Ohio vs Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. Ohio is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 101.1), carries a 0.5-point higher tax burden, and has a 25% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 2.
- Typical home value is 40% lower in Ohio ($248,803 vs. $414,662 in Virginia).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 37% lower in Ohio ($1,522 vs. $2,433 in Virginia).
- Violent crime rate is 25% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 276 in Ohio).
| Measure | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -15.6 pts | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | -15.6 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.3 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -8.3 pts-8% | 100 | OH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$18,632 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$18,632 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$165,859 (-40%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$165,859-40% | $368,697 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.5 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +70 (+34%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +70+34% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$19,878 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$19,878-22% | $80,903 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -8,415 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -8,415 | -33 | VA |
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 Virginia better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 52.1 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #33. Ohio leads 2 of 11 categories, Virginia leads 7, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -34.3 | 15% | 30.3#44 · D | 64.6#7 · A | -34.3 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -6.7 | 12% | 72.6#24 · B | 79.3#13 · B+ | -6.7 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap -16.6 | 12% | 44.8#35 · C | 61.4#17 · B+ | -16.6 pts | VA |
| Education12% of scoregap +2 | 12% | 67.4#11 · B+ | 65.4#14 · B+ | +2 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +17.9 | 10% | 78.4#15 · B+ | 60.5#34 · C+ | +17.9 pts | OH |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -6.2 | 8% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 62.8#20 · B | -6.2 pts | VA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -14.1 | 7% | 31.0#34 · C+ | 45.1#19 · B | -14.1 pts | VA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.3 | 7% | 52.1#23 · B | 47.8#29 · C+ | +4.3 pts | OH |
| Livability7% of scoregap +2.5 | 7% | 29.8#31 · C+ | 27.3#35 · C | +2.5 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -10.1 | 6% | 10.0#42 · C | 20.1#30 · C+ | -10.1 pts | VA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -12.8 | 4% | 35.2#34 · C+ | 48.0#15 · B+ | -12.8 pts | VA |
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 Virginia?
Ohio is cheaper: cost of living index 92.8 vs 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $18,632 more a year in Ohio after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.3 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -8.3 pts-8% | 100 | OH |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.7 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | -6.7 pts-7% | 100 | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.68¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | +1.68¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.94 (-18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | -$2.94-18% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.16 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | +$0.16+5% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,328 (-19%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | -$3,328-19% | $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 | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$8,257 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$8,257 | OH |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$9,807 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$9,807 | OH |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$18,632 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | +$18,632 | OH |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$8,934 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$8,934 | 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 | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$9,658 | $18,655 | $28,313 | -$9,658 | OH |
| ChildcareGap -$6,656 | $27,872 | $34,528 | -$6,656 | OH |
| UtilitiesGap -$399 | $4,454 | $4,853 | -$399 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$755 | $10,553 | $11,308 | -$755 | OH |
| TransportationGap +$503 | $10,214 | $9,711 | +$503 | VA |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,668 | $6,569 | $8,237 | -$1,668 | OH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Virginia?
Virginia collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.86% vs 9.36%. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.5 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.25 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.67 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | +0.67 pts | 1.02% | VA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.52 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +1.52 pts | 6.66% | VA |
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 Virginia?
Homes cost 67% more in Virginia: a typical home value of $248,803 in Ohio vs $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of income in Ohio and $109,920 in Virginia; the median household earns $72,212 and $92,090.
| Measure | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$165,859 (-40%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$165,859-40% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.2 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$911 (-37%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$911-37% | $1,948 | OH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$38,803 (-35%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$38,803-35% | $100,006 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.1x (-24%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | -1.1x-24% | 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 | VA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,280 | $2,133 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +29.2% | +23.4% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Cincinnati | Washington |
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 Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income $92,090 vs $72,212, with unemployment at 4.6% in Ohio and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 20.
| Measure | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$19,878 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$19,878-22% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$7,941 (-12%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | -$7,941-12% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.91% | VA |
| Population growthGap -0.35 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.35 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 | OH | VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | VA |
| Lawyers | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | VA |
| Software Developers | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | VA |
| Electricians | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | VA |
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 Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 276 in Ohio (FBI). Property crime runs 1,429 and 1,354 per 100,000.
| Measure | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +70 (+34%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +70+34% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +75 (+6%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +75+6% | 1,535 | VA |
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
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Ohio or Virginia?
Ohio and Virginia are close on education (#11 and #14 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 86.2% and 89.1%. Virginia scores higher for health (#17 vs #35); life expectancy is 75.6 years in Ohio and 77.5 in Virginia.
| Measure | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.6 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +4.6 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+16%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +6 pts+16% | 38.8 | VA |
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
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
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, Virginia #14. Health: Ohio #35, Virginia #17.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Virginia, or from Virginia to Ohio?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,787 people (±1,359) moving from Ohio to Virginia and 9,082 (±2,897) the other way, a net gain of about 5,295 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 | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -42,925 (-32%) | 92,684#16 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | -42,925-32% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap -34,510 (-26%) | 100,678#37 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | -34,510-26% | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -8,415 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -8,415 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.7 | -0.7#35 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -0.7 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$15,090 (-18%) | $67,237#35 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | -$15,090-18% | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$11,220 (-13%) | $78,108#17 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | -$11,220-13% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.3 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +0.3 | 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, Ohio or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +4 places | #21score 67.5 | #17score 72.9 | +4 places | VA |
| RetireesGap +14 places | #29score 59.9 | #15score 68.4 | +14 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap +20 places | #36score 46.5 | #16score 58.3 | +20 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +23 places | #36score 46.4 | #13score 63.4 | +23 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap +21 places | #33score 49.7 | #12score 68 | +21 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +14 places | #37score 32.6 | #23score 48 | +14 places | VA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #21)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #29)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #36)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #36)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #33)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #37)
Which cities stand out in Ohio and Virginia?
Ohio has 20 tracked cities and Virginia has 20; the largest are Columbus and Virginia Beach. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OhioOH | VirginiaVA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Columbus914,802 people | Virginia Beach456,349 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Dublinscore 71.5 | Restonscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lakewood81 violent per 100K | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Youngstowncost index 87.4 | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Loraincounty median AQI 39 | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Dublin93.5% graduation rate | Leesburg95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dublinmedian income $160,296 | McLeanmedian income $250,001 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Columbus+0.8% growth | Suffolk+1.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Ohio and Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Ohio carries AA+ credit rating and Virginia AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -4 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | -4 pts | 29.34% | VA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +2.8 (+51%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +2.8+51% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -9 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -4.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | -4.5 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | -2 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.9 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 92.67% | VA |
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 | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.1 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$150 (+5%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | +$150+5% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap 0 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | 0 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Ohio AA+, Virginia 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 Virginia: 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 14 of 51, Virginia on 28, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OhioOH | VirginiaVA | GapOH−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,020,403 (+34%) · US 6.8 million | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | +3,020,403+34% | 6.8 million | OH |
| Median household incomeGap -$19,878 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$19,878-22% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap -0.35 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.35 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$7,941 (-12%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | -$7,941-12% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.91% | VA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +70 (+34%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +70+34% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +75 (+6%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +75+6% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 239#13 of 50 | 238#24 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 216#14 of 50 | 214#31 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.6 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +4.6 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$165,859 (-40%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$165,859-40% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.2 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$911 (-37%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$911-37% | $1,948 | OH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$38,803 (-35%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$38,803-35% | $100,006 | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.3 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -8.3 pts-8% | 100 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.1x (-24%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | -1.1x-24% | 4.6x | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.68¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | +1.68¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.94 (-18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | -$2.94-18% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.16 (+5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | +$0.16+5% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.7 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | -6.7 pts-7% | 100 | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,328 (-19%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | -$3,328-19% | $15,633 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.5 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.25 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.67 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | +0.67 pts | 1.02% | VA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.52 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +1.52 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.1 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$150 (+5%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | +$150+5% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap 0 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | 0 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+16%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +6 pts+16% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -4 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | -4 pts | 29.34% | VA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +2.8 (+51%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +2.8+51% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -9 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -4.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | -4.5 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | -2 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.9 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 92.67% | VA |
| Households moving inIRSGap -42,925 (-32%) · US 78,682 | 92,684#16 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | -42,925-32% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap -34,510 (-26%) · US 78,715 | 100,678#37 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | -34,510-26% | 78,715 | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -8,415 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -8,415 | -33 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.7 · US +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -0.7 | +0.4 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$15,090 (-18%) · US $77,690 | $67,237#35 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | -$15,090-18% | $77,690 | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$11,220 (-13%) · US $77,024 | $78,108#17 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | -$11,220-13% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.3 · US +1.1 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +0.3 | +1.1 | OH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$18,632 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$18,632 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$8,257 · US +$31,418 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$8,257 | +$31,418 | OH |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$8,934 · US +$35,970 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$8,934 | +$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 Virginia numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 7 of the 11 categories to Ohio's 2, with 2 even; Ohio is ahead on affordability and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Ohio is ahead on 14 and Virginia on 28.
Ohio is cheaper day to day
Ohio's cost of living index is 92.8 against 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). The typical home costs $248,803 in Ohio and $414,662 in Virginia. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 a year after typical costs in Ohio and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Virginia 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); Virginia collects 8.86% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Virginia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $72,212 in Ohio and $92,090 in Virginia, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 206 in Virginia.
People move to Ohio on net
9,082 people moved to Ohio from Virginia in the latest Census release, against 3,787 going the other way.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, Ohio ranks #21 of 50 and Virginia #17; for retirees, Ohio ranks #29 and Virginia #15.
Ohio vs Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio or Virginia better to live in?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. Ohio is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 101.1), carries a 0.5-point higher tax burden, and has a 25% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Ohio cheaper than Virginia?
Ohio is cheaper than Virginia: cost of living index 92.8 vs 101.1 (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 -$21,950 in Virginia. The typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $414,662 in Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Virginia?
Virginia has the lower tax burden: 8.86% 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%; Virginia's are 5.75%, 0.76% and 5.77%.
Is Ohio safer than Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 276 in Ohio, per the FBI. Ohio ranks #24 of 50 for violent crime and Virginia #8. Property crime is 1,429 per 100,000 in Ohio and 1,354 in Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Lakewood, OH, and Virginia Beach, VA.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or Virginia?
Homes are 67% more expensive in Virginia: the typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of household income in Ohio and $109,920 in Virginia, against median incomes of $72,212 and $92,090.
Do people earn more in Ohio or Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income is $92,090 vs $72,212 in Ohio, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Ohio and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 20.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Virginia or from Virginia to Ohio?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,787 people (±1,359) moving from Ohio to Virginia and 9,082 (±2,897) the other way, a net gain of about 5,295 people for Ohio beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Ohio or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #29 for Ohio. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,197 left after typical costs in Ohio and +$32,263 in Virginia.
Which is better for families, Ohio or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #21 for Ohio. Center-based infant care costs $13,936 a year in Ohio and $17,264 in Virginia. High school graduation rates are 86.2% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 after typical costs in Ohio and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Is Virginia better than Ohio?
Yes: Virginia ranks higher than Ohio overall, #15 of 50 vs #33, with a composite score of 67.7 to 52.1. Virginia leads 7 of 11 categories and Ohio leads 2, including affordability and transportation. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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