Texas vs Michigan: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Michigan #45 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 96.2); Texas has no income tax and has a 17% lower violent crime rate. Texas scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 3.
- Property crime rate is 30% lower in Michigan (1,259 vs. 1,786 in Texas).
- Residential electricity price is 23% lower in Texas (15.47¢/kWh vs. 20.01¢/kWh in Michigan).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 23% lower in Texas ($10,894 vs. $14,064 in Michigan).
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +9.5 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 42.7#45 of 50 · D | +9.5 pts | — | TX |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$5,490 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | +$5,490 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$33,075 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$33,075+12% | $368,697 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.48 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | -0.48 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -71 (-17%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -71-17% | 328 | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,332 (+10%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$7,332+10% | $80,903 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +8.7 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +8.7 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | +0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +65,243 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +65,243 | -33 | TX |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Texas or Michigan better to live in?
Texas scores higher overall: 52.2 to 42.7 out of 100, #32 of 50 against #45. Texas leads 4 of 11 categories, Michigan leads 3, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | MichiganMI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +20.6 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 21.9#50 · F | +20.6 pts | TX |
| Safety12% of scoregap -2.1 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 63.9#31 · C+ | -2.1 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -17.7 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 55.4#27 · C+ | -17.7 pts | MI |
| Education12% of scoregap +18.5 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 42.2#44 · D | +18.5 pts | TX |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +1.1 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 73.3#22 · B | +1.1 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +16 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 56.2#32 · C+ | +16 pts | TX |
| Growth7% of scoregap +27.4 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 24.3#41 · C | +27.4 pts | TX |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -5.7 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 49.4#27 · C+ | -5.7 pts | MI |
| Livability7% of scoregap -1.1 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 24.7#41 · C | -1.1 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -13.1 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 17.8#32 · C+ | -13.1 pts | MI |
| Environment4% of scoregap -1.2 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 42.0#23 · B | -1.2 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Texas cheaper than Michigan?
Texas and Michigan cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 97.1 vs 96.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,490 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.1 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 96#16 of 50 | +2.1 pts+2% | 100 | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.54¢ (-23%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | -4.54¢-23% | 17.84¢/kWh | TX |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.50 (+78%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | +$8.50+78% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.22 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | -$0.22-7% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,170 (-23%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $14,064#21 of 50 | -$3,170-23% | $15,633 | TX |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,114 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$34,427costs $40,573 | +$1,114 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$302 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$26,692costs $48,308 | +$302 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$5,490 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$5,634costs $80,634 | +$5,490 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$499 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$39,007costs $35,994 | +$499 | 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 | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$3,292 | $23,045 | $19,753 | +$3,292 | MI |
| ChildcareGap -$6,340 | $21,788 | $28,128 | -$6,340 | TX |
| UtilitiesGap +$43 | $4,661 | $4,618 | +$43 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$237 | $11,049 | $10,812 | +$237 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$692 | $9,051 | $9,743 | -$692 | TX |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,029 | $5,551 | $7,580 | -$2,029 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Michigan?
Texas and Michigan collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 8.25%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.48 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | -0.48 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.65 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 6.65%#36 of 50 | -6.65 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.28 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.35%#37 of 50 | +0.28 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.2 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 6%#13 of 50 | +2.2 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 Texas or Michigan?
Homes cost 12% more in Texas: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $266,292 in Michigan. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $73,945 in Michigan; the median household earns $79,721 and $72,389.
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$33,075 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$33,075+12% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.6 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +4%#7 of 50 | -5.6 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$135 (+9%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,524#16 of 50 | +$135+9% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$14,116 (+19%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $73,945#12 of 50 | +$14,116+19% | $100,006 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 3.7x#15 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| TX | MI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $1,370 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +24.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Dallas | 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 Texas or Michigan?
Texas pays more: median household income $79,721 vs $72,389, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 5.2% in Michigan. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 12 after adjusting for local costs and Michigan's in 1.
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$7,332 (+10%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$7,332+10% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap -1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 5.2%#48 of 50 | -1 pts | 3.95% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,494 (+24%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $55,326#40 of 50 | +$13,494+24% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +0.97 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.97 pts | +0.51% | TX |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | TX | MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $143,840$135,210 in Detroit | TX |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $152,435$143,289 in Detroit | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $107,373$100,931 in Detroit | TX |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $82,872$77,900 in Detroit | TX |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $89,989$84,590 in Detroit | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $60,091$56,486 in Detroit | TX |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $73,448$69,041 in Detroit | TX |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $248,727$233,803 in Detroit | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $107,310$100,871 in Detroit | TX |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $59,364$55,802 in Detroit | TX |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $61,151$57,482 in Detroit | TX |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $51,641$48,543 in Detroit | TX |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $60,529$56,897 in Detroit | MI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $73,498$69,088 in Detroit | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $73,631$69,213 in Detroit | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $35,851$33,700 in Detroit | TX |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $68,769$64,643 in Detroit | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $113,783$106,956 in Detroit | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $82,057$77,134 in Detroit | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $48,624$45,707 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 Texas safer than Michigan?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,259 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -71 (-17%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -71-17% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +528 (+42%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,259#13 of 50 | +528+42% | 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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 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, Texas or Michigan?
Texas scores higher for education (#24 of 50 vs #44), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 81%. Michigan scores higher for health (#27 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 76.8 in Michigan.
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 270#31 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 255#33 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +8.7 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +8.7 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | +0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.5 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 36.1%#33 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 34.03% | TX |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +11.6 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 5.1%#8 of 50 | +11.6 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 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).
- No city school data
- 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: Texas #24, Michigan #44. Health: Texas #41, Michigan #27.
Are more people moving from Texas to Michigan, or from Michigan to Texas?
5,039 households moved from Texas to Michigan and 6,285 moved from Michigan to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,246 households for Texas. Movers to Michigan reported an average income of $65,794; movers to Texas reported $76,561. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,217 people (±2,157) moving from Texas to Michigan and 7,143 (±2,796) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +235,440 (+328%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 71,800#20 of 50 | +235,440+328% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +170,197 (+211%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 80,570#33 of 50 | +170,197+211% | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +65,243 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +65,243 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.7 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +2.7 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$9,487 (+13%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $74,145#30 of 50 | +$9,487+13% | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,416 (+3%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $77,943#18 of 50 | +$2,416+3% | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.9 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +1.9 | TX |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Texas or Michigan?
Texas 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 | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -6 places | #35score 57.5 | #41score 53.5 | -6 places | TX |
| RetireesGap +3 places | #33score 58.8 | #30score 59.7 | +3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -18 places | #25score 52 | #43score 41.5 | -18 places | TX |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -19 places | #28score 53 | #47score 37.5 | -19 places | TX |
| Small BusinessGap -30 places | #15score 64.3 | #45score 36.9 | -30 places | TX |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +13 places | #45score 26.6 | #32score 36.1 | +13 places | MI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesTexas (#35 vs #41)
- RetireesEven (#33 vs #30)
- Remote WorkersTexas (#25 vs #43)
- Young ProfessionalsTexas (#28 vs #47)
- Small BusinessTexas (#15 vs #45)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMichigan (#32 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and Michigan?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and Michigan has 24; the largest are Houston and Detroit. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | MichiganMI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Detroit638,530 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Troyscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Rochester Hills62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Battle Creekcost index 90.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Ann Arborwalkability 13.5 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Lansingcounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Farmington Hills94.2% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Rochester Hillsmedian income $120,694 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% 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 Texas and Michigan compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and Michigan AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +24 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 13%#33 of 50 | +24 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.5 (+129%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 10.5#7 of 50 | +13.5+129% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap -11.6 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 13.4%#18 of 50 | -11.6 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.2 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | +3.2 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 1%#28 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.7 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 11.2%#33 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 92.8%#27 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 92.67% | TX |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 90#39 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.3 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 13.5%#13 of 50 | +4.3 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 68%#35 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,330 (-42%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $3,180#31 of 50 | -$1,330-42% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.9 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +4.66% | TX |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, 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).
Texas vs Michigan: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Texas is ahead on 27 of 51, Michigan on 13, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | MichiganMI | GapTX−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +21,581,937 (+213%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 10.1 million#10 of 50 | +21,581,937+213% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,332 (+10%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$7,332+10% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap -1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 5.2%#48 of 50 | -1 pts | 3.95% | TX |
| Population growthGap +0.97 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.97 pts | +0.51% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,494 (+24%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $55,326#40 of 50 | +$13,494+24% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -71 (-17%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -71-17% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +528 (+42%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,259#13 of 50 | +528+42% | 1,535 | MI |
| High school graduation rateGap +8.7 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +8.7 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 235#34 of 50 | +5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 270#31 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 209#44 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 255#33 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | +0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.5 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 36.1%#33 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 34.03% | TX |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +11.6 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 5.1%#8 of 50 | +11.6 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$33,075 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$33,075+12% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.6 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +4%#7 of 50 | -5.6 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$135 (+9%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,524#16 of 50 | +$135+9% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$14,116 (+19%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $73,945#12 of 50 | +$14,116+19% | $100,006 | MI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 3.7x#15 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.54¢ (-23%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | -4.54¢-23% | 17.84¢/kWh | TX |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.50 (+78%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | +$8.50+78% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.22 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | -$0.22-7% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.1 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 96#16 of 50 | +2.1 pts+2% | 100 | MI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,170 (-23%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $14,064#21 of 50 | -$3,170-23% | $15,633 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.48 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | -0.48 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.65 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 6.65%#36 of 50 | -6.65 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.28 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.35%#37 of 50 | +0.28 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.2 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 6%#13 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 6.66% | MI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 90#39 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.3 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 13.5%#13 of 50 | +4.3 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 68%#35 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,330 (-42%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $3,180#31 of 50 | -$1,330-42% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.9 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +4.66% | TX |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 40#27 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | MI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +24 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 13%#33 of 50 | +24 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.5 (+129%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 10.5#7 of 50 | +13.5+129% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap -11.6 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 13.4%#18 of 50 | -11.6 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.2 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | +3.2 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 1%#28 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.7 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 11.2%#33 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 92.8%#27 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +235,440 (+328%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 71,800#20 of 50 | +235,440+328% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +170,197 (+211%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 80,570#33 of 50 | +170,197+211% | 78,715 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +65,243 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +65,243 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.7 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +2.7 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$9,487 (+13%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $74,145#30 of 50 | +$9,487+13% | $77,690 | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,416 (+3%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $77,943#18 of 50 | +$2,416+3% | $77,024 | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.9 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +1.9 | +1.1 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$5,490 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | +$5,490 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,114 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$34,427#18 of 50 | +$1,114 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$499 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$39,007#19 of 50 | +$499 | +$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 Texas and Michigan numbers say when read together.
Texas ranks higher overall
Texas leads 4 of the 11 categories to Michigan's 3, with 4 even; Michigan is ahead on health and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 27 and Michigan on 13.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 97.1 in Texas and 96.2 in Michigan, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $299,367 and $266,292. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$5,634 in Michigan.
Tax burdens are close
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); Michigan collects 8.25% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Texas pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $72,389 in Michigan, with unemployment at 4.2% and 5.2%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 416 in Michigan.
Moves between the two run about even
8,217 people moved from Texas to Michigan and 7,143 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Texas is the better fit for families
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and Michigan #41; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and Michigan #30.
Texas vs Michigan: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or Michigan better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Michigan #45 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 96.2); Texas has no income tax and has a 17% lower violent crime rate. Texas scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Texas cheaper than Michigan?
Texas and Michigan cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 97.1 vs 96.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and -$5,634 in Michigan. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $266,292 in Michigan.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Michigan?
Texas and Michigan have similar tax burdens: 7.77% vs 8.25% of income in state and local taxes. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; Michigan's are 6.65%, 1.35% and 6%.
Is Texas safer than Michigan?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and Michigan #40. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,259 in Michigan. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Rochester Hills, MI.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or Michigan?
Homes are 12% more expensive in Texas: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $266,292 in Michigan. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $73,945 in Michigan, against median incomes of $79,721 and $72,389.
Do people earn more in Texas or Michigan?
Texas pays more: median household income is $79,721 vs $72,389 in Michigan, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 5.2% in Michigan. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 12 after adjusting for local costs and Michigan's in 1, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Texas to Michigan or from Michigan to Texas?
5,039 households moved from Texas to Michigan and 6,285 moved from Michigan to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,246 households for Texas. Movers to Michigan reported an average income of $65,794; movers to Texas reported $76,561. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,217 people (±2,157) moving from Texas to Michigan and 7,143 (±2,796) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or Michigan?
Texas and Michigan are close for retirees: #33 and #30 of 50 on the retiree index. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax 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 +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$39,007 in Michigan.
Which is better for families, Texas or Michigan?
Texas is the better fit for families: #35 of 50 on the families index vs #41 for Michigan. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $14,064 in Michigan. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 81%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$5,634 in Michigan.
Is Michigan better than Texas?
No: Texas ranks higher than Michigan overall, #32 of 50 vs #45, with a composite score of 52.2 to 42.7. Texas leads 4 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 Texas vs Michigan.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (6,285 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).