Pennsylvania vs West Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. West Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89.5 vs 97.6), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 6% higher violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 43% lower in West Virginia ($47,071 vs. $82,894 in Pennsylvania).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 39% lower in West Virginia ($9,339 vs. $15,302 in Pennsylvania).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 36% lower in West Virginia ($1,229 vs. $1,911 in Pennsylvania).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +14.1 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 42.8#44 of 50 · D | +14.1 pts | — | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +8.1 pts+9% | 100 | WV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$22,609 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$22,609 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$110,905 (+62%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$110,905+62% | $368,697 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.27 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | -0.27 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -15 (-6%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | -15-6% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$16,747 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$16,747+28% | $80,903 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +5.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +5.1 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -12,974 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -12,974 | -33 | WV |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Pennsylvania or West Virginia better to live in?
Pennsylvania scores higher overall: 56.9 to 42.8 out of 100, #25 of 50 against #44. Pennsylvania leads 7 of 11 categories, West Virginia leads 3, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +13 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 26.2#47 · D | +13 pts | PA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -2.8 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 80.9#9 · A | -2.8 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +38.3 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 21.3#49 · F | +38.3 pts | PA |
| Education12% of scoregap +20.3 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 45.1#43 · D | +20.3 pts | PA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -19.5 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 86.2#6 · A | -19.5 pts | WV |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -14.5 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 60.1#23 · B | -14.5 pts | WV |
| Growth7% of scoregap -4.6 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 31.4#31 · C+ | -4.6 pts | WV |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +16.7 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 39.2#46 · D | +16.7 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +5.3 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 29.1#32 · C+ | +5.3 pts | PA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +3.1 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 16.7#33 · C+ | +3.1 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +9.2 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 28.8#41 · C | +9.2 pts | PA |
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia is cheaper: cost of living index 89.5 vs 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $22,609 more a year in West Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +8.1 pts+9% | 100 | WV |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.9 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | +2.9 pts+3% | 100 | WV |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.89¢ (+25%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | +3.89¢+25% | 17.84¢/kWh | WV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.24 (+9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$1.24+9% | $15.83/Mcf | WV |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.07 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | +$0.07+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,963 (+64%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$5,963+64% | $15,633 | WV |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$6,001 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$39,203costs $35,796 | -$6,001 | WV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,286 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$32,667costs $42,333 | -$8,286 | WV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$22,609 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | +$10,984costs $64,017 | -$22,609 | WV |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,227 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$44,356costs $30,644 | -$7,227 | WV |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$9,837 | $21,716 | $11,879 | +$9,837 | WV |
| ChildcareGap +$11,926 | $30,604 | $18,678 | +$11,926 | WV |
| UtilitiesGap +$389 | $4,685 | $4,296 | +$389 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$326 | $11,195 | $10,869 | +$326 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$220 | $10,686 | $10,466 | +$220 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$90 | $7,739 | $7,829 | -$90 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or West Virginia?
Pennsylvania and West Virginia collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 8.85%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.27 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | -0.27 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.04 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | +2.04 pts | 5.46% | WV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.86 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.86 pts | 1.02% | WV |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.25 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | -0.25 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 West Virginia?
Homes cost 62% more in Pennsylvania: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $47,071 in West Virginia; the median household earns $77,545 and $60,798.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$110,905 (+62%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$110,905+62% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +1.2% | WV |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$682 (+55%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$682+55% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$35,823 (+76%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$35,823+76% | $100,006 | WV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.7x (+23%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +0.7x+23% | 4.6x | WV |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| PA | WV | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $924 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | -23% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +22.5% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | Charleston |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or West Virginia?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income $77,545 vs $60,798, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$16,747 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$16,747+28% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$22,720 (+54%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$22,720+54% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | PA |
| Population growthGap +0.17 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.17 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | PA | WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $191,792$172,613 in Charleston | PA |
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $123,618$111,256 in Charleston | PA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $88,299$79,469 in Charleston | PA |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $115,314$103,783 in Charleston | PA |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $82,352$74,117 in Charleston | PA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $54,044$48,640 in Charleston | PA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $73,760$66,384 in Charleston | PA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $62,826$56,543 in Charleston | PA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $89,258$80,332 in Charleston | PA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $46,768$42,091 in Charleston | PA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $59,622$53,660 in Charleston | PA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $68,489$61,640 in Charleston | PA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $60,696$54,626 in Charleston | PA |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $53,664$48,298 in Charleston | PA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $48,929$44,036 in Charleston | PA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $35,598$32,038 in Charleston | PA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $40,844$36,760 in Charleston | PA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $28,247$25,422 in Charleston | PA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $47,229$42,506 in Charleston | PA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $49,399$44,459 in Charleston | PA |
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 West Virginia?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 242 in West Virginia (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,053 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -15 (-6%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | -15-6% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +271 (+26%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +271+26% | 1,535 | WV |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Bridgeport, WV74 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or West Virginia?
Pennsylvania scores higher for education (#15 of 50 vs #43), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 91.2%. Pennsylvania scores higher for health (#21 vs #49); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 72.2 in West Virginia.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +15 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +15 | 273 | PA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +12 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +12 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +5.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +5.1 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -7.2 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap 0 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | 0 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- Wheeling, WVeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Pennsylvania #15, West Virginia #43. Health: Pennsylvania #21, West Virginia #49.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to West Virginia, or from West Virginia to Pennsylvania?
1,981 households moved from Pennsylvania to West Virginia and 1,931 moved from West Virginia to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 50 households for West Virginia. Movers to West Virginia reported an average income of $59,687; movers to Pennsylvania reported $58,886. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,425 people (±1,386) moving from Pennsylvania to West Virginia and 3,296 (±1,111) the other way, a net gain of about 3,129 people for West 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 | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +102,731 (+492%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +102,731+492% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +115,705 (+578%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +115,705+578% | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -12,974 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -12,974 | WV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | -1.4 | WV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$17,882 (+31%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$17,882+31% | PA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$25,128 (+42%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | +$25,128+42% | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.8 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -3.8 | WV |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Pennsylvania or West Virginia?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families, retirees, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts; West Virginia is the better fit for remote workers; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -17 places | #19score 71.8 | #36score 57.5 | -17 places | PA |
| RetireesGap -12 places | #26score 61.5 | #38score 54.5 | -12 places | PA |
| Remote WorkersGap +6 places | #38score 46 | #32score 49 | +6 places | WV |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -8 places | #33score 49.4 | #41score 41.9 | -8 places | PA |
| Small BusinessGap -1 places | #38score 46.1 | #39score 46.1 | -1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -11 places | #27score 43.3 | #38score 31.4 | -11 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 #36)
- RetireesPennsylvania (#26 vs #38)
- Remote WorkersWest Virginia (#32 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsPennsylvania (#33 vs #41)
- Small BusinessEven (#38 vs #39)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #38)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and West Virginia?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and West Virginia has 20; the largest are Philadelphia and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Charleston47,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Bridgeportscore 62.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Bridgeport74 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Fairmontcost index 87 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Clarksburgwalkability 10.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Clarksburgcounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Wheeling98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Cheat Lakemedian income $117,014 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Martinsburg+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and West Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and West Virginia AA-.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | WV |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -23.3 (-63%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -23.3-63% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -6.4 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -6.4 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.6 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | +0.6 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.6 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +5 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 92.67% | PA |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -20.8 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -20.8 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | WV |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,640 (+66%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$1,640+66% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -6 pts | +4.66% | WV |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania AA-, West Virginia AA-), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Pennsylvania vs West Virginia: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Pennsylvania is ahead on 13 of 51, West Virginia on 26, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | West VirginiaWV | GapPA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +11,293,285 (+639%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 1.8 million#39 of 50 | +11,293,285+639% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$16,747 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$16,747+28% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.17 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.17 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$22,720 (+54%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$22,720+54% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | PA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -15 (-6%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | -15-6% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +271 (+26%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +271+26% | 1,535 | WV |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 232#46 of 50 | +7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +15 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +15 | 273 | PA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +10 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 206#48 of 50 | +10 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +12 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +12 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +5.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +5.1 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -7.2 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap 0 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | 0 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$110,905 (+62%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$110,905+62% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +1.2% | WV |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$682 (+55%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$682+55% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$35,823 (+76%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$35,823+76% | $100,006 | WV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +8.1 pts+9% | 100 | WV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.7x (+23%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +0.7x+23% | 4.6x | WV |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.89¢ (+25%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | +3.89¢+25% | 17.84¢/kWh | WV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.24 (+9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$1.24+9% | $15.83/Mcf | WV |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.07 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | +$0.07+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.9 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | +2.9 pts+3% | 100 | WV |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,963 (+64%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$5,963+64% | $15,633 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.27 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | -0.27 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.04 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | +2.04 pts | 5.46% | WV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.86 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.86 pts | 1.02% | WV |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.25 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | -0.25 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -20.8 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -20.8 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | WV |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,640 (+66%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$1,640+66% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -6 pts | +4.66% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | WV |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -23.3 (-63%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -23.3-63% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -6.4 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -6.4 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.6 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | +0.6 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.6 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +5 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 92.67% | PA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +102,731 (+492%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +102,731+492% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +115,705 (+578%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +115,705+578% | 78,715 | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -12,974 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -12,974 | -33 | WV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | -1.4 | +0.4 | WV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$17,882 (+31%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$17,882+31% | $77,690 | PA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$25,128 (+42%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | +$25,128+42% | $77,024 | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.8 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -3.8 | +1.1 | WV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$22,609 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$22,609 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$6,001 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$39,203#2 of 50 | -$6,001 | +$31,418 | WV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,227 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$44,356#3 of 50 | -$7,227 | +$35,970 | WV |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Pennsylvania and West Virginia numbers say when read together.
Pennsylvania ranks higher overall
Pennsylvania leads 7 of the 11 categories to West Virginia's 3, with 1 even; West Virginia is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 13 and West Virginia on 26.
West Virginia is cheaper day to day
West Virginia's cost of living index is 89.5 against 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $179,496 in West Virginia. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$10,984 in West 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); West Virginia collects 8.85% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Pennsylvania pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $60,798 in West Virginia, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 242 in West Virginia.
People move to West Virginia on net
6,425 people moved to West Virginia from Pennsylvania in the latest Census release, against 3,296 going the other way.
Pennsylvania fits families and retirees better
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and West Virginia #36; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and West Virginia #38.
Pennsylvania vs West Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or West Virginia better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. West Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89.5 vs 97.6), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 6% higher violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than West Virginia?
West Virginia is cheaper than Pennsylvania: cost of living index 89.5 vs 97.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and +$10,984 in West Virginia. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $179,496 in West Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or West Virginia?
Pennsylvania and West Virginia have similar tax burdens: 8.58% vs 8.85% 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%; West Virginia's are 4.82%, 0.55% and 6.59%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than West Virginia?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 242 in West Virginia, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and West Virginia #19. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,053 in West Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Bridgeport, WV.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or West Virginia?
Homes are 62% more expensive in Pennsylvania: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $47,071 in West Virginia, against median incomes of $77,545 and $60,798.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or West Virginia?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income is $77,545 vs $60,798 in West Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to West Virginia or from West Virginia to Pennsylvania?
1,981 households moved from Pennsylvania to West Virginia and 1,931 moved from West Virginia to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 50 households for West Virginia. Movers to West Virginia reported an average income of $59,687; movers to Pennsylvania reported $58,886. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,425 people (±1,386) moving from Pennsylvania to West Virginia and 3,296 (±1,111) the other way, a net gain of about 3,129 people for West Virginia beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or West Virginia?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for retirees: #26 of 50 on the retiree index vs #38 for West Virginia. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$44,356 in West Virginia.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or West Virginia?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families: #19 of 50 on the families index vs #36 for West Virginia. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $9,339 in West Virginia. High school graduation rates are 87% and 91.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
Is West Virginia better than Pennsylvania?
No: Pennsylvania ranks higher than West Virginia overall, #25 of 50 vs #44, with a composite score of 56.9 to 42.8. Pennsylvania leads 7 of 11 categories and West Virginia leads 3, including affordability and fiscal health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.