Ohio vs Tennessee: Which Is Better to Live In?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 91.9); Ohio carries a 3-point higher tax burden and has a 44% lower violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 44% lower in Ohio (276 vs. 492 in Tennessee).
- Total tax burden is 32% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 9.36% in Ohio).
- Typical home value is 26% lower in Ohio ($248,803 vs. $334,108 in Tennessee).
| Measure | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -5 pts | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | -5 pts | — | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,341 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | +$2,341 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$85,305 (-26%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$85,305-26% | $368,697 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.98 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.98 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -217 (-44%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -217-44% | 328 | OH |
| Median household incomeGap +$215 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$2150% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +1.8 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -32,098 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -32,098 | -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 Ohio or Tennessee better to live in?
Tennessee scores higher overall: 57.1 to 52.1 out of 100, #24 of 50 against #33. Ohio leads 3 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 6, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -15.5 | 15% | 30.3#44 · D | 45.8#26 · B | -15.5 pts | TN |
| Safety12% of scoregap +20.4 | 12% | 72.6#24 · B | 52.2#45 · D | +20.4 pts | OH |
| Health12% of scoregap +16.1 | 12% | 44.8#35 · C | 28.7#46 · D | +16.1 pts | OH |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.3 | 12% | 67.4#11 · B+ | 71.7#8 · A | -4.3 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +0.5 | 10% | 78.4#15 · B+ | 77.9#17 · B+ | +0.5 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -19.5 | 8% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 76.1#3 · A+ | -19.5 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -25.9 | 7% | 31.0#34 · C+ | 56.9#5 · A+ | -25.9 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +9.2 | 7% | 52.1#23 · B | 42.9#40 · C | +9.2 pts | OH |
| Livability7% of scoregap -17.2 | 7% | 29.8#31 · C+ | 47.0#9 · A | -17.2 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -3.3 | 6% | 10.0#42 · C | 13.3#38 · C | -3.3 pts | TN |
| Environment4% of scoregap -1 | 4% | 35.2#34 · C+ | 36.2#33 · C+ | -1 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 Ohio cheaper than Tennessee?
Ohio and Tennessee cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 92.8 vs 91.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,341 more a year in Ohio after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.5 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | -2.5 pts-3% | 100 | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.78¢ (+29%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +3.78¢+29% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.01 (+17%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$2.01+17% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.17 (+6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.17+6% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10 (0%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$100% | $15,633 | Even |
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 | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$751 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | +$751 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$1,493 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | +$1,493 | OH |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$2,341 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | +$2,341 | OH |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,237 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | +$1,237 | 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 | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$3,556 | $18,655 | $22,211 | -$3,556 | OH |
| ChildcareGap +$20 | $27,872 | $27,852 | +$20 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap +$43 | $4,454 | $4,411 | +$43 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$282 | $10,553 | $10,835 | -$282 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$534 | $10,214 | $9,680 | +$534 | TN |
| State and local taxesGap +$898 | $6,569 | $5,671 | +$898 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Tennessee?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 9.36%. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.98 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.98 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +6 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.85 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.85 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.32 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -2.32 pts | 6.66% | OH |
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 Ohio or Tennessee?
Homes cost 34% more in Tennessee: a typical home value of $248,803 in Ohio vs $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of income in Ohio and $85,549 in Tennessee; the median household earns $72,212 and $71,997.
| Measure | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$85,305 (-26%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$85,305-26% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.7 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$291 (-16%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | -$291-16% | $1,948 | OH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$14,432 (-17%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | -$14,432-17% | $100,006 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.2x (-26%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -1.2x-26% | 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.
| OH | TN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,280 | $1,719 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +29.2% | +24.8% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Cincinnati | 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 Ohio or Tennessee?
Median household income is about the same, $72,212 in Ohio and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.5%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 5.
| Measure | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$215 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$2150% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap -$2,694 (-4%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | -$2,694-4% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap -1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Population growthGap -0.54 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.54 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 | OH | TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | OH |
| Civil Engineers | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | TN |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | OH |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | Even |
| Lawyers | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | TN |
| Registered Nurses | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | TN |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | OH |
| Electricians | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | TN |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | TN |
| Construction Laborers | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | OH |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | $69,427$64,567 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 Ohio safer than Tennessee?
Ohio is safer: 276 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,429 and 1,637 per 100,000.
| Measure | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -217 (-44%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -217-44% | 328 | OH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -208 (-13%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -208-13% | 1,535 | OH |
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.
- Lakewood, OH81 violent per 100K
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Ohio or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #11), with high school graduation rates of 86.2% and 90.4%. Ohio scores higher for health (#35 vs #46); life expectancy is 75.6 years in Ohio and 73.8 in Tennessee.
| Measure | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +1.8 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 34.03% | OH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -3 pts | 7.6% | OH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | TN |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Dublin, OHeducation score 93.5
- 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: Ohio #11, Tennessee #8. Health: Ohio #35, Tennessee #46.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Tennessee, or from Tennessee to Ohio?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,085 people (±1,308) moving from Ohio to Tennessee and 6,298 (±2,121) the other way, a net gain of about 3,213 people for Ohio 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 | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -21,104 (-19%) | 92,684#16 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | -21,104-19% | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +10,994 (+12%) | 100,678#37 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +10,994+12% | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -32,098 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -32,098 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.0 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -4.0 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,193 (-15%) | $67,237#35 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | -$12,193-15% | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$8,032 (+11%) | $78,108#17 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$8,032+11% | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.8 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -4.8 | 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, Ohio or Tennessee?
Ohio is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; Tennessee is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -9 places | #21score 67.5 | #30score 62.5 | -9 places | OH |
| RetireesGap +1 places | #29score 59.9 | #28score 60.3 | +1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +22 places | #36score 46.5 | #14score 59.5 | +22 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +20 places | #36score 46.4 | #16score 60 | +20 places | TN |
| Small BusinessGap +25 places | #33score 49.7 | #8score 73.5 | +25 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -7 places | #37score 32.6 | #44score 28.8 | -7 places | OH |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesOhio (#21 vs #30)
- RetireesEven (#29 vs #28)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #36)
- Young ProfessionalsTennessee (#16 vs #36)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #33)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsOhio (#37 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in Ohio and Tennessee?
Ohio has 20 tracked cities and Tennessee has 20; the largest are Columbus and Nashville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OhioOH | TennesseeTN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Columbus914,802 people | Nashville690,130 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Dublinscore 71.5 | Franklinscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lakewood81 violent per 100K | Brentwood62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Youngstowncost index 87.4 | Jacksoncost index 85.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Loraincounty median AQI 39 | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Dublin93.5% graduation rate | Lebanon97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dublinmedian income $160,296 | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Columbus+0.8% growth | Lebanon+5.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Ohio and Tennessee compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Ohio carries AA+ credit rating and Tennessee AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -8 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -8 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.7 (-67%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -16.7-67% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -5.7 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.7 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | -2.7 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | OH |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.8 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | -0.3 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 | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.4 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -21 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -21 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,350 (+83%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$1,350+83% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -1.7 pts | +4.66% | TN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Ohio 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).
Ohio vs Tennessee: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Ohio is ahead on 18 of 51, Tennessee on 24, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OhioOH | TennesseeTN | GapOH−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,585,434 (+63%) · US 6.8 million | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | +4,585,434+63% | 6.8 million | OH |
| Median household incomeGap +$215 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$2150% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| Population growthGap -0.54 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.54 pts | +0.51% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap -$2,694 (-4%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | -$2,694-4% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap -1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -217 (-44%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -217-44% | 328 | OH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -208 (-13%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -208-13% | 1,535 | OH |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 237 | 239#13 of 50 | 240#12 of 50 | -0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 216#14 of 50 | 215#23 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +1.8 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 34.03% | OH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -3 pts | 7.6% | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$85,305 (-26%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$85,305-26% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.7 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$291 (-16%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | -$291-16% | $1,948 | OH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$14,432 (-17%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | -$14,432-17% | $100,006 | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.2x (-26%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -1.2x-26% | 4.6x | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.78¢ (+29%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +3.78¢+29% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.01 (+17%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$2.01+17% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.17 (+6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.17+6% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.5 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | -2.5 pts-3% | 100 | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10 (0%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$100% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.98 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.98 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +6 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.85 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.85 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.32 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -2.32 pts | 6.66% | OH |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.4 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -21 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -21 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,350 (+83%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$1,350+83% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -1.7 pts | +4.66% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | TN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -8 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -8 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.7 (-67%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -16.7-67% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -5.7 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.7 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | -2.7 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | OH |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.8 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap -21,104 (-19%) · US 78,682 | 92,684#16 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | -21,104-19% | 78,682 | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +10,994 (+12%) · US 78,715 | 100,678#37 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +10,994+12% | 78,715 | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -32,098 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -32,098 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.0 · US +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -4.0 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,193 (-15%) · US $77,690 | $67,237#35 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | -$12,193-15% | $77,690 | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$8,032 (+11%) · US $77,024 | $78,108#17 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$8,032+11% | $77,024 | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.8 · US +1.1 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -4.8 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$2,341 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | +$2,341 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$751 · US +$31,418 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | +$751 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,237 · US +$35,970 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | +$1,237 | +$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 Ohio and Tennessee numbers say when read together.
Tennessee ranks higher overall
Tennessee leads 6 of the 11 categories to Ohio's 3, with 2 even; Ohio is ahead on safety and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Ohio is ahead on 18 and Tennessee on 24.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 92.8 in Ohio and 91.9 in Tennessee, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $248,803 and $334,108. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 a year after typical costs in Ohio and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Ohio collects 9.36% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Tennessee collects 6.38% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Ohio is safer
Median household income is $72,212 in Ohio and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 492 in Tennessee.
People move to Ohio on net
6,298 people moved to Ohio from Tennessee in the latest Census release, against 3,085 going the other way.
Ohio is the better fit for families
For families, Ohio ranks #21 of 50 and Tennessee #30; for retirees, Ohio ranks #29 and Tennessee #28.
Ohio vs Tennessee: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio or Tennessee better to live in?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 91.9); Ohio carries a 3-point higher tax burden and has a 44% lower violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Ohio cheaper than Tennessee?
Ohio and Tennessee cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 92.8 vs 91.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$3,318 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Ohio, and -$5,659 in Tennessee. The typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $334,108 in Tennessee.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Tennessee?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.36% in Ohio. Ohio's top income tax rate is 6%, its effective property tax rate 1.43% and its combined sales tax 7.29%; Tennessee's are zero, 0.58% and 9.61%.
Is Ohio safer than Tennessee?
Ohio is safer: 276 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Ohio ranks #24 of 50 for violent crime and Tennessee #46. Property crime is 1,429 per 100,000 in Ohio and 1,637 in Tennessee. The safest tracked cities are Lakewood, OH, and Brentwood, TN.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or Tennessee?
Homes are 34% more expensive in Tennessee: the typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of household income in Ohio and $85,549 in Tennessee, against median incomes of $72,212 and $71,997.
Do people earn more in Ohio or Tennessee?
Ohio and Tennessee pay about the same: median household income is $72,212 vs $71,997, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Ohio and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 5, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Tennessee or from Tennessee to Ohio?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,085 people (±1,308) moving from Ohio to Tennessee and 6,298 (±2,121) the other way, a net gain of about 3,213 people for Ohio beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Ohio or Tennessee?
Ohio and Tennessee are close for retirees: #29 and #28 of 50 on the retiree index. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,197 left after typical costs in Ohio and +$39,960 in Tennessee.
Which is better for families, Ohio or Tennessee?
Ohio is the better fit for families: #21 of 50 on the families index vs #30 for Tennessee. Center-based infant care costs $13,936 a year in Ohio and $13,926 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 86.2% and 90.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 after typical costs in Ohio and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Is Tennessee better than Ohio?
Yes: Tennessee ranks higher than Ohio overall, #24 of 50 vs #33, with a composite score of 57.1 to 52.1. Tennessee leads 6 of 11 categories and Ohio leads 3, including safety and health. 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.