Tennessee vs Missouri: Which Is Better to Live In?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and Missouri #34 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 90.8); Tennessee has no income tax and has a 15% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 20% lower in Missouri ($1,443 vs. $1,813 in Tennessee).
- Typical home value is 20% lower in Missouri ($267,879 vs. $334,108 in Tennessee).
- Total tax burden is 19% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 7.83% in Missouri).
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +6.1 pts | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | 51.0#34 of 50 · C+ | +6.1 pts | — | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 90.8#13 of 50 | +1.1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$429 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | +$429 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$66,229 (+25%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $267,879#13 of 50 | +$66,229+25% | $368,697 | MO |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.45 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 7.83%#12 of 50 | -1.45 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +75 (+18%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 418#41 of 50 | +75+18% | 328 | MO |
| Median household incomeGap +$408 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $71,589#42 of 50 | +$408+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 89.8%#7 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap -1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 75.2#40 of 50 | -1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +21,310 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +21,310 | -33 | TN |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Tennessee or Missouri better to live in?
Tennessee scores higher overall: 57.1 to 51 out of 100, #24 of 50 against #34. Tennessee leads 6 of 11 categories, Missouri leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +7.5 | 15% | 45.8#26 · B | 38.3#39 · C | +7.5 pts | TN |
| Safety12% of scoregap -5.9 | 12% | 52.2#45 · D | 58.1#40 · C | -5.9 pts | MO |
| Health12% of scoregap -15.4 | 12% | 28.7#46 · D | 44.1#36 · C | -15.4 pts | MO |
| Education12% of scoregap +12 | 12% | 71.7#8 · A | 59.7#27 · C+ | +12 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -1.9 | 10% | 77.9#17 · B+ | 79.8#14 · B+ | -1.9 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +10.7 | 8% | 76.1#3 · A+ | 65.4#15 · B+ | +10.7 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap +17.9 | 7% | 56.9#5 · A+ | 39.0#27 · C+ | +17.9 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -3.2 | 7% | 42.9#40 · C | 46.1#34 · C+ | -3.2 pts | MO |
| Livability7% of scoregap +15.8 | 7% | 47.0#9 · A | 31.2#29 · C+ | +15.8 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -1.7 | 6% | 13.3#38 · C | 15.0#34 · C+ | -1.7 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +10.9 | 4% | 36.2#33 · C+ | 25.3#46 · D | +10.9 pts | TN |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Tennessee cheaper than Missouri?
Tennessee and Missouri cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 91.9 vs 90.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 ends up in about the same place in both after typical costs.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 90.8#13 of 50 | +1.1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 96.3#22 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.31¢ (-2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | -0.31¢-2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.10 (-21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | -$3.10-21% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.05 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | +$0.05+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,154 (-8%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $15,080#25 of 50 | -$1,154-8% | $15,633 | TN |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$377 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | +$35,531costs $39,469 | +$377 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$1,112 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | +$28,504costs $46,496 | -$1,112 | MO |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$429 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | -$6,088costs $81,087 | +$429 | Even |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$713 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | +$40,673costs $34,327 | -$713 | 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 | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$3,519 | $22,211 | $18,692 | +$3,519 | MO |
| ChildcareGap -$2,308 | $27,852 | $30,160 | -$2,308 | TN |
| UtilitiesGap +$53 | $4,411 | $4,358 | +$53 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$11 | $10,835 | $10,846 | -$11 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$157 | $9,680 | $9,523 | +$157 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,837 | $5,671 | $7,508 | -$1,837 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or Missouri?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 7.83%. Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Missouri has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.45 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 7.83%#12 of 50 | -1.45 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.7 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 5.7%#28 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.33 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 0.91%#28 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.17 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 8.44%#39 of 50 | +1.17 pts | 6.66% | MO |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Tennessee or Missouri?
Homes cost 25% more in Tennessee: a typical home value of $334,108 in Tennessee vs $267,879 in Missouri. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of income in Tennessee and $73,656 in Missouri; the median household earns $71,997 and $71,589.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$66,229 (+25%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $267,879#13 of 50 | +$66,229+25% | $368,697 | MO |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.8 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +3.5%#12 of 50 | -2.8 pts | +1.2% | MO |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$370 (+26%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,443#12 of 50 | +$370+26% | $1,948 | MO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$11,893 (+16%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $73,656#11 of 50 | +$11,893+16% | $100,006 | MO |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+24%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 3.7x#14 of 50 | +0.9x+24% | 4.6x | MO |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| TN | MO | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,719 | $1,378 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +3% |
| Five-year change | +24.8% | +26.2% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Nashville | St. Louis |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Tennessee or Missouri?
Median household income is about the same, $71,997 in Tennessee and $71,589 in Missouri, with unemployment at 3.5% and 4%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 3 after adjusting for local costs and Missouri's in 6.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$408 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $71,589#42 of 50 | +$408+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 4%#28 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,828 (+9%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $56,365#37 of 50 | +$4,828+9% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Population growthGap +0.45 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.45 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 | TN | MO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | $247,380$227,590 in Kansas City | MO |
| Software Developers | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | $144,801$133,217 in St. Louis | MO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | $87,655$80,643 in Kansas City | MO |
| Civil Engineers | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | $102,498$94,298 in Kansas City | TN |
| Lawyers | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | $156,512$143,991 in St. Louis | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | $110,375$101,545 in St. Louis | MO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | $55,976$51,498 in St. Louis | TN |
| Registered Nurses | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | $94,050$86,526 in Kansas City | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | $70,196$64,580 in Kansas City | MO |
| Electricians | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | $65,330$60,104 in St. Louis | TN |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | $60,911$56,038 in St. Louis | MO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | $52,185$48,010 in St. Louis | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | $111,455$102,539 in St. Louis | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | $60,984$56,105 in Kansas City | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | $56,673$52,139 in Kansas City | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | $81,009$74,528 in St. Louis | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | $76,968$70,811 in Kansas City | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | $37,147$34,175 in St. Louis | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | $69,834$64,247 in St. Louis | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | $45,229$41,611 in Kansas City | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Tennessee safer than Missouri?
Missouri is safer: 418 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,637 and 1,644 per 100,000.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +75 (+18%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 418#41 of 50 | +75+18% | 328 | MO |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -8 (0%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,644#34 of 50 | -80% | 1,535 | Even |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
- O'Fallon, MO97 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Tennessee or Missouri?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #27), with high school graduation rates of 90.4% and 89.8%. Missouri scores higher for health (#36 vs #46); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Tennessee and 75.2 in Missouri.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 270#29 of 50 | +6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 255#32 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 89.8%#7 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap -1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 75.2#40 of 50 | -1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MO |
| Adults with obesityGap +3 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 34.6%#29 of 50 | +3 pts | 34.03% | MO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 7.7%#28 of 50 | +2 pts | 7.6% | MO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 42#36 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | TN |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
- O'Fallon, MOeducation score 95.4
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Tennessee #8, Missouri #27. Health: Tennessee #46, Missouri #36.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to Missouri, or from Missouri to Tennessee?
1,782 households moved from Missouri to Tennessee in the latest IRS release (average income $72,961); the flow from Tennessee to Missouri is too small to appear among Missouri's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,380 people (±1,044) moving from Tennessee to Missouri and 3,476 (±1,548) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +41,307 (+57%) | 113,788#13 of 50 | 72,481#19 of 50 | +41,307+57% | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +19,997 (+29%) | 89,684#34 of 50 | 69,687#30 of 50 | +19,997+29% | MO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +21,310 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +21,310 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 | +3.3#4 of 50 | +0.4#23 of 50 | +2.9 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$13,605 (+21%) | $79,430#24 of 50 | $65,825#38 of 50 | +$13,605+21% | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$1,468 (-2%) | $70,076#32 of 50 | $71,544#29 of 50 | -$1,468-2% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.6 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +2.2#18 of 50 | +3.6 | 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, Tennessee or Missouri?
Tennessee is the better fit for families, retirees, 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 | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -4 places | #30score 62.5 | #34score 60 | -4 places | TN |
| RetireesGap -4 places | #28score 60.3 | #32score 59.2 | -4 places | TN |
| Remote WorkersGap -19 places | #14score 59.5 | #33score 48.8 | -19 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -16 places | #16score 60 | #32score 50.5 | -16 places | TN |
| Small BusinessGap -18 places | #8score 73.5 | #26score 56.7 | -18 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +3 places | #44score 28.8 | #41score 29.3 | +3 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesTennessee (#30 vs #34)
- RetireesTennessee (#28 vs #32)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #33)
- Young ProfessionalsTennessee (#16 vs #32)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #26)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#44 vs #41)
Which cities stand out in Tennessee and Missouri?
Tennessee has 20 tracked cities and Missouri has 20; the largest are Nashville and Kansas City. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Nashville690,130 people | Kansas City510,612 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Franklinscore 69.5 | Chesterfieldscore 70.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Brentwood62 violent per 100K | O'Fallon97 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Jacksoncost index 85.5 | Joplincost index 85.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 | University Citywalkability 14.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 | Columbiacounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Lebanon97% graduation rate | O'Fallon95.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 | Wildwoodmedian income $161,060 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Lebanon+5.6% growth | Wentzville+2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Tennessee and Missouri compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Tennessee carries AAA credit rating and Missouri AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 16%#25 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | MO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -19.5 (-44%) · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 44.5#42 of 50 | -19.5-44% | 29.6 | TN |
| Public land shareGap +1.8 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 5.4%#35 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 24 min#18 of 50 | +2.5 min | 25.2 min | MO |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 1%#27 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 2.29% | MO |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 11.8%#29 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 91.3%#41 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 92.67% | TN |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 100#16 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.7 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 9.5%#29 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +17 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 80%#16 of 50 | +17 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$450 (-22%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $2,080#10 of 50 | -$450-22% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.5 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +6.7%#12 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +4.66% | MO |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Tennessee AAA, Missouri AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Tennessee vs Missouri: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Tennessee is ahead on 21 of 51, Missouri on 14, and 16 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TennesseeTN | MissouriMO | GapTN−MO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,044,535 (+17%) · US 6.8 million | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | 6.3 million#18 of 50 | +1,044,535+17% | 6.8 million | TN |
| Median household incomeGap +$408 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $71,589#42 of 50 | +$408+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 4%#28 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| Population growthGap +0.45 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.43%#27 of 50 | +0.45 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,828 (+9%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $56,365#37 of 50 | +$4,828+9% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +1.9%#27 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +75 (+18%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 418#41 of 50 | +75+18% | 328 | MO |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -8 (0%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,644#34 of 50 | -80% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 89.8%#7 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 237 | 240#12 of 50 | 235#35 of 50 | +5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 270#29 of 50 | +6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 215#23 of 50 | 212#38 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 255#32 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 75.2#40 of 50 | -1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MO |
| Adults with obesityGap +3 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 34.6%#29 of 50 | +3 pts | 34.03% | MO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 7.7%#28 of 50 | +2 pts | 7.6% | MO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$66,229 (+25%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $267,879#13 of 50 | +$66,229+25% | $368,697 | MO |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.8 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +3.5%#12 of 50 | -2.8 pts | +1.2% | MO |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$370 (+26%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,443#12 of 50 | +$370+26% | $1,948 | MO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$11,893 (+16%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $73,656#11 of 50 | +$11,893+16% | $100,006 | MO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 90.8#13 of 50 | +1.1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+24%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 3.7x#14 of 50 | +0.9x+24% | 4.6x | MO |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.31¢ (-2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 13.49¢/kWh#15 of 50 | -0.31¢-2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.10 (-21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $14.94/Mcf#25 of 50 | -$3.10-21% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.05 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $3.03/gal#9 of 50 | +$0.05+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 96.3#22 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,154 (-8%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $15,080#25 of 50 | -$1,154-8% | $15,633 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.45 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 7.83%#12 of 50 | -1.45 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.7 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 5.7%#28 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.33 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 0.91%#28 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.17 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 8.44%#39 of 50 | +1.17 pts | 6.66% | MO |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 100#16 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.7 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 9.5%#29 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +17 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 80%#16 of 50 | +17 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$450 (-22%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $2,080#10 of 50 | -$450-22% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.5 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +6.7%#12 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +4.66% | MO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 42#36 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | TN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 16%#25 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | MO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -19.5 (-44%) · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 44.5#42 of 50 | -19.5-44% | 29.6 | TN |
| Public land shareGap +1.8 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 5.4%#35 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 24 min#18 of 50 | +2.5 min | 25.2 min | MO |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 1%#27 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 2.29% | MO |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 11.8%#29 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 91.3%#41 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 92.67% | TN |
| Households moving inIRSGap +41,307 (+57%) · US 78,682 | 113,788#13 of 50 | 72,481#19 of 50 | +41,307+57% | 78,682 | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +19,997 (+29%) · US 78,715 | 89,684#34 of 50 | 69,687#30 of 50 | +19,997+29% | 78,715 | MO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +21,310 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +2,794#19 of 50 | +21,310 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 · US +0.4 | +3.3#4 of 50 | +0.4#23 of 50 | +2.9 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$13,605 (+21%) · US $77,690 | $79,430#24 of 50 | $65,825#38 of 50 | +$13,605+21% | $77,690 | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$1,468 (-2%) · US $77,024 | $70,076#32 of 50 | $71,544#29 of 50 | -$1,468-2% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.6 · US +1.1 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +2.2#18 of 50 | +3.6 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$429 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$6,088#19 of 50 | +$429 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$377 · US +$31,418 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | +$35,531#14 of 50 | +$377 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$713 · US +$35,970 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | +$40,673#11 of 50 | -$713 | +$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 Tennessee and Missouri numbers say when read together.
Tennessee ranks higher overall
Tennessee leads 6 of the 11 categories to Missouri's 3, with 2 even; Missouri is ahead on health and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Tennessee is ahead on 21 and Missouri on 14.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 91.9 in Tennessee and 90.8 in Missouri, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $334,108 and $267,879. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 a year after typical costs in Tennessee and -$6,088 in Missouri.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Tennessee collects 6.38% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Missouri collects 7.83% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Missouri is safer
Median household income is $71,997 in Tennessee and $71,589 in Missouri, with unemployment at 3.5% and 4%. Violent crime runs 492 per 100,000 residents in Tennessee and 418 in Missouri.
Moves between the two run about even
2,380 people moved from Tennessee to Missouri and 3,476 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Tennessee fits families and retirees better
For families, Tennessee ranks #30 of 50 and Missouri #34; for retirees, Tennessee ranks #28 and Missouri #32.
Tennessee vs Missouri: frequently asked questions
Is Tennessee or Missouri better to live in?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and Missouri #34 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 90.8); Tennessee has no income tax and has a 15% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Tennessee cheaper than Missouri?
Tennessee and Missouri cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 91.9 vs 90.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,659 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Tennessee, and -$6,088 in Missouri. The typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $267,879 in Missouri.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or Missouri?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 7.83% in Missouri. Tennessee's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.58% and its combined sales tax 9.61%; Missouri's are 5.7%, 0.91% and 8.44%.
Is Tennessee safer than Missouri?
Missouri is safer: 418 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Tennessee ranks #46 of 50 for violent crime and Missouri #41. Property crime is 1,637 per 100,000 in Tennessee and 1,644 in Missouri. The safest tracked cities are Brentwood, TN, and O'Fallon, MO.
Are homes more expensive in Tennessee or Missouri?
Homes are 25% more expensive in Tennessee: the typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $267,879 in Missouri. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of household income in Tennessee and $73,656 in Missouri, against median incomes of $71,997 and $71,589.
Do people earn more in Tennessee or Missouri?
Tennessee and Missouri pay about the same: median household income is $71,997 vs $71,589, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.5% in Tennessee and 4% in Missouri. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 3 after adjusting for local costs and Missouri's in 6, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to Missouri or from Missouri to Tennessee?
1,782 households moved from Missouri to Tennessee in the latest IRS release (average income $72,961); the flow from Tennessee to Missouri is too small to appear among Missouri's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,380 people (±1,044) moving from Tennessee to Missouri and 3,476 (±1,548) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Tennessee or Missouri?
Tennessee is the better fit for retirees: #28 of 50 on the retiree index vs #32 for Missouri. Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Missouri has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,960 left after typical costs in Tennessee and +$40,673 in Missouri.
Which is better for families, Tennessee or Missouri?
Tennessee is the better fit for families: #30 of 50 on the families index vs #34 for Missouri. Center-based infant care costs $13,926 a year in Tennessee and $15,080 in Missouri. High school graduation rates are 90.4% and 89.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 after typical costs in Tennessee and -$6,088 in Missouri.
Is Missouri better than Tennessee?
No: Tennessee ranks higher than Missouri overall, #24 of 50 vs #34, with a composite score of 57.1 to 51. Tennessee leads 6 of 11 categories and Missouri leads 3, including health and safety. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Tennessee vs Missouri.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.