Texas vs Washington: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Texas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 107), has a 0.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 18% higher violent crime rate. Washington scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 53% lower in Texas ($10,894 vs. $23,136 in Washington).
- Typical home value is 49% lower in Texas ($299,367 vs. $591,879 in Washington).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 27% lower in Texas ($1,659 vs. $2,278 in Washington).
| Measure | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -9.6 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | -9.6 pts | — | WA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -9.9 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -9.9 pts-9% | 100 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$47,749 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$47,749 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$292,512 (-49%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$292,512-49% | $368,697 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.84 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.84 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +61 (+21%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | +61+21% | 328 | WA |
| Median household incomeGap -$19,668 (-20%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$19,668-20% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +6.1 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +46,634 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +46,634 | -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 Washington better to live in?
Washington scores higher overall: 61.8 to 52.2 out of 100, #20 of 50 against #32. Texas leads 4 of 11 categories, Washington leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -9.8 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 52.3#16 · B+ | -9.8 pts | WA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -2.1 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 63.9#30 · C+ | -2.1 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -30.5 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 68.2#13 · B+ | -30.5 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap +3.3 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 57.4#29 · C+ | +3.3 pts | TX |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +35.3 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 39.1#46 · D | +35.3 pts | TX |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +7.9 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 64.3#17 · B+ | +7.9 pts | TX |
| Growth7% of scoregap +10.9 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 40.8#24 · B | +10.9 pts | TX |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -14.9 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 58.6#8 · A | -14.9 pts | WA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -10.3 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 33.9#25 · B | -10.3 pts | WA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -30.7 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 35.4#19 · B | -30.7 pts | WA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -32.3 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 73.1#3 · A+ | -32.3 pts | WA |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Texas cheaper than Washington?
Texas is cheaper: cost of living index 97.1 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $47,749 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -9.9 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -9.9 pts-9% | 100 | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.3 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -6.3 pts-6% | 100 | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.36¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +2.36¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.80 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | +$1.80+10% | $15.83/Mcf | WA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.19 (-29%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$1.19-29% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$12,242 (-53%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$12,242-53% | $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 | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$13,409 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$13,409 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$18,575 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$18,575 | TX |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$47,749 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | +$47,749 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$15,839 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$15,839 | 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 | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$18,078 | $23,045 | $41,123 | -$18,078 | TX |
| ChildcareGap -$24,484 | $21,788 | $46,272 | -$24,484 | TX |
| UtilitiesGap -$475 | $4,661 | $5,136 | -$475 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$710 | $11,049 | $11,759 | -$710 | TX |
| TransportationGap -$3,740 | $9,051 | $12,791 | -$3,740 | TX |
| State and local taxesGap -$261 | $5,551 | $5,812 | -$261 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Washington?
Texas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 8.61%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.84 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.84 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.75 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | +0.75 pts | 1.02% | WA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.31 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -1.31 pts | 6.66% | TX |
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 Washington?
Homes cost 98% more in Washington: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $155,542 in Washington; the median household earns $79,721 and $99,389.
| Measure | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$292,512 (-49%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$292,512-49% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +1.2% | WA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$619 (-27%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$619-27% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$67,481 (-43%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$67,481-43% | $100,006 | TX |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.2x (-37%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -2.2x-37% | 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 | WA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $3,045 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +57% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +11.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Dallas | Seattle |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Texas or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $79,721, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 4.7% in Washington. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Washington's in 6.
| Measure | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$19,668 (-20%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$19,668-20% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap -$21,169 (-24%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$21,169-24% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +0.33 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | +0.33 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 | TX | WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | WA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | TX |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | TX |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | WA |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | WA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | TX |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | WA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | WA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | WA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | Even |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | 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 Washington?
Washington is safer: 284 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,975 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +61 (+21%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | +61+21% | 328 | WA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -189 (-10%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -189-10% | 1,535 | TX |
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
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Texas or Washington?
Texas scores higher for education (#24 of 50 vs #29), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 83.6%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 78.4 in Washington.
| Measure | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +6.1 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +10.2 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +10.2 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +15 pts (+54%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +15 pts+54% | 38.8 | WA |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- No city school data
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Texas #24, Washington #29. Health: Texas #41, Washington #13.
Are more people moving from Texas to Washington, or from Washington to Texas?
9,307 households moved from Texas to Washington and 9,863 moved from Washington to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 556 households for Texas. Movers to Washington reported an average income of $92,378; movers to Texas reported $119,401. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 16,202 people (±3,734) moving from Texas to Washington and 15,937 (±3,731) 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 | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +185,056 (+151%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +185,056+151% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +138,422 (+123%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +138,422+123% | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +46,634 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +46,634 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.6 | +1.8#12 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +0.6 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$6,258 (-7%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$6,258-7% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$19,763 (-20%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$19,763-20% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.9 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | +0.9 | 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 Washington?
Texas is the better fit for small business; Washington is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, 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 | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +3 places | #35score 57.5 | #32score 61 | +3 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +16 places | #33score 58.8 | #17score 66.7 | +16 places | WA |
| Remote WorkersGap +6 places | #25score 52 | #19score 54.8 | +6 places | WA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +1 places | #28score 53 | #27score 53.3 | +1 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -8 places | #15score 64.3 | #23score 58.8 | -8 places | TX |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +32 places | #45score 26.6 | #13score 57.4 | +32 places | WA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#35 vs #32)
- RetireesWashington (#17 vs #33)
- Remote WorkersWashington (#19 vs #25)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#28 vs #27)
- Small BusinessTexas (#15 vs #23)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWashington (#13 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and Washington?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and Washington has 26; the largest are Houston and Seattle. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | WashingtonWA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Seattle754,195 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Redmondscore 71.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Kirkland67 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Yakimacost index 95.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Pascocounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | Kirkland+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and Washington compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and Washington AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -37 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -37 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.5 (-42%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -17.5-42% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap -26.7 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -26.7 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.3 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | +0.3 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.5 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | WA |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +8 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | +8 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,800 (-49%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$1,800-49% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +2.4 pts | +4.66% | TX |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, Washington AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Texas vs Washington: 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, Washington on 19, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | WashingtonWA | GapTX−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +23,708,801 (+296%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 8 million#13 of 50 | +23,708,801+296% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap -$19,668 (-20%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$19,668-20% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | TX |
| Population growthGap +0.33 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | +0.33 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$21,169 (-24%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$21,169-24% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +61 (+21%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | +61+21% | 328 | WA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -189 (-10%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -189-10% | 1,535 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +6.1 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 238#26 of 50 | +3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 216#19 of 50 | -4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +10.2 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +10.2 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$292,512 (-49%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$292,512-49% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +1.2% | WA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$619 (-27%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$619-27% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$67,481 (-43%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$67,481-43% | $100,006 | TX |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -9.9 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -9.9 pts-9% | 100 | TX |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.2x (-37%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -2.2x-37% | 4.6x | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.36¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +2.36¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.80 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | +$1.80+10% | $15.83/Mcf | WA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.19 (-29%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$1.19-29% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.3 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -6.3 pts-6% | 100 | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$12,242 (-53%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$12,242-53% | $15,633 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.84 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.84 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.75 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | +0.75 pts | 1.02% | WA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.31 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -1.31 pts | 6.66% | TX |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +8 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | +8 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,800 (-49%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$1,800-49% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.4 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +2.4 pts | +4.66% | TX |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +15 pts (+54%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +15 pts+54% | 38.8 | WA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -37 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -37 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.5 (-42%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -17.5-42% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap -26.7 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -26.7 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.3 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | +0.3 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.5 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +185,056 (+151%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +185,056+151% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +138,422 (+123%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +138,422+123% | 78,715 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +46,634 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +46,634 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.6 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +0.6 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$6,258 (-7%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$6,258-7% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$19,763 (-20%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$19,763-20% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.9 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | +0.9 | +1.1 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$47,749 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$47,749 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$13,409 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$13,409 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$15,839 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$15,839 | +$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 Washington numbers say when read together.
Washington ranks higher overall
Washington leads 6 of the 11 categories to Texas's 4, with 1 even; Texas is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 25 and Washington on 19.
Texas is cheaper day to day
Texas's cost of living index is 97.1 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $591,879 in Washington. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$47,893 in Washington.
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); Washington collects 8.61% (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $99,389 in Washington, with unemployment at 4.2% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 284 in Washington.
Moves between the two run about even
16,202 people moved from Texas to Washington and 15,937 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Washington is the better fit for retirees
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and Washington #32; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and Washington #17.
Texas vs Washington: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or Washington better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Texas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.1 vs 107), has a 0.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 18% higher violent crime rate. Washington scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Texas cheaper than Washington?
Texas is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 97.1 vs 107 (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 -$47,893 in Washington. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $591,879 in Washington.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or Washington?
Texas has the lower tax burden: 7.77% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.61% in Washington. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; Washington's are zero, 0.88% and 9.51%.
Is Texas safer than Washington?
Washington is safer: 284 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and Washington #25. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,975 in Washington. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Kirkland, WA.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or Washington?
Homes are 98% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $155,542 in Washington, against median incomes of $79,721 and $99,389.
Do people earn more in Texas or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $79,721 in Texas, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 4.7% in Washington. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Washington's in 6, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from Texas to Washington or from Washington to Texas?
9,307 households moved from Texas to Washington and 9,863 moved from Washington to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 556 households for Texas. Movers to Washington reported an average income of $92,378; movers to Texas reported $119,401. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 16,202 people (±3,734) moving from Texas to Washington and 15,937 (±3,731) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or Washington?
Washington is the better fit for retirees: #17 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; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$23,667 in Washington.
Which is better for families, Texas or Washington?
Texas and Washington are close for families: #35 and #32 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $23,136 in Washington. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 83.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$47,893 in Washington.
Is Washington better than Texas?
Yes: Washington ranks higher than Texas overall, #20 of 50 vs #32, with a composite score of 61.8 to 52.2. Washington leads 6 of 11 categories and Texas leads 4, including affordability and growth. 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 Washington.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (9,863 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).