Ohio vs Michigan: Which Is Better to Live In?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Michigan #45 as of the latest release. Ohio is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 96.2), carries a 1.1-point higher tax burden, and has a 34% lower violent crime rate. Ohio scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 34% lower in Ohio (276 vs. 416 in Michigan).
- Residential electricity price is 15% lower in Ohio (16.96¢/kWh vs. 20.01¢/kWh in Michigan).
- Property crime rate is 12% lower in Michigan (1,259 vs. 1,429 in Ohio).
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +9.4 pts | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | 42.7#45 of 50 · D | +9.4 pts | — | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | -3.4 pts-4% | 100 | OH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,316 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | +$2,316 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$17,489 (-7%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | -$17,489-7% | $368,697 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.11 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +1.11 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -141 (-34%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -141-34% | 328 | OH |
| Median household incomeGap -$177 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | -$1770% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 85.62% | OH |
| Life expectancyGap -1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | -1.2 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +776 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +776 | -33 | OH |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Ohio or Michigan better to live in?
Ohio scores higher overall: 52.1 to 42.7 out of 100, #33 of 50 against #45. Ohio leads 6 of 11 categories, Michigan leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OhioOH | MichiganMI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +8.4 | 15% | 30.3#44 · D | 21.9#50 · F | +8.4 pts | OH |
| Safety12% of scoregap +8.7 | 12% | 72.6#24 · B | 63.9#31 · C+ | +8.7 pts | OH |
| Health12% of scoregap -10.6 | 12% | 44.8#35 · C | 55.4#27 · C+ | -10.6 pts | MI |
| Education12% of scoregap +25.2 | 12% | 67.4#11 · B+ | 42.2#44 · D | +25.2 pts | OH |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +5.1 | 10% | 78.4#15 · B+ | 73.3#22 · B | +5.1 pts | OH |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +0.4 | 8% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 56.2#32 · C+ | +0.4 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +6.7 | 7% | 31.0#34 · C+ | 24.3#41 · C | +6.7 pts | OH |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +2.7 | 7% | 52.1#23 · B | 49.4#27 · C+ | +2.7 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +5.1 | 7% | 29.8#31 · C+ | 24.7#41 · C | +5.1 pts | OH |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -7.8 | 6% | 10.0#42 · C | 17.8#32 · C+ | -7.8 pts | MI |
| Environment4% of scoregap -6.8 | 4% | 35.2#34 · C+ | 42.0#23 · B | -6.8 pts | MI |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Ohio cheaper than Michigan?
Ohio is cheaper: cost of living index 92.8 vs 96.2 in Michigan (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,316 more a year in Ohio after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | -3.4 pts-4% | 100 | OH |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96#16 of 50 | -2.3 pts-2% | 100 | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap -3.05¢ (-15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | -3.05¢-15% | 17.84¢/kWh | OH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.93 (+27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | +$2.93+27% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.15 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | +$0.15+5% | $3.32/gal | MI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$128 (-1%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $14,064#21 of 50 | -$128-1% | $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 | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,232 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | +$34,427costs $40,573 | +$2,232 | OH |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,193 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | +$26,692costs $48,308 | +$2,193 | OH |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$2,316 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | -$5,634costs $80,634 | +$2,316 | OH |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,190 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | +$39,007costs $35,994 | +$2,190 | OH |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$1,098 | $18,655 | $19,753 | -$1,098 | OH |
| ChildcareGap -$256 | $27,872 | $28,128 | -$256 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap -$164 | $4,454 | $4,618 | -$164 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$259 | $10,553 | $10,812 | -$259 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$471 | $10,214 | $9,743 | +$471 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,011 | $6,569 | $7,580 | -$1,011 | OH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Michigan?
Michigan collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.25% vs 9.36%. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.11 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +1.11 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.65 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 6.65%#36 of 50 | -0.65 pts | 5.46% | OH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.08 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 1.35%#37 of 50 | +0.08 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.29 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 6%#13 of 50 | +1.29 pts | 6.66% | MI |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or Michigan?
Homes cost 7% more in Michigan: a typical home value of $248,803 in Ohio vs $266,292 in Michigan. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of income in Ohio and $73,945 in Michigan; the median household earns $72,212 and $72,389.
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$17,489 (-7%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | -$17,489-7% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +4%#7 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$2 (0%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,524#16 of 50 | -$20% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$2,828 (-4%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $73,945#12 of 50 | -$2,828-4% | $100,006 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-8%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 3.7x#15 of 50 | -0.3x-8% | 4.6x | OH |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| OH | MI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,280 | $1,370 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +29.2% | +24.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Cincinnati | Detroit |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Ohio or Michigan?
Median household income is about the same, $72,212 in Ohio and $72,389 in Michigan, with unemployment at 4.6% and 5.2%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Michigan's in 9.
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$177 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | -$1770% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 5.2%#48 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | OH |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,173 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $55,326#40 of 50 | +$3,173+6% | $64,333 | OH |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +1.8%#30 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.06 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.06 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | OH | MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | $248,727$233,803 in Detroit | MI |
| Civil Engineers | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | $107,310$100,871 in Detroit | MI |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | $82,872$77,900 in Detroit | OH |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | $113,783$106,956 in Detroit | MI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | $73,498$69,088 in Detroit | MI |
| Electricians | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | $68,769$64,643 in Detroit | MI |
| Lawyers | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | $152,435$143,289 in Detroit | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | $73,631$69,213 in Detroit | MI |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | $60,091$56,486 in Detroit | MI |
| Registered Nurses | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | $89,989$84,590 in Detroit | OH |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | $60,529$56,897 in Detroit | MI |
| Software Developers | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | $143,840$135,210 in Detroit | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | $61,151$57,482 in Detroit | OH |
| Construction Laborers | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | $48,624$45,707 in Detroit | MI |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | $73,448$69,041 in Detroit | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | $82,057$77,134 in Detroit | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | $35,851$33,700 in Detroit | OH |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | $59,364$55,802 in Detroit | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | $107,373$100,931 in Detroit | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | $51,641$48,543 in Detroit | 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 Ohio safer than Michigan?
Ohio is safer: 276 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan (FBI). Property crime runs 1,429 and 1,259 per 100,000.
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -141 (-34%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -141-34% | 328 | OH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +170 (+14%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,259#13 of 50 | +170+14% | 1,535 | MI |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Lakewood, OH81 violent per 100K
- Rochester Hills, MI62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Ohio or Michigan?
Ohio scores higher for education (#11 of 50 vs #44), with high school graduation rates of 86.2% and 81%. Michigan scores higher for health (#27 vs #35); life expectancy is 75.6 years in Ohio and 76.8 in Michigan.
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 270#31 of 50 | +9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 255#33 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 85.62% | OH |
| Life expectancyGap -1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | -1.2 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.8 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 36.1%#33 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 34.03% | MI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.6 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 5.1%#8 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 40#27 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | MI |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Dublin, OHeducation score 93.5
- Farmington Hills, MIeducation score 94.2
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Ohio #11, Michigan #44. Health: Ohio #35, Michigan #27.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Michigan, or from Michigan to Ohio?
5,728 households moved from Ohio to Michigan and 5,970 moved from Michigan to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 242 households for Ohio. Movers to Michigan reported an average income of $68,708; movers to Ohio reported $59,979. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 13,776 people (±3,189) moving from Ohio to Michigan and 14,467 (±3,424) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +20,884 (+29%) | 92,684#16 of 50 | 71,800#20 of 50 | +20,884+29% | OH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +20,108 (+25%) | 100,678#37 of 50 | 80,570#33 of 50 | +20,108+25% | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +776 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +776 | OH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.2 | -0.7#35 of 50 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +0.2 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$6,908 (-9%) | $67,237#35 of 50 | $74,145#30 of 50 | -$6,908-9% | MI |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$165 (0%) | $78,108#17 of 50 | $77,943#18 of 50 | +$1650% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.8 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +0.8 | OH |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Ohio or Michigan?
Ohio is the better fit for families, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Michigan is the better fit for 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 | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -20 places | #21score 67.5 | #41score 53.5 | -20 places | OH |
| RetireesGap -1 places | #29score 59.9 | #30score 59.7 | -1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -7 places | #36score 46.5 | #43score 41.5 | -7 places | OH |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -11 places | #36score 46.4 | #47score 37.5 | -11 places | OH |
| Small BusinessGap -12 places | #33score 49.7 | #45score 36.9 | -12 places | OH |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +5 places | #37score 32.6 | #32score 36.1 | +5 places | MI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesOhio (#21 vs #41)
- RetireesEven (#29 vs #30)
- Remote WorkersOhio (#36 vs #43)
- Young ProfessionalsOhio (#36 vs #47)
- Small BusinessOhio (#33 vs #45)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMichigan (#32 vs #37)
Which cities stand out in Ohio and Michigan?
Ohio has 20 tracked cities and Michigan has 24; the largest are Columbus and Detroit. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OhioOH | MichiganMI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Columbus914,802 people | Detroit638,530 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Dublinscore 71.5 | Troyscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lakewood81 violent per 100K | Rochester Hills62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Youngstowncost index 87.4 | Battle Creekcost index 90.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 | Ann Arborwalkability 13.5 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Loraincounty median AQI 39 | Lansingcounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Dublin93.5% graduation rate | Farmington Hills94.2% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dublinmedian income $160,296 | Rochester Hillsmedian income $120,694 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Columbus+0.8% growth | Grand Rapids+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Ohio and Michigan compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Ohio carries AA+ credit rating and Michigan AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -7 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 13%#33 of 50 | -7 pts | 29.34% | MI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.2 (-21%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 10.5#7 of 50 | -2.2-21% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -11.9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 13.4%#18 of 50 | -11.9 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | -0.5 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 1%#28 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.7 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 11.2%#33 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 12.28% | OH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92.8%#27 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 92.67% | MI |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 90#39 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | OH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 13.5%#13 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 68%#35 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap -$200 (-6%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $3,180#31 of 50 | -$200-6% | $3,506 | OH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.2 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Ohio AA+, Michigan 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).
Ohio vs Michigan: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Ohio is ahead on 21 of 51, Michigan on 15, and 15 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OhioOH | MichiganMI | GapOH−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,772,626 (+18%) · US 6.8 million | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | 10.1 million#10 of 50 | +1,772,626+18% | 6.8 million | OH |
| Median household incomeGap -$177 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | -$1770% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 5.2%#48 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | OH |
| Population growthGap +0.06 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.06 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,173 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $55,326#40 of 50 | +$3,173+6% | $64,333 | OH |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +1.8%#30 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -141 (-34%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -141-34% | 328 | OH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +170 (+14%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,259#13 of 50 | +170+14% | 1,535 | MI |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 85.62% | OH |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 239#13 of 50 | 235#34 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 270#31 of 50 | +9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 214 | 216#14 of 50 | 209#44 of 50 | +7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 255#33 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | -1.2 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.8 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 36.1%#33 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 34.03% | MI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.6 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 5.1%#8 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$17,489 (-7%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | -$17,489-7% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +4%#7 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$2 (0%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,524#16 of 50 | -$20% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$2,828 (-4%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $73,945#12 of 50 | -$2,828-4% | $100,006 | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | -3.4 pts-4% | 100 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-8%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 3.7x#15 of 50 | -0.3x-8% | 4.6x | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap -3.05¢ (-15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | -3.05¢-15% | 17.84¢/kWh | OH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.93 (+27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | +$2.93+27% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.15 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | +$0.15+5% | $3.32/gal | MI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96#16 of 50 | -2.3 pts-2% | 100 | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$128 (-1%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $14,064#21 of 50 | -$128-1% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.11 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +1.11 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.65 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 6.65%#36 of 50 | -0.65 pts | 5.46% | OH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.08 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 1.35%#37 of 50 | +0.08 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.29 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 6%#13 of 50 | +1.29 pts | 6.66% | MI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 90#39 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | OH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 13.5%#13 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 68%#35 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap -$200 (-6%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $3,180#31 of 50 | -$200-6% | $3,506 | OH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.2 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 40#27 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | MI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -7 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 13%#33 of 50 | -7 pts | 29.34% | MI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.2 (-21%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 10.5#7 of 50 | -2.2-21% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -11.9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 13.4%#18 of 50 | -11.9 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | -0.5 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 1%#28 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.7 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 11.2%#33 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 12.28% | OH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92.8%#27 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 92.67% | MI |
| Households moving inIRSGap +20,884 (+29%) · US 78,682 | 92,684#16 of 50 | 71,800#20 of 50 | +20,884+29% | 78,682 | OH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +20,108 (+25%) · US 78,715 | 100,678#37 of 50 | 80,570#33 of 50 | +20,108+25% | 78,715 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +776 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +776 | -33 | OH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.2 · US +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +0.2 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$6,908 (-9%) · US $77,690 | $67,237#35 of 50 | $74,145#30 of 50 | -$6,908-9% | $77,690 | MI |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$165 (0%) · US $77,024 | $78,108#17 of 50 | $77,943#18 of 50 | +$1650% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.8 · US +1.1 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +0.8 | +1.1 | OH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,316 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | +$2,316 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,232 · US +$31,418 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | +$34,427#18 of 50 | +$2,232 | +$31,418 | OH |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,190 · US +$35,970 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | +$39,007#19 of 50 | +$2,190 | +$35,970 | OH |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Ohio and Michigan numbers say when read together.
Ohio ranks higher overall
Ohio leads 6 of the 11 categories to Michigan's 3, with 2 even; Michigan is ahead on health and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Ohio is ahead on 21 and Michigan on 15.
Ohio is cheaper day to day
Ohio's cost of living index is 92.8 against 96.2 in Michigan (US = 100). The typical home costs $248,803 in Ohio and $266,292 in Michigan. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 a year after typical costs in Ohio and -$5,634 in Michigan.
Michigan takes a smaller share in taxes
Ohio collects 9.36% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Michigan collects 8.25% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Ohio is safer
Median household income is $72,212 in Ohio and $72,389 in Michigan, with unemployment at 4.6% and 5.2%. Violent crime runs 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 416 in Michigan.
Moves between the two run about even
13,776 people moved from Ohio to Michigan and 14,467 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Ohio is the better fit for families
For families, Ohio ranks #21 of 50 and Michigan #41; for retirees, Ohio ranks #29 and Michigan #30.
Ohio vs Michigan: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio or Michigan better to live in?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Michigan #45 as of the latest release. Ohio is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 96.2), carries a 1.1-point higher tax burden, and has a 34% lower violent crime rate. Ohio scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Ohio cheaper than Michigan?
Ohio is cheaper than Michigan: cost of living index 92.8 vs 96.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$3,318 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Ohio, and -$5,634 in Michigan. The typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $266,292 in Michigan.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Michigan?
Michigan has the lower tax burden: 8.25% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.36% in Ohio. Ohio's top income tax rate is 6%, its effective property tax rate 1.43% and its combined sales tax 7.29%; Michigan's are 6.65%, 1.35% and 6%.
Is Ohio safer than Michigan?
Ohio is safer: 276 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan, per the FBI. Ohio ranks #24 of 50 for violent crime and Michigan #40. Property crime is 1,429 per 100,000 in Ohio and 1,259 in Michigan. The safest tracked cities are Lakewood, OH, and Rochester Hills, MI.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or Michigan?
Homes are 7% more expensive in Michigan: the typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $266,292 in Michigan. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of household income in Ohio and $73,945 in Michigan, against median incomes of $72,212 and $72,389.
Do people earn more in Ohio or Michigan?
Ohio and Michigan pay about the same: median household income is $72,212 vs $72,389, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Ohio and 5.2% in Michigan. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Michigan's in 9, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Michigan or from Michigan to Ohio?
5,728 households moved from Ohio to Michigan and 5,970 moved from Michigan to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 242 households for Ohio. Movers to Michigan reported an average income of $68,708; movers to Ohio reported $59,979. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 13,776 people (±3,189) moving from Ohio to Michigan and 14,467 (±3,424) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Ohio or Michigan?
Ohio and Michigan are close for retirees: #29 and #30 of 50 on the retiree index. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,197 left after typical costs in Ohio and +$39,007 in Michigan.
Which is better for families, Ohio or Michigan?
Ohio is the better fit for families: #21 of 50 on the families index vs #41 for Michigan. Center-based infant care costs $13,936 a year in Ohio and $14,064 in Michigan. High school graduation rates are 86.2% and 81%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 after typical costs in Ohio and -$5,634 in Michigan.
Is Michigan better than Ohio?
No: Ohio ranks higher than Michigan overall, #33 of 50 vs #45, with a composite score of 52.1 to 42.7. Ohio leads 6 of 11 categories and Michigan leads 3, including health 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 Ohio vs Michigan.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (5,970 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).