New York vs Tennessee: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 107.9), has no income tax, and has a 25% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
- Total tax burden is 53% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 13.56% in New York).
- Residential electricity price is 50% lower in Tennessee (13.18¢/kWh vs. 26.39¢/kWh in New York).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 50% lower in Tennessee ($1,813 vs. $3,615 in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -2.2 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | -2.2 pts | — | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +16 pts+17% | 100 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$37,569 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$37,569 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$192,606 (+58%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$192,606+58% | $368,697 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +7.18 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +7.18 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -124 (-25%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -124-25% | 328 | NY |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,823 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$13,823+19% | $80,903 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +5.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +5.7 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -96,091 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -96,091 | -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 New York or Tennessee better to live in?
Tennessee scores higher overall: 57.1 to 54.9 out of 100, #24 of 50 against #29. New York leads 5 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 4, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +0.5 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 45.8#26 · B | +0.5 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +10.8 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 52.2#45 · D | +10.8 pts | NY |
| Health12% of scoregap +51 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 28.7#46 · D | +51 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap -15.1 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 71.7#8 · A | -15.1 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -40.7 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 77.9#17 · B+ | -40.7 pts | TN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -31.6 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 76.1#3 · A+ | -31.6 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -42.9 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 56.9#5 · A+ | -42.9 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +9.7 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 42.9#40 · C | +9.7 pts | NY |
| Livability7% of scoregap +2.4 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 47.0#9 · A | +2.4 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +16.9 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 13.3#38 · C | +16.9 pts | NY |
| Environment4% of scoregap +22.2 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 36.2#33 · C+ | +22.2 pts | NY |
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 New York cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper: cost of living index 91.9 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $37,569 more a year in Tennessee after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +16 pts+17% | 100 | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +11.1 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +11.1 pts+12% | 100 | TN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +13.21¢ (+100%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +13.21¢+100% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.74 (+48%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$5.74+48% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,052 (+51%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$7,052+51% | $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 | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$15,637 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | -$15,637 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$19,278 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | -$19,278 | TN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$37,569 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | -$37,569 | TN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$17,312 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | -$17,312 | TN |
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 | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$18,387 | $40,598 | $22,211 | +$18,387 | TN |
| ChildcareGap +$14,104 | $41,956 | $27,852 | +$14,104 | TN |
| UtilitiesGap +$768 | $5,179 | $4,411 | +$768 | TN |
| GroceriesGap +$1,250 | $12,085 | $10,835 | +$1,250 | TN |
| TransportationGap +$283 | $9,963 | $9,680 | +$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,777 | $8,448 | $5,671 | +$2,777 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Tennessee?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +7.18 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +7.18 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +14.78 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +14.78 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.06 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +1.06 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.07 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -1.07 pts | 6.66% | NY |
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 New York or Tennessee?
Homes cost 58% more in New York: a typical home value of $526,714 in New York vs $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $85,549 in Tennessee; the median household earns $85,820 and $71,997.
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$192,606 (+58%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$192,606+58% | $368,697 | TN |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.9 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +4.9 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,802 (+99%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | +$1,802+99% | $1,948 | TN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$55,160 (+64%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$55,160+64% | $100,006 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+33%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | +1.5x+33% | 4.6x | TN |
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.
| NY | TN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $1,719 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +24.8% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | New York | Nashville |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in New York or Tennessee?
New York pays more: median household income $85,820 vs $71,997, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 0.
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$13,823 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$13,823+19% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$40,834 (+67%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | +$40,834+67% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.87 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.87 pts | +0.51% | TN |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | NY | TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | NY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | NY |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is New York safer than Tennessee?
New York is safer: 368 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 1,637 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -124 (-25%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -124-25% | 328 | NY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -62 (-4%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -62-4% | 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.
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #30), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 90.4%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #46); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 73.8 in Tennessee.
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +5.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +5.7 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -8.1 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -8.1 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-10%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | -4 pts-10% | 38.8 | NY |
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).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: New York #30, Tennessee #8. Health: New York #3, Tennessee #46.
Are more people moving from New York to Tennessee, or from Tennessee to New York?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 7,530 people (±2,911) moving from New York to Tennessee and 3,201 (±1,593) the other way, a net gain of about 4,329 people for Tennessee beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +78,452 (+69%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +78,452+69% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +174,543 (+195%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +174,543+195% | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -96,091 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -96,091 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.9 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -6.9 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$14,772 (+19%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | +$14,772+19% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$35,907 (+51%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$35,907+51% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -12.7 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -12.7 | 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, New York or Tennessee?
New York is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Tennessee is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -1 places | #29score 62.6 | #30score 62.5 | -1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -3 places | #25score 62 | #28score 60.3 | -3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +30 places | #44score 41.4 | #14score 59.5 | +30 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +24 places | #40score 42.8 | #16score 60 | +24 places | TN |
| Small BusinessGap +36 places | #44score 37.5 | #8score 73.5 | +36 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -23 places | #21score 50.9 | #44score 28.8 | -23 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#29 vs #30)
- RetireesEven (#25 vs #28)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsTennessee (#16 vs #40)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in New York and Tennessee?
New York has 20 tracked cities and Tennessee has 20; the largest are New York and Nashville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Nashville690,130 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Franklinscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Brentwood62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Jacksoncost index 85.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | Lebanon97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Lebanon+5.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and Tennessee compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and Tennessee AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +16 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | +16 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -21.2 (-85%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -21.2-85% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +7.9 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | +7.9 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.7 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | +6.7 min | 25.2 min | TN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.7 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +23.7 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | NY |
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 | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.4 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -9.4 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -7 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -7 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$6,500 (+399%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$6,500+399% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.7 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -7.7 pts | +4.66% | TN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, Tennessee AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
New York vs Tennessee: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New York is ahead on 16 of 51, Tennessee on 28, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | TennesseeTN | GapNY−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +12,687,351 (+173%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | +12,687,351+173% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,823 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$13,823+19% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| Population growthGap -0.87 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.87 pts | +0.51% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$40,834 (+67%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | +$40,834+67% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -124 (-25%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -124-25% | 328 | NY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -62 (-4%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -62-4% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 240#12 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 215#23 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +5.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +5.7 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -8.1 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -8.1 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$192,606 (+58%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$192,606+58% | $368,697 | TN |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.9 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +4.9 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,802 (+99%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | +$1,802+99% | $1,948 | TN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$55,160 (+64%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$55,160+64% | $100,006 | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +16 pts+17% | 100 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+33%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | +1.5x+33% | 4.6x | TN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +13.21¢ (+100%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +13.21¢+100% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.74 (+48%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$5.74+48% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +11.1 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +11.1 pts+12% | 100 | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,052 (+51%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$7,052+51% | $15,633 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +7.18 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +7.18 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +14.78 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +14.78 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.06 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +1.06 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.07 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -1.07 pts | 6.66% | NY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.4 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -9.4 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -7 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -7 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$6,500 (+399%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$6,500+399% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.7 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -7.7 pts | +4.66% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-10%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | -4 pts-10% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +16 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | +16 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -21.2 (-85%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -21.2-85% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +7.9 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | +7.9 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.7 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | +6.7 min | 25.2 min | TN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.7 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +23.7 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | NY |
| Households moving inIRSGap +78,452 (+69%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +78,452+69% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +174,543 (+195%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +174,543+195% | 78,715 | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -96,091 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -96,091 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.9 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -6.9 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$14,772 (+19%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | +$14,772+19% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$35,907 (+51%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$35,907+51% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -12.7 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -12.7 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$37,569 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$37,569 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$15,637 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | -$15,637 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$17,312 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | -$17,312 | +$35,970 | TN |
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 New York and Tennessee numbers say when read together.
Tennessee ranks higher overall
Tennessee leads 4 of the 11 categories to New York's 5, with 2 even; New York is ahead on health and environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New York is ahead on 16 and Tennessee on 28.
Tennessee is cheaper day to day
Tennessee's cost of living index is 91.9 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $334,108 in Tennessee. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); Tennessee collects 6.38% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
New York pays more and is safer
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 492 in Tennessee.
People move to Tennessee on net
7,530 people moved to Tennessee from New York in the latest Census release, against 3,201 going the other way.
Families and retirees: a split decision
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and Tennessee #30; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and Tennessee #28.
New York vs Tennessee: frequently asked questions
Is New York or Tennessee better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 107.9), has no income tax, and has a 25% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
Is New York cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 91.9 vs 107.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$43,228 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New York, and -$5,659 in Tennessee. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $334,108 in Tennessee.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Tennessee?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. New York's top income tax rate is 14.78%, its effective property tax rate 1.64% and its combined sales tax 8.54%; Tennessee's are zero, 0.58% and 9.61%.
Is New York safer than Tennessee?
New York is safer: 368 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and Tennessee #46. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 1,637 in Tennessee. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Brentwood, TN.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Tennessee?
Homes are 58% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $85,549 in Tennessee, against median incomes of $85,820 and $71,997.
Do people earn more in New York or Tennessee?
New York pays more: median household income is $85,820 vs $71,997 in Tennessee, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from New York to Tennessee or from Tennessee to New York?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 7,530 people (±2,911) moving from New York to Tennessee and 3,201 (±1,593) the other way, a net gain of about 4,329 people for Tennessee beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, New York or Tennessee?
New York and Tennessee are close for retirees: #25 and #28 of 50 on the retiree index. New York has high across the board; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$39,960 in Tennessee.
Which is better for families, New York or Tennessee?
New York and Tennessee are close for families: #29 and #30 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $13,926 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 90.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Is Tennessee better than New York?
Yes: Tennessee ranks higher than New York overall, #24 of 50 vs #29, with a composite score of 57.1 to 54.9. Tennessee leads 4 of 11 categories and New York leads 5, including health and environment. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: most-searched matchup.