Pennsylvania vs Tennessee: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 97.6), has no income tax, and has a 54% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 0.2 points apart, too close to call: Pennsylvania leads 4 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 6.
- Violent crime rate is 54% lower in Pennsylvania (227 vs. 492 in Tennessee).
- Residential electricity price is 32% lower in Tennessee (13.18¢/kWh vs. 19.30¢/kWh in Pennsylvania).
- Total tax burden is 26% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 8.58% in Pennsylvania).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -0.2 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | -0.2 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.7 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +5.7 pts+6% | 100 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,966 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$5,966 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$43,707 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$43,707-13% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.2 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -266 (-54%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -266-54% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,548 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$5,548+8% | $80,903 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +3.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.5 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -36,199 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -36,199 | -33 | TN |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Pennsylvania or Tennessee better to live in?
Pennsylvania scores 56.9 and Tennessee scores 57.1 out of 100, a 0.2-point gap this site treats as even. Pennsylvania leads 4 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -6.6 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 45.8#26 · B | -6.6 pts | TN |
| Safety12% of scoregap +25.9 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 52.2#45 · D | +25.9 pts | PA |
| Health12% of scoregap +30.9 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 28.7#46 · D | +30.9 pts | PA |
| Education12% of scoregap -6.3 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 71.7#8 · A | -6.3 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -11.2 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 77.9#17 · B+ | -11.2 pts | TN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -30.5 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 76.1#3 · A+ | -30.5 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -30.1 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 56.9#5 · A+ | -30.1 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +13 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 42.9#40 · C | +13 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -12.6 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 47.0#9 · A | -12.6 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +6.5 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 13.3#38 · C | +6.5 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +1.8 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 36.2#33 · C+ | +1.8 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper: cost of living index 91.9 vs 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,966 more a year in Tennessee after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.7 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +5.7 pts+6% | 100 | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.2 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +3.2 pts+3% | 100 | TN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.12¢ (+46%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +6.12¢+46% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.20 (+27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$3.20+27% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.32 (+10%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.32+10% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,376 (+10%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$1,376+10% | $15,633 | TN |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,706 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | -$2,706 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$3,011 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | -$3,011 | TN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$5,966 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | -$5,966 | TN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,831 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | -$2,831 | TN |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$495 | $21,716 | $22,211 | -$495 | Even |
| ChildcareGap +$2,752 | $30,604 | $27,852 | +$2,752 | TN |
| UtilitiesGap +$274 | $4,685 | $4,411 | +$274 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$360 | $11,195 | $10,835 | +$360 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$1,006 | $10,686 | $9,680 | +$1,006 | TN |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,068 | $7,739 | $5,671 | +$2,068 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 8.58%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.2 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.86 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +6.86 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.83 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.83 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.27 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -3.27 pts | 6.66% | PA |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Homes cost 15% more in Tennessee: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $85,549 in Tennessee; the median household earns $77,545 and $71,997.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$43,707 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$43,707-13% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$98 (+5%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | +$98+5% | $1,948 | TN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$2,655 (-3%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | -$2,655-3% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -0.9x-20% | 4.6x | PA |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| PA | TN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $1,719 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +24.8% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | Nashville |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income $77,545 vs $71,997, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 8 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 2.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,548 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$5,548+8% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,592 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | +$3,592+6% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.78 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.78 pts | +0.51% | TN |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | PA | TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | PA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | PA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | PA |
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | PA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | PA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | PA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | PA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | TN |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | Even |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | PA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | TN |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | Even |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Tennessee?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,637 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -266 (-54%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -266-54% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -313 (-19%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -313-19% | 1,535 | PA |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #15), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 90.4%. Pennsylvania scores higher for health (#21 vs #46); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 73.8 in Tennessee.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | +0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +3.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.5 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.4 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Pennsylvania #15, Tennessee #8. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Tennessee #46.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Tennessee, or from Tennessee to Pennsylvania?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 4,061 people (±2,039) moving from Pennsylvania to Tennessee and 2,440 (±1,534) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +9,837 (+9%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +9,837+9% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +46,036 (+51%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +46,036+51% | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -36,199 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -36,199 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.2 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -4.2 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,064 (-4%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | -$3,064-4% | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$15,566 (+22%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$15,566+22% | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.0 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -6.0 | TN |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; Tennessee is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -11 places | #19score 71.8 | #30score 62.5 | -11 places | PA |
| RetireesGap -2 places | #26score 61.5 | #28score 60.3 | -2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +24 places | #38score 46 | #14score 59.5 | +24 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +17 places | #33score 49.4 | #16score 60 | +17 places | TN |
| Small BusinessGap +30 places | #38score 46.1 | #8score 73.5 | +30 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -17 places | #27score 43.3 | #44score 28.8 | -17 places | PA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesPennsylvania (#19 vs #30)
- RetireesEven (#26 vs #28)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsTennessee (#16 vs #33)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Tennessee?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Tennessee has 20; the largest are Philadelphia and Nashville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Nashville690,130 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Franklinscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Brentwood62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Jacksoncost index 85.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Lebanon97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Lebanon+5.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Tennessee compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Tennessee AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -8 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -8 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -11.6 (-46%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -11.6-46% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -1.6 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.6 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | +0.6 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.7 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.1 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8.7 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -8.7 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -35 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -35 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,490 (+153%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$2,490+153% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +4.66% | TN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania AA-, Tennessee AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Pennsylvania vs Tennessee: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Pennsylvania is ahead on 16 of 51, Tennessee on 27, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | TennesseeTN | GapPA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,744,356 (+79%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | +5,744,356+79% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,548 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$5,548+8% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| Population growthGap -0.78 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.78 pts | +0.51% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,592 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | +$3,592+6% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -266 (-54%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -266-54% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -313 (-19%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -313-19% | 1,535 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 240#12 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | +0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 215#23 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.5 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.4 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$43,707 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | -$43,707-13% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$98 (+5%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | +$98+5% | $1,948 | TN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$2,655 (-3%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | -$2,655-3% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.7 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +5.7 pts+6% | 100 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -0.9x-20% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.12¢ (+46%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +6.12¢+46% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.20 (+27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$3.20+27% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.32 (+10%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.32+10% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.2 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +3.2 pts+3% | 100 | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,376 (+10%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$1,376+10% | $15,633 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.2 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.86 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +6.86 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.83 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.83 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.27 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -3.27 pts | 6.66% | PA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8.7 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -8.7 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -35 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -35 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,490 (+153%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$2,490+153% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +4.66% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -8 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -8 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -11.6 (-46%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -11.6-46% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -1.6 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.6 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | +0.6 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.7 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.1 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +9,837 (+9%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +9,837+9% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +46,036 (+51%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +46,036+51% | 78,715 | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -36,199 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -36,199 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.2 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -4.2 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,064 (-4%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | -$3,064-4% | $77,690 | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$15,566 (+22%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$15,566+22% | $77,024 | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.0 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -6.0 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,966 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$5,966 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,706 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | -$2,706 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,831 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | -$2,831 | +$35,970 | TN |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Pennsylvania and Tennessee numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Pennsylvania (56.9, #25) and Tennessee (57.1, #24) are within 2 composite points. Pennsylvania leads 4 categories, Tennessee leads 6, and 1 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Tennessee is cheaper day to day
Tennessee's cost of living index is 91.9 against 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $334,108 in Tennessee. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Tennessee collects 6.38% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Pennsylvania pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 492 in Tennessee.
Moves between the two run about even
4,061 people moved from Pennsylvania to Tennessee and 2,440 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Tennessee #30; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Tennessee #28.
Pennsylvania vs Tennessee: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Tennessee better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 97.6), has no income tax, and has a 54% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 0.2 points apart, too close to call: Pennsylvania leads 4 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 6.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper than Pennsylvania: cost of living index 91.9 vs 97.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$5,659 in Tennessee. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $334,108 in Tennessee.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.58% in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; Tennessee's are zero, 0.58% and 9.61%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Tennessee?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Tennessee #46. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,637 in Tennessee. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Brentwood, TN.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Homes are 15% more expensive in Tennessee: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $85,549 in Tennessee, against median incomes of $77,545 and $71,997.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income is $77,545 vs $71,997 in Tennessee, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 8 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 2, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Tennessee or from Tennessee to Pennsylvania?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 4,061 people (±2,039) moving from Pennsylvania to Tennessee and 2,440 (±1,534) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Pennsylvania and Tennessee are close for retirees: #26 and #28 of 50 on the retiree index. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$39,960 in Tennessee.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families: #19 of 50 on the families index vs #30 for Tennessee. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $13,926 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 87% and 90.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Which has better schools, Pennsylvania or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education: #8 of 50 vs #15 for Pennsylvania. Eighth graders average 276 in NAEP math in Pennsylvania and 276 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 87% in Pennsylvania and 90.4% in Tennessee, and the education category scores are 65.4 and 71.7 out of 100. Among tracked cities, State College and Lebanon have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Pennsylvania vs Tennessee.
Why this pair is featured: most-searched matchup.