Tennessee vs Maryland: Which Is Better to Live In?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 105), has no income tax, and has a 27% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Total tax burden is 36% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 10.04% in Maryland).
- Residential electricity price is 32% lower in Tennessee (13.18¢/kWh vs. 19.48¢/kWh in Maryland).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 31% lower in Tennessee ($13,926 vs. $20,124 in Maryland).
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +3.5 pts | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | +3.5 pts | — | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -13.1 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -13.1 pts-12% | 100 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$25,025 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$25,025 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$94,200 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$94,200-22% | $368,697 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.66 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -3.66 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +134 (+38%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | +134+38% | 328 | MD |
| Median household incomeGap -$30,908 (-30%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$30,908-30% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap -4.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -4.0 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +37,732 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +37,732 | -33 | TN |
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 Tennessee or Maryland better to live in?
Tennessee scores higher overall: 57.1 to 53.6 out of 100, #24 of 50 against #31. Tennessee leads 5 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 4, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -19.5 | 15% | 45.8#26 · B | 65.3#6 · A | -19.5 pts | MD |
| Safety12% of scoregap -8.1 | 12% | 52.2#45 · D | 60.3#37 · C | -8.1 pts | MD |
| Health12% of scoregap -34.9 | 12% | 28.7#46 · D | 63.6#15 · B+ | -34.9 pts | MD |
| Education12% of scoregap +16.2 | 12% | 71.7#8 · A | 55.5#31 · C+ | +16.2 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +27.6 | 10% | 77.9#17 · B+ | 50.3#39 · C | +27.6 pts | TN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +21.1 | 8% | 76.1#3 · A+ | 55.0#35 · C | +21.1 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap +27.1 | 7% | 56.9#5 · A+ | 29.8#37 · C | +27.1 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +2 | 7% | 42.9#40 · C | 40.9#45 · D | +2 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +25.3 | 7% | 47.0#9 · A | 21.7#46 · D | +25.3 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +1.5 | 6% | 13.3#38 · C | 11.8#40 · C | +1.5 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -9.9 | 4% | 36.2#33 · C+ | 46.1#19 · B | -9.9 pts | MD |
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 Tennessee cheaper than Maryland?
Tennessee is cheaper: cost of living index 91.9 vs 105 in Maryland (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $25,025 more a year in Tennessee after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -13.1 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -13.1 pts-12% | 100 | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.3 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -6.3 pts-6% | 100 | TN |
| Residential electricity priceGap -6.30¢ (-32%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -6.30¢-32% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$4.30 (-27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | -$4.30-27% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.24 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.24-7% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,198 (-31%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$6,198-31% | $15,633 | TN |
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 | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$9,038 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | +$9,038 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$10,856 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | +$10,856 | TN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$25,025 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | +$25,025 | TN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$9,849 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | +$9,849 | TN |
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 | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$8,147 | $22,211 | $30,358 | -$8,147 | TN |
| ChildcareGap -$12,396 | $27,852 | $40,248 | -$12,396 | TN |
| UtilitiesGap -$629 | $4,411 | $5,040 | -$629 | TN |
| GroceriesGap -$710 | $10,835 | $11,545 | -$710 | TN |
| TransportationGap -$754 | $9,680 | $10,434 | -$754 | TN |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,388 | $5,671 | $8,059 | -$2,388 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or Maryland?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 10.04%. Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.66 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -3.66 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -8.95 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -8.95 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.44 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | -0.44 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.61 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +3.61 pts | 6.66% | MD |
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 Tennessee or Maryland?
Homes cost 28% more in Maryland: a typical home value of $334,108 in Tennessee vs $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of income in Tennessee and $116,485 in Maryland; the median household earns $71,997 and $102,905.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$94,200 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$94,200-22% | $368,697 | TN |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.7 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.2% | TN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$135 (-7%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | -$135-7% | $1,948 | TN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$30,936 (-27%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$30,936-27% | $100,006 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+10%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | +0.4x+10% | 4.6x | MD |
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.
| TN | MD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,719 | $2,204 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +13% |
| Five-year change | +24.8% | +13.5% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Nashville | Baltimore |
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 Tennessee or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $71,997, with unemployment at 3.5% in Tennessee and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 15 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$30,908 (-30%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$30,908-30% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap -$7,164 (-10%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$7,164-10% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.56 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.56 pts | +0.51% | TN |
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 | TN | MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| General & Operations Managers | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | TN |
| Registered Nurses | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | TN |
| Civil Engineers | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | TN |
| Software Developers | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | TN |
| Lawyers | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | TN |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | TN |
| Electricians | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | TN |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | TN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | TN |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | TN |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | TN |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | TN |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | TN |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | TN |
| Accountants & Auditors | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | $84,061$87,423 in Baltimore | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | TN |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | $235,537$244,958 in Baltimore | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | Even |
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 Tennessee safer than Maryland?
Maryland is safer: 358 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,637 and 1,820 per 100,000.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +134 (+38%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | +134+38% | 328 | MD |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -183 (-10%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -183-10% | 1,535 | TN |
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.
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Tennessee or Maryland?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #31), with high school graduation rates of 90.4% and 86.3%. Maryland scores higher for health (#15 vs #46); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Tennessee and 77.8 in Maryland.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap -4.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -4.0 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.9 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 40#25 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).
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
- Waldorf, MDeducation score 94
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: Tennessee #8, Maryland #31. Health: Tennessee #46, Maryland #15.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to Maryland, or from Maryland to Tennessee?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 1,242 people (±692) moving from Tennessee to Maryland and 1,915 (±742) 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 | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +30,507 (+37%) | 113,788#13 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +30,507+37% | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap -7,225 (-7%) | 89,684#34 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | -7,225-7% | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +37,732 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +37,732 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.5 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +5.5 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$1,391 (-2%) | $79,430#24 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | -$1,391-2% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$18,175 (-21%) | $70,076#32 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | -$18,175-21% | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.7 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +7.7 | TN |
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, Tennessee or Maryland?
Tennessee is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Maryland is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -8 places | #30score 62.5 | #38score 56.3 | -8 places | TN |
| RetireesGap -8 places | #28score 60.3 | #36score 55.8 | -8 places | TN |
| Remote WorkersGap -26 places | #14score 59.5 | #40score 43.6 | -26 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -18 places | #16score 60 | #34score 49.1 | -18 places | TN |
| Small BusinessGap -23 places | #8score 73.5 | #31score 52 | -23 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +8 places | #44score 28.8 | #36score 33.6 | +8 places | MD |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesTennessee (#30 vs #38)
- RetireesTennessee (#28 vs #36)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #40)
- Young ProfessionalsTennessee (#16 vs #34)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #31)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMaryland (#36 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in Tennessee and Maryland?
Tennessee has 20 tracked cities and Maryland has 20; the largest are Nashville and Baltimore. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Nashville690,130 people | Baltimore573,243 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Franklinscore 69.5 | Bethesdascore 76.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Brentwood62 violent per 100K | Rockville108 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Jacksoncost index 85.5 | Baltimorecost index 104.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Lebanon97% graduation rate | Waldorf94% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 | Potomacmedian income $236,675 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Lebanon+5.6% growth | Frederick+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Tennessee and Maryland compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Tennessee carries AAA credit rating and Maryland AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +25.0 · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +25.0 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap -0.7 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 17.16% | MD |
| Mean travel time to workGap -5.8 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -5.8 min | 25.2 min | TN |
| Commuters using public transitGap -4.5 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.9 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 92.67% | MD |
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 | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.7 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +22 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +22 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,720 (-63%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$2,720-63% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4.4 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +4.4 pts | +4.66% | TN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Tennessee AAA, Maryland AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Tennessee vs Maryland: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Tennessee is ahead on 28 of 51, Maryland on 14, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MarylandMD | GapTN−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,049,729 (+17%) · US 6.8 million | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | +1,049,729+17% | 6.8 million | TN |
| Median household incomeGap -$30,908 (-30%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$30,908-30% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| Population growthGap +0.56 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.56 pts | +0.51% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap -$7,164 (-10%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$7,164-10% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +134 (+38%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | +134+38% | 328 | MD |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -183 (-10%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -183-10% | 1,535 | TN |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 240#12 of 50 | 234#39 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 215#23 of 50 | 216#20 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -4.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -4.0 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.9 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$94,200 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$94,200-22% | $368,697 | TN |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.7 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.2% | TN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$135 (-7%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | -$135-7% | $1,948 | TN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$30,936 (-27%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$30,936-27% | $100,006 | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -13.1 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -13.1 pts-12% | 100 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+10%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | +0.4x+10% | 4.6x | MD |
| Residential electricity priceGap -6.30¢ (-32%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -6.30¢-32% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$4.30 (-27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | -$4.30-27% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.24 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.24-7% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.3 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -6.3 pts-6% | 100 | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,198 (-31%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$6,198-31% | $15,633 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.66 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -3.66 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -8.95 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -8.95 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.44 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | -0.44 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.61 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +3.61 pts | 6.66% | MD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.7 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +22 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +22 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,720 (-63%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$2,720-63% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4.4 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +4.4 pts | +4.66% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +25.0 · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +25.0 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap -0.7 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 17.16% | MD |
| Mean travel time to workGap -5.8 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -5.8 min | 25.2 min | TN |
| Commuters using public transitGap -4.5 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.9 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 92.67% | MD |
| Households moving inIRSGap +30,507 (+37%) · US 78,682 | 113,788#13 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +30,507+37% | 78,682 | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap -7,225 (-7%) · US 78,715 | 89,684#34 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | -7,225-7% | 78,715 | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +37,732 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +37,732 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.5 · US +0.4 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +5.5 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$1,391 (-2%) · US $77,690 | $79,430#24 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | -$1,391-2% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$18,175 (-21%) · US $77,024 | $70,076#32 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | -$18,175-21% | $77,024 | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.7 · US +1.1 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +7.7 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$25,025 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$25,025 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$9,038 · US +$31,418 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | +$9,038 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$9,849 · US +$35,970 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | +$9,849 | +$35,970 | TN |
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 Tennessee and Maryland numbers say when read together.
Tennessee ranks higher overall
Tennessee leads 5 of the 11 categories to Maryland's 4, with 2 even; Maryland is ahead on health and economy. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Tennessee is ahead on 28 and Maryland on 14.
Tennessee is cheaper day to day
Tennessee's cost of living index is 91.9 against 105 in Maryland (US = 100). The typical home costs $334,108 in Tennessee and $428,308 in Maryland. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 a year after typical costs in Tennessee and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Tennessee collects 6.38% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Maryland collects 10.04% (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Maryland pays more and is safer
Median household income is $71,997 in Tennessee and $102,905 in Maryland, with unemployment at 3.5% and 4%. Violent crime runs 492 per 100,000 residents in Tennessee and 358 in Maryland.
Moves between the two run about even
1,242 people moved from Tennessee to Maryland and 1,915 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Tennessee fits families and retirees better
For families, Tennessee ranks #30 of 50 and Maryland #38; for retirees, Tennessee ranks #28 and Maryland #36.
Tennessee vs Maryland: frequently asked questions
Is Tennessee or Maryland better to live in?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 105), has no income tax, and has a 27% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Tennessee cheaper than Maryland?
Tennessee is cheaper than Maryland: cost of living index 91.9 vs 105 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,659 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Tennessee, and -$30,684 in Maryland. The typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $428,308 in Maryland.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or Maryland?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.04% in Maryland. Tennessee's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.58% and its combined sales tax 9.61%; Maryland's are 8.95%, 1.02% and 6%.
Is Tennessee safer than Maryland?
Maryland is safer: 358 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Tennessee ranks #46 of 50 for violent crime and Maryland #34. Property crime is 1,637 per 100,000 in Tennessee and 1,820 in Maryland. The safest tracked cities are Brentwood, TN, and Rockville, MD.
Are homes more expensive in Tennessee or Maryland?
Homes are 28% more expensive in Maryland: the typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of household income in Tennessee and $116,485 in Maryland, against median incomes of $71,997 and $102,905.
Do people earn more in Tennessee or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $71,997 in Tennessee, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.5% in Tennessee and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 15 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0, with 5 even.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to Maryland or from Maryland to Tennessee?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 1,242 people (±692) moving from Tennessee to Maryland and 1,915 (±742) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Tennessee or Maryland?
Tennessee is the better fit for retirees: #28 of 50 on the retiree index vs #36 for Maryland. Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,960 left after typical costs in Tennessee and +$30,111 in Maryland.
Which is better for families, Tennessee or Maryland?
Tennessee is the better fit for families: #30 of 50 on the families index vs #38 for Maryland. Center-based infant care costs $13,926 a year in Tennessee and $20,124 in Maryland. High school graduation rates are 90.4% and 86.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 after typical costs in Tennessee and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Is Maryland better than Tennessee?
No: Tennessee ranks higher than Maryland overall, #24 of 50 vs #31, with a composite score of 57.1 to 53.6. Tennessee leads 5 of 11 categories and Maryland leads 4, including health and economy. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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