Virginia vs Tennessee: Which Is Better to Live In?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 101.1), has no income tax, and has a 58% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Violent crime rate is 58% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 492 in Tennessee).
- Total tax burden is 28% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 8.86% in Virginia).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 25% lower in Tennessee ($1,813 vs. $2,433 in Virginia).
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +10.6 pts | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | +10.6 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.2 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +9.2 pts+10% | 100 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$16,291 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$16,291 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$80,554 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$80,554+24% | $368,697 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.48 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.48 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -286 (-58%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -286-58% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap +$20,093 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$20,093+28% | $80,903 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +3.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.7 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -23,683 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -23,683 | -33 | TN |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Virginia or Tennessee better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 57.1 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #24. Virginia leads 6 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 5, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +18.8 | 15% | 64.6#7 · A | 45.8#26 · B | +18.8 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +27.1 | 12% | 79.3#13 · B+ | 52.2#45 · D | +27.1 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap +32.7 | 12% | 61.4#17 · B+ | 28.7#46 · D | +32.7 pts | VA |
| Education12% of scoregap -6.3 | 12% | 65.4#14 · B+ | 71.7#8 · A | -6.3 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -17.4 | 10% | 60.5#34 · C+ | 77.9#17 · B+ | -17.4 pts | TN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -13.3 | 8% | 62.8#20 · B | 76.1#3 · A+ | -13.3 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -11.8 | 7% | 45.1#19 · B | 56.9#5 · A+ | -11.8 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.9 | 7% | 47.8#29 · C+ | 42.9#40 · C | +4.9 pts | VA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -19.7 | 7% | 27.3#35 · C | 47.0#9 · A | -19.7 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +6.8 | 6% | 20.1#30 · C+ | 13.3#38 · C | +6.8 pts | VA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +11.8 | 4% | 48.0#15 · B+ | 36.2#33 · C+ | +11.8 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 Virginia cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper: cost of living index 91.9 vs 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $16,291 more a year in Tennessee after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.2 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +9.2 pts+10% | 100 | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.2 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +4.2 pts+4% | 100 | TN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.10¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +2.10¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.95 (+42%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$4.95+42% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,338 (+24%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$3,338+24% | $15,633 | TN |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$7,506 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | -$7,506 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,314 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | -$8,314 | TN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$16,291 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | -$16,291 | TN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,697 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | -$7,697 | TN |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$6,102 | $28,313 | $22,211 | +$6,102 | TN |
| ChildcareGap +$6,676 | $34,528 | $27,852 | +$6,676 | TN |
| UtilitiesGap +$442 | $4,853 | $4,411 | +$442 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$473 | $11,308 | $10,835 | +$473 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$31 | $9,711 | $9,680 | +$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,566 | $8,237 | $5,671 | +$2,566 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Tennessee?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 8.86%. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.48 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.48 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.75 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +5.75 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.18 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.18 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.84 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -3.84 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 Virginia or Tennessee?
Homes cost 24% more in Virginia: a typical home value of $414,662 in Virginia vs $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of income in Virginia and $85,549 in Tennessee; the median household earns $92,090 and $71,997.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$80,554 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$80,554+24% | $368,697 | TN |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$620 (+34%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | +$620+34% | $1,948 | TN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,371 (+28%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$24,371+28% | $100,006 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-2%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -0.1x-2% | 4.6x | Even |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| VA | TN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,133 | $1,719 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +23.4% | +24.8% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Washington | Nashville |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Virginia or Tennessee?
Virginia pays more: median household income $92,090 vs $71,997, with unemployment at 3.4% in Virginia and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 0.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$20,093 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$20,093+28% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,247 (+9%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | +$5,247+9% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.19 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.19 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 | VA | TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | VA |
| Software Developers | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | VA |
| Lawyers | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | VA |
| Electricians | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | 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 Virginia safer than Tennessee?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,354 and 1,637 per 100,000.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -286 (-58%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -286-58% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -283 (-17%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -283-17% | 1,535 | VA |
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.
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Virginia or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #14), with high school graduation rates of 89.1% and 90.4%. Virginia scores higher for health (#17 vs #46); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Virginia and 73.8 in Tennessee.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +3.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.7 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.3 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-8%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 40#21 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).
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Virginia #14, Tennessee #8. Health: Virginia #17, Tennessee #46.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Tennessee, or from Tennessee to Virginia?
4,371 households moved from Virginia to Tennessee and 3,637 moved from Tennessee to Virginia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 734 households for Tennessee. Movers to Tennessee reported an average income of $77,526; movers to Virginia reported $64,891. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,649 people (±2,023) moving from Virginia to Tennessee and 6,232 (±2,345) 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 | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +21,821 (+19%) | 135,609#7 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +21,821+19% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +45,504 (+51%) | 135,188#44 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +45,504+51% | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -23,683 | +421#25 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -23,683 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.3 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -3.3 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,897 (+4%) | $82,327#17 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | +$2,897+4% | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$19,252 (+27%) | $89,328#9 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$19,252+27% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.1 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -5.1 | TN |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Virginia or Tennessee?
Virginia is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts; Tennessee is the better fit for small business; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -13 places | #17score 72.9 | #30score 62.5 | -13 places | VA |
| RetireesGap -13 places | #15score 68.4 | #28score 60.3 | -13 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #16score 58.3 | #14score 59.5 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -3 places | #13score 63.4 | #16score 60 | -3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +4 places | #12score 68 | #8score 73.5 | +4 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -21 places | #23score 48 | #44score 28.8 | -21 places | VA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #30)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #28)
- Remote WorkersEven (#16 vs #14)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#13 vs #16)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #12)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in Virginia and Tennessee?
Virginia has 20 tracked cities and Tennessee has 20; the largest are Virginia Beach and Nashville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Virginia Beach456,349 people | Nashville690,130 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Restonscore 75.8 | Franklinscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K | Brentwood62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 | Jacksoncost index 85.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Leesburg95% graduation rate | Lebanon97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | McLeanmedian income $250,001 | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Suffolk+1.6% growth | Lebanon+5.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Virginia and Tennessee compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Virginia carries AAA credit rating and Tennessee AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -4 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -4 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -19.5 (-78%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -19.5-78% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap +3.3 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | TN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.5 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -17 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -17 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,200 (+74%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$1,200+74% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -1.7 pts | +4.66% | TN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Virginia AAA, Tennessee AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Virginia vs Tennessee: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Virginia is ahead on 16 of 51, Tennessee on 23, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | VirginiaVA | TennesseeTN | GapVA−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,565,031 (+21%) · US 6.8 million | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | +1,565,031+21% | 6.8 million | VA |
| Median household incomeGap +$20,093 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$20,093+28% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.19 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | -0.19 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,247 (+9%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | +$5,247+9% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -286 (-58%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -286-58% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -283 (-17%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | -283-17% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 238#24 of 50 | 240#12 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 214#31 of 50 | 215#23 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +3.7 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.3 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$80,554 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$80,554+24% | $368,697 | TN |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$620 (+34%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | +$620+34% | $1,948 | TN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,371 (+28%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$24,371+28% | $100,006 | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.2 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +9.2 pts+10% | 100 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-2%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -0.1x-2% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.10¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +2.10¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.95 (+42%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$4.95+42% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.2 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +4.2 pts+4% | 100 | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,338 (+24%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | +$3,338+24% | $15,633 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.48 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +2.48 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.75 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +5.75 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.18 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.18 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.84 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -3.84 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -17 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -17 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,200 (+74%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | +$1,200+74% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | -1.7 pts | +4.66% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-8%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | -3 pts-8% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -4 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -4 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -19.5 (-78%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -19.5-78% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap +3.3 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | TN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.5 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +21,821 (+19%) · US 78,682 | 135,609#7 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +21,821+19% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +45,504 (+51%) · US 78,715 | 135,188#44 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +45,504+51% | 78,715 | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -23,683 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | -23,683 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.3 · US +0.4 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | -3.3 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,897 (+4%) · US $77,690 | $82,327#17 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | +$2,897+4% | $77,690 | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$19,252 (+27%) · US $77,024 | $89,328#9 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$19,252+27% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.1 · US +1.1 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | -5.1 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$16,291 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$16,291 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$7,506 · US +$31,418 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | -$7,506 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,697 · US +$35,970 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | -$7,697 | +$35,970 | TN |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Virginia and Tennessee numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 6 of the 11 categories to Tennessee's 5, with 0 even; Tennessee is ahead on livability and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Virginia is ahead on 16 and Tennessee on 23.
Tennessee is cheaper day to day
Tennessee's cost of living index is 91.9 against 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). The typical home costs $414,662 in Virginia and $334,108 in Tennessee. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 a year after typical costs in Virginia and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Virginia collects 8.86% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Tennessee collects 6.38% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Virginia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $92,090 in Virginia and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 3.4% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 206 per 100,000 residents in Virginia and 492 in Tennessee.
Moves between the two run about even
7,649 people moved from Virginia to Tennessee and 6,232 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, Virginia ranks #17 of 50 and Tennessee #30; for retirees, Virginia ranks #15 and Tennessee #28.
Virginia vs Tennessee: frequently asked questions
Is Virginia or Tennessee better to live in?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 101.1), has no income tax, and has a 58% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Virginia cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper than Virginia: cost of living index 91.9 vs 101.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$21,950 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Virginia, and -$5,659 in Tennessee. The typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $334,108 in Tennessee.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Tennessee?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.86% in Virginia. Virginia's top income tax rate is 5.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.76% and its combined sales tax 5.77%; Tennessee's are zero, 0.58% and 9.61%.
Is Virginia safer than Tennessee?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Virginia ranks #8 of 50 for violent crime and Tennessee #46. Property crime is 1,354 per 100,000 in Virginia and 1,637 in Tennessee. The safest tracked cities are Virginia Beach, VA, and Brentwood, TN.
Are homes more expensive in Virginia or Tennessee?
Homes are 24% more expensive in Virginia: the typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of household income in Virginia and $85,549 in Tennessee, against median incomes of $92,090 and $71,997.
Do people earn more in Virginia or Tennessee?
Virginia pays more: median household income is $92,090 vs $71,997 in Tennessee, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Virginia and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 0.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Tennessee or from Tennessee to Virginia?
4,371 households moved from Virginia to Tennessee and 3,637 moved from Tennessee to Virginia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 734 households for Tennessee. Movers to Tennessee reported an average income of $77,526; movers to Virginia reported $64,891. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,649 people (±2,023) moving from Virginia to Tennessee and 6,232 (±2,345) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Virginia or Tennessee?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #28 for Tennessee. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$32,263 left after typical costs in Virginia and +$39,960 in Tennessee.
Which is better for families, Virginia or Tennessee?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #30 for Tennessee. Center-based infant care costs $17,264 a year in Virginia and $13,926 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 89.1% and 90.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 after typical costs in Virginia and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Is Tennessee better than Virginia?
No: Virginia ranks higher than Tennessee overall, #15 of 50 vs #24, with a composite score of 67.7 to 57.1. Virginia leads 6 of 11 categories and Tennessee leads 5, including livability and affordability. 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 Virginia vs Tennessee.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (4,371 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).