Virginia vs Washington: Which Is Better to Live In?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 107), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 27% lower violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 5.
- Property crime rate is 31% lower in Virginia (1,354 vs. 1,975 in Washington).
- Typical home value is 30% lower in Virginia ($414,662 vs. $591,879 in Washington).
- Violent crime rate is 27% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 284 in Washington).
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +5.9 pts | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | +5.9 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -5.9 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -5.9 pts-6% | 100 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$25,943 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$25,943 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$177,217 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$177,217-30% | $368,697 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.25 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -78 (-27%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -78-27% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$7,299 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$7,299-7% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.5 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,418 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -9,418 | -33 | WA |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Virginia or Washington better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 61.8 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #20. Virginia leads 5 of 11 categories, Washington leads 5, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +12.3 | 15% | 64.6#7 · A | 52.3#16 · B+ | +12.3 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +15.4 | 12% | 79.3#13 · B+ | 63.9#30 · C+ | +15.4 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap -6.8 | 12% | 61.4#17 · B+ | 68.2#13 · B+ | -6.8 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap +8 | 12% | 65.4#14 · B+ | 57.4#29 · C+ | +8 pts | VA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +21.4 | 10% | 60.5#34 · C+ | 39.1#46 · D | +21.4 pts | VA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -1.5 | 8% | 62.8#20 · B | 64.3#17 · B+ | -1.5 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +4.3 | 7% | 45.1#19 · B | 40.8#24 · B | +4.3 pts | VA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -10.8 | 7% | 47.8#29 · C+ | 58.6#8 · A | -10.8 pts | WA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -6.6 | 7% | 27.3#35 · C | 33.9#25 · B | -6.6 pts | WA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -15.3 | 6% | 20.1#30 · C+ | 35.4#19 · B | -15.3 pts | WA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -25.1 | 4% | 48.0#15 · B+ | 73.1#3 · A+ | -25.1 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 Virginia cheaper than Washington?
Virginia is cheaper: cost of living index 101.1 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $25,943 more a year in Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -5.9 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -5.9 pts-6% | 100 | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -4 pts-4% | 100 | VA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.17¢ (+17%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +2.17¢+17% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.83 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | -$0.83-5% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.98 (-24%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.98-24% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$5,872 (-25%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$5,872-25% | $15,633 | VA |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$6,270 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$6,270 | VA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$10,659 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$10,659 | VA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$25,943 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | +$25,943 | VA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$8,596 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$8,596 | VA |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$12,810 | $28,313 | $41,123 | -$12,810 | VA |
| ChildcareGap -$11,744 | $34,528 | $46,272 | -$11,744 | VA |
| UtilitiesGap -$283 | $4,853 | $5,136 | -$283 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$451 | $11,308 | $11,759 | -$451 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$3,080 | $9,711 | $12,791 | -$3,080 | VA |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,425 | $8,237 | $5,812 | +$2,425 | WA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Washington?
Virginia and Washington collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.86% vs 8.61%. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.25 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.75 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +5.75 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.12 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | -0.12 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.74 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -3.74 pts | 6.66% | VA |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Virginia or Washington?
Homes cost 43% more in Washington: a typical home value of $414,662 in Virginia vs $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of income in Virginia and $155,542 in Washington; the median household earns $92,090 and $99,389.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$177,217 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$177,217-30% | $368,697 | VA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +2.5 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$155 (+7%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | +$155+7% | $1,948 | WA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$45,622 (-29%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$45,622-29% | $100,006 | VA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.5x (-25%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -1.5x-25% | 4.6x | VA |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| VA | WA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,133 | $3,045 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +57% |
| Five-year change | +23.4% | +11.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Washington | 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 Virginia or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $92,090, with unemployment at 3.4% in Virginia and 4.7% in Washington. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Washington's in 1.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$7,299 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$7,299-7% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$23,549 (-26%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$23,549-26% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Population growthGap -0.23 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.23 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | VA | WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | WA |
| Lawyers | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | VA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | VA |
| Electricians | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | $50,324$54,853 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 Virginia safer than Washington?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 284 in Washington (FBI). Property crime runs 1,354 and 1,975 per 100,000.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -78 (-27%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -78-27% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -621 (-31%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -621-31% | 1,535 | VA |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Virginia or Washington?
Virginia scores higher for education (#14 of 50 vs #29), with high school graduation rates of 89.1% and 83.6%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #17); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Virginia and 78.4 in Washington.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.5 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.8 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +9 pts (+32%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +9 pts+32% | 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).
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
- 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: Virginia #14, Washington #29. Health: Virginia #17, Washington #13.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Washington, or from Washington to Virginia?
2,660 households moved from Virginia to Washington and 2,575 moved from Washington to Virginia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 85 households for Washington. Movers to Washington reported an average income of $96,041; movers to Virginia reported $99,486. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,604 people (±1,918) moving from Virginia to Washington and 3,386 (±1,212) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +13,425 (+11%) | 135,609#7 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +13,425+11% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +22,843 (+20%) | 135,188#44 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +22,843+20% | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,418 | +421#25 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -9,418 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.2 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -1.2 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$7,563 (-8%) | $82,327#17 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$7,563-8% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$10,794 (-11%) | $89,328#9 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$10,794-11% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.5 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -0.5 | WA |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Virginia or Washington?
Virginia is the better fit for families, young professionals, and small business; Washington is the better fit for 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 | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -15 places | #17score 72.9 | #32score 61 | -15 places | VA |
| RetireesGap -2 places | #15score 68.4 | #17score 66.7 | -2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -3 places | #16score 58.3 | #19score 54.8 | -3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -14 places | #13score 63.4 | #27score 53.3 | -14 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap -11 places | #12score 68 | #23score 58.8 | -11 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +10 places | #23score 48 | #13score 57.4 | +10 places | WA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #32)
- RetireesEven (#15 vs #17)
- Remote WorkersEven (#16 vs #19)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #27)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #23)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWashington (#13 vs #23)
Which cities stand out in Virginia and Washington?
Virginia has 20 tracked cities and Washington has 26; the largest are Virginia Beach and Seattle. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Virginia Beach456,349 people | Seattle754,195 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Restonscore 75.8 | Redmondscore 71.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K | Kirkland67 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 | Yakimacost index 95.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 | Pascocounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Leesburg95% graduation rate | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | McLeanmedian income $250,001 | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Suffolk+1.6% growth | Kirkland+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Virginia and Washington compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Virginia carries AAA credit rating and Washington AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -64 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -64 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -36.0 (-87%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -36.0-87% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -18 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -18 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.1 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | +1.1 min | 25.2 min | WA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.2 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -2.2 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 | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.9 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.39% | WA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -2 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -2 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$820 (-22%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$820-22% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +4.66% | VA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Virginia 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).
Virginia vs Washington: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Virginia is ahead on 21 of 51, Washington on 22, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | VirginiaVA | WashingtonWA | GapVA−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +879,087 (+11%) · US 6.8 million | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | 8 million#13 of 50 | +879,087+11% | 6.8 million | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$7,299 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$7,299-7% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap -0.23 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.23 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$23,549 (-26%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$23,549-26% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -78 (-27%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | -78-27% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -621 (-31%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -621-31% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.5 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 237 | 238#24 of 50 | 238#26 of 50 | +0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 214#31 of 50 | 216#19 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -0.9 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.8 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$177,217 (-30%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$177,217-30% | $368,697 | VA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +2.5 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$155 (+7%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | +$155+7% | $1,948 | WA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$45,622 (-29%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$45,622-29% | $100,006 | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -5.9 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -5.9 pts-6% | 100 | VA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.5x (-25%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -1.5x-25% | 4.6x | VA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.17¢ (+17%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +2.17¢+17% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.83 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | -$0.83-5% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.98 (-24%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.98-24% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -4 pts-4% | 100 | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$5,872 (-25%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$5,872-25% | $15,633 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.25 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | +0.25 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.75 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +5.75 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.12 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | -0.12 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.74 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -3.74 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.9 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.39% | WA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -2 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | -2 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$820 (-22%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$820-22% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +4.66% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +9 pts (+32%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +9 pts+32% | 38.8 | WA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -64 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -64 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -36.0 (-87%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -36.0-87% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -18 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -18 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.1 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | +1.1 min | 25.2 min | WA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.2 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +13,425 (+11%) · US 78,682 | 135,609#7 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +13,425+11% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +22,843 (+20%) · US 78,715 | 135,188#44 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +22,843+20% | 78,715 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,418 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -9,418 | -33 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.2 · US +0.4 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -1.2 | +0.4 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$7,563 (-8%) · US $77,690 | $82,327#17 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$7,563-8% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$10,794 (-11%) · US $77,024 | $89,328#9 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$10,794-11% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.5 · US +1.1 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -0.5 | +1.1 | WA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$25,943 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$25,943 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$6,270 · US +$31,418 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$6,270 | +$31,418 | VA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$8,596 · US +$35,970 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$8,596 | +$35,970 | VA |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Virginia and Washington numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 5 of the 11 categories to Washington's 5, with 1 even; Washington is ahead on environment and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Virginia is ahead on 21 and Washington on 22.
Virginia is cheaper day to day
Virginia's cost of living index is 101.1 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $414,662 in Virginia and $591,879 in Washington. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 a year after typical costs in Virginia and -$47,893 in Washington.
Tax burdens are close
Virginia collects 8.86% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Washington collects 8.61% (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more
Median household income is $92,090 in Virginia and $99,389 in Washington, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 206 per 100,000 residents in Virginia and 284 in Washington.
Moves between the two run about even
4,604 people moved from Virginia to Washington and 3,386 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia is the better fit for families
For families, Virginia ranks #17 of 50 and Washington #32; for retirees, Virginia ranks #15 and Washington #17.
Virginia vs Washington: frequently asked questions
Is Virginia or Washington better to live in?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 107), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 27% lower violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Virginia cheaper than Washington?
Virginia is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 101.1 vs 107 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$21,950 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Virginia, and -$47,893 in Washington. The typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $591,879 in Washington.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Washington?
Virginia and Washington have similar tax burdens: 8.86% vs 8.61% of income in state and local taxes. Virginia's top income tax rate is 5.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.76% and its combined sales tax 5.77%; Washington's are zero, 0.88% and 9.51%.
Is Virginia safer than Washington?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 284 in Washington, per the FBI. Virginia ranks #8 of 50 for violent crime and Washington #25. Property crime is 1,354 per 100,000 in Virginia and 1,975 in Washington. The safest tracked cities are Virginia Beach, VA, and Kirkland, WA.
Are homes more expensive in Virginia or Washington?
Homes are 43% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of household income in Virginia and $155,542 in Washington, against median incomes of $92,090 and $99,389.
Do people earn more in Virginia or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $92,090 in Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Virginia and 4.7% in Washington. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Washington's in 1, with 5 even.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Washington or from Washington to Virginia?
2,660 households moved from Virginia to Washington and 2,575 moved from Washington to Virginia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 85 households for Washington. Movers to Washington reported an average income of $96,041; movers to Virginia reported $99,486. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,604 people (±1,918) moving from Virginia to Washington and 3,386 (±1,212) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Virginia or Washington?
Virginia and Washington are close for retirees: #15 and #17 of 50 on the retiree index. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes 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 +$32,263 left after typical costs in Virginia and +$23,667 in Washington.
Which is better for families, Virginia or Washington?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #32 for Washington. Center-based infant care costs $17,264 a year in Virginia and $23,136 in Washington. High school graduation rates are 89.1% and 83.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 after typical costs in Virginia and -$47,893 in Washington.
Is Washington better than Virginia?
No: Virginia ranks higher than Washington overall, #15 of 50 vs #20, with a composite score of 67.7 to 61.8. Virginia leads 5 of 11 categories and Washington leads 5, including environment and outdoor access. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Virginia vs Washington.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (2,660 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).