Ohio vs West Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. West Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89.5 vs 92.8), has a 0.5-point lower tax burden, and has a 12% lower violent crime rate. Ohio scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 34% lower in West Virginia ($47,071 vs. $71,117 in Ohio).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 33% lower in West Virginia ($9,339 vs. $13,936 in Ohio).
- Property crime rate is 26% lower in West Virginia (1,053 vs. 1,429 in Ohio).
| Measure | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +9.3 pts | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | 42.8#44 of 50 · D | +9.3 pts | — | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.3 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +3.3 pts+4% | 100 | WV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$14,302 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$14,302 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$69,307 (+39%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$69,307+39% | $368,697 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +0.51 pts | 8.74% | WV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +34 (+14%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | +34+14% | 328 | WV |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,414 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$11,414+19% | $80,903 | OH |
| High school graduation rateGap -5 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -5 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +3.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +3.4 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -8,873 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -8,873 | -33 | WV |
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 West Virginia better to live in?
Ohio scores higher overall: 52.1 to 42.8 out of 100, #33 of 50 against #44. Ohio leads 5 of 11 categories, West Virginia leads 4, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +4.1 | 15% | 30.3#44 · D | 26.2#47 · D | +4.1 pts | OH |
| Safety12% of scoregap -8.3 | 12% | 72.6#24 · B | 80.9#9 · A | -8.3 pts | WV |
| Health12% of scoregap +23.5 | 12% | 44.8#35 · C | 21.3#49 · F | +23.5 pts | OH |
| Education12% of scoregap +22.3 | 12% | 67.4#11 · B+ | 45.1#43 · D | +22.3 pts | OH |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -7.8 | 10% | 78.4#15 · B+ | 86.2#6 · A | -7.8 pts | WV |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -3.5 | 8% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 60.1#23 · B | -3.5 pts | WV |
| Growth7% of scoregap -0.4 | 7% | 31.0#34 · C+ | 31.4#31 · C+ | -0.4 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +12.9 | 7% | 52.1#23 · B | 39.2#46 · D | +12.9 pts | OH |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.7 | 7% | 29.8#31 · C+ | 29.1#32 · C+ | +0.7 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -6.7 | 6% | 10.0#42 · C | 16.7#33 · C+ | -6.7 pts | WV |
| Environment4% of scoregap +6.4 | 4% | 35.2#34 · C+ | 28.8#41 · C | +6.4 pts | OH |
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia is cheaper: cost of living index 89.5 vs 92.8 in Ohio (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $14,302 more a year in West Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.3 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +3.3 pts+4% | 100 | WV |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.8 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | -2.8 pts-3% | 100 | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.55¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | +1.55¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | WV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.05 (0%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$0.050% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.08 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | -$0.08-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,597 (+49%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$4,597+49% | $15,633 | WV |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,544 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | +$39,203costs $35,796 | -$2,544 | WV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$3,782 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | +$32,667costs $42,333 | -$3,782 | WV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$14,302 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | +$10,984costs $64,017 | -$14,302 | WV |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,159 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | +$44,356costs $30,644 | -$3,159 | WV |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$6,776 | $18,655 | $11,879 | +$6,776 | WV |
| ChildcareGap +$9,194 | $27,872 | $18,678 | +$9,194 | WV |
| UtilitiesGap +$158 | $4,454 | $4,296 | +$158 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$316 | $10,553 | $10,869 | -$316 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$252 | $10,214 | $10,466 | -$252 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,260 | $6,569 | $7,829 | -$1,260 | OH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or West Virginia?
West Virginia collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.85% vs 9.36%. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +0.51 pts | 8.74% | WV |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.18 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | +1.18 pts | 5.46% | WV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.88 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.88 pts | 1.02% | WV |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.7 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 6.66% | WV |
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 West Virginia?
Homes cost 39% more in Ohio: a typical home value of $248,803 in Ohio vs $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of income in Ohio and $47,071 in West Virginia; the median household earns $72,212 and $60,798.
| Measure | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$69,307 (+39%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$69,307+39% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.3 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$293 (+24%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$293+24% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,046 (+51%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$24,046+51% | $100,006 | WV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+13%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +0.4x+13% | 4.6x | WV |
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 | WV | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,280 | $924 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | -23% |
| Five-year change | +29.2% | +22.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Cincinnati | Charleston |
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 West Virginia?
Ohio pays more: median household income $72,212 vs $60,798, with unemployment at 4.6% in Ohio and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
| Measure | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$11,414 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$11,414+19% | $80,903 | OH |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$16,434 (+39%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$16,434+39% | $64,333 | OH |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | OH |
| Population growthGap +0.41 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.41 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 | WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | $191,792$172,613 in Charleston | OH |
| Lawyers | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | $123,618$111,256 in Charleston | OH |
| Software Developers | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | $115,314$103,783 in Charleston | OH |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | $88,299$79,469 in Charleston | OH |
| Registered Nurses | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | $73,760$66,384 in Charleston | OH |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | $68,489$61,640 in Charleston | OH |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | $89,258$80,332 in Charleston | OH |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | $62,826$56,543 in Charleston | OH |
| Civil Engineers | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | $82,352$74,117 in Charleston | OH |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | $54,044$48,640 in Charleston | OH |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | $60,696$54,626 in Charleston | OH |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | $48,929$44,036 in Charleston | OH |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | $46,768$42,091 in Charleston | OH |
| Electricians | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | $53,664$48,298 in Charleston | OH |
| Construction Laborers | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | $35,598$32,038 in Charleston | OH |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | $40,844$36,760 in Charleston | OH |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | $47,229$42,506 in Charleston | OH |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | $59,622$53,660 in Charleston | OH |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | $28,247$25,422 in Charleston | OH |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | $49,399$44,459 in Charleston | OH |
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia is safer: 242 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 276 in Ohio (FBI). Property crime runs 1,429 and 1,053 per 100,000.
| Measure | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +34 (+14%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | +34+14% | 328 | WV |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +376 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +376+36% | 1,535 | WV |
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
- Bridgeport, WV74 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Ohio or West Virginia?
Ohio scores higher for education (#11 of 50 vs #43), with high school graduation rates of 86.2% and 91.2%. Ohio scores higher for health (#35 vs #49); life expectancy is 75.6 years in Ohio and 72.2 in West Virginia.
| Measure | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +18 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +18 | 273 | OH |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +13 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -5 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -5 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +3.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +3.4 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.5 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 34.03% | OH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 7.6% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | WV |
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
- Wheeling, WVeducation score 98
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, West Virginia #43. Health: Ohio #35, West Virginia #49.
Are more people moving from Ohio to West Virginia, or from West Virginia to Ohio?
2,705 households moved from Ohio to West Virginia and 3,157 moved from West Virginia to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 452 households for Ohio. Movers to West Virginia reported an average income of $45,252; movers to Ohio reported $50,198. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,466 people (±1,665) moving from Ohio to West Virginia and 6,646 (±1,970) 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 | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +71,790 (+344%) | 92,684#16 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +71,790+344% | OH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +80,663 (+403%) | 100,678#37 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +80,663+403% | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -8,873 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -8,873 | WV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.2 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | -1.2 | WV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,753 (+15%) | $67,237#35 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$8,753+15% | OH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$17,594 (+29%) | $78,108#17 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | +$17,594+29% | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.6 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -2.6 | WV |
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 West Virginia?
Ohio is the better fit for families, retirees, young professionals, and small business; West Virginia is the better fit for remote workers; 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 | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -15 places | #21score 67.5 | #36score 57.5 | -15 places | OH |
| RetireesGap -9 places | #29score 59.9 | #38score 54.5 | -9 places | OH |
| Remote WorkersGap +4 places | #36score 46.5 | #32score 49 | +4 places | WV |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -5 places | #36score 46.4 | #41score 41.9 | -5 places | OH |
| Small BusinessGap -6 places | #33score 49.7 | #39score 46.1 | -6 places | OH |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -1 places | #37score 32.6 | #38score 31.4 | -1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesOhio (#21 vs #36)
- RetireesOhio (#29 vs #38)
- Remote WorkersWest Virginia (#32 vs #36)
- Young ProfessionalsOhio (#36 vs #41)
- Small BusinessOhio (#33 vs #39)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#37 vs #38)
Which cities stand out in Ohio and West Virginia?
Ohio has 20 tracked cities and West Virginia has 20; the largest are Columbus and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Columbus914,802 people | Charleston47,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Dublinscore 71.5 | Bridgeportscore 62.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lakewood81 violent per 100K | Bridgeport74 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Youngstowncost index 87.4 | Fairmontcost index 87 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 | Clarksburgwalkability 10.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Loraincounty median AQI 39 | Clarksburgcounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Dublin93.5% graduation rate | Wheeling98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dublinmedian income $160,296 | Cheat Lakemedian income $117,014 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Columbus+0.8% growth | Martinsburg+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Ohio and West Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Ohio carries AA+ credit rating and West Virginia AA-.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | WV |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.4 (-77%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -28.4-77% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -10.5 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -10.5 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.7 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | -2.7 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.28% | OH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 92.67% | OH |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | OH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -16.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -16.5 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap +10 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | +10 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$500 (+20%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$500+20% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | WV |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Ohio AA+, West Virginia 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 West 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 15 of 51, West Virginia on 27, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OhioOH | West VirginiaWV | GapOH−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +10,134,363 (+574%) · US 6.8 million | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | 1.8 million#39 of 50 | +10,134,363+574% | 6.8 million | OH |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,414 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$11,414+19% | $80,903 | OH |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.41 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.41 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$16,434 (+39%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$16,434+39% | $64,333 | OH |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | OH |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +34 (+14%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | +34+14% | 328 | WV |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +376 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +376+36% | 1,535 | WV |
| High school graduation rateGap -5 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -5 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +8 · US 237 | 239#13 of 50 | 232#46 of 50 | +8 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +18 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +18 | 273 | OH |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +10 · US 214 | 216#14 of 50 | 206#48 of 50 | +10 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +13 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +3.4 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.5 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 34.03% | OH |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 7.6% | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$69,307 (+39%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$69,307+39% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.3 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$293 (+24%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$293+24% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,046 (+51%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$24,046+51% | $100,006 | WV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.3 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +3.3 pts+4% | 100 | WV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+13%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +0.4x+13% | 4.6x | WV |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.55¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | +1.55¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | WV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.05 (0%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$0.050% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.08 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | -$0.08-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.8 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | -2.8 pts-3% | 100 | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,597 (+49%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$4,597+49% | $15,633 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +0.51 pts | 8.74% | WV |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.18 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | +1.18 pts | 5.46% | WV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.88 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.88 pts | 1.02% | WV |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.7 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 6.66% | WV |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | OH |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -16.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -16.5 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap +10 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | +10 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$500 (+20%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$500+20% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | WV |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | WV |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.4 (-77%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -28.4-77% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -10.5 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -10.5 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.7 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | -2.7 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.28% | OH |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 92.67% | OH |
| Households moving inIRSGap +71,790 (+344%) · US 78,682 | 92,684#16 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +71,790+344% | 78,682 | OH |
| Households moving outIRSGap +80,663 (+403%) · US 78,715 | 100,678#37 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +80,663+403% | 78,715 | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -8,873 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -8,873 | -33 | WV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.2 · US +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | -1.2 | +0.4 | WV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,753 (+15%) · US $77,690 | $67,237#35 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$8,753+15% | $77,690 | OH |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$17,594 (+29%) · US $77,024 | $78,108#17 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | +$17,594+29% | $77,024 | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.6 · US +1.1 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -2.6 | +1.1 | WV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$14,302 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$14,302 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,544 · US +$31,418 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | +$39,203#2 of 50 | -$2,544 | +$31,418 | WV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,159 · US +$35,970 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | +$44,356#3 of 50 | -$3,159 | +$35,970 | WV |
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 West Virginia numbers say when read together.
Ohio ranks higher overall
Ohio leads 5 of the 11 categories to West Virginia's 4, with 2 even; West Virginia is ahead on safety and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Ohio is ahead on 15 and West Virginia on 27.
West Virginia is cheaper day to day
West Virginia's cost of living index is 89.5 against 92.8 in Ohio (US = 100). The typical home costs $248,803 in Ohio and $179,496 in West Virginia. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 a year after typical costs in Ohio and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
West 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); West Virginia collects 8.85% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Ohio pays more
Median household income is $72,212 in Ohio and $60,798 in West Virginia, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 242 in West Virginia.
Moves between the two run about even
4,466 people moved from Ohio to West Virginia and 6,646 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Ohio fits families and retirees better
For families, Ohio ranks #21 of 50 and West Virginia #36; for retirees, Ohio ranks #29 and West Virginia #38.
Ohio vs West Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio or West Virginia better to live in?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. West Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89.5 vs 92.8), has a 0.5-point lower tax burden, and has a 12% lower violent crime rate. Ohio scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Ohio cheaper than West Virginia?
West Virginia is cheaper than Ohio: cost of living index 89.5 vs 92.8 (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 +$10,984 in West Virginia. The typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $179,496 in West Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or West Virginia?
West Virginia has the lower tax burden: 8.85% 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%; West Virginia's are 4.82%, 0.55% and 6.59%.
Is Ohio safer than West Virginia?
West Virginia is safer: 242 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 276 in Ohio, per the FBI. Ohio ranks #24 of 50 for violent crime and West Virginia #19. Property crime is 1,429 per 100,000 in Ohio and 1,053 in West Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Lakewood, OH, and Bridgeport, WV.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or West Virginia?
Homes are 39% more expensive in Ohio: the typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of household income in Ohio and $47,071 in West Virginia, against median incomes of $72,212 and $60,798.
Do people earn more in Ohio or West Virginia?
Ohio pays more: median household income is $72,212 vs $60,798 in West Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Ohio and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
Are more people moving from Ohio to West Virginia or from West Virginia to Ohio?
2,705 households moved from Ohio to West Virginia and 3,157 moved from West Virginia to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 452 households for Ohio. Movers to West Virginia reported an average income of $45,252; movers to Ohio reported $50,198. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,466 people (±1,665) moving from Ohio to West Virginia and 6,646 (±1,970) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Ohio or West Virginia?
Ohio is the better fit for retirees: #29 of 50 on the retiree index vs #38 for West Virginia. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,197 left after typical costs in Ohio and +$44,356 in West Virginia.
Which is better for families, Ohio or West Virginia?
Ohio is the better fit for families: #21 of 50 on the families index vs #36 for West Virginia. Center-based infant care costs $13,936 a year in Ohio and $9,339 in West Virginia. High school graduation rates are 86.2% and 91.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 after typical costs in Ohio and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
Is West Virginia better than Ohio?
No: Ohio ranks higher than West Virginia overall, #33 of 50 vs #44, with a composite score of 52.1 to 42.8. Ohio leads 5 of 11 categories and West Virginia leads 4, including safety and affordability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Ohio vs West Virginia.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (3,157 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).