Pennsylvania vs Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 101.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 9% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical home value is 30% lower in Pennsylvania ($290,401 vs. $414,662 in Virginia).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 21% lower in Pennsylvania ($1,911 vs. $2,433 in Virginia).
- Residential electricity price is 21% lower in Virginia (15.28¢/kWh vs. 19.30¢/kWh in Pennsylvania).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -10.8 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | -10.8 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.5 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -3.5 pts-3% | 100 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$10,325 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$10,325 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$124,261 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$124,261-30% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.28 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -0.28 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +21 (+10%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +21+10% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$14,545 (-16%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$14,545-16% | $80,903 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -12,516 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -12,516 | -33 | VA |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Pennsylvania or Virginia better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 56.9 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #25. Pennsylvania leads 3 of 11 categories, Virginia leads 4, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -25.4 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 64.6#7 · A | -25.4 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -1.2 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 79.3#13 · B+ | -1.2 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -1.8 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 61.4#17 · B+ | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap 0 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 65.4#14 · B+ | 0 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +6.2 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 60.5#34 · C+ | +6.2 pts | PA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -17.2 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 62.8#20 · B | -17.2 pts | VA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -18.3 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 45.1#19 · B | -18.3 pts | VA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +8.1 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 47.8#29 · C+ | +8.1 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +7.1 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 27.3#35 · C | +7.1 pts | PA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -0.3 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 20.1#30 · C+ | -0.3 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -10 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 48.0#15 · B+ | -10 pts | VA |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Virginia?
Pennsylvania is cheaper: cost of living index 97.6 vs 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $10,325 more a year in Pennsylvania after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.5 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -3.5 pts-3% | 100 | PA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | -1 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.02¢ (+26%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | +4.02¢+26% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.75 (-10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | -$1.75-10% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.31 (+10%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | +$0.31+10% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,962 (-11%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | -$1,962-11% | $15,633 | PA |
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 | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$4,800 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$4,800 | PA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$5,303 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$5,303 | PA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$10,325 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | +$10,325 | PA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$4,866 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$4,866 | PA |
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 | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$6,597 | $21,716 | $28,313 | -$6,597 | PA |
| ChildcareGap -$3,924 | $30,604 | $34,528 | -$3,924 | PA |
| UtilitiesGap -$168 | $4,685 | $4,853 | -$168 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$113 | $11,195 | $11,308 | -$113 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$975 | $10,686 | $9,711 | +$975 | VA |
| State and local taxesGap -$498 | $7,739 | $8,237 | -$498 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Virginia?
Pennsylvania and Virginia collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 8.86%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.28 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -0.28 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.11 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | +1.11 pts | 5.46% | VA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.65 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | +0.65 pts | 1.02% | VA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.57 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +0.57 pts | 6.66% | VA |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Virginia?
Homes cost 43% more in Virginia: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $109,920 in Virginia; the median household earns $77,545 and $92,090.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$124,261 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$124,261-30% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.2 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$522 (-21%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$522-21% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$27,026 (-25%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$27,026-25% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-18%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | -0.8x-18% | 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 | VA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $2,133 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +23.4% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | Washington |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income $92,090 vs $77,545, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 18.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$14,545 (-16%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$14,545-16% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,655 (-2%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | -$1,655-2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.59 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.59 pts | +0.51% | VA |
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 | VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | VA |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | VA |
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | VA |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | VA |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 227 in Pennsylvania (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,354 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +21 (+10%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +21+10% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -30 (-2%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | -30-2% | 1,535 | Even |
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
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or Virginia?
Pennsylvania and Virginia are close on education (#15 and #14 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 89.1%. They are close on health (#21 and #17); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 77.5 in Virginia.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | VA |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Pennsylvania #15, Virginia #14. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Virginia #17.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia, or from Virginia to Pennsylvania?
6,486 households moved from Pennsylvania to Virginia and 5,558 moved from Virginia to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 928 households for Virginia. Movers to Virginia reported an average income of $76,132; movers to Pennsylvania reported $82,399. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 15,246 people (±3,605) moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia and 8,597 (±2,499) the other way, a net gain of about 6,649 people for Virginia 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -11,984 (-9%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | -11,984-9% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +532 (0%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | +5320% | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -12,516 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -12,516 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.9 | -0.9#37 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -0.9 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$5,961 (-7%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | -$5,961-7% | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,686 (-4%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | -$3,686-4% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.9 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -0.9 | VA |
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 Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 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 | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +2 places | #19score 71.8 | #17score 72.9 | +2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +11 places | #26score 61.5 | #15score 68.4 | +11 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap +22 places | #38score 46 | #16score 58.3 | +22 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +20 places | #33score 49.4 | #13score 63.4 | +20 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap +26 places | #38score 46.1 | #12score 68 | +26 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +4 places | #27score 43.3 | #23score 48 | +4 places | VA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#19 vs #17)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #26)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #33)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #27)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Virginia?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Virginia has 20; the largest are Philadelphia and Virginia Beach. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Virginia Beach456,349 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Restonscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Leesburg95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | McLeanmedian income $250,001 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Suffolk+1.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Virginia AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -4 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | -4 pts | 29.34% | VA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.9 (+144%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +7.9+144% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -4.9 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.2 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | -1.2 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.2 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap -2 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 92.67% | VA |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.4 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 12.39% | VA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -18 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -18 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,290 (+46%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | +$1,290+46% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | -2 pts | +4.66% | VA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania AA-, Virginia AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Pennsylvania vs Virginia: 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 13 of 51, Virginia on 27, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | VirginiaVA | GapPA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,179,325 (+47%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | +4,179,325+47% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$14,545 (-16%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$14,545-16% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap -0.59 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.59 pts | +0.51% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,655 (-2%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | -$1,655-2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +21 (+10%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +21+10% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -30 (-2%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | -30-2% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 238#24 of 50 | +0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 214#31 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$124,261 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$124,261-30% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.2 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$522 (-21%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$522-21% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$27,026 (-25%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$27,026-25% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.5 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -3.5 pts-3% | 100 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-18%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | -0.8x-18% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.02¢ (+26%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | +4.02¢+26% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.75 (-10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | -$1.75-10% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.31 (+10%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | +$0.31+10% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | -1 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,962 (-11%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | -$1,962-11% | $15,633 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.28 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -0.28 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.11 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | +1.11 pts | 5.46% | VA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.65 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | +0.65 pts | 1.02% | VA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.57 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +0.57 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.4 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 12.39% | VA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -18 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -18 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,290 (+46%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | +$1,290+46% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | -2 pts | +4.66% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -4 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | -4 pts | 29.34% | VA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.9 (+144%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +7.9+144% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -4.9 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.2 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | -1.2 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.2 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap -2 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 92.67% | VA |
| Households moving inIRSGap -11,984 (-9%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | -11,984-9% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +532 (0%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | +5320% | 78,715 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -12,516 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -12,516 | -33 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.9 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -0.9 | +0.4 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$5,961 (-7%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | -$5,961-7% | $77,690 | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,686 (-4%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | -$3,686-4% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.9 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -0.9 | +1.1 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$10,325 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$10,325 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$4,800 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$4,800 | +$31,418 | PA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$4,866 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$4,866 | +$35,970 | PA |
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 Virginia numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 4 of the 11 categories to Pennsylvania's 3, with 4 even; Pennsylvania is ahead on transportation and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 13 and Virginia on 27.
Pennsylvania is cheaper day to day
Pennsylvania's cost of living index is 97.6 against 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $414,662 in Virginia. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Tax burdens are close
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); Virginia collects 8.86% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Virginia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $92,090 in Virginia, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 206 in Virginia.
People move to Virginia on net
15,246 people moved to Virginia from Pennsylvania in the latest Census release, against 8,597 going the other way.
Virginia is the better fit for retirees
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Virginia #17; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Virginia #15.
Pennsylvania vs Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Virginia better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 101.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 9% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Virginia?
Pennsylvania is cheaper than Virginia: cost of living index 97.6 vs 101.1 (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 -$21,950 in Virginia. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $414,662 in Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Virginia?
Pennsylvania and Virginia have similar tax burdens: 8.58% vs 8.86% of income in state and local taxes. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; Virginia's are 5.75%, 0.76% and 5.77%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 227 in Pennsylvania, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Virginia #8. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,354 in Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Virginia Beach, VA.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Virginia?
Homes are 43% more expensive in Virginia: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $109,920 in Virginia, against median incomes of $77,545 and $92,090.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income is $92,090 vs $77,545 in Pennsylvania, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 18, with 2 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia or from Virginia to Pennsylvania?
6,486 households moved from Pennsylvania to Virginia and 5,558 moved from Virginia to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 928 households for Virginia. Movers to Virginia reported an average income of $76,132; movers to Pennsylvania reported $82,399. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 15,246 people (±3,605) moving from Pennsylvania to Virginia and 8,597 (±2,499) the other way, a net gain of about 6,649 people for Virginia beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #26 for Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$32,263 in Virginia.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Virginia?
Pennsylvania and Virginia are close for families: #19 and #17 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $17,264 in Virginia. High school graduation rates are 87% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Is Virginia better than Pennsylvania?
Yes: Virginia ranks higher than Pennsylvania overall, #15 of 50 vs #25, with a composite score of 67.7 to 56.9. Virginia leads 4 of 11 categories and Pennsylvania leads 3, including transportation and livability. 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 Pennsylvania vs Virginia.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (6,486 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).