Texas vs Nebraska: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Nebraska #10 as of the latest release. Nebraska is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 97.1), carries a 1-point higher tax burden, and has a 37% lower violent crime rate. Nebraska scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 1.
- Violent crime rate is 37% lower in Nebraska (218 vs. 345 in Texas).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 28% lower in Texas ($10,894 vs. $15,080 in Nebraska).
- Property crime rate is 23% lower in Nebraska (1,379 vs. 1,786 in Texas).
| Measure | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -18.9 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 71.1#10 of 50 · A | -18.9 pts | — | NE |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 90.1#10 of 50 | +7 pts+8% | 100 | NE |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$8,241 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$8,385#21 of 50 | +$8,241 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,694 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $280,673#14 of 50 | +$18,694+7% | $368,697 | NE |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.01 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.78%#26 of 50 | -1.01 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +126 (+58%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 218#12 of 50 | +126+58% | 328 | NE |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,345 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $76,376#31 of 50 | +$3,345+4% | $80,903 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 87.1%#21 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 78.3#15 of 50 | -1.2 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +57,957 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -1,484#34 of 50 | +57,957 | -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 Nebraska better to live in?
Nebraska scores higher overall: 71.1 to 52.2 out of 100, #10 of 50 against #32. Texas leads 1 of 11 categories, Nebraska leads 9, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -14.2 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 56.7#12 · B+ | -14.2 pts | NE |
| Safety12% of scoregap -16.2 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 78.0#16 · B+ | -16.2 pts | NE |
| Health12% of scoregap -20.5 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 58.2#25 · B | -20.5 pts | NE |
| Education12% of scoregap -3.1 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 63.8#20 · B | -3.1 pts | NE |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -7.2 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 81.6#12 · B+ | -7.2 pts | NE |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +0.8 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 71.4#8 · A | +0.8 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +6.5 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 45.2#18 · B+ | +6.5 pts | TX |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -11.9 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 55.6#12 · B+ | -11.9 pts | NE |
| Livability7% of scoregap -8.8 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 32.4#26 · B | -8.8 pts | NE |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -17.3 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 22.0#29 · C+ | -17.3 pts | NE |
| Environment4% of scoregap -3.3 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 44.1#22 · B | -3.3 pts | NE |
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 Nebraska?
Nebraska is cheaper: cost of living index 90.1 vs 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $8,241 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 90.1#10 of 50 | +7 pts+8% | 100 | NE |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 94.1#7 of 50 | +4 pts+4% | 100 | NE |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.13¢ (+25%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 12.34¢/kWh#3 of 50 | +3.13¢+25% | 17.84¢/kWh | NE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.02 (+70%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $11.40/Mcf#13 of 50 | +$8.02+70% | $15.83/Mcf | NE |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.33 (-10%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.21/gal#26 of 50 | -$0.33-10% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,186 (-28%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $15,080#24 of 50 | -$4,186-28% | $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 | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,882 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$33,659costs $41,341 | +$1,882 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$608 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$26,386costs $48,614 | +$608 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$8,241 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$8,385costs $83,385 | +$8,241 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$574 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$38,932costs $36,067 | +$574 | 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 | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$1,692 | $23,045 | $21,353 | +$1,692 | NE |
| ChildcareGap -$8,372 | $21,788 | $30,160 | -$8,372 | TX |
| UtilitiesGap +$336 | $4,661 | $4,325 | +$336 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$451 | $11,049 | $10,598 | +$451 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$1,038 | $9,051 | $10,089 | -$1,038 | TX |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,309 | $5,551 | $6,860 | -$1,309 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Nebraska?
Texas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 8.78%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Nebraska has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.01 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.78%#26 of 50 | -1.01 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.2 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 5.2%#24 of 50 | -5.2 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.54%#42 of 50 | +0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.22 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 6.98%#23 of 50 | +1.22 pts | 6.66% | NE |
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 Nebraska?
Homes cost 7% more in Texas: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $280,673 in Nebraska. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $83,194 in Nebraska; the median household earns $79,721 and $76,376.
| Measure | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,694 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $280,673#14 of 50 | +$18,694+7% | $368,697 | NE |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.7 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +3.1%#15 of 50 | -4.7 pts | +1.2% | NE |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$246 (+17%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,413#9 of 50 | +$246+17% | $1,948 | NE |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$4,867 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $83,194#17 of 50 | +$4,867+6% | $100,006 | NE |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 3.7x#12 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 | NE | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $1,444 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +25.6% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Dallas | Omaha |
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 Nebraska?
Texas pays more: median household income $79,721 vs $76,376, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 3% in Nebraska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Nebraska's in 0.
| Measure | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$3,345 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $76,376#31 of 50 | +$3,345+4% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 3%#6 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | NE |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,483 (+2%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $67,337#17 of 50 | +$1,483+2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +1.8%#28 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +0.63 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.62%#17 of 50 | +0.63 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 | NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $223,267$200,940 in Omaha | TX |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $142,516$128,264 in Omaha | TX |
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $141,411$127,270 in Omaha | TX |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $101,091$90,982 in Omaha | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $104,988$94,489 in Omaha | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $56,370$50,733 in Omaha | TX |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $81,297$73,167 in Omaha | TX |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $60,544$54,490 in Omaha | TX |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $102,437$92,193 in Omaha | TX |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $71,723$64,551 in Omaha | TX |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $75,020$67,518 in Omaha | TX |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $90,051$81,046 in Omaha | TX |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $57,030$51,327 in Omaha | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $69,281$62,353 in Omaha | TX |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $69,523$62,571 in Omaha | TX |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $58,814$52,933 in Omaha | TX |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $43,074$38,767 in Omaha | TX |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $50,587$45,528 in Omaha | TX |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $34,211$30,790 in Omaha | TX |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $56,301$50,671 in Omaha | TX |
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 Nebraska?
Nebraska is safer: 218 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,379 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +126 (+58%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 218#12 of 50 | +126+58% | 328 | NE |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +407 (+30%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,379#19 of 50 | +407+30% | 1,535 | NE |
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
- Papillion, NE48 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Texas or Nebraska?
Nebraska scores higher for education (#20 of 50 vs #24), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 87.1%. Nebraska scores higher for health (#25 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 78.3 in Nebraska.
| Measure | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -11 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 280#7 of 50 | -11 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 256#30 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 87.1%#21 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 78.3#15 of 50 | -1.2 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 37.6%#42 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | TX |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +9.6 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 7.1%#25 of 50 | +9.6 pts | 7.6% | NE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +9 pts (+26%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 34#9 of 50 | +9 pts+26% | 38.8 | NE |
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
- Gretna, NEeducation score 98
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, Nebraska #20. Health: Texas #41, Nebraska #25.
Are more people moving from Texas to Nebraska, or from Nebraska to Texas?
1,860 households moved from Texas to Nebraska and 2,087 moved from Nebraska to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 227 households for Texas. Movers to Nebraska reported an average income of $60,565; movers to Texas reported $73,070. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,391 people (±1,151) moving from Texas to Nebraska and 5,961 (±3,142) the other way, a net gain of about 3,570 people for Texas 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 | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +285,251 (+1,297%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 21,989#40 of 50 | +285,251+1,297% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +227,294 (+968%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 23,473#11 of 50 | +227,294+968% | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +57,957 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -1,484#34 of 50 | +57,957 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.5 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -0.7#33 of 50 | +2.5 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$23,764 (+40%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $59,868#45 of 50 | +$23,764+40% | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,886 (+21%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $66,473#38 of 50 | +$13,886+21% | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.3 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -0.2#32 of 50 | +2.3 | 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 Nebraska?
Nebraska is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +23 places | #35score 57.5 | #12score 78.8 | +23 places | NE |
| RetireesGap +26 places | #33score 58.8 | #7score 78.2 | +26 places | NE |
| Remote WorkersGap +16 places | #25score 52 | #9score 67.2 | +16 places | NE |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +22 places | #28score 53 | #6score 69.3 | +22 places | NE |
| Small BusinessGap +8 places | #15score 64.3 | #7score 73.6 | +8 places | NE |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +26 places | #45score 26.6 | #19score 51.4 | +26 places | NE |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNebraska (#12 vs #35)
- RetireesNebraska (#7 vs #33)
- Remote WorkersNebraska (#9 vs #25)
- Young ProfessionalsNebraska (#6 vs #28)
- Small BusinessNebraska (#7 vs #15)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNebraska (#19 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and Nebraska?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and Nebraska has 20; the largest are Houston and Omaha. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | NebraskaNE |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Omaha488,837 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Papillionscore 68.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Papillion48 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Kearneycost index 86.3 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | South Sioux Citywalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Scottsbluffcounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Gretna98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Gretnamedian income $123,992 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | Norfolk+1.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and Nebraska compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and Nebraska AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +3 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 34%#17 of 50 | +3 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -24.5 (-51%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 48.5#43 of 50 | -24.5-51% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap +0.4 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 1.4%#47 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.6 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 19.9 min#6 of 50 | +7.6 min | 25.2 min | NE |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.5%#41 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | TX |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.2 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 9.7%#38 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 91.9%#37 of 50 | +1.8 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 | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 100#4 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.5 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 12.3%#19 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -11 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 87%#8 of 50 | -11 pts | 74.3% | NE |
| State debt per capitaGap +$570 (+45%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $1,280#1 of 50 | +$570+45% | $3,506 | NE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +8.2%#6 of 50 | -3 pts | +4.66% | NE |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, Nebraska 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).
Texas vs Nebraska: 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 22 of 51, Nebraska on 19, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | NebraskaNE | GapTX−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +29,691,815 (+1,471%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 2 million#38 of 50 | +29,691,815+1,471% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,345 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $76,376#31 of 50 | +$3,345+4% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 3%#6 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | NE |
| Population growthGap +0.63 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.62%#17 of 50 | +0.63 pts | +0.51% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,483 (+2%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $67,337#17 of 50 | +$1,483+2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +1.8%#28 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +126 (+58%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 218#12 of 50 | +126+58% | 328 | NE |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +407 (+30%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,379#19 of 50 | +407+30% | 1,535 | NE |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 87.1%#21 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 238#22 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -11 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 280#7 of 50 | -11 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 212#39 of 50 | +0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 256#30 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 78.3#15 of 50 | -1.2 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 37.6%#42 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | TX |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +9.6 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 7.1%#25 of 50 | +9.6 pts | 7.6% | NE |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,694 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $280,673#14 of 50 | +$18,694+7% | $368,697 | NE |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.7 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +3.1%#15 of 50 | -4.7 pts | +1.2% | NE |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$246 (+17%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,413#9 of 50 | +$246+17% | $1,948 | NE |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$4,867 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $83,194#17 of 50 | +$4,867+6% | $100,006 | NE |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 90.1#10 of 50 | +7 pts+8% | 100 | NE |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 3.7x#12 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.13¢ (+25%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 12.34¢/kWh#3 of 50 | +3.13¢+25% | 17.84¢/kWh | NE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.02 (+70%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $11.40/Mcf#13 of 50 | +$8.02+70% | $15.83/Mcf | NE |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.33 (-10%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.21/gal#26 of 50 | -$0.33-10% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 94.1#7 of 50 | +4 pts+4% | 100 | NE |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,186 (-28%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $15,080#24 of 50 | -$4,186-28% | $15,633 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.01 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.78%#26 of 50 | -1.01 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.2 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 5.2%#24 of 50 | -5.2 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.54%#42 of 50 | +0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.22 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 6.98%#23 of 50 | +1.22 pts | 6.66% | NE |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 100#4 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.5 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 12.3%#19 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -11 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 87%#8 of 50 | -11 pts | 74.3% | NE |
| State debt per capitaGap +$570 (+45%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $1,280#1 of 50 | +$570+45% | $3,506 | NE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +8.2%#6 of 50 | -3 pts | +4.66% | NE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +9 pts (+26%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 34#9 of 50 | +9 pts+26% | 38.8 | NE |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +3 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 34%#17 of 50 | +3 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -24.5 (-51%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 48.5#43 of 50 | -24.5-51% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap +0.4 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 1.4%#47 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.6 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 19.9 min#6 of 50 | +7.6 min | 25.2 min | NE |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.5%#41 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | TX |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.2 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 9.7%#38 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 91.9%#37 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +285,251 (+1,297%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 21,989#40 of 50 | +285,251+1,297% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +227,294 (+968%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 23,473#11 of 50 | +227,294+968% | 78,715 | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +57,957 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -1,484#34 of 50 | +57,957 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.5 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -0.7#33 of 50 | +2.5 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$23,764 (+40%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $59,868#45 of 50 | +$23,764+40% | $77,690 | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,886 (+21%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $66,473#38 of 50 | +$13,886+21% | $77,024 | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.3 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -0.2#32 of 50 | +2.3 | +1.1 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$8,241 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$8,385#21 of 50 | +$8,241 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,882 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$33,659#21 of 50 | +$1,882 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$574 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$38,932#20 of 50 | +$574 | +$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 Nebraska numbers say when read together.
Nebraska ranks higher overall
Nebraska leads 9 of the 11 categories to Texas's 1, with 1 even; Texas is ahead on growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 22 and Nebraska on 19.
Nebraska is cheaper day to day
Nebraska's cost of living index is 90.1 against 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $280,673 in Nebraska. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$8,385 in Nebraska.
Texas takes a smaller share in taxes
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); Nebraska collects 8.78% (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Texas pays more
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $76,376 in Nebraska, with unemployment at 4.2% and 3%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 218 in Nebraska.
People move to Texas on net
5,961 people moved to Texas from Nebraska in the latest Census release, against 2,391 going the other way.
Nebraska fits families and retirees better
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and Nebraska #12; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and Nebraska #7.
Texas vs Nebraska: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or Nebraska better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Nebraska #10 as of the latest release. Nebraska is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 97.1), carries a 1-point higher tax burden, and has a 37% lower violent crime rate. Nebraska scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Texas cheaper than Nebraska?
Nebraska is cheaper than Texas: cost of living index 90.1 vs 97.1 (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 -$8,385 in Nebraska. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $280,673 in Nebraska.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Nebraska?
Texas has the lower tax burden: 7.77% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.78% in Nebraska. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; Nebraska's are 5.2%, 1.54% and 6.98%.
Is Texas safer than Nebraska?
Nebraska is safer: 218 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and Nebraska #12. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,379 in Nebraska. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Papillion, NE.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or Nebraska?
Homes are 7% more expensive in Texas: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $280,673 in Nebraska. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $83,194 in Nebraska, against median incomes of $79,721 and $76,376.
Do people earn more in Texas or Nebraska?
Texas pays more: median household income is $79,721 vs $76,376 in Nebraska, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 3% in Nebraska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Nebraska's in 0.
Are more people moving from Texas to Nebraska or from Nebraska to Texas?
1,860 households moved from Texas to Nebraska and 2,087 moved from Nebraska to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 227 households for Texas. Movers to Nebraska reported an average income of $60,565; movers to Texas reported $73,070. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,391 people (±1,151) moving from Texas to Nebraska and 5,961 (±3,142) the other way, a net gain of about 3,570 people for Texas beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or Nebraska?
Nebraska is the better fit for retirees: #7 of 50 on the retiree index vs #33 for Texas. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Nebraska has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$38,932 in Nebraska.
Which is better for families, Texas or Nebraska?
Nebraska is the better fit for families: #12 of 50 on the families index vs #35 for Texas. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $15,080 in Nebraska. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 87.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$8,385 in Nebraska.
Is Nebraska better than Texas?
Yes: Nebraska ranks higher than Texas overall, #10 of 50 vs #32, with a composite score of 71.1 to 52.2. Nebraska leads 9 of 11 categories and Texas leads 1, including growth. 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 Nebraska.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,087 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).