 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Virginia, and -$344 in Kentucky. The typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $232,577 in Kentucky.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Kentucky?
Virginia and Kentucky have similar tax burdens: 8.86% vs 8.93% of income in state and local taxes. Virginia's top income tax rate is 5.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.76% and its combined sales tax 5.77%; Kentucky's are 6.2%, 0.8% and 6%.
Is Virginia safer than Kentucky?
Virginia and Kentucky have similar violent crime rates: 206 vs 212 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Virginia ranks #8 of 50 for violent crime and Kentucky #9. Property crime is 1,354 per 100,000 in Virginia and 1,262 in Kentucky. The safest tracked cities are Virginia Beach, VA, and Independence, KY.
Are homes more expensive in Virginia or Kentucky?
Homes are 78% more expensive in Virginia: the typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $232,577 in Kentucky. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of household income in Virginia and $63,057 in Kentucky, against median incomes of $92,090 and $64,526.
Do people earn more in Virginia or Kentucky?
Virginia pays more: median household income is $92,090 vs $64,526 in Kentucky, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Virginia and 4.6% in Kentucky. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kentucky's in 0.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Kentucky or from Kentucky to Virginia?
1,202 households moved from Kentucky to Virginia in the latest IRS release (average income $58,873); the flow from Virginia to Kentucky is too small to appear among Kentucky's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,797 people (±1,159) moving from Virginia to Kentucky and 4,259 (±1,694) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Virginia or Kentucky?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #46 for Kentucky. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property 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 +$32,263 left after typical costs in Virginia and +$41,684 in Kentucky.
Which is better for families, Virginia or Kentucky?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #25 for Kentucky. Center-based infant care costs $17,264 a year in Virginia and $13,075 in Kentucky. High school graduation rates are 89.1% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 after typical costs in Virginia and -$344 in Kentucky.
Is Kentucky better than Virginia?
No: Virginia ranks higher than Kentucky overall, #15 of 50 vs #41, with a composite score of 67.7 to 44.8. Virginia leads 8 of 11 categories and Kentucky leads 1, including affordability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.