Tennessee vs Wisconsin: Which Is Better to Live In?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and Wisconsin #11 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 94.1), has no income tax, and has a 51% higher violent crime rate. Wisconsin scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 51% lower in Wisconsin (240 vs. 492 in Tennessee).
- Property crime rate is 38% lower in Wisconsin (1,017 vs. 1,637 in Tennessee).
- Residential electricity price is 27% lower in Tennessee (13.18¢/kWh vs. 18.16¢/kWh in Wisconsin).
| Measure | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -13.5 pts | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | 70.6#11 of 50 · B+ | -13.5 pts | — | WI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | -2.2 pts-2% | 100 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$15,338 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$20,997#32 of 50 | +$15,338 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$5,591 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | -$5,591-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.93 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | -1.93 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +252 (+105%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +252+105% | 328 | WI |
| Median household incomeGap -$5,491 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | -$5,491-7% | $80,903 | WI |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -4.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | -4.3 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +23,588 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | +23,588 | -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 Tennessee or Wisconsin better to live in?
Wisconsin scores higher overall: 70.6 to 57.1 out of 100, #11 of 50 against #24. Tennessee leads 4 of 11 categories, Wisconsin leads 7, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -9 | 15% | 45.8#26 · B | 54.8#13 · B+ | -9 pts | WI |
| Safety12% of scoregap -29.4 | 12% | 52.2#45 · D | 81.6#8 · A | -29.4 pts | WI |
| Health12% of scoregap -31.8 | 12% | 28.7#46 · D | 60.5#18 · B+ | -31.8 pts | WI |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.8 | 12% | 71.7#8 · A | 76.5#4 · A+ | -4.8 pts | WI |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +8.1 | 10% | 77.9#17 · B+ | 69.8#25 · B | +8.1 pts | TN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +12.5 | 8% | 76.1#3 · A+ | 63.6#18 · B+ | +12.5 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap +16.9 | 7% | 56.9#5 · A+ | 40.0#26 · B | +16.9 pts | TN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -9.4 | 7% | 42.9#40 · C | 52.3#22 · B | -9.4 pts | WI |
| Livability7% of scoregap +11.1 | 7% | 47.0#9 · A | 35.9#18 · B+ | +11.1 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -10.6 | 6% | 13.3#38 · C | 23.9#25 · B | -10.6 pts | WI |
| Environment4% of scoregap -4.4 | 4% | 36.2#33 · C+ | 40.6#26 · B | -4.4 pts | WI |
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 Tennessee cheaper than Wisconsin?
Tennessee is cheaper: cost of living index 91.9 vs 94.1 in Wisconsin (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $15,338 more a year in Tennessee after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | -2.2 pts-2% | 100 | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.9 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 94.3#8 of 50 | +1.9 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.98¢ (-27%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 18.16¢/kWh#36 of 50 | -4.98¢-27% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.10 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $10.74/Mcf#8 of 50 | +$1.10+10% | $15.83/Mcf | WI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.20 (-6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $3.28/gal#30 of 50 | -$0.20-6% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,678 (-25%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $18,604#36 of 50 | -$4,678-25% | $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 | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$5,258 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | +$30,650costs $44,350 | +$5,258 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$5,297 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | +$22,095costs $52,904 | +$5,297 | TN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$15,338 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | -$20,997costs $95,997 | +$15,338 | TN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$4,805 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | +$35,155costs $39,845 | +$4,805 | 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 | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$3,803 | $22,211 | $26,014 | -$3,803 | TN |
| ChildcareGap -$9,356 | $27,852 | $37,208 | -$9,356 | TN |
| UtilitiesGap -$106 | $4,411 | $4,517 | -$106 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$214 | $10,835 | $10,621 | +$214 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$629 | $9,680 | $10,309 | -$629 | TN |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,657 | $5,671 | $7,328 | -$1,657 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or Wisconsin?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 8.31%. Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Wisconsin has high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.93 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | -1.93 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -7.65 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 7.65%#40 of 50 | -7.65 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -1.01 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 1.59%#43 of 50 | -1.01 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.89 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 5.72%#9 of 50 | +3.89 pts | 6.66% | WI |
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 Tennessee or Wisconsin?
Typical home values are about the same: $334,108 in Tennessee and $339,699 in Wisconsin. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of income in Tennessee and $95,433 in Wisconsin; the median household earns $71,997 and $77,488.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$5,591 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | -$5,591-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.4 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +5.1%#5 of 50 | -4.4 pts | +1.2% | WI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$250 (+16%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,563#19 of 50 | +$250+16% | $1,948 | WI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$9,884 (-10%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $95,433#25 of 50 | -$9,884-10% | $100,006 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+5%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 4.4x#25 of 50 | +0.2x+5% | 4.6x | WI |
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.
| TN | WI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,719 | $1,748 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +23% |
| Five-year change | +24.8% | +31.1% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Nashville | Milwaukee |
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 Tennessee or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin pays more: median household income $77,488 vs $71,997, with unemployment at 3.5% in Tennessee and 3.2% in Wisconsin. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Wisconsin's in 6.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$5,491 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | -$5,491-7% | $80,903 | WI |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 3.2%#8 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,378 (+2%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $59,815#30 of 50 | +$1,378+2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +1.6%#32 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Population growthGap +0.62 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.26%#36 of 50 | +0.62 pts | +0.51% | TN |
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 | TN | WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | $112,575$104,695 in Madison | WI |
| Accountants & Auditors | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | $88,282$82,102 in Madison | WI |
| Software Developers | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | $143,200$133,176 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | $59,692$55,514 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | $72,169$67,117 in Madison | TN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | $71,514$66,508 in Madison | WI |
| Registered Nurses | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | $93,505$86,960 in Milwaukee | TN |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | $61,763$57,440 in Madison | WI |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | $108,261$100,683 in Madison | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | $57,405$53,387 in Milwaukee | TN |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | $80,384$74,757 in Madison | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | $52,176$48,524 in Milwaukee | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | $36,595$34,033 in Milwaukee | TN |
| Civil Engineers | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | $105,622$98,228 in Madison | Even |
| Electricians | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | $66,432$61,782 in Milwaukee | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | $70,619$65,676 in Madison | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | $60,992$56,723 in Madison | Even |
| Lawyers | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | $159,830$148,642 in Milwaukee | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | $235,570$219,080 in Madison | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | $44,939$41,793 in Madison | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Tennessee safer than Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is safer: 240 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,637 and 1,017 per 100,000.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +252 (+105%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +252+105% | 328 | WI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +620 (+61%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,017#5 of 50 | +620+61% | 1,535 | WI |
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.
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
- New Berlin, WI47 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Tennessee or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin scores higher for education (#4 of 50 vs #8), with high school graduation rates of 90.4% and 90.3%. Wisconsin scores higher for health (#18 vs #46); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Tennessee and 78.1 in Wisconsin.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 283#2 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 260#13 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -4.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | -4.3 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.2 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 37.4%#41 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.4 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 5.3%#10 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 7.6% | WI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 37#16 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | WI |
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).
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
- Brookfield, WIeducation 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: Tennessee #8, Wisconsin #4. Health: Tennessee #46, Wisconsin #18.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to Wisconsin, or from Wisconsin to Tennessee?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 1,131 people (±603) moving from Tennessee to Wisconsin and 1,843 (±1,886) 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 | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +57,113 (+101%) | 113,788#13 of 50 | 56,675#24 of 50 | +57,113+101% | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +33,525 (+60%) | 89,684#34 of 50 | 56,159#26 of 50 | +33,525+60% | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +23,588 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | +23,588 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.2 | +3.3#4 of 50 | +0.1#25 of 50 | +3.2 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,057 (+10%) | $79,430#24 of 50 | $72,373#32 of 50 | +$7,057+10% | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$4,310 (-6%) | $70,076#32 of 50 | $74,386#24 of 50 | -$4,310-6% | WI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.6 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +1.2#23 of 50 | +4.6 | 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, Tennessee or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is the better fit for families, retirees, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts; 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 | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +26 places | #30score 62.5 | #4score 81.6 | +26 places | WI |
| RetireesGap +15 places | #28score 60.3 | #13score 72.5 | +15 places | WI |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #14score 59.5 | #12score 59.9 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +4 places | #16score 60 | #12score 63.5 | +4 places | WI |
| Small BusinessGap -3 places | #8score 73.5 | #11score 68.2 | -3 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +22 places | #44score 28.8 | #22score 50.4 | +22 places | WI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWisconsin (#4 vs #30)
- RetireesWisconsin (#13 vs #28)
- Remote WorkersEven (#14 vs #12)
- Young ProfessionalsWisconsin (#12 vs #16)
- Small BusinessEven (#8 vs #11)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWisconsin (#22 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in Tennessee and Wisconsin?
Tennessee has 20 tracked cities and Wisconsin has 20; the largest are Nashville and Milwaukee. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Nashville690,130 people | Milwaukee566,973 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Franklinscore 69.5 | Brookfieldscore 71.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Brentwood62 violent per 100K | New Berlin47 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Jacksoncost index 85.5 | Fond du Laccost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 | West Alliswalkability 14.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 | Wausaucounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Lebanon97% graduation rate | Brookfield98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 | Brookfieldmedian income $129,548 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Lebanon+5.6% growth | Menomonee Falls+1.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Tennessee and Wisconsin compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Tennessee carries AAA credit rating and Wisconsin AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 13%#31 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -0.4 (-2%) · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 25.4#23 of 50 | -0.4-2% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap +1.4 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 5.8%#32 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 22.7 min#10 of 50 | +3.8 min | 25.2 min | WI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.9 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 1.4%#20 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 2.29% | WI |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 11.8%#27 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 92.3%#32 of 50 | +0.2 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 | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 90#30 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 8.2%#36 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -3 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 100%#2 of 50 | -3 pts | 74.3% | WI |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,230 (-43%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $2,860#25 of 50 | -$1,230-43% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +5.8%#16 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Tennessee AAA, Wisconsin 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).
Tennessee vs Wisconsin: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Tennessee is ahead on 23 of 51, Wisconsin on 15, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TennesseeTN | WisconsinWI | GapTN−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,342,289 (+22%) · US 6.8 million | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | 6 million#21 of 50 | +1,342,289+22% | 6.8 million | TN |
| Median household incomeGap -$5,491 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | -$5,491-7% | $80,903 | WI |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 3.2%#8 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.62 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.26%#36 of 50 | +0.62 pts | +0.51% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,378 (+2%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $59,815#30 of 50 | +$1,378+2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +1.6%#32 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +252 (+105%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +252+105% | 328 | WI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +620 (+61%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,017#5 of 50 | +620+61% | 1,535 | WI |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 237 | 240#12 of 50 | 239#14 of 50 | +0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 283#2 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 214 | 215#23 of 50 | 215#22 of 50 | -0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 260#13 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -4.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | -4.3 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.2 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 37.4%#41 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.4 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 5.3%#10 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 7.6% | WI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$5,591 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | -$5,591-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.4 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +5.1%#5 of 50 | -4.4 pts | +1.2% | WI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$250 (+16%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,563#19 of 50 | +$250+16% | $1,948 | WI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$9,884 (-10%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $95,433#25 of 50 | -$9,884-10% | $100,006 | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | -2.2 pts-2% | 100 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+5%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 4.4x#25 of 50 | +0.2x+5% | 4.6x | WI |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.98¢ (-27%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 18.16¢/kWh#36 of 50 | -4.98¢-27% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.10 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $10.74/Mcf#8 of 50 | +$1.10+10% | $15.83/Mcf | WI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.20 (-6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $3.28/gal#30 of 50 | -$0.20-6% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.9 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 94.3#8 of 50 | +1.9 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,678 (-25%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $18,604#36 of 50 | -$4,678-25% | $15,633 | TN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.93 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | -1.93 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -7.65 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 7.65%#40 of 50 | -7.65 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -1.01 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 1.59%#43 of 50 | -1.01 pts | 1.02% | TN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.89 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 5.72%#9 of 50 | +3.89 pts | 6.66% | WI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 90#30 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 8.2%#36 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -3 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 100%#2 of 50 | -3 pts | 74.3% | WI |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,230 (-43%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $2,860#25 of 50 | -$1,230-43% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +5.8%#16 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 37#16 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | WI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 13%#31 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -0.4 (-2%) · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 25.4#23 of 50 | -0.4-2% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap +1.4 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 5.8%#32 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.8 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 22.7 min#10 of 50 | +3.8 min | 25.2 min | WI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.9 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 1.4%#20 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 2.29% | WI |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 11.8%#27 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.28% | TN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 92.3%#32 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +57,113 (+101%) · US 78,682 | 113,788#13 of 50 | 56,675#24 of 50 | +57,113+101% | 78,682 | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +33,525 (+60%) · US 78,715 | 89,684#34 of 50 | 56,159#26 of 50 | +33,525+60% | 78,715 | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +23,588 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | +23,588 | -33 | TN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.2 · US +0.4 | +3.3#4 of 50 | +0.1#25 of 50 | +3.2 | +0.4 | TN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,057 (+10%) · US $77,690 | $79,430#24 of 50 | $72,373#32 of 50 | +$7,057+10% | $77,690 | TN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$4,310 (-6%) · US $77,024 | $70,076#32 of 50 | $74,386#24 of 50 | -$4,310-6% | $77,024 | WI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.6 · US +1.1 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +1.2#23 of 50 | +4.6 | +1.1 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$15,338 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$20,997#32 of 50 | +$15,338 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$5,258 · US +$31,418 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | +$30,650#26 of 50 | +$5,258 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$4,805 · US +$35,970 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | +$35,155#26 of 50 | +$4,805 | +$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 Tennessee and Wisconsin numbers say when read together.
Wisconsin ranks higher overall
Wisconsin leads 7 of the 11 categories to Tennessee's 4, with 0 even; Tennessee is ahead on growth and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Tennessee is ahead on 23 and Wisconsin on 15.
Tennessee is cheaper day to day
Tennessee's cost of living index is 91.9 against 94.1 in Wisconsin (US = 100). The typical home costs $334,108 in Tennessee and $339,699 in Wisconsin. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 a year after typical costs in Tennessee and -$20,997 in Wisconsin.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Tennessee collects 6.38% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Wisconsin collects 8.31% (high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax).
Wisconsin pays more and is safer
Median household income is $71,997 in Tennessee and $77,488 in Wisconsin, with unemployment at 3.5% and 3.2%. Violent crime runs 492 per 100,000 residents in Tennessee and 240 in Wisconsin.
Moves between the two run about even
1,131 people moved from Tennessee to Wisconsin and 1,843 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Wisconsin fits families and retirees better
For families, Tennessee ranks #30 of 50 and Wisconsin #4; for retirees, Tennessee ranks #28 and Wisconsin #13.
Tennessee vs Wisconsin: frequently asked questions
Is Tennessee or Wisconsin better to live in?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and Wisconsin #11 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 94.1), has no income tax, and has a 51% higher violent crime rate. Wisconsin scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Tennessee cheaper than Wisconsin?
Tennessee is cheaper than Wisconsin: cost of living index 91.9 vs 94.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,659 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Tennessee, and -$20,997 in Wisconsin. The typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $339,699 in Wisconsin.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or Wisconsin?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.31% in Wisconsin. Tennessee's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.58% and its combined sales tax 9.61%; Wisconsin's are 7.65%, 1.59% and 5.72%.
Is Tennessee safer than Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is safer: 240 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Tennessee ranks #46 of 50 for violent crime and Wisconsin #18. Property crime is 1,637 per 100,000 in Tennessee and 1,017 in Wisconsin. The safest tracked cities are Brentwood, TN, and New Berlin, WI.
Are homes more expensive in Tennessee or Wisconsin?
Typical home values are about the same: $334,108 in Tennessee and $339,699 in Wisconsin. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of household income in Tennessee and $95,433 in Wisconsin, against median incomes of $71,997 and $77,488.
Do people earn more in Tennessee or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin pays more: median household income is $77,488 vs $71,997 in Tennessee, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.5% in Tennessee and 3.2% in Wisconsin. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Wisconsin's in 6, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to Wisconsin or from Wisconsin to Tennessee?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 1,131 people (±603) moving from Tennessee to Wisconsin and 1,843 (±1,886) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Tennessee or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is the better fit for retirees: #13 of 50 on the retiree index vs #28 for Tennessee. Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Wisconsin has high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,960 left after typical costs in Tennessee and +$35,155 in Wisconsin.
Which is better for families, Tennessee or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is the better fit for families: #4 of 50 on the families index vs #30 for Tennessee. Center-based infant care costs $13,926 a year in Tennessee and $18,604 in Wisconsin. High school graduation rates are 90.4% and 90.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 after typical costs in Tennessee and -$20,997 in Wisconsin.
Is Wisconsin better than Tennessee?
Yes: Wisconsin ranks higher than Tennessee overall, #11 of 50 vs #24, with a composite score of 70.6 to 57.1. Wisconsin leads 7 of 11 categories and Tennessee leads 4, including growth and fiscal health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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