Pennsylvania vs Ohio: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Ohio #33 as of the latest release. Ohio is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 97.6), carries a 0.8-point higher tax burden, and has a 18% higher violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 20% lower in Ohio ($1,522 vs. $1,911 in Pennsylvania).
- Violent crime rate is 18% lower in Pennsylvania (227 vs. 276 in Ohio).
- Typical home value is 14% lower in Ohio ($248,803 vs. $290,401 in Pennsylvania).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +4.8 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | +4.8 pts | — | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.8 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 92.8#17 of 50 | +4.8 pts+5% | 100 | OH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$8,307 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$8,307 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$41,598 (+17%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $248,803#9 of 50 | +$41,598+17% | $368,697 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.78 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 9.36%#36 of 50 | -0.78 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -49 (-18%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 276#24 of 50 | -49-18% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,333 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $72,212#39 of 50 | +$5,333+7% | $80,903 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.2%#27 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.6#38 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -4,101 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -4,101 | -33 | OH |
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 Pennsylvania or Ohio better to live in?
Pennsylvania scores higher overall: 56.9 to 52.1 out of 100, #25 of 50 against #33. Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories, Ohio leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +8.9 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 30.3#44 · D | +8.9 pts | PA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +5.5 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 72.6#24 · B | +5.5 pts | PA |
| Health12% of scoregap +14.8 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 44.8#35 · C | +14.8 pts | PA |
| Education12% of scoregap -2 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 67.4#11 · B+ | -2 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -11.7 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 78.4#15 · B+ | -11.7 pts | OH |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -11 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 56.6#30 · C+ | -11 pts | OH |
| Growth7% of scoregap -4.2 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 31.0#34 · C+ | -4.2 pts | OH |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +3.8 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 52.1#23 · B | +3.8 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +4.6 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 29.8#31 · C+ | +4.6 pts | PA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +9.8 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 10.0#42 · C | +9.8 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +2.8 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 35.2#34 · C+ | +2.8 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Ohio?
Ohio is cheaper: cost of living index 92.8 vs 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $8,307 more a year in Ohio after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.8 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 92.8#17 of 50 | +4.8 pts+5% | 100 | OH |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5.7 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 93.7#3 of 50 | +5.7 pts+6% | 100 | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.34¢ (+14%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | +2.34¢+14% | 17.84¢/kWh | OH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.19 (+9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | +$1.19+9% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.15 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | +$0.15+5% | $3.32/gal | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,366 (+10%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $13,936#20 of 50 | +$1,366+10% | $15,633 | OH |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,457 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | -$3,457 | OH |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,504 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | -$4,504 | OH |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$8,307 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | -$8,307 | OH |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$4,068 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | -$4,068 | OH |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$3,061 | $21,716 | $18,655 | +$3,061 | OH |
| ChildcareGap +$2,732 | $30,604 | $27,872 | +$2,732 | OH |
| UtilitiesGap +$231 | $4,685 | $4,454 | +$231 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$642 | $11,195 | $10,553 | +$642 | OH |
| TransportationGap +$472 | $10,686 | $10,214 | +$472 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,170 | $7,739 | $6,569 | +$1,170 | OH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Pennsylvania collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 9.36%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.78 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 9.36%#36 of 50 | -0.78 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.86 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 6%#33 of 50 | +0.86 pts | 5.46% | OH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.02 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 1.43%#40 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.95 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 7.29%#30 of 50 | -0.95 pts | 6.66% | PA |
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 Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Homes cost 17% more in Pennsylvania: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $248,803 in Ohio. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $71,117 in Ohio; the median household earns $77,545 and $72,212.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$41,598 (+17%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $248,803#9 of 50 | +$41,598+17% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +3.4%#14 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$389 (+26%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,522#15 of 50 | +$389+26% | $1,948 | OH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$11,777 (+17%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $71,117#10 of 50 | +$11,777+17% | $100,006 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+9%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 3.4x#5 of 50 | +0.3x+9% | 4.6x | OH |
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.
| PA | OH | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $1,280 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | -1% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +29.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | Cincinnati |
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 Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income $77,545 vs $72,212, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.6% in Ohio. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Ohio's in 2.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,333 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $72,212#39 of 50 | +$5,333+7% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.6%#40 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$6,286 (+11%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $58,499#35 of 50 | +$6,286+11% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.91% | PA |
| Population growthGap -0.24 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.34%#33 of 50 | -0.24 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 | PA | OH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | PA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | PA |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | PA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | PA |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | OH |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | PA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | OH |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | PA |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | PA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | PA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | PA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | 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 Pennsylvania safer than Ohio?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 276 in Ohio (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,429 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -49 (-18%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 276#24 of 50 | -49-18% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -105 (-7%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,429#25 of 50 | -105-7% | 1,535 | PA |
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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Lakewood, OH81 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Pennsylvania and Ohio are close on education (#15 and #11 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 86.2%. Pennsylvania scores higher for health (#21 vs #35); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 75.6 in Ohio.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 279#11 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 260#12 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.2%#27 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.6#38 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.7 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 36.9%#38 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.7%#20 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-7%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 43#41 of 50 | -3 pts-7% | 38.8 | PA |
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).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- Dublin, OHeducation score 93.5
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: Pennsylvania #15, Ohio #11. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Ohio #35.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Ohio, or from Ohio to Pennsylvania?
6,060 households moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio and 5,284 moved from Ohio to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 776 households for Ohio. Movers to Ohio reported an average income of $61,901; movers to Pennsylvania reported $60,629. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,009 people (±2,338) moving from Pennsylvania to Ohio and 12,344 (±3,400) 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +30,941 (+33%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 92,684#16 of 50 | +30,941+33% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +35,042 (+35%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 100,678#37 of 50 | +35,042+35% | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -4,101 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -4,101 | OH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -0.7#35 of 50 | -0.2 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$9,129 (+14%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $67,237#35 of 50 | +$9,129+14% | PA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$7,534 (+10%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $78,108#17 of 50 | +$7,534+10% | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.2 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +1.0#26 of 50 | -1.2 | OH |
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, Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Ohio is the better fit for small business; 4 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -2 places | #19score 71.8 | #21score 67.5 | -2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -3 places | #26score 61.5 | #29score 59.9 | -3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #38score 46 | #36score 46.5 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -3 places | #33score 49.4 | #36score 46.4 | -3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +5 places | #38score 46.1 | #33score 49.7 | +5 places | OH |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -10 places | #27score 43.3 | #37score 32.6 | -10 places | PA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#19 vs #21)
- RetireesEven (#26 vs #29)
- Remote WorkersEven (#38 vs #36)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#33 vs #36)
- Small BusinessOhio (#33 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #37)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Ohio?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Ohio has 20; the largest are Philadelphia and Columbus. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Columbus914,802 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Dublinscore 71.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Lakewood81 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Youngstowncost index 87.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Loraincounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Dublin93.5% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Dublinmedian income $160,296 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Columbus+0.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Ohio compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Ohio AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 6%#47 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +5.1 (+61%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 8.3#6 of 50 | +5.1+61% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap +4.1 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 1.5%#46 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 17.16% | PA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.3 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | +3.3 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.2 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 1%#26 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.9 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 11.9%#26 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.2%#33 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 95#27 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | OH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 8.8%#33 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 12.39% | OH |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 76%#23 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,140 (+38%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,980#27 of 50 | +$1,140+38% | $3,506 | OH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +4.5%#28 of 50 | -2 pts | +4.66% | OH |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania AA-, Ohio AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Pennsylvania vs Ohio: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Pennsylvania is ahead on 17 of 51, Ohio on 24, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | OhioOH | GapPA−OH | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,158,922 (+10%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | +1,158,922+10% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,333 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $72,212#39 of 50 | +$5,333+7% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.6%#40 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.24 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.34%#33 of 50 | -0.24 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$6,286 (+11%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $58,499#35 of 50 | +$6,286+11% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.91% | PA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -49 (-18%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 276#24 of 50 | -49-18% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -105 (-7%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,429#25 of 50 | -105-7% | 1,535 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.2%#27 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 239#13 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 279#11 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 216#14 of 50 | -0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 260#12 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.6#38 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.7 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 36.9%#38 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.7%#20 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$41,598 (+17%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $248,803#9 of 50 | +$41,598+17% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +3.4%#14 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$389 (+26%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,522#15 of 50 | +$389+26% | $1,948 | OH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$11,777 (+17%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $71,117#10 of 50 | +$11,777+17% | $100,006 | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.8 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 92.8#17 of 50 | +4.8 pts+5% | 100 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+9%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 3.4x#5 of 50 | +0.3x+9% | 4.6x | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.34¢ (+14%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | +2.34¢+14% | 17.84¢/kWh | OH |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.19 (+9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | +$1.19+9% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.15 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | +$0.15+5% | $3.32/gal | OH |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5.7 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 93.7#3 of 50 | +5.7 pts+6% | 100 | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,366 (+10%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $13,936#20 of 50 | +$1,366+10% | $15,633 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.78 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 9.36%#36 of 50 | -0.78 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.86 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 6%#33 of 50 | +0.86 pts | 5.46% | OH |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.02 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 1.43%#40 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.95 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 7.29%#30 of 50 | -0.95 pts | 6.66% | PA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 95#27 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | OH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 8.8%#33 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 12.39% | OH |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 76%#23 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,140 (+38%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,980#27 of 50 | +$1,140+38% | $3,506 | OH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +4.5%#28 of 50 | -2 pts | +4.66% | OH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-7%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 43#41 of 50 | -3 pts-7% | 38.8 | PA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 6%#47 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +5.1 (+61%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 8.3#6 of 50 | +5.1+61% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap +4.1 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 1.5%#46 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 17.16% | PA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.3 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | +3.3 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.2 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 1%#26 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.9 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 11.9%#26 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.2%#33 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +30,941 (+33%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 92,684#16 of 50 | +30,941+33% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +35,042 (+35%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 100,678#37 of 50 | +35,042+35% | 78,715 | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -4,101 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -7,994#41 of 50 | -4,101 | -33 | OH |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -0.7#35 of 50 | -0.2 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$9,129 (+14%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $67,237#35 of 50 | +$9,129+14% | $77,690 | PA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$7,534 (+10%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $78,108#17 of 50 | +$7,534+10% | $77,024 | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.2 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +1.0#26 of 50 | -1.2 | +1.1 | OH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$8,307 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$8,307 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,457 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | -$3,457 | +$31,418 | OH |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$4,068 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | -$4,068 | +$35,970 | OH |
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 Pennsylvania and Ohio numbers say when read together.
Pennsylvania ranks higher overall
Pennsylvania leads 6 of the 11 categories to Ohio's 3, with 2 even; Ohio is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 17 and Ohio on 24.
Ohio is cheaper day to day
Ohio's cost of living index is 92.8 against 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $248,803 in Ohio. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$3,318 in Ohio.
Pennsylvania takes a smaller share in taxes
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Ohio collects 9.36% (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Pennsylvania pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $72,212 in Ohio, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.6%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 276 in Ohio.
Moves between the two run about even
11,009 people moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio and 12,344 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Families and retirees: a split decision
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Ohio #21; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Ohio #29.
Pennsylvania vs Ohio: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Ohio better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Ohio #33 as of the latest release. Ohio is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 97.6), carries a 0.8-point higher tax burden, and has a 18% higher violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Ohio?
Ohio is cheaper than Pennsylvania: cost of living index 92.8 vs 97.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$3,318 in Ohio. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $248,803 in Ohio.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Pennsylvania has the lower tax burden: 8.58% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.36% in Ohio. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; Ohio's are 6%, 1.43% and 7.29%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Ohio?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 276 in Ohio, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Ohio #24. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,429 in Ohio. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Lakewood, OH.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Homes are 17% more expensive in Pennsylvania: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $248,803 in Ohio. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $71,117 in Ohio, against median incomes of $77,545 and $72,212.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income is $77,545 vs $72,212 in Ohio, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.6% in Ohio. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Ohio's in 2, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Ohio or from Ohio to Pennsylvania?
6,060 households moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio and 5,284 moved from Ohio to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 776 households for Ohio. Movers to Ohio reported an average income of $61,901; movers to Pennsylvania reported $60,629. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,009 people (±2,338) moving from Pennsylvania to Ohio and 12,344 (±3,400) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Pennsylvania and Ohio are close for retirees: #26 and #29 of 50 on the retiree index. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$41,197 in Ohio.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Pennsylvania and Ohio are close for families: #19 and #21 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $13,936 in Ohio. High school graduation rates are 87% and 86.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$3,318 in Ohio.
Is Ohio better than Pennsylvania?
No: Pennsylvania ranks higher than Ohio overall, #25 of 50 vs #33, with a composite score of 56.9 to 52.1. Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories and Ohio leads 3, including affordability and fiscal health. 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 Pennsylvania vs Ohio.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (6,060 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).