Texas vs Pennsylvania: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Pennsylvania #25 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 97.6); Texas has no income tax and has a 34% higher violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 34% lower in Pennsylvania (227 vs. 345 in Texas).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 29% lower in Texas ($10,894 vs. $15,302 in Pennsylvania).
- Property crime rate is 26% lower in Pennsylvania (1,324 vs. 1,786 in Texas).
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4.7 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | -4.7 pts | — | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.5 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 97.6#28 of 50 | -0.5 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$11,481 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | +$11,481 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$8,966 (+3%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $290,401#15 of 50 | +$8,966+3% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.81 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.58%#21 of 50 | -0.81 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +118 (+52%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 227#14 of 50 | +118+52% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,176 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $77,545#27 of 50 | +$2,176+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.7 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 87%#22 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 77.3#26 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +68,568 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +68,568 | -33 | TX |
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 Texas or Pennsylvania better to live in?
Pennsylvania scores higher overall: 56.9 to 52.2 out of 100, #25 of 50 against #32. Texas leads 4 of 11 categories, Pennsylvania leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +3.3 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 39.2#38 · C | +3.3 pts | TX |
| Safety12% of scoregap -16.3 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 78.1#15 · B+ | -16.3 pts | PA |
| Health12% of scoregap -21.9 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 59.6#21 · B | -21.9 pts | PA |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.7 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 65.4#15 · B+ | -4.7 pts | PA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +7.7 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 66.7#27 · C+ | +7.7 pts | TX |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +26.6 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 45.6#41 · C | +26.6 pts | TX |
| Growth7% of scoregap +24.9 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 26.8#39 · C | +24.9 pts | TX |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -12.2 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 55.9#9 · A | -12.2 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -10.8 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 34.4#22 · B | -10.8 pts | PA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -15.1 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 19.8#31 · C+ | -15.1 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +2.8 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 38.0#30 · C+ | +2.8 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 Texas cheaper than Pennsylvania?
Texas and Pennsylvania cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 97.1 vs 97.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $11,481 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.5 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 97.6#28 of 50 | -0.5 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.3 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 99.4#39 of 50 | -1.3 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -3.83¢ (-20%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | -3.83¢-20% | 17.84¢/kWh | TX |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.38 (+29%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | +$4.38+29% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.52 (-15%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | -$0.52-15% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,408 (-29%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $15,302#26 of 50 | -$4,408-29% | $15,633 | TX |
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 | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,339 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$2,339 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,613 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$2,613 | TX |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$11,481 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | +$11,481 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,377 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$2,377 | TX |
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 | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$1,329 | $23,045 | $21,716 | +$1,329 | PA |
| ChildcareGap -$8,816 | $21,788 | $30,604 | -$8,816 | TX |
| UtilitiesGap -$24 | $4,661 | $4,685 | -$24 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$146 | $11,049 | $11,195 | -$146 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$1,635 | $9,051 | $10,686 | -$1,635 | TX |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,188 | $5,551 | $7,739 | -$2,188 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Pennsylvania?
Texas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 8.58%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.81 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.58%#21 of 50 | -0.81 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.86 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 6.86%#37 of 50 | -6.86 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.22 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.41%#39 of 50 | +0.22 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.86 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 6.34%#17 of 50 | +1.86 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 Texas or Pennsylvania?
Typical home values are about the same: $299,367 in Texas and $290,401 in Pennsylvania. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $82,894 in Pennsylvania; the median household earns $79,721 and $77,545.
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$8,966 (+3%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $290,401#15 of 50 | +$8,966+3% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +2.4%#22 of 50 | -4 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$252 (-13%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,911#32 of 50 | -$252-13% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,167 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $82,894#16 of 50 | +$5,167+6% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 3.7x#13 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
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.
| TX | PA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $1,494 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +7% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +22.3% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Dallas | Philadelphia |
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 Texas or Pennsylvania?
Median household income is about the same, $79,721 in Texas and $77,545 in Pennsylvania, with unemployment at 4.2% and 4.3%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 10 after adjusting for local costs and Pennsylvania's in 0.
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$2,176 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $77,545#27 of 50 | +$2,176+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.3%#33 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,035 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $64,785#20 of 50 | +$4,035+6% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.8 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2%#23 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +1.15 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +1.15 pts | +0.51% | TX |
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 | TX | PA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | TX |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | TX |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | TX |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | TX |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | TX |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | TX |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | TX |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | TX |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | Even |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | 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 Texas safer than Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,324 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +118 (+52%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 227#14 of 50 | +118+52% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +462 (+35%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,324#17 of 50 | +462+35% | 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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 violent per 100K
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Texas or Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania scores higher for education (#15 of 50 vs #24), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 87%. Pennsylvania scores higher for health (#21 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 77.3 in Pennsylvania.
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 276#18 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 259#19 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.7 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 87%#22 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 77.3#26 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.4 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 34.2%#24 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +10.9 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 5.8%#14 of 50 | +10.9 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 40#22 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | PA |
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).
- No city school data
- State College, PAeducation score 96
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: Texas #24, Pennsylvania #15. Health: Texas #41, Pennsylvania #21.
Are more people moving from Texas to Pennsylvania, or from Pennsylvania to Texas?
4,630 households moved from Texas to Pennsylvania and 6,349 moved from Pennsylvania to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,719 households for Texas. Movers to Pennsylvania reported an average income of $87,057; movers to Texas reported $93,814. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,249 people (±1,783) moving from Texas to Pennsylvania and 12,979 (±3,357) the other way, a net gain of about 5,730 people for Texas beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +183,615 (+149%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 123,625#8 of 50 | +183,615+149% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +115,047 (+85%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 135,720#45 of 50 | +115,047+85% | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +68,568 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +68,568 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.7 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +2.7 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,266 (+10%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $76,366#28 of 50 | +$7,266+10% | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$5,283 (-6%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $85,642#12 of 50 | -$5,283-6% | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.3 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +2.3 | TX |
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, Texas or Pennsylvania?
Texas is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Pennsylvania is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +16 places | #35score 57.5 | #19score 71.8 | +16 places | PA |
| RetireesGap +7 places | #33score 58.8 | #26score 61.5 | +7 places | PA |
| Remote WorkersGap -13 places | #25score 52 | #38score 46 | -13 places | TX |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -5 places | #28score 53 | #33score 49.4 | -5 places | TX |
| Small BusinessGap -23 places | #15score 64.3 | #38score 46.1 | -23 places | TX |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +18 places | #45score 26.6 | #27score 43.3 | +18 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 #35)
- RetireesPennsylvania (#26 vs #33)
- Remote WorkersTexas (#25 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsTexas (#28 vs #33)
- Small BusinessTexas (#15 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and Pennsylvania?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and Pennsylvania has 20; the largest are Houston and Philadelphia. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Philadelphia1,579,706 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Altoonacost index 89.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Eriecounty median AQI 34 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | State College96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | York+0.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and Pennsylvania compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and Pennsylvania AA-.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +31 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 6%#45 of 50 | +31 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +10.6 (+79%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 13.4#9 of 50 | +10.6+79% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -3.8 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 5.6%#33 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 17.16% | PA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.4 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | +0.4 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 4.2%#8 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 13.8%#17 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 92.1%#34 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 92.67% | TX |
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 | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 85#42 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +13.3 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 4.5%#46 of 50 | +13.3 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 62%#42 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,270 (-55%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $4,120#38 of 50 | -$2,270-55% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +4.66% | TX |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, Pennsylvania 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).
Texas vs Pennsylvania: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Texas is ahead on 24 of 51, Pennsylvania on 14, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | PennsylvaniaPA | GapTX−PA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +18,650,389 (+143%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | +18,650,389+143% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,176 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $77,545#27 of 50 | +$2,176+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.3%#33 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +1.15 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +1.15 pts | +0.51% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,035 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $64,785#20 of 50 | +$4,035+6% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.8 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2%#23 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +118 (+52%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 227#14 of 50 | +118+52% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +462 (+35%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,324#17 of 50 | +462+35% | 1,535 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.7 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 87%#22 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 238#23 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 276#18 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 216#17 of 50 | -4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 259#19 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 77.3#26 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.4 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 34.2%#24 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +10.9 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 5.8%#14 of 50 | +10.9 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$8,966 (+3%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $290,401#15 of 50 | +$8,966+3% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +2.4%#22 of 50 | -4 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$252 (-13%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,911#32 of 50 | -$252-13% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,167 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $82,894#16 of 50 | +$5,167+6% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.5 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 97.6#28 of 50 | -0.5 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 3.7x#13 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -3.83¢ (-20%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | -3.83¢-20% | 17.84¢/kWh | TX |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.38 (+29%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | +$4.38+29% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.52 (-15%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | -$0.52-15% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.3 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 99.4#39 of 50 | -1.3 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,408 (-29%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $15,302#26 of 50 | -$4,408-29% | $15,633 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.81 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.58%#21 of 50 | -0.81 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.86 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 6.86%#37 of 50 | -6.86 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.22 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.41%#39 of 50 | +0.22 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.86 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 6.34%#17 of 50 | +1.86 pts | 6.66% | PA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 85#42 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +13.3 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 4.5%#46 of 50 | +13.3 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 62%#42 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,270 (-55%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $4,120#38 of 50 | -$2,270-55% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +4.66% | TX |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 40#22 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | PA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +31 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 6%#45 of 50 | +31 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +10.6 (+79%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 13.4#9 of 50 | +10.6+79% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -3.8 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 5.6%#33 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 17.16% | PA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.4 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | +0.4 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 4.2%#8 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 13.8%#17 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 92.1%#34 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +183,615 (+149%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 123,625#8 of 50 | +183,615+149% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +115,047 (+85%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 135,720#45 of 50 | +115,047+85% | 78,715 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +68,568 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +68,568 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.7 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +2.7 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,266 (+10%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $76,366#28 of 50 | +$7,266+10% | $77,690 | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$5,283 (-6%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $85,642#12 of 50 | -$5,283-6% | $77,024 | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.3 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +2.3 | +1.1 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$11,481 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | +$11,481 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,339 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$2,339 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,377 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$2,377 | +$35,970 | TX |
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 Texas and Pennsylvania numbers say when read together.
Pennsylvania ranks higher overall
Pennsylvania leads 6 of the 11 categories to Texas's 4, with 1 even; Texas is ahead on fiscal health and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 24 and Pennsylvania on 14.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 97.1 in Texas and 97.6 in Pennsylvania, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $299,367 and $290,401. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$11,625 in Pennsylvania.
Texas takes a smaller share in taxes
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); Pennsylvania collects 8.58% (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Pennsylvania is safer
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $77,545 in Pennsylvania, with unemployment at 4.2% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 227 in Pennsylvania.
People move to Texas on net
12,979 people moved to Texas from Pennsylvania in the latest Census release, against 7,249 going the other way.
Pennsylvania fits families and retirees better
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and Pennsylvania #19; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and Pennsylvania #26.
Texas vs Pennsylvania: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or Pennsylvania better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Pennsylvania #25 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 97.6); Texas has no income tax and has a 34% higher violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Texas cheaper than Pennsylvania?
Texas and Pennsylvania cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 97.1 vs 97.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and -$11,625 in Pennsylvania. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $290,401 in Pennsylvania.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Pennsylvania?
Texas has the lower tax burden: 7.77% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.58% in Pennsylvania. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; Pennsylvania's are 6.86%, 1.41% and 6.34%.
Is Texas safer than Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and Pennsylvania #14. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,324 in Pennsylvania. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Bethel Park, PA.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or Pennsylvania?
Typical home values are about the same: $299,367 in Texas and $290,401 in Pennsylvania. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $82,894 in Pennsylvania, against median incomes of $79,721 and $77,545.
Do people earn more in Texas or Pennsylvania?
Texas and Pennsylvania pay about the same: median household income is $79,721 vs $77,545, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 4.3% in Pennsylvania. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 10 after adjusting for local costs and Pennsylvania's in 0, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Texas to Pennsylvania or from Pennsylvania to Texas?
4,630 households moved from Texas to Pennsylvania and 6,349 moved from Pennsylvania to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,719 households for Texas. Movers to Pennsylvania reported an average income of $87,057; movers to Texas reported $93,814. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,249 people (±1,783) moving from Texas to Pennsylvania and 12,979 (±3,357) the other way, a net gain of about 5,730 people for Texas beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for retirees: #26 of 50 on the retiree index vs #33 for Texas. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$37,129 in Pennsylvania.
Which is better for families, Texas or Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families: #19 of 50 on the families index vs #35 for Texas. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $15,302 in Pennsylvania. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 87%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$11,625 in Pennsylvania.
Is Pennsylvania better than Texas?
Yes: Pennsylvania ranks higher than Texas overall, #25 of 50 vs #32, with a composite score of 56.9 to 52.2. Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories and Texas leads 4, including fiscal health and growth. 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 Texas vs Pennsylvania.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (6,349 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).