Pennsylvania vs Washington: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 107), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 20% lower violent crime rate. Washington scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical home value is 51% lower in Pennsylvania ($290,401 vs. $591,879 in Washington).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 34% lower in Pennsylvania ($15,302 vs. $23,136 in Washington).
- Property crime rate is 33% lower in Pennsylvania (1,324 vs. 1,975 in Washington).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4.9 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | -4.9 pts | — | WA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -9.4 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -9.4 pts-9% | 100 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$36,268 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$36,268 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$301,478 (-51%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$301,478-51% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -57 (-20%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -57-20% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$21,844 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$21,844-22% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -1.1 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -21,934 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -21,934 | -33 | WA |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Pennsylvania or Washington better to live in?
Washington scores higher overall: 61.8 to 56.9 out of 100, #20 of 50 against #25. Pennsylvania leads 3 of 11 categories, Washington leads 6, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -13.1 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 52.3#16 · B+ | -13.1 pts | WA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +14.2 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 63.9#30 · C+ | +14.2 pts | PA |
| Health12% of scoregap -8.6 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 68.2#13 · B+ | -8.6 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap +8 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 57.4#29 · C+ | +8 pts | PA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +27.6 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 39.1#46 · D | +27.6 pts | PA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -18.7 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 64.3#17 · B+ | -18.7 pts | WA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -14 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 40.8#24 · B | -14 pts | WA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -2.7 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 58.6#8 · A | -2.7 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.5 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 33.9#25 · B | +0.5 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -15.6 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 35.4#19 · B | -15.6 pts | WA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -35.1 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 73.1#3 · A+ | -35.1 pts | WA |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Washington?
Pennsylvania is cheaper: cost of living index 97.6 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $36,268 more a year in Pennsylvania after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -9.4 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -9.4 pts-9% | 100 | PA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -5 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -5 pts-5% | 100 | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.19¢ (+47%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +6.19¢+47% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.58 (-15%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | -$2.58-15% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.67 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.67-16% | $3.32/gal | PA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$7,834 (-34%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$7,834-34% | $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 | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$11,070 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$11,070 | PA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$15,962 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$15,962 | PA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$36,268 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | +$36,268 | PA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$13,462 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$13,462 | 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 | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$19,407 | $21,716 | $41,123 | -$19,407 | PA |
| ChildcareGap -$15,668 | $30,604 | $46,272 | -$15,668 | PA |
| UtilitiesGap -$451 | $4,685 | $5,136 | -$451 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$564 | $11,195 | $11,759 | -$564 | PA |
| TransportationGap -$2,105 | $10,686 | $12,791 | -$2,105 | PA |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,927 | $7,739 | $5,812 | +$1,927 | WA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Washington?
Pennsylvania and Washington collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 8.61%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.86 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +6.86 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.53 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | +0.53 pts | 1.02% | WA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.17 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -3.17 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 Washington?
Homes cost 104% more in Washington: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $155,542 in Washington; the median household earns $77,545 and $99,389.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$301,478 (-51%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$301,478-51% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$367 (-16%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$367-16% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$72,648 (-47%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$72,648-47% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.3x (-38%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -2.3x-38% | 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 | WA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $3,045 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +57% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +11.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | Seattle |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $77,545, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.7% in Washington. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Washington's in 15.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$21,844 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$21,844-22% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$25,204 (-28%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$25,204-28% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Population growthGap -0.82 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.82 pts | +0.51% | WA |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | PA | WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | WA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | WA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | WA |
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | PA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | WA |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | WA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | WA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | WA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | WA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | WA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | WA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | PA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | WA |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | WA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | PA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | PA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | WA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | WA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | WA |
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 Washington?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 284 in Washington (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,975 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -57 (-20%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -57-20% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -651 (-33%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -651-33% | 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
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or Washington?
Pennsylvania scores higher for education (#15 of 50 vs #29), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 83.6%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #21); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 78.4 in Washington.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -1.1 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.7 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +12 pts (+43%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +12 pts+43% | 38.8 | WA |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Pennsylvania #15, Washington #29. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Washington #13.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Washington, or from Washington to Pennsylvania?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 2,716 people (±1,420) moving from Pennsylvania to Washington and 2,804 (±1,178) 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 | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +1,441 (+1%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +1,441+1% | Even |
| Households moving outIRSGap +23,375 (+21%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +23,375+21% | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -21,934 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -21,934 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.1 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -2.1 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$13,524 (-15%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$13,524-15% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$14,480 (-14%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$14,480-14% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -1.4 | WA |
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 Washington?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families; Washington is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -13 places | #19score 71.8 | #32score 61 | -13 places | PA |
| RetireesGap +9 places | #26score 61.5 | #17score 66.7 | +9 places | WA |
| Remote WorkersGap +19 places | #38score 46 | #19score 54.8 | +19 places | WA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +6 places | #33score 49.4 | #27score 53.3 | +6 places | WA |
| Small BusinessGap +15 places | #38score 46.1 | #23score 58.8 | +15 places | WA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +14 places | #27score 43.3 | #13score 57.4 | +14 places | WA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesPennsylvania (#19 vs #32)
- RetireesWashington (#17 vs #26)
- Remote WorkersWashington (#19 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsWashington (#27 vs #33)
- Small BusinessWashington (#23 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWashington (#13 vs #27)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Washington?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Washington has 26; the largest are Philadelphia and Seattle. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Seattle754,195 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Redmondscore 71.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Kirkland67 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Yakimacost index 95.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Pascocounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Kirkland+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Washington compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Washington AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -68 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -68 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.1 (-68%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -28.1-68% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -22.9 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -22.9 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.1 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | -0.1 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.9 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 92.67% | WA |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | WA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -5.3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 12.39% | WA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -20 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -20 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$470 (+13%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | +$470+13% | $3,506 | WA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania AA-, Washington AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Pennsylvania vs Washington: 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 19 of 51, Washington on 23, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | WashingtonWA | GapPA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,058,412 (+63%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 8 million#13 of 50 | +5,058,412+63% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$21,844 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$21,844-22% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.82 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.82 pts | +0.51% | WA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$25,204 (-28%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$25,204-28% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -57 (-20%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -57-20% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -651 (-33%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -651-33% | 1,535 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 238#26 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 216#19 of 50 | +0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -1.1 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.7 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$301,478 (-51%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$301,478-51% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$367 (-16%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$367-16% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$72,648 (-47%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$72,648-47% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -9.4 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -9.4 pts-9% | 100 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.3x (-38%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -2.3x-38% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.19¢ (+47%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +6.19¢+47% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.58 (-15%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | -$2.58-15% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.67 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.67-16% | $3.32/gal | PA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -5 pts (-5%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -5 pts-5% | 100 | PA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$7,834 (-34%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$7,834-34% | $15,633 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.86 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +6.86 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.53 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | +0.53 pts | 1.02% | WA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.17 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -3.17 pts | 6.66% | PA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | WA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -5.3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 12.39% | WA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -20 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -20 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$470 (+13%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | +$470+13% | $3,506 | WA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +12 pts (+43%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +12 pts+43% | 38.8 | WA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -68 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -68 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.1 (-68%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -28.1-68% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -22.9 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -22.9 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.1 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | -0.1 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.9 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +1,441 (+1%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +1,441+1% | 78,682 | Even |
| Households moving outIRSGap +23,375 (+21%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +23,375+21% | 78,715 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -21,934 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -21,934 | -33 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.1 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -2.1 | +0.4 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$13,524 (-15%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$13,524-15% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$14,480 (-14%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$14,480-14% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -1.4 | +1.1 | WA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$36,268 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$36,268 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$11,070 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$11,070 | +$31,418 | PA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$13,462 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$13,462 | +$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 Washington numbers say when read together.
Washington ranks higher overall
Washington leads 6 of the 11 categories to Pennsylvania's 3, with 2 even; Pennsylvania is ahead on affordability and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 19 and Washington on 23.
Pennsylvania is cheaper day to day
Pennsylvania's cost of living index is 97.6 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $591,879 in Washington. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$47,893 in Washington.
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); Washington collects 8.61% (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $99,389 in Washington, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 284 in Washington.
Moves between the two run about even
2,716 people moved from Pennsylvania to Washington and 2,804 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Pennsylvania for families, Washington for retirees
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Washington #32; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Washington #17.
Pennsylvania vs Washington: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Washington better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 107), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 20% lower violent crime rate. Washington scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Washington?
Pennsylvania is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 97.6 vs 107 (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 -$47,893 in Washington. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $591,879 in Washington.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Washington?
Pennsylvania and Washington have similar tax burdens: 8.58% vs 8.61% 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%; Washington's are zero, 0.88% and 9.51%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Washington?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 284 in Washington, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Washington #25. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,975 in Washington. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Kirkland, WA.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Washington?
Homes are 104% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $155,542 in Washington, against median incomes of $77,545 and $99,389.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $77,545 in Pennsylvania, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.7% in Washington. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Washington's in 15, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Washington or from Washington to Pennsylvania?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 2,716 people (±1,420) moving from Pennsylvania to Washington and 2,804 (±1,178) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Washington?
Washington is the better fit for retirees: #17 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; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$23,667 in Washington.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Washington?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families: #19 of 50 on the families index vs #32 for Washington. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $23,136 in Washington. High school graduation rates are 87% and 83.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$47,893 in Washington.
Is Washington better than Pennsylvania?
Yes: Washington ranks higher than Pennsylvania overall, #20 of 50 vs #25, with a composite score of 61.8 to 56.9. Washington leads 6 of 11 categories and Pennsylvania leads 3, including affordability and safety. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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