Michigan vs Tennessee: Which Is Better to Live In?
Michigan ranks #45 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 96.2), has no income tax, and has a 15% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Residential electricity price is 34% lower in Tennessee (13.18¢/kWh vs. 20.01¢/kWh in Michigan).
- Property crime rate is 23% lower in Michigan (1,259 vs. 1,637 in Tennessee).
- Total tax burden is 23% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 8.25% in Michigan).
| Measure | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -14.4 pts | 42.7#45 of 50 · D | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | -14.4 pts | — | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.3 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +4.3 pts+5% | 100 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$25 · US -$11,758 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | +$25 | -$11,758 | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$67,816 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$67,816-20% | $368,697 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.87 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +1.87 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -76 (-15%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -76-15% | 328 | MI |
| Median household incomeGap +$392 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$392+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -9.4 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -9.4 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +3.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.0 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -32,874 · US -33 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -32,874 | -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 Michigan or Tennessee better to live in?
Tennessee scores higher overall: 57.1 to 42.7 out of 100, #24 of 50 against #45. Michigan leads 5 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 6, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -23.9 | 15% | 21.9#50 · F | 45.8#26 · B | -23.9 pts | TN |
| Safety12% of scoregap +11.7 | 12% | 63.9#31 · C+ | 52.2#45 · D | +11.7 pts | MI |
| Health12% of scoregap +26.7 | 12% | 55.4#27 · C+ | 28.7#46 · D | +26.7 pts | MI |
| Education12% of scoregap -29.5 | 12% | 42.2#44 · D | 71.7#8 · A | -29.5 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -4.6 | 10% | 73.3#22 · B | 77.9#17 · B+ | -4.6 pts | TN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -19.9 | 8% | 56.2#32 · C+ | 76.1#3 · A+ | -19.9 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -32.6 | 7% | 24.3#41 · C | 56.9#5 · A+ | -32.6 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +6.5 | 7% | 49.4#27 · C+ | 42.9#40 · C | +6.5 pts | MI |
| Livability7% of scoregap -22.3 | 7% | 24.7#41 · C | 47.0#9 · A | -22.3 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +4.5 | 6% | 17.8#32 · C+ | 13.3#38 · C | +4.5 pts | MI |
| Environment4% of scoregap +5.8 | 4% | 42.0#23 · B | 36.2#33 · C+ | +5.8 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 Michigan cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper: cost of living index 91.9 vs 96.2 in Michigan (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 ends up in about the same place in both after typical costs.
| Measure | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.3 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +4.3 pts+5% | 100 | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96#16 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | -0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.83¢ (+52%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +6.83¢+52% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.92 (-8%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | -$0.92-8% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$138 (+1%) · US $15,633 | $14,064#21 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$138+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 | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,481 | +$34,427costs $40,573 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | -$1,481 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$700 | +$26,692costs $48,308 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | -$700 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$25 | -$5,634costs $80,634 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | +$25 | Even |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$953 | +$39,007costs $35,994 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | -$953 | Even |
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 | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$2,458 | $19,753 | $22,211 | -$2,458 | MI |
| ChildcareGap +$276 | $28,128 | $27,852 | +$276 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap +$207 | $4,618 | $4,411 | +$207 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$23 | $10,812 | $10,835 | -$23 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$63 | $9,743 | $9,680 | +$63 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,909 | $7,580 | $5,671 | +$1,909 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Michigan or Tennessee?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 8.25%. Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.87 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +1.87 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.65 pts · US 5.46% | 6.65%#36 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +6.65 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.77 pts · US 1.02% | 1.35%#37 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.77 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.61 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#13 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -3.61 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 Michigan or Tennessee?
Homes cost 25% more in Tennessee: a typical home value of $266,292 in Michigan vs $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $73,945 of income in Michigan and $85,549 in Tennessee; the median household earns $72,389 and $71,997.
| Measure | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$67,816 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$67,816-20% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.3 pts · US +1.2% | +4%#7 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$289 (-16%) · US $1,948 | $1,524#16 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | -$289-16% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$11,604 (-14%) · US $100,006 | $73,945#12 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | -$11,604-14% | $100,006 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#15 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -0.9x-20% | 4.6x | MI |
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.
| MI | TN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,370 | $1,719 |
| Income needed vs. median | +2% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +24.1% | +24.8% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Detroit | Nashville |
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 Michigan or Tennessee?
Median household income is about the same, $72,389 in Michigan and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 5.2% and 3.5%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Michigan's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 4.
| Measure | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$392 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$392+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.7 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#48 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap -$5,867 (-10%) · US $64,333 | $55,326#40 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | -$5,867-10% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Population growthGap -0.6 pts · US +0.51% | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.6 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 | MI | TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $248,727$233,803 in Detroit | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | MI |
| Lawyers | $152,435$143,289 in Detroit | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | TN |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $113,783$106,956 in Detroit | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | MI |
| Registered Nurses | $89,989$84,590 in Detroit | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | TN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $73,631$69,213 in Detroit | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | MI |
| Software Developers | $143,840$135,210 in Detroit | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | MI |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $60,091$56,486 in Detroit | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | MI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,498$69,088 in Detroit | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | MI |
| Construction Laborers | $48,624$45,707 in Detroit | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | MI |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,373$100,931 in Detroit | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $73,448$69,041 in Detroit | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | TN |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,851$33,700 in Detroit | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | TN |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,529$56,897 in Detroit | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | Even |
| Electricians | $68,769$64,643 in Detroit | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,151$57,482 in Detroit | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,641$48,543 in Detroit | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $82,872$77,900 in Detroit | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,364$55,802 in Detroit | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $107,310$100,871 in Detroit | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,057$77,134 in Detroit | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | 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 Michigan safer than Tennessee?
Michigan is safer: 416 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,259 and 1,637 per 100,000.
| Measure | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -76 (-15%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -76-15% | 328 | MI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -378 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,259#13 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -378-23% | 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.
- Rochester Hills, MI62 violent per 100K
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Michigan or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #44), with high school graduation rates of 81% and 90.4%. Michigan scores higher for health (#27 vs #46); life expectancy is 76.8 years in Michigan and 73.8 in Tennessee.
| Measure | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 270#31 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 255#33 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -9.4 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -9.4 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +3.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.0 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 36.1%#33 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | MI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.6 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#8 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -4.6 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#27 of 50 | 40#21 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).
- Farmington Hills, MIeducation score 94.2
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
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: Michigan #44, Tennessee #8. Health: Michigan #27, Tennessee #46.
Are more people moving from Michigan to Tennessee, or from Tennessee to Michigan?
2,802 households moved from Michigan to Tennessee in the latest IRS release (average income $72,802); the flow from Tennessee to Michigan is too small to appear among Michigan's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,995 people (±2,034) moving from Michigan to Tennessee and 2,391 (±963) the other way, a net gain of about 2,604 people for Tennessee beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -41,988 (-37%) | 71,800#20 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | -41,988-37% | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap -9,114 (-10%) | 80,570#33 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | -9,114-10% | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -32,874 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -32,874 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.2 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -4.2 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$5,285 (-7%) | $74,145#30 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | -$5,285-7% | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$7,867 (+11%) | $77,943#18 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$7,867+11% | MI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.6 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -5.6 | 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, Michigan or Tennessee?
Michigan is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Tennessee is the better fit for families, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 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 | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +11 places | #41score 53.5 | #30score 62.5 | +11 places | TN |
| RetireesGap +2 places | #30score 59.7 | #28score 60.3 | +2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +29 places | #43score 41.5 | #14score 59.5 | +29 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +31 places | #47score 37.5 | #16score 60 | +31 places | TN |
| Small BusinessGap +37 places | #45score 36.9 | #8score 73.5 | +37 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -12 places | #32score 36.1 | #44score 28.8 | -12 places | MI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesTennessee (#30 vs #41)
- RetireesEven (#30 vs #28)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #43)
- Young ProfessionalsTennessee (#16 vs #47)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #45)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMichigan (#32 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in Michigan and Tennessee?
Michigan has 24 tracked cities and Tennessee has 20; the largest are Detroit and Nashville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Detroit638,530 people | Nashville690,130 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Troyscore 69.5 | Franklinscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Rochester Hills62 violent per 100K | Brentwood62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Battle Creekcost index 90.5 | Jacksoncost index 85.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ann Arborwalkability 13.5 of 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lansingcounty median AQI 38 | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Farmington Hills94.2% graduation rate | Lebanon97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Rochester Hillsmedian income $120,694 | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Rapids+0.9% growth | Lebanon+5.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Michigan and Tennessee compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Michigan carries AA credit rating and Tennessee AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#33 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -14.5 (-58%) · US 29.6 | 10.5#7 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -14.5-58% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap +6.2 pts · US 17.16% | 13.4%#18 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | +6.2 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.2 min · US 25.2 min | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | -2.2 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#28 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | MI |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.2%#33 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#27 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#39 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US 12.39% | 13.5%#13 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap -29 pts · US 74.3% | 68%#35 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -29 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,550 (+95%) · US $3,506 | $3,180#31 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$1,550+95% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.9 pts · US +4.66% | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -1.9 pts | +4.66% | TN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Michigan AA, Tennessee 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).
Michigan vs Tennessee: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Michigan is ahead on 17 of 51, Tennessee on 21, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MichiganMI | TennesseeTN | GapMI−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,812,808 (+38%) · US 6.8 million | 10.1 million#10 of 50 | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | +2,812,808+38% | 6.8 million | MI |
| Median household incomeGap +$392 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$392+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.7 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#48 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| Population growthGap -0.6 pts · US +0.51% | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +0.51% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap -$5,867 (-10%) · US $64,333 | $55,326#40 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | -$5,867-10% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -76 (-15%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -76-15% | 328 | MI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -378 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,259#13 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -378-23% | 1,535 | MI |
| High school graduation rateGap -9.4 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -9.4 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 235#34 of 50 | 240#12 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 270#31 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 209#44 of 50 | 215#23 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 255#33 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.0 yrs | 76.9 | MI |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 36.1%#33 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | MI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.6 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#8 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -4.6 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$67,816 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$67,816-20% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.3 pts · US +1.2% | +4%#7 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$289 (-16%) · US $1,948 | $1,524#16 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | -$289-16% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$11,604 (-14%) · US $100,006 | $73,945#12 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | -$11,604-14% | $100,006 | MI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.3 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +4.3 pts+5% | 100 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#15 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -0.9x-20% | 4.6x | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.83¢ (+52%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +6.83¢+52% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.92 (-8%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | -$0.92-8% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96#16 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | -0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$138 (+1%) · US $15,633 | $14,064#21 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$138+1% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.87 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +1.87 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.65 pts · US 5.46% | 6.65%#36 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +6.65 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.77 pts · US 1.02% | 1.35%#37 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.77 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.61 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#13 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -3.61 pts | 6.66% | MI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#39 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US 12.39% | 13.5%#13 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap -29 pts · US 74.3% | 68%#35 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -29 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,550 (+95%) · US $3,506 | $3,180#31 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$1,550+95% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.9 pts · US +4.66% | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -1.9 pts | +4.66% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#27 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#33 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -14.5 (-58%) · US 29.6 | 10.5#7 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -14.5-58% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap +6.2 pts · US 17.16% | 13.4%#18 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | +6.2 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.2 min · US 25.2 min | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | -2.2 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#28 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | MI |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.2%#33 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#27 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap -41,988 (-37%) · US 78,682 | 71,800#20 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | -41,988-37% | 78,682 | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap -9,114 (-10%) · US 78,715 | 80,570#33 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | -9,114-10% | 78,715 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -32,874 · US -33 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -32,874 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.2 · US +0.4 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -4.2 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$5,285 (-7%) · US $77,690 | $74,145#30 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | -$5,285-7% | $77,690 | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$7,867 (+11%) · US $77,024 | $77,943#18 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$7,867+11% | $77,024 | MI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.6 · US +1.1 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -5.6 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$25 · US -$11,758 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | +$25 | -$11,758 | Even |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,481 · US +$31,418 | +$34,427#18 of 50 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | -$1,481 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$953 · US +$35,970 | +$39,007#19 of 50 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | -$953 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Michigan and Tennessee numbers say when read together.
Tennessee ranks higher overall
Tennessee leads 6 of the 11 categories to Michigan's 5, with 0 even; Michigan is ahead on health and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Michigan is ahead on 17 and Tennessee on 21.
Tennessee is cheaper day to day
Tennessee's cost of living index is 91.9 against 96.2 in Michigan (US = 100). The typical home costs $266,292 in Michigan and $334,108 in Tennessee. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,634 a year after typical costs in Michigan and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Michigan collects 8.25% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Tennessee collects 6.38% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Michigan is safer
Median household income is $72,389 in Michigan and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 5.2% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 416 per 100,000 residents in Michigan and 492 in Tennessee.
People move to Tennessee on net
4,995 people moved to Tennessee from Michigan in the latest Census release, against 2,391 going the other way.
Tennessee is the better fit for families
For families, Michigan ranks #41 of 50 and Tennessee #30; for retirees, Michigan ranks #30 and Tennessee #28.
Michigan vs Tennessee: frequently asked questions
Is Michigan or Tennessee better to live in?
Michigan ranks #45 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 96.2), has no income tax, and has a 15% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Michigan cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper than Michigan: cost of living index 91.9 vs 96.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,634 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Michigan, and -$5,659 in Tennessee. The typical home value is $266,292 in Michigan and $334,108 in Tennessee.
Which has lower taxes, Michigan or Tennessee?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.25% in Michigan. Michigan's top income tax rate is 6.65%, its effective property tax rate 1.35% and its combined sales tax 6%; Tennessee's are zero, 0.58% and 9.61%.
Is Michigan safer than Tennessee?
Michigan is safer: 416 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Michigan ranks #40 of 50 for violent crime and Tennessee #46. Property crime is 1,259 per 100,000 in Michigan and 1,637 in Tennessee. The safest tracked cities are Rochester Hills, MI, and Brentwood, TN.
Are homes more expensive in Michigan or Tennessee?
Homes are 25% more expensive in Tennessee: the typical home value is $266,292 in Michigan and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $73,945 of household income in Michigan and $85,549 in Tennessee, against median incomes of $72,389 and $71,997.
Do people earn more in Michigan or Tennessee?
Michigan and Tennessee pay about the same: median household income is $72,389 vs $71,997, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.2% in Michigan and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Michigan's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 4, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from Michigan to Tennessee or from Tennessee to Michigan?
2,802 households moved from Michigan to Tennessee in the latest IRS release (average income $72,802); the flow from Tennessee to Michigan is too small to appear among Michigan's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,995 people (±2,034) moving from Michigan to Tennessee and 2,391 (±963) the other way, a net gain of about 2,604 people for Tennessee beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Michigan or Tennessee?
Michigan and Tennessee are close for retirees: #30 and #28 of 50 on the retiree index. Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,007 left after typical costs in Michigan and +$39,960 in Tennessee.
Which is better for families, Michigan or Tennessee?
Tennessee is the better fit for families: #30 of 50 on the families index vs #41 for Michigan. Center-based infant care costs $14,064 a year in Michigan and $13,926 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 81% and 90.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,634 after typical costs in Michigan and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Is Tennessee better than Michigan?
Yes: Tennessee ranks higher than Michigan overall, #24 of 50 vs #45, with a composite score of 57.1 to 42.7. Tennessee leads 6 of 11 categories and Michigan leads 5, including health and safety. 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 Michigan vs Tennessee.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (2,802 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).