Texas vs Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. Texas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 101.1), has no income tax, and has a 40% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 40% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 345 in Texas).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 37% lower in Texas ($10,894 vs. $17,264 in Virginia).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 32% lower in Texas ($1,659 vs. $2,433 in Virginia).
| Measure | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -15.5 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | -15.5 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -4 pts-4% | 100 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$21,806 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$21,806 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$115,295 (-28%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$115,295-28% | $368,697 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.09 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -1.09 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +139 (+68%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +139+68% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$12,369 (-13%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$12,369-13% | $80,903 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,052 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | +56,052 | -33 | TX |
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 Texas or Virginia better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 52.2 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #32. Texas leads 3 of 11 categories, Virginia leads 8, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -22.1 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 64.6#7 · A | -22.1 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -17.5 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 79.3#13 · B+ | -17.5 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap -23.7 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 61.4#17 · B+ | -23.7 pts | VA |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.7 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 65.4#14 · B+ | -4.7 pts | VA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +13.9 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 60.5#34 · C+ | +13.9 pts | TX |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +9.4 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 62.8#20 · B | +9.4 pts | TX |
| Growth7% of scoregap +6.6 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 45.1#19 · B | +6.6 pts | TX |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -4.1 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 47.8#29 · C+ | -4.1 pts | VA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -3.7 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 27.3#35 · C | -3.7 pts | VA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -15.4 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 20.1#30 · C+ | -15.4 pts | VA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -7.2 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 48.0#15 · B+ | -7.2 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 Texas cheaper than Virginia?
Texas is cheaper: cost of living index 97.1 vs 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $21,806 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -4 pts-4% | 100 | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | -2.3 pts-2% | 100 | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.19¢ (+1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | +0.19¢+1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.63 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | +$2.63+16% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.21 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | -$0.21-7% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,370 (-37%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | -$6,370-37% | $15,633 | TX |
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 | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$7,139 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$7,139 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$7,916 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$7,916 | TX |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$21,806 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | +$21,806 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$7,243 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$7,243 | TX |
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 | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$5,268 | $23,045 | $28,313 | -$5,268 | TX |
| ChildcareGap -$12,740 | $21,788 | $34,528 | -$12,740 | TX |
| UtilitiesGap -$192 | $4,661 | $4,853 | -$192 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$259 | $11,049 | $11,308 | -$259 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$660 | $9,051 | $9,711 | -$660 | TX |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,686 | $5,551 | $8,237 | -$2,686 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Virginia?
Texas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 8.86%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.09 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -1.09 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.75 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | -5.75 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.87 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | +0.87 pts | 1.02% | VA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.43 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +2.43 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 Texas or Virginia?
Homes cost 39% more in Virginia: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $109,920 in Virginia; the median household earns $79,721 and $92,090.
| Measure | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$115,295 (-28%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$115,295-28% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -3.8 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$774 (-32%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$774-32% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$21,859 (-20%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$21,859-20% | $100,006 | TX |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-16%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | -0.7x-16% | 4.6x | TX |
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.
| TX | VA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $2,133 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +23.4% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Dallas | Washington |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Texas or Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income $92,090 vs $79,721, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 13.
| Measure | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$12,369 (-13%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$12,369-13% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,380 (+4%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | +$2,380+4% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +0.56 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.56 pts | +0.51% | TX |
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 | TX | VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | VA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | VA |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | VA |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | Even |
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | 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 Texas safer than Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,354 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +139 (+68%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +139+68% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +433 (+32%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +433+32% | 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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 violent per 100K
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Texas or Virginia?
Virginia scores higher for education (#14 of 50 vs #24), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 89.1%. Virginia scores higher for health (#17 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 77.5 in Virginia.
| Measure | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap +3.3 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +9.8 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | +9.8 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+16%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +6 pts+16% | 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).
- No city school data
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Texas #24, Virginia #14. Health: Texas #41, Virginia #17.
Are more people moving from Texas to Virginia, or from Virginia to Texas?
7,641 households moved from Texas to Virginia and 9,124 moved from Virginia to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,483 households for Texas. Movers to Virginia reported an average income of $85,385; movers to Texas reported $90,894. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 15,476 people (±4,016) moving from Texas to Virginia and 17,996 (±4,841) 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 | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +171,631 (+127%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | +171,631+127% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +115,579 (+85%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | +115,579+85% | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,052 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | +56,052 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.8 | +1.8#12 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +1.8 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,305 (+2%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | +$1,305+2% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$8,969 (-10%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | -$8,969-10% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.4 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +1.4 | TX |
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, Texas or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +18 places | #35score 57.5 | #17score 72.9 | +18 places | VA |
| RetireesGap +18 places | #33score 58.8 | #15score 68.4 | +18 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap +9 places | #25score 52 | #16score 58.3 | +9 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +15 places | #28score 53 | #13score 63.4 | +15 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap +3 places | #15score 64.3 | #12score 68 | +3 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +22 places | #45score 26.6 | #23score 48 | +22 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 #35)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #33)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #25)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #28)
- Small BusinessEven (#15 vs #12)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and Virginia?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and Virginia has 20; the largest are Houston and Virginia Beach. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | VirginiaVA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Virginia Beach456,349 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Restonscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Leesburg95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | McLeanmedian income $250,001 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | Suffolk+1.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and Virginia AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +27 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | +27 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.5 (+336%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +18.5+336% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -8.7 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -8.7 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.8 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | -0.8 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | -2 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 92.67% | TX |
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 | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +8.9 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | +8.9 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$980 (-35%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | -$980-35% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +4.66% | TX |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, Virginia AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Texas vs Virginia: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Texas is ahead on 25 of 51, Virginia on 18, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | VirginiaVA | GapTX−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +22,829,714 (+257%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | +22,829,714+257% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap -$12,369 (-13%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$12,369-13% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap +0.56 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.56 pts | +0.51% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,380 (+4%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | +$2,380+4% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +139 (+68%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +139+68% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +433 (+32%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +433+32% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 238#24 of 50 | +3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 214#31 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap +3.3 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +9.8 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | +9.8 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$115,295 (-28%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$115,295-28% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -3.8 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$774 (-32%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$774-32% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$21,859 (-20%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$21,859-20% | $100,006 | TX |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -4 pts-4% | 100 | TX |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-16%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | -0.7x-16% | 4.6x | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.19¢ (+1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | +0.19¢+1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.63 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | +$2.63+16% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.21 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | -$0.21-7% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | -2.3 pts-2% | 100 | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,370 (-37%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | -$6,370-37% | $15,633 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.09 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -1.09 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.75 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | -5.75 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.87 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | +0.87 pts | 1.02% | VA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.43 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +2.43 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +8.9 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | +8.9 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$980 (-35%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | -$980-35% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +4.66% | TX |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+16%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +6 pts+16% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +27 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | +27 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.5 (+336%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +18.5+336% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -8.7 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -8.7 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.8 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | -0.8 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | -2 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +171,631 (+127%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | +171,631+127% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +115,579 (+85%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | +115,579+85% | 78,715 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,052 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | +56,052 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.8 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +1.8 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,305 (+2%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | +$1,305+2% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$8,969 (-10%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | -$8,969-10% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.4 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +1.4 | +1.1 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$21,806 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$21,806 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$7,139 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$7,139 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$7,243 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$7,243 | +$35,970 | TX |
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 Texas and Virginia numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 8 of the 11 categories to Texas's 3, with 0 even; Texas is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 25 and Virginia on 18.
Texas is cheaper day to day
Texas's cost of living index is 97.1 against 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $414,662 in Virginia. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Texas takes a smaller share in taxes
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); Virginia collects 8.86% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Virginia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $92,090 in Virginia, with unemployment at 4.2% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 206 in Virginia.
Moves between the two run about even
15,476 people moved from Texas to Virginia and 17,996 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and Virginia #17; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and Virginia #15.
Texas vs Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or Virginia better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. Texas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 101.1), has no income tax, and has a 40% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Texas cheaper than Virginia?
Texas is cheaper than Virginia: cost of living index 97.1 vs 101.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and -$21,950 in Virginia. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $414,662 in Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Virginia?
Texas has the lower tax burden: 7.77% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.86% in Virginia. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; Virginia's are 5.75%, 0.76% and 5.77%.
Is Texas safer than Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and Virginia #8. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,354 in Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Virginia Beach, VA.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or Virginia?
Homes are 39% more expensive in Virginia: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $109,920 in Virginia, against median incomes of $79,721 and $92,090.
Do people earn more in Texas or Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income is $92,090 vs $79,721 in Texas, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 13, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from Texas to Virginia or from Virginia to Texas?
7,641 households moved from Texas to Virginia and 9,124 moved from Virginia to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,483 households for Texas. Movers to Virginia reported an average income of $85,385; movers to Texas reported $90,894. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 15,476 people (±4,016) moving from Texas to Virginia and 17,996 (±4,841) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #33 for Texas. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$32,263 in Virginia.
Which is better for families, Texas or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #35 for Texas. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $17,264 in Virginia. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Is Virginia better than Texas?
Yes: Virginia ranks higher than Texas overall, #15 of 50 vs #32, with a composite score of 67.7 to 52.2. Virginia leads 8 of 11 categories and Texas leads 3, including affordability and fiscal health. 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 Texas vs Virginia.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (9,124 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).