Ohio vs Washington: Which Is Better to Live In?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Ohio is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 107), carries a 0.8-point higher tax burden. Washington scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical home value is 58% lower in Ohio ($248,803 vs. $591,879 in Washington).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 40% lower in Ohio ($13,936 vs. $23,136 in Washington).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 33% lower in Ohio ($1,522 vs. $2,278 in Washington).
| Measure | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -9.7 pts | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | -9.7 pts | — | WA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -14.2 pts (-13%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -14.2 pts-13% | 100 | OH |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$44,575 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$44,575 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$343,076 (-58%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$343,076-58% | $368,697 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.75 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | +0.75 pts | 8.74% | WA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -8 (-3%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -8-3% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap -$27,177 (-27%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$27,177-27% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 85.62% | OH |
| Life expectancyGap -2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -2.8 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -17,833 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -17,833 | -33 | WA |
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 Washington better to live in?
Washington scores higher overall: 61.8 to 52.1 out of 100, #20 of 50 against #33. Ohio leads 3 of 11 categories, Washington leads 8, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -22 | 15% | 30.3#44 · D | 52.3#16 · B+ | -22 pts | WA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +8.7 | 12% | 72.6#24 · B | 63.9#30 · C+ | +8.7 pts | OH |
| Health12% of scoregap -23.4 | 12% | 44.8#35 · C | 68.2#13 · B+ | -23.4 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap +10 | 12% | 67.4#11 · B+ | 57.4#29 · C+ | +10 pts | OH |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +39.3 | 10% | 78.4#15 · B+ | 39.1#46 · D | +39.3 pts | OH |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -7.7 | 8% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 64.3#17 · B+ | -7.7 pts | WA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -9.8 | 7% | 31.0#34 · C+ | 40.8#24 · B | -9.8 pts | WA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -6.5 | 7% | 52.1#23 · B | 58.6#8 · A | -6.5 pts | WA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -4.1 | 7% | 29.8#31 · C+ | 33.9#25 · B | -4.1 pts | WA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -25.4 | 6% | 10.0#42 · C | 35.4#19 · B | -25.4 pts | WA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -37.9 | 4% | 35.2#34 · C+ | 73.1#3 · A+ | -37.9 pts | WA |
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 Washington?
Ohio is cheaper: cost of living index 92.8 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $44,575 more a year in Ohio after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -14.2 pts (-13%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -14.2 pts-13% | 100 | OH |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -10.7 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -10.7 pts-10% | 100 | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.85¢ (+29%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +3.85¢+29% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.77 (-21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | -$3.77-21% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.82 (-20%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.82-20% | $3.32/gal | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$9,200 (-40%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$9,200-40% | $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 | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$14,527 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$14,527 | OH |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$20,466 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$20,466 | OH |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$44,575 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | +$44,575 | OH |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$17,530 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$17,530 | 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 | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$22,468 | $18,655 | $41,123 | -$22,468 | OH |
| ChildcareGap -$18,400 | $27,872 | $46,272 | -$18,400 | OH |
| UtilitiesGap -$682 | $4,454 | $5,136 | -$682 | OH |
| GroceriesGap -$1,206 | $10,553 | $11,759 | -$1,206 | OH |
| TransportationGap -$2,577 | $10,214 | $12,791 | -$2,577 | OH |
| State and local taxesGap +$757 | $6,569 | $5,812 | +$757 | WA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Washington?
Washington collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.61% vs 9.36%. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.75 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | +0.75 pts | 8.74% | WA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +6 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.55 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 1.02% | WA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.22 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -2.22 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 Washington?
Homes cost 138% more in Washington: a typical home value of $248,803 in Ohio vs $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of income in Ohio and $155,542 in Washington; the median household earns $72,212 and $99,389.
| Measure | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$343,076 (-58%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$343,076-58% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.7 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +3.7 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$756 (-33%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$756-33% | $1,948 | OH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$84,425 (-54%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$84,425-54% | $100,006 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.6x (-43%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -2.6x-43% | 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 | WA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,280 | $3,045 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | +57% |
| Five-year change | +29.2% | +11.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Cincinnati | Seattle |
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 Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $72,212, with unemployment at 4.6% in Ohio and 4.7% in Washington. 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 Washington's in 17.
| Measure | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$27,177 (-27%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$27,177-27% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$31,490 (-35%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$31,490-35% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.8 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -1.8 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Population growthGap -0.58 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.58 pts | +0.51% | WA |
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 | WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | WA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | WA |
| Civil Engineers | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | WA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | WA |
| Electricians | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | WA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | WA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | WA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | WA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | WA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | WA |
| Lawyers | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | WA |
| Construction Laborers | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | WA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | WA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | WA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | WA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | WA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | WA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | 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 Washington?
Violent crime is about the same: 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 284 in Washington (FBI). Property crime runs 1,429 and 1,975 per 100,000.
| Measure | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -8 (-3%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -8-3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -546 (-28%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -546-28% | 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
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Ohio or Washington?
Ohio scores higher for education (#11 of 50 vs #29), with high school graduation rates of 86.2% and 83.6%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #35); life expectancy is 75.6 years in Ohio and 78.4 in Washington.
| Measure | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 85.62% | OH |
| Life expectancyGap -2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -2.8 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +5.4 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +5.4 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +15 pts (+54%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +15 pts+54% | 38.8 | WA |
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
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
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, Washington #29. Health: Ohio #35, Washington #13.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Washington, or from Washington to Ohio?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,410 people (±1,487) moving from Ohio to Washington and 2,375 (±1,224) 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 | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -29,500 (-24%) | 92,684#16 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | -29,500-24% | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap -11,667 (-10%) | 100,678#37 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | -11,667-10% | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -17,833 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -17,833 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.9 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -1.9 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$22,653 (-25%) | $67,237#35 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$22,653-25% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$22,014 (-22%) | $78,108#17 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$22,014-22% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -0.2 | Even |
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 Washington?
Ohio is the better fit for families; Washington is the better fit for 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 | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -11 places | #21score 67.5 | #32score 61 | -11 places | OH |
| RetireesGap +12 places | #29score 59.9 | #17score 66.7 | +12 places | WA |
| Remote WorkersGap +17 places | #36score 46.5 | #19score 54.8 | +17 places | WA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +9 places | #36score 46.4 | #27score 53.3 | +9 places | WA |
| Small BusinessGap +10 places | #33score 49.7 | #23score 58.8 | +10 places | WA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +24 places | #37score 32.6 | #13score 57.4 | +24 places | WA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesOhio (#21 vs #32)
- RetireesWashington (#17 vs #29)
- Remote WorkersWashington (#19 vs #36)
- Young ProfessionalsWashington (#27 vs #36)
- Small BusinessWashington (#23 vs #33)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWashington (#13 vs #37)
Which cities stand out in Ohio and Washington?
Ohio has 20 tracked cities and Washington has 26; the largest are Columbus and Seattle. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OhioOH | WashingtonWA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Columbus914,802 people | Seattle754,195 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Dublinscore 71.5 | Redmondscore 71.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lakewood81 violent per 100K | Kirkland67 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Youngstowncost index 87.4 | Yakimacost index 95.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Loraincounty median AQI 39 | Pascocounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Dublin93.5% graduation rate | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dublinmedian income $160,296 | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Columbus+0.8% growth | Kirkland+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Ohio and Washington compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Ohio carries AA+ credit rating and Washington AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -68 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -68 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -33.2 (-80%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -33.2-80% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -27 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -27 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.4 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | -3.4 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -4.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 92.67% | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | -1 pts | 12.39% | WA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$670 (-18%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$670-18% | $3,506 | OH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +4.66% | OH |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Ohio AA+, Washington 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).
Ohio vs Washington: 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 20 of 51, Washington on 22, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OhioOH | WashingtonWA | GapOH−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,899,490 (+49%) · US 6.8 million | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | 8 million#13 of 50 | +3,899,490+49% | 6.8 million | OH |
| Median household incomeGap -$27,177 (-27%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$27,177-27% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.58 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.58 pts | +0.51% | WA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$31,490 (-35%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$31,490-35% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.8 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -1.8 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -8 (-3%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -8-3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -546 (-28%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -546-28% | 1,535 | OH |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 85.62% | OH |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 239#13 of 50 | 238#26 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 214 | 216#14 of 50 | 216#19 of 50 | +0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -2.8 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +5.4 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +5.4 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$343,076 (-58%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$343,076-58% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.7 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +3.7 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$756 (-33%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$756-33% | $1,948 | OH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$84,425 (-54%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$84,425-54% | $100,006 | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -14.2 pts (-13%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -14.2 pts-13% | 100 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.6x (-43%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -2.6x-43% | 4.6x | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.85¢ (+29%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +3.85¢+29% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.77 (-21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | -$3.77-21% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.82 (-20%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.82-20% | $3.32/gal | OH |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -10.7 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -10.7 pts-10% | 100 | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$9,200 (-40%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$9,200-40% | $15,633 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.75 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | +0.75 pts | 8.74% | WA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +6 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.55 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 1.02% | WA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.22 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -2.22 pts | 6.66% | OH |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | -1 pts | 12.39% | WA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$670 (-18%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$670-18% | $3,506 | OH |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +4.66% | OH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +15 pts (+54%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +15 pts+54% | 38.8 | WA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -68 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -68 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -33.2 (-80%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -33.2-80% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -27 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -27 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.4 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | -3.4 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -4.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap -29,500 (-24%) · US 78,682 | 92,684#16 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | -29,500-24% | 78,682 | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap -11,667 (-10%) · US 78,715 | 100,678#37 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | -11,667-10% | 78,715 | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -17,833 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -17,833 | -33 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.9 · US +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -1.9 | +0.4 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$22,653 (-25%) · US $77,690 | $67,237#35 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$22,653-25% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$22,014 (-22%) · US $77,024 | $78,108#17 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$22,014-22% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 · US +1.1 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -0.2 | +1.1 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$44,575 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$44,575 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$14,527 · US +$31,418 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$14,527 | +$31,418 | OH |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$17,530 · US +$35,970 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$17,530 | +$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 Washington numbers say when read together.
Washington ranks higher overall
Washington leads 8 of the 11 categories to Ohio's 3, with 0 even; Ohio is ahead on affordability and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Ohio is ahead on 20 and Washington on 22.
Ohio is cheaper day to day
Ohio's cost of living index is 92.8 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $248,803 in Ohio and $591,879 in Washington. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 a year after typical costs in Ohio and -$47,893 in Washington.
Washington 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); Washington collects 8.61% (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more
Median household income is $72,212 in Ohio and $99,389 in Washington, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 284 in Washington.
Moves between the two run about even
3,410 people moved from Ohio to Washington and 2,375 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Ohio for families, Washington for retirees
For families, Ohio ranks #21 of 50 and Washington #32; for retirees, Ohio ranks #29 and Washington #17.
Ohio vs Washington: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio or Washington better to live in?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Ohio is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 107), carries a 0.8-point higher tax burden. Washington scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Ohio cheaper than Washington?
Ohio is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 92.8 vs 107 (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 -$47,893 in Washington. The typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $591,879 in Washington.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or Washington?
Washington has the lower tax burden: 8.61% 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%; Washington's are zero, 0.88% and 9.51%.
Is Ohio safer than Washington?
Ohio and Washington have similar violent crime rates: 276 vs 284 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Ohio ranks #24 of 50 for violent crime and Washington #25. Property crime is 1,429 per 100,000 in Ohio and 1,975 in Washington. The safest tracked cities are Lakewood, OH, and Kirkland, WA.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or Washington?
Homes are 138% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of household income in Ohio and $155,542 in Washington, against median incomes of $72,212 and $99,389.
Do people earn more in Ohio or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $72,212 in Ohio, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Ohio and 4.7% in Washington. 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 Washington's in 17, with 3 even.
Are more people moving from Ohio to Washington or from Washington to Ohio?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 3,410 people (±1,487) moving from Ohio to Washington and 2,375 (±1,224) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Ohio or Washington?
Washington is the better fit for retirees: #17 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; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,197 left after typical costs in Ohio and +$23,667 in Washington.
Which is better for families, Ohio or Washington?
Ohio is the better fit for families: #21 of 50 on the families index vs #32 for Washington. Center-based infant care costs $13,936 a year in Ohio and $23,136 in Washington. High school graduation rates are 86.2% and 83.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 after typical costs in Ohio and -$47,893 in Washington.
Is Washington better than Ohio?
Yes: Washington ranks higher than Ohio overall, #20 of 50 vs #33, with a composite score of 61.8 to 52.1. Washington leads 8 of 11 categories and Ohio leads 3, including affordability and education. 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.