Texas vs Louisiana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Louisiana #50 as of the latest release. Louisiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.2 vs 97.1), carries a 1.2-point higher tax burden, and has a 33% higher violent crime rate. Texas scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 33% lower in Texas (345 vs. 515 in Louisiana).
- Typical home value is 28% lower in Louisiana ($217,039 vs. $299,367 in Texas).
- Median household income is 31% higher in Texas ($79,721 vs. $60,986 in Louisiana).
| Measure | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +22.2 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 30.0#50 of 50 · F | +22.2 pts | — | TX |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.9 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 88.2#5 of 50 | +8.9 pts+10% | 100 | LA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$7,437 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | +$7,293#5 of 50 | -$7,437 | -$11,758 | LA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$82,328 (+38%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $217,039#3 of 50 | +$82,328+38% | $368,697 | LA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.17 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.94%#30 of 50 | -1.17 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -170 (-33%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 515#47 of 50 | -170-33% | 328 | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$18,735 (+31%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $60,986#48 of 50 | +$18,735+31% | $80,903 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 83.1%#38 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +3.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 73.8#47 of 50 | +3.3 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +66,602 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -10,129#43 of 50 | +66,602 | -33 | TX |
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 Texas or Louisiana better to live in?
Texas scores higher overall: 52.2 to 30 out of 100, #32 of 50 against #50. Texas leads 9 of 11 categories, Louisiana leads 2, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +17.6 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 24.9#48 · D | +17.6 pts | TX |
| Safety12% of scoregap +16.3 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 45.5#48 · D | +16.3 pts | TX |
| Health12% of scoregap +7.8 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 29.9#44 · D | +7.8 pts | TX |
| Education12% of scoregap +12.4 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 48.3#41 · C | +12.4 pts | TX |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -14.3 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 88.7#3 · A+ | -14.3 pts | LA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +29.1 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 43.1#44 · D | +29.1 pts | TX |
| Growth7% of scoregap +30.6 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 21.1#44 · D | +30.6 pts | TX |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +7.3 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 36.4#48 · D | +7.3 pts | TX |
| Livability7% of scoregap +3.3 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 20.3#47 · D | +3.3 pts | TX |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -5.6 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 10.3#41 · C | -5.6 pts | LA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +24.8 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 16.0#50 · F | +24.8 pts | TX |
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 Texas cheaper than Louisiana?
Louisiana is cheaper: cost of living index 88.2 vs 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $7,437 more a year in Louisiana after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.9 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 88.2#5 of 50 | +8.9 pts+10% | 100 | LA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 93.7#4 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | LA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.90¢ (+23%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 12.57¢/kWh#4 of 50 | +2.90¢+23% | 17.84¢/kWh | LA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.04 (+12%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $17.38/Mcf#35 of 50 | +$2.04+12% | $15.83/Mcf | LA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.02 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $2.90/gal#4 of 50 | -$0.02-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$239 (-2%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $11,133#11 of 50 | -$239-2% | $15,633 | Even |
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 | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,699 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$39,240costs $35,760 | -$3,699 | LA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$5,963 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$32,957costs $42,043 | -$5,963 | LA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$7,437 | -$144costs $75,145 | +$7,293costs $67,708 | -$7,437 | LA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$5,091 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$44,597costs $30,403 | -$5,091 | LA |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$8,682 | $23,045 | $14,363 | +$8,682 | LA |
| ChildcareGap -$478 | $21,788 | $22,266 | -$478 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap +$427 | $4,661 | $4,234 | +$427 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$496 | $11,049 | $10,553 | +$496 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$63 | $9,051 | $9,114 | -$63 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,627 | $5,551 | $7,178 | -$1,627 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Louisiana?
Texas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 8.94%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Louisiana has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.17 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.94%#30 of 50 | -1.17 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 3%#12 of 50 | -3 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.08 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.55%#9 of 50 | +1.08 pts | 1.02% | LA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.91 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 10.11%#50 of 50 | -1.91 pts | 6.66% | TX |
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 Texas or Louisiana?
Homes cost 38% more in Texas: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $217,039 in Louisiana. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $64,285 in Louisiana; the median household earns $79,721 and $60,986.
| Measure | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$82,328 (+38%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $217,039#3 of 50 | +$82,328+38% | $368,697 | LA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.7 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +2.1%#26 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +1.2% | LA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$61 (+4%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,598#21 of 50 | +$61+4% | $1,948 | LA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$23,776 (+37%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $64,285#6 of 50 | +$23,776+37% | $100,006 | LA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+6%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 3.6x#11 of 50 | +0.2x+6% | 4.6x | LA |
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.
| TX | LA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $1,117 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +5% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +1.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Dallas | New Orleans |
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 Texas or Louisiana?
Texas pays more: median household income $79,721 vs $60,986, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 4.3% in Louisiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Louisiana's in 0.
| Measure | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$18,735 (+31%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $60,986#48 of 50 | +$18,735+31% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.3%#36 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$11,362 (+20%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $57,458#36 of 50 | +$11,362+20% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +0.8%#45 of 50 | +3 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +1.18 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.07%#44 of 50 | +1.18 pts | +0.51% | TX |
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 | TX | LA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $144,611$127,258 in New Orleans | TX |
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $141,252$124,302 in New Orleans | TX |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $93,240$82,051 in New Orleans | TX |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $240,041$211,236 in New Orleans | TX |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $79,319$69,801 in New Orleans | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $55,973$49,256 in New Orleans | TX |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $65,197$57,373 in New Orleans | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $107,424$94,533 in New Orleans | TX |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $60,933$53,621 in New Orleans | TX |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $105,259$92,628 in New Orleans | TX |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $55,788$49,093 in New Orleans | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $67,943$59,790 in New Orleans | TX |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $74,014$65,132 in New Orleans | TX |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $48,964$43,088 in New Orleans | TX |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $92,147$81,089 in New Orleans | TX |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $59,427$52,296 in New Orleans | TX |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $53,775$47,322 in New Orleans | TX |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $33,564$29,536 in New Orleans | TX |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $78,886$69,420 in New Orleans | TX |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $45,126$39,711 in New Orleans | TX |
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 Texas safer than Louisiana?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 515 in Louisiana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,966 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -170 (-33%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 515#47 of 50 | -170-33% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -180 (-9%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,966#45 of 50 | -180-9% | 1,535 | TX |
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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 violent per 100K
- Slidell, LA275 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Texas or Louisiana?
Texas scores higher for education (#24 of 50 vs #41), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 83.1%. Texas scores higher for health (#41 vs #44); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 73.8 in Louisiana.
| Measure | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 267#42 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 257#28 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 83.1%#38 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +3.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 73.8#47 of 50 | +3.3 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.6 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 39.2%#48 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 34.03% | TX |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +9 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 7.7%#29 of 50 | +9 pts | 7.6% | LA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 43#44 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 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).
- No city school data
- Ruston, LAeducation 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: Texas #24, Louisiana #41. Health: Texas #41, Louisiana #44.
Are more people moving from Texas to Louisiana, or from Louisiana to Texas?
10,522 households moved from Texas to Louisiana and 15,068 moved from Louisiana to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 4,546 households for Texas. Movers to Louisiana reported an average income of $53,860; movers to Texas reported $56,976. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 19,850 people (±3,560) moving from Texas to Louisiana and 24,170 (±5,369) 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 | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +270,220 (+730%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 37,020#32 of 50 | +270,220+730% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +203,618 (+432%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 47,149#23 of 50 | +203,618+432% | LA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +66,602 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -10,129#43 of 50 | +66,602 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.0 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -2.2#48 of 50 | +4.0 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$25,443 (+44%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $58,189#48 of 50 | +$25,443+44% | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$17,716 (+28%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $62,643#46 of 50 | +$17,716+28% | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.2 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -3.1#44 of 50 | +5.2 | TX |
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, Texas or Louisiana?
Texas 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 | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -12 places | #35score 57.5 | #47score 44.5 | -12 places | TX |
| RetireesGap -17 places | #33score 58.8 | #50score 39.5 | -17 places | TX |
| Remote WorkersGap -22 places | #25score 52 | #47score 32.3 | -22 places | TX |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -21 places | #28score 53 | #49score 30 | -21 places | TX |
| Small BusinessGap -34 places | #15score 64.3 | #49score 29.9 | -34 places | TX |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -5 places | #45score 26.6 | #50score 14.3 | -5 places | TX |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesTexas (#35 vs #47)
- RetireesTexas (#33 vs #50)
- Remote WorkersTexas (#25 vs #47)
- Young ProfessionalsTexas (#28 vs #49)
- Small BusinessTexas (#15 vs #49)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsTexas (#45 vs #50)
Which cities stand out in Texas and Louisiana?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and Louisiana has 20; the largest are Houston and New Orleans. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | LouisianaLA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | New Orleans371,853 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Prairievillescore 58.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Slidell275 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | New Iberiacost index 82.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | New Orleanswalkability 13.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Prairievillecounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Ruston98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Prairievillemedian income $104,923 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | Lake Charles+1.5% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and Louisiana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and Louisiana AA-.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +32 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 5%#50 of 50 | +32 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.0 (-54%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 52.0#45 of 50 | -28.0-54% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap -2.4 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 4.2%#38 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 17.16% | LA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.3 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 26.2 min#28 of 50 | +1.3 min | 25.2 min | LA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.9%#29 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 8%#48 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 90.5%#47 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 92.67% | TX |
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 | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 85#46 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +13.6 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 4.2%#47 of 50 | +13.6 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +12 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 64%#40 of 50 | +12 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,040 (-52%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $3,890#37 of 50 | -$2,040-52% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +1.5%#45 of 50 | +3.7 pts | +4.66% | TX |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, Louisiana 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).
Texas vs Louisiana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Texas is ahead on 26 of 51, Louisiana on 16, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | LouisianaLA | GapTX−LA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +27,091,632 (+587%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 4.6 million#25 of 50 | +27,091,632+587% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$18,735 (+31%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $60,986#48 of 50 | +$18,735+31% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.3%#36 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +1.18 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.07%#44 of 50 | +1.18 pts | +0.51% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap +$11,362 (+20%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $57,458#36 of 50 | +$11,362+20% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +0.8%#45 of 50 | +3 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -170 (-33%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 515#47 of 50 | -170-33% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -180 (-9%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,966#45 of 50 | -180-9% | 1,535 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 83.1%#38 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 235#37 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 267#42 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 216#15 of 50 | -4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 257#28 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 73.8#47 of 50 | +3.3 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.6 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 39.2%#48 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 34.03% | TX |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +9 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 7.7%#29 of 50 | +9 pts | 7.6% | LA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$82,328 (+38%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $217,039#3 of 50 | +$82,328+38% | $368,697 | LA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.7 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +2.1%#26 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +1.2% | LA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$61 (+4%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,598#21 of 50 | +$61+4% | $1,948 | LA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$23,776 (+37%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $64,285#6 of 50 | +$23,776+37% | $100,006 | LA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.9 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 88.2#5 of 50 | +8.9 pts+10% | 100 | LA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+6%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 3.6x#11 of 50 | +0.2x+6% | 4.6x | LA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.90¢ (+23%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 12.57¢/kWh#4 of 50 | +2.90¢+23% | 17.84¢/kWh | LA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.04 (+12%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $17.38/Mcf#35 of 50 | +$2.04+12% | $15.83/Mcf | LA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.02 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $2.90/gal#4 of 50 | -$0.02-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 93.7#4 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | LA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$239 (-2%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $11,133#11 of 50 | -$239-2% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.17 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.94%#30 of 50 | -1.17 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 3%#12 of 50 | -3 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.08 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.55%#9 of 50 | +1.08 pts | 1.02% | LA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.91 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 10.11%#50 of 50 | -1.91 pts | 6.66% | TX |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 85#46 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +13.6 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 4.2%#47 of 50 | +13.6 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +12 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 64%#40 of 50 | +12 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,040 (-52%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $3,890#37 of 50 | -$2,040-52% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +1.5%#45 of 50 | +3.7 pts | +4.66% | TX |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 43#44 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +32 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 5%#50 of 50 | +32 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.0 (-54%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 52.0#45 of 50 | -28.0-54% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap -2.4 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 4.2%#38 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 17.16% | LA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.3 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 26.2 min#28 of 50 | +1.3 min | 25.2 min | LA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.9%#29 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 8%#48 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 90.5%#47 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +270,220 (+730%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 37,020#32 of 50 | +270,220+730% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +203,618 (+432%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 47,149#23 of 50 | +203,618+432% | 78,715 | LA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +66,602 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -10,129#43 of 50 | +66,602 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.0 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -2.2#48 of 50 | +4.0 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$25,443 (+44%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $58,189#48 of 50 | +$25,443+44% | $77,690 | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$17,716 (+28%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $62,643#46 of 50 | +$17,716+28% | $77,024 | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.2 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -3.1#44 of 50 | +5.2 | +1.1 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$7,437 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | +$7,293#5 of 50 | -$7,437 | -$11,758 | LA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,699 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$39,240#1 of 50 | -$3,699 | +$31,418 | LA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$5,091 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$44,597#1 of 50 | -$5,091 | +$35,970 | LA |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Texas and Louisiana numbers say when read together.
Texas ranks higher overall
Texas leads 9 of the 11 categories to Louisiana's 2, with 0 even; Louisiana is ahead on affordability and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 26 and Louisiana on 16.
Louisiana is cheaper day to day
Louisiana's cost of living index is 88.2 against 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $217,039 in Louisiana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and +$7,293 in Louisiana.
Texas takes a smaller share in taxes
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); Louisiana collects 8.94% (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Texas pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $60,986 in Louisiana, with unemployment at 4.2% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 515 in Louisiana.
Moves between the two run about even
19,850 people moved from Texas to Louisiana and 24,170 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Texas fits families and retirees better
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and Louisiana #47; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and Louisiana #50.
Texas vs Louisiana: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or Louisiana better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Louisiana #50 as of the latest release. Louisiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.2 vs 97.1), carries a 1.2-point higher tax burden, and has a 33% higher violent crime rate. Texas scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Texas cheaper than Louisiana?
Louisiana is cheaper than Texas: cost of living index 88.2 vs 97.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and +$7,293 in Louisiana. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $217,039 in Louisiana.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Louisiana?
Texas has the lower tax burden: 7.77% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.94% in Louisiana. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; Louisiana's are 3%, 0.55% and 10.11%.
Is Texas safer than Louisiana?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 515 in Louisiana, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and Louisiana #47. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,966 in Louisiana. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Slidell, LA.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or Louisiana?
Homes are 38% more expensive in Texas: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $217,039 in Louisiana. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $64,285 in Louisiana, against median incomes of $79,721 and $60,986.
Do people earn more in Texas or Louisiana?
Texas pays more: median household income is $79,721 vs $60,986 in Louisiana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 4.3% in Louisiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Louisiana's in 0.
Are more people moving from Texas to Louisiana or from Louisiana to Texas?
10,522 households moved from Texas to Louisiana and 15,068 moved from Louisiana to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 4,546 households for Texas. Movers to Louisiana reported an average income of $53,860; movers to Texas reported $56,976. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 19,850 people (±3,560) moving from Texas to Louisiana and 24,170 (±5,369) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or Louisiana?
Texas is the better fit for retirees: #33 of 50 on the retiree index vs #50 for Louisiana. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Louisiana has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$44,597 in Louisiana.
Which is better for families, Texas or Louisiana?
Texas is the better fit for families: #35 of 50 on the families index vs #47 for Louisiana. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $11,133 in Louisiana. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 83.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and +$7,293 in Louisiana.
Is Louisiana better than Texas?
No: Texas ranks higher than Louisiana overall, #32 of 50 vs #50, with a composite score of 52.2 to 30. Texas leads 9 of 11 categories and Louisiana leads 2, including affordability and outdoor access. 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 Texas vs Louisiana.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (15,068 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).