Kentucky vs West Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Kentucky ranks #41 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 90.2 vs 89.5); Kentucky collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 12% lower violent crime rate. Kentucky scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 29% lower in West Virginia ($9,339 vs. $13,075 in Kentucky).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 25% lower in West Virginia ($47,071 vs. $63,057 in Kentucky).
- Property crime rate is 17% lower in West Virginia (1,053 vs. 1,262 in Kentucky).
| Measure | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +2 pts | 44.8#41 of 50 · C | 42.8#44 of 50 · D | +2 pts | — | KY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 90.2#12 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$11,328 · US -$11,758 | -$344#10 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$11,328 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$53,081 (+30%) · US $368,697 | $232,577#6 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$53,081+30% | $368,697 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.08 pts · US 8.74% | 8.93%#29 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +0.08 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -30 (-12%) · US 328 | 212#9 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | -30-12% | 328 | KY |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,728 (+6%) · US $80,903 | $64,526#46 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$3,728+6% | $80,903 | KY |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#5 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.6#48 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | KY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,279 · US -33 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | +1,279 | -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 West Virginia better to live in?
Kentucky scores higher overall: 44.8 to 42.8 out of 100, #41 of 50 against #44. Kentucky leads 4 of 11 categories, West Virginia leads 4, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -2.5 | 15% | 23.7#49 · F | 26.2#47 · D | -2.5 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -0.7 | 12% | 80.2#10 · A | 80.9#9 · A | -0.7 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +11.8 | 12% | 33.1#43 · D | 21.3#49 · F | +11.8 pts | KY |
| Education12% of scoregap +22.5 | 12% | 67.6#10 · A | 45.1#43 · D | +22.5 pts | KY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -3.2 | 10% | 83.0#11 · B+ | 86.2#6 · A | -3.2 pts | WV |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -21.7 | 8% | 38.4#47 · D | 60.1#23 · B | -21.7 pts | WV |
| Growth7% of scoregap +3.5 | 7% | 34.9#30 · C+ | 31.4#31 · C+ | +3.5 pts | KY |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +5.6 | 7% | 44.8#37 · C | 39.2#46 · D | +5.6 pts | KY |
| Livability7% of scoregap -10.8 | 7% | 18.3#49 · F | 29.1#32 · C+ | -10.8 pts | WV |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -6.8 | 6% | 9.9#43 · D | 16.7#33 · C+ | -6.8 pts | WV |
| Environment4% of scoregap +0.1 | 4% | 28.9#40 · C | 28.8#41 · C | +0.1 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Kentucky cheaper than West Virginia?
Kentucky and West Virginia cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 90.2 vs 89.5 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $11,328 more a year in West Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 90.2#12 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.5 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 96#15 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | -0.5 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.17¢ (-14%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | -2.17¢-14% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.43 (+3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$0.43+3% | $15.83/Mcf | WV |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.16 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | -$0.16-5% | $3.32/gal | KY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,736 (+40%) · US $15,633 | $13,075#15 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$3,736+40% | $15,633 | WV |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,365 | +$36,838costs $38,162 | +$39,203costs $35,796 | -$2,365 | WV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$2,958 | +$29,709costs $45,290 | +$32,667costs $42,333 | -$2,958 | WV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$11,328 | -$344costs $75,344 | +$10,984costs $64,017 | -$11,328 | WV |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,672 | +$41,684costs $33,316 | +$44,356costs $30,644 | -$2,672 | WV |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$4,094 | $15,973 | $11,879 | +$4,094 | WV |
| ChildcareGap +$7,472 | $26,150 | $18,678 | +$7,472 | WV |
| UtilitiesGap +$34 | $4,330 | $4,296 | +$34 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$57 | $10,812 | $10,869 | -$57 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$503 | $9,963 | $10,466 | -$503 | KY |
| State and local taxesGap +$287 | $8,116 | $7,829 | +$287 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Kentucky or West Virginia?
Kentucky and West Virginia collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.93% vs 8.85%. Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.08 pts · US 8.74% | 8.93%#29 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +0.08 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.38 pts · US 5.46% | 6.2%#35 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | +1.38 pts | 5.46% | WV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.25 pts · US 1.02% | 0.8%#22 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.59 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#12 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | -0.59 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 West Virginia?
Homes cost 30% more in Kentucky: a typical home value of $232,577 in Kentucky vs $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $63,057 of income in Kentucky and $47,071 in West Virginia; the median household earns $64,526 and $60,798.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$53,081 (+30%) · US $368,697 | $232,577#6 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$53,081+30% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | -3.5 pts | +1.2% | WV |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$119 (+10%) · US $1,948 | $1,348#7 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$119+10% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$15,986 (+34%) · US $100,006 | $63,057#4 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$15,986+34% | $100,006 | WV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+20%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +0.6x+20% | 4.6x | WV |
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 | WV | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,197 | $924 |
| Income needed vs. median | -2% | -23% |
| Five-year change | +25.1% | +22.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Louisville | Charleston |
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 West Virginia?
Kentucky pays more: median household income $64,526 vs $60,798, with unemployment at 4.6% in Kentucky and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Kentucky's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$3,728 (+6%) · US $80,903 | $64,526#46 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$3,728+6% | $80,903 | KY |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#42 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$8,760 (+21%) · US $64,333 | $50,825#45 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$8,760+21% | $64,333 | KY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | KY |
| Population growthGap +0.57 pts · US +0.51% | +0.5%#23 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.57 pts | +0.51% | KY |
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 | WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $230,688$207,619 in Louisville | $191,792$172,613 in Charleston | KY |
| Lawyers | $149,011$134,110 in Louisville | $123,618$111,256 in Charleston | KY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $111,147$100,032 in Louisville | $88,299$79,469 in Charleston | KY |
| Civil Engineers | $102,343$92,109 in Louisville | $82,352$74,117 in Charleston | KY |
| Registered Nurses | $91,587$82,428 in Louisville | $73,760$66,384 in Charleston | KY |
| Software Developers | $132,426$119,183 in Louisville | $115,314$103,783 in Charleston | KY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,624$60,862 in Louisville | $54,044$48,640 in Charleston | KY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,852$68,267 in Louisville | $62,826$56,543 in Charleston | KY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,118$73,006 in Louisville | $68,489$61,640 in Charleston | KY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $57,318$51,586 in Louisville | $46,768$42,091 in Charleston | KY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $59,164$53,248 in Louisville | $48,929$44,036 in Charleston | KY |
| General & Operations Managers | $98,924$89,032 in Louisville | $89,258$80,332 in Charleston | KY |
| Construction Laborers | $44,696$40,226 in Louisville | $35,598$32,038 in Charleston | KY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,440$60,696 in Louisville | $59,622$53,660 in Charleston | KY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,396$31,856 in Louisville | $28,247$25,422 in Charleston | KY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $54,301$48,871 in Louisville | $47,229$42,506 in Charleston | KY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $67,671$60,904 in Louisville | $60,696$54,626 in Charleston | KY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $47,671$42,904 in Louisville | $40,844$36,760 in Charleston | KY |
| Electricians | $60,249$54,224 in Louisville | $53,664$48,298 in Charleston | KY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,420$48,978 in Louisville | $49,399$44,459 in Charleston | 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 West Virginia?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 242 in West Virginia (FBI). Property crime runs 1,262 and 1,053 per 100,000.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -30 (-12%) · US 328 | 212#9 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | -30-12% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +208 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,262#14 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +208+20% | 1,535 | WV |
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
- Bridgeport, WV74 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Kentucky or West Virginia?
Kentucky scores higher for education (#10 of 50 vs #43), with high school graduation rates of 90.1% and 91.2%. Kentucky scores higher for health (#43 vs #49); life expectancy is 73.6 years in Kentucky and 72.2 in West Virginia.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 273 | 271#28 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +11 · US 257 | 258#22 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +11 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#5 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.6#48 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | KY |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.2 pts · US 34.03% | 37.2%#40 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 34.03% | KY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.8%#21 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | +1 pts | 7.6% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#34 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Bowling Green, KYeducation score 96
- Wheeling, WVeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Kentucky #10, West Virginia #43. Health: Kentucky #43, West Virginia #49.
Are more people moving from Kentucky to West Virginia, or from West Virginia to Kentucky?
735 households moved from Kentucky to West Virginia and 936 moved from West Virginia to Kentucky in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 201 households for Kentucky. Movers to West Virginia reported an average income of $44,210; movers to Kentucky reported $51,645. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,123 people (±599) moving from Kentucky to West Virginia and 2,915 (±1,687) the other way, a net gain of about 1,792 people for Kentucky beyond the margin of error.
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +27,965 (+134%) | 48,859#27 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +27,965+134% | KY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +26,686 (+133%) | 46,701#22 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +26,686+133% | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,279 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | +1,279 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap 0.0 | +0.5#21 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | 0.0 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,999 (+3%) | $60,483#44 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$1,999+3% | KY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,160 (+9%) | $65,674#39 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | +$5,160+9% | KY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.0 | +1.6#21 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -2.0 | WV |
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 West Virginia?
Kentucky is the better fit for families; West Virginia is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -11 places | #25score 65.1 | #36score 57.5 | -11 places | KY |
| RetireesGap +8 places | #46score 47.3 | #38score 54.5 | +8 places | WV |
| Remote WorkersGap +14 places | #46score 39.5 | #32score 49 | +14 places | WV |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +3 places | #44score 39.5 | #41score 41.9 | +3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +4 places | #43score 39.1 | #39score 46.1 | +4 places | WV |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +5 places | #43score 28.9 | #38score 31.4 | +5 places | WV |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesKentucky (#25 vs #36)
- RetireesWest Virginia (#38 vs #46)
- Remote WorkersWest Virginia (#32 vs #46)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#44 vs #41)
- Small BusinessWest Virginia (#39 vs #43)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWest Virginia (#38 vs #43)
Which cities stand out in Kentucky and West Virginia?
Kentucky has 20 tracked cities and West Virginia has 20; the largest are Louisville and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Louisville631,818 people | Charleston47,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Independencescore 64.4 | Bridgeportscore 62.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Independence49 violent per 100K | Bridgeport74 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Richmondcost index 85.3 | Fairmontcost index 87 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Covingtonwalkability 13.4 of 20 | Clarksburgwalkability 10.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Florencecounty median AQI 38 | Clarksburgcounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Bowling Green96% graduation rate | Wheeling98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Independencemedian income $102,361 | Cheat Lakemedian income $117,014 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Elizabethtown+2.8% growth | Martinsburg+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Kentucky and West Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Kentucky carries A credit rating and West Virginia AA-.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 9%#41 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | KY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.1 (-8%) · US 29.6 | 33.6#31 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -3.1-8% | 29.6 | KY |
| Public land shareGap -6.6 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#36 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -6.6 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2 min · US 25.2 min | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | -2 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#37 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.7 pts · US 12.28% | 9.5%#40 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 12.28% | KY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.5 pts · US 92.67% | 90.9%#42 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +1.5 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 | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 75#49 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | WV |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -16.4 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#32 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -16.4 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap -19 pts · US 74.3% | 47%#49 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | -19 pts | 74.3% | WV |
| State debt per capitaGap +$940 (+38%) · US $3,506 | $3,420#33 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$940+38% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US +4.66% | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -4.7 pts | +4.66% | WV |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Kentucky A, West Virginia 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 West Virginia: 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 19 of 51, West Virginia on 21, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | KentuckyKY | West VirginiaWV | GapKY−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,840,717 (+161%) · US 6.8 million | 4.6 million#26 of 50 | 1.8 million#39 of 50 | +2,840,717+161% | 6.8 million | KY |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,728 (+6%) · US $80,903 | $64,526#46 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$3,728+6% | $80,903 | KY |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#42 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.57 pts · US +0.51% | +0.5%#23 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.57 pts | +0.51% | KY |
| GDP per capitaGap +$8,760 (+21%) · US $64,333 | $50,825#45 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$8,760+21% | $64,333 | KY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | KY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -30 (-12%) · US 328 | 212#9 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | -30-12% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +208 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,262#14 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +208+20% | 1,535 | WV |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#5 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 238#25 of 50 | 232#46 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 273 | 271#28 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +12 · US 214 | 218#11 of 50 | 206#48 of 50 | +12 | 214 | KY |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +11 · US 257 | 258#22 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +11 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.6#48 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | KY |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.2 pts · US 34.03% | 37.2%#40 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 34.03% | KY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.8%#21 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | +1 pts | 7.6% | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$53,081 (+30%) · US $368,697 | $232,577#6 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$53,081+30% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | -3.5 pts | +1.2% | WV |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$119 (+10%) · US $1,948 | $1,348#7 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$119+10% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$15,986 (+34%) · US $100,006 | $63,057#4 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$15,986+34% | $100,006 | WV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 90.2#12 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+20%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +0.6x+20% | 4.6x | WV |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.17¢ (-14%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | -2.17¢-14% | 17.84¢/kWh | KY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.43 (+3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$0.43+3% | $15.83/Mcf | WV |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.16 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | -$0.16-5% | $3.32/gal | KY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.5 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 96#15 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | -0.5 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,736 (+40%) · US $15,633 | $13,075#15 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$3,736+40% | $15,633 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.08 pts · US 8.74% | 8.93%#29 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +0.08 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.38 pts · US 5.46% | 6.2%#35 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | +1.38 pts | 5.46% | WV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.25 pts · US 1.02% | 0.8%#22 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.59 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#12 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | -0.59 pts | 6.66% | KY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 75#49 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | WV |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -16.4 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#32 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -16.4 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap -19 pts · US 74.3% | 47%#49 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | -19 pts | 74.3% | WV |
| State debt per capitaGap +$940 (+38%) · US $3,506 | $3,420#33 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$940+38% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US +4.66% | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -4.7 pts | +4.66% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#34 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 9%#41 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | KY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.1 (-8%) · US 29.6 | 33.6#31 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -3.1-8% | 29.6 | KY |
| Public land shareGap -6.6 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#36 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -6.6 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2 min · US 25.2 min | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | -2 min | 25.2 min | KY |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#37 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.7 pts · US 12.28% | 9.5%#40 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 12.28% | KY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.5 pts · US 92.67% | 90.9%#42 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 92.67% | KY |
| Households moving inIRSGap +27,965 (+134%) · US 78,682 | 48,859#27 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +27,965+134% | 78,682 | KY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +26,686 (+133%) · US 78,715 | 46,701#22 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +26,686+133% | 78,715 | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,279 · US -33 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | +1,279 | -33 | KY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap 0.0 · US +0.4 | +0.5#21 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | 0.0 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,999 (+3%) · US $77,690 | $60,483#44 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$1,999+3% | $77,690 | KY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,160 (+9%) · US $77,024 | $65,674#39 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | +$5,160+9% | $77,024 | KY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.0 · US +1.1 | +1.6#21 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -2.0 | +1.1 | WV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$11,328 · US -$11,758 | -$344#10 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$11,328 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,365 · US +$31,418 | +$36,838#6 of 50 | +$39,203#2 of 50 | -$2,365 | +$31,418 | WV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,672 · US +$35,970 | +$41,684#7 of 50 | +$44,356#3 of 50 | -$2,672 | +$35,970 | WV |
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 West Virginia numbers say when read together.
Kentucky ranks higher overall
Kentucky leads 4 of the 11 categories to West Virginia's 4, with 3 even; West Virginia is ahead on fiscal health and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Kentucky is ahead on 19 and West Virginia on 21.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 90.2 in Kentucky and 89.5 in West Virginia, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $232,577 and $179,496. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$344 a year after typical costs in Kentucky and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
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); West Virginia collects 8.85% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Kentucky pays more and is safer
Median household income is $64,526 in Kentucky and $60,798 in West Virginia, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 212 per 100,000 residents in Kentucky and 242 in West Virginia.
People move to Kentucky on net
2,915 people moved to Kentucky from West Virginia in the latest Census release, against 1,123 going the other way.
Kentucky for families, West Virginia for retirees
For families, Kentucky ranks #25 of 50 and West Virginia #36; for retirees, Kentucky ranks #46 and West Virginia #38.
Kentucky vs West Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Kentucky or West Virginia better to live in?
Kentucky ranks #41 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 90.2 vs 89.5); Kentucky collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 12% lower violent crime rate. Kentucky scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Kentucky cheaper than West Virginia?
Kentucky and West Virginia cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 90.2 vs 89.5 (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 +$10,984 in West Virginia. The typical home value is $232,577 in Kentucky and $179,496 in West Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Kentucky or West Virginia?
Kentucky and West Virginia have similar tax burdens: 8.93% vs 8.85% 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%; West Virginia's are 4.82%, 0.55% and 6.59%.
Is Kentucky safer than West Virginia?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 242 in West Virginia, per the FBI. Kentucky ranks #9 of 50 for violent crime and West Virginia #19. Property crime is 1,262 per 100,000 in Kentucky and 1,053 in West Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Independence, KY, and Bridgeport, WV.
Are homes more expensive in Kentucky or West Virginia?
Homes are 30% more expensive in Kentucky: the typical home value is $232,577 in Kentucky and $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $63,057 of household income in Kentucky and $47,071 in West Virginia, against median incomes of $64,526 and $60,798.
Do people earn more in Kentucky or West Virginia?
Kentucky pays more: median household income is $64,526 vs $60,798 in West Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Kentucky and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Kentucky's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
Are more people moving from Kentucky to West Virginia or from West Virginia to Kentucky?
735 households moved from Kentucky to West Virginia and 936 moved from West Virginia to Kentucky in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 201 households for Kentucky. Movers to West Virginia reported an average income of $44,210; movers to Kentucky reported $51,645. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,123 people (±599) moving from Kentucky to West Virginia and 2,915 (±1,687) the other way, a net gain of about 1,792 people for Kentucky beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Kentucky or West Virginia?
West Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #38 of 50 on the retiree index vs #46 for Kentucky. Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,684 left after typical costs in Kentucky and +$44,356 in West Virginia.
Which is better for families, Kentucky or West Virginia?
Kentucky is the better fit for families: #25 of 50 on the families index vs #36 for West Virginia. Center-based infant care costs $13,075 a year in Kentucky and $9,339 in West Virginia. High school graduation rates are 90.1% and 91.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$344 after typical costs in Kentucky and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
Is West Virginia better than Kentucky?
No: Kentucky ranks higher than West Virginia overall, #41 of 50 vs #44, with a composite score of 44.8 to 42.8. Kentucky leads 4 of 11 categories and West Virginia leads 4, including fiscal health and livability. 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.