Virginia vs West Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. West Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89.5 vs 101.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 15% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 1.
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 57% lower in West Virginia ($47,071 vs. $109,920 in Virginia).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 49% lower in West Virginia ($1,229 vs. $2,433 in Virginia).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 46% lower in West Virginia ($9,339 vs. $17,264 in Virginia).
| Measure | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +24.9 pts | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | 42.8#44 of 50 · D | +24.9 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +11.6 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +11.6 pts+13% | 100 | WV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$32,934 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$32,934 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$235,166 (+131%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$235,166+131% | $368,697 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.01 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +0.01 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -36 (-15%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | -36-15% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap +$31,292 (+51%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$31,292+51% | $80,903 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +5.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +5.3 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -458 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -458 | -33 | WV |
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 West Virginia better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 42.8 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #44. Virginia leads 7 of 11 categories, West Virginia leads 1, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +38.4 | 15% | 64.6#7 · A | 26.2#47 · D | +38.4 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -1.6 | 12% | 79.3#13 · B+ | 80.9#9 · A | -1.6 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +40.1 | 12% | 61.4#17 · B+ | 21.3#49 · F | +40.1 pts | VA |
| Education12% of scoregap +20.3 | 12% | 65.4#14 · B+ | 45.1#43 · D | +20.3 pts | VA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -25.7 | 10% | 60.5#34 · C+ | 86.2#6 · A | -25.7 pts | WV |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +2.7 | 8% | 62.8#20 · B | 60.1#23 · B | +2.7 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +13.7 | 7% | 45.1#19 · B | 31.4#31 · C+ | +13.7 pts | VA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +8.6 | 7% | 47.8#29 · C+ | 39.2#46 · D | +8.6 pts | VA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -1.8 | 7% | 27.3#35 · C | 29.1#32 · C+ | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +3.4 | 6% | 20.1#30 · C+ | 16.7#33 · C+ | +3.4 pts | VA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +19.2 | 4% | 48.0#15 · B+ | 28.8#41 · C | +19.2 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 Virginia cheaper than West Virginia?
West Virginia is cheaper: cost of living index 89.5 vs 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $32,934 more a year in West Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +11.6 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +11.6 pts+13% | 100 | WV |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.9 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | +3.9 pts+4% | 100 | WV |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.13¢ (-1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | -0.13¢-1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.99 (+22%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$2.99+22% | $15.83/Mcf | WV |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.24 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | -$0.24-7% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,925 (+85%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$7,925+85% | $15,633 | WV |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$10,801 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$39,203costs $35,796 | -$10,801 | WV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$13,589 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$32,667costs $42,333 | -$13,589 | WV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$32,934 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | +$10,984costs $64,017 | -$32,934 | WV |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$12,093 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$44,356costs $30,644 | -$12,093 | WV |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$16,434 | $28,313 | $11,879 | +$16,434 | WV |
| ChildcareGap +$15,850 | $34,528 | $18,678 | +$15,850 | WV |
| UtilitiesGap +$557 | $4,853 | $4,296 | +$557 | WV |
| GroceriesGap +$439 | $11,308 | $10,869 | +$439 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$755 | $9,711 | $10,466 | -$755 | VA |
| State and local taxesGap +$408 | $8,237 | $7,829 | +$408 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or West Virginia?
Virginia and West Virginia collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.86% vs 8.85%. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.01 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +0.01 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.93 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | +0.93 pts | 5.46% | WV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.21 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.21 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.82 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | -0.82 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 West Virginia?
Homes cost 131% more in Virginia: a typical home value of $414,662 in Virginia vs $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of income in Virginia and $47,071 in West Virginia; the median household earns $92,090 and $60,798.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$235,166 (+131%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$235,166+131% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.9 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.2% | WV |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,204 (+98%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$1,204+98% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$62,849 (+134%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$62,849+134% | $100,006 | WV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+50%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +1.5x+50% | 4.6x | WV |
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 | WV | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,133 | $924 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | -23% |
| Five-year change | +23.4% | +22.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Washington | Charleston |
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 West Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income $92,090 vs $60,798, with unemployment at 3.4% in Virginia and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$31,292 (+51%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$31,292+51% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$24,375 (+58%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$24,375+58% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +1.91% | VA |
| Population growthGap +0.76 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.76 pts | +0.51% | VA |
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 | WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | $191,792$172,613 in Charleston | VA |
| Lawyers | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | $123,618$111,256 in Charleston | VA |
| Software Developers | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | $115,314$103,783 in Charleston | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | $88,299$79,469 in Charleston | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | $82,352$74,117 in Charleston | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | $89,258$80,332 in Charleston | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | $73,760$66,384 in Charleston | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | $62,826$56,543 in Charleston | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | $68,489$61,640 in Charleston | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | $60,696$54,626 in Charleston | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | $54,044$48,640 in Charleston | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | $48,929$44,036 in Charleston | VA |
| Electricians | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | $53,664$48,298 in Charleston | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | $46,768$42,091 in Charleston | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | $59,622$53,660 in Charleston | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | $49,399$44,459 in Charleston | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | $40,844$36,760 in Charleston | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | $47,229$42,506 in Charleston | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | $35,598$32,038 in Charleston | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | $28,247$25,422 in Charleston | VA |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Virginia safer than West Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 242 in West Virginia (FBI). Property crime runs 1,354 and 1,053 per 100,000.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -36 (-15%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | -36-15% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +300 (+29%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +300+29% | 1,535 | WV |
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
- Bridgeport, WV74 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Virginia or West Virginia?
Virginia scores higher for education (#14 of 50 vs #43), with high school graduation rates of 89.1% and 91.2%. Virginia scores higher for health (#17 vs #49); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Virginia and 72.2 in West Virginia.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +14 | 273 | VA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +5.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +5.3 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap -9.1 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -9.1 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 7.6% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-8%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | -3 pts-8% | 38.8 | VA |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
- Wheeling, WVeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Virginia #14, West Virginia #43. Health: Virginia #17, West Virginia #49.
Are more people moving from Virginia to West Virginia, or from West Virginia to Virginia?
3,792 households moved from Virginia to West Virginia and 2,725 moved from West Virginia to Virginia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,067 households for West Virginia. Movers to West Virginia reported an average income of $67,489; movers to Virginia reported $56,777. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,315 people (±2,190) moving from Virginia to West Virginia and 4,965 (±1,864) 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 | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +114,715 (+549%) | 135,609#7 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +114,715+549% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +115,173 (+575%) | 135,188#44 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +115,173+575% | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -458 | +421#25 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -458 | WV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.5 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | -0.5 | WV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$23,843 (+41%) | $82,327#17 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$23,843+41% | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$28,814 (+48%) | $89,328#9 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | +$28,814+48% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.9 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -2.9 | WV |
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 West Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -19 places | #17score 72.9 | #36score 57.5 | -19 places | VA |
| RetireesGap -23 places | #15score 68.4 | #38score 54.5 | -23 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap -16 places | #16score 58.3 | #32score 49 | -16 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -28 places | #13score 63.4 | #41score 41.9 | -28 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap -27 places | #12score 68 | #39score 46.1 | -27 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -15 places | #23score 48 | #38score 31.4 | -15 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 #36)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #38)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #32)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #41)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #39)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #38)
Which cities stand out in Virginia and West Virginia?
Virginia has 20 tracked cities and West Virginia has 20; the largest are Virginia Beach and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Virginia Beach456,349 people | Charleston47,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Restonscore 75.8 | Bridgeportscore 62.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K | Bridgeport74 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 | Fairmontcost index 87 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 | Clarksburgwalkability 10.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 | Clarksburgcounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Leesburg95% graduation rate | Wheeling98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | McLeanmedian income $250,001 | Cheat Lakemedian income $117,014 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Suffolk+1.6% growth | Martinsburg+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Virginia and West Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Virginia carries AAA credit rating and West Virginia AA-.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | VA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -31.2 (-85%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -31.2-85% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -1.5 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | WV |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.4 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap +7 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +7 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.4 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 92.67% | VA |
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 | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -16.4 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -16.4 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$350 (+14%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$350+14% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | WV |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Virginia AAA, West Virginia 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 West Virginia: 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, West Virginia on 24, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | VirginiaVA | West VirginiaWV | GapVA−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +7,113,960 (+403%) · US 6.8 million | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | 1.8 million#39 of 50 | +7,113,960+403% | 6.8 million | VA |
| Median household incomeGap +$31,292 (+51%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$31,292+51% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap +0.76 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.76 pts | +0.51% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$24,375 (+58%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$24,375+58% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +1.91% | VA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -36 (-15%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | -36-15% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +300 (+29%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +300+29% | 1,535 | WV |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 238#24 of 50 | 232#46 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +14 | 273 | VA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +8 · US 214 | 214#31 of 50 | 206#48 of 50 | +8 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +5.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +5.3 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap -9.1 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -9.1 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 7.6% | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$235,166 (+131%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$235,166+131% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.9 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.2% | WV |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,204 (+98%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$1,204+98% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$62,849 (+134%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$62,849+134% | $100,006 | WV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +11.6 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +11.6 pts+13% | 100 | WV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+50%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +1.5x+50% | 4.6x | WV |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.13¢ (-1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | -0.13¢-1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.99 (+22%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$2.99+22% | $15.83/Mcf | WV |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.24 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | -$0.24-7% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.9 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | +3.9 pts+4% | 100 | WV |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,925 (+85%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$7,925+85% | $15,633 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.01 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +0.01 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.93 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | +0.93 pts | 5.46% | WV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.21 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.21 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.82 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | -0.82 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -16.4 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -16.4 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$350 (+14%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$350+14% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-8%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | -3 pts-8% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | VA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -31.2 (-85%) · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -31.2-85% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -1.5 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | WV |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.4 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap +7 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +7 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.4 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 92.67% | VA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +114,715 (+549%) · US 78,682 | 135,609#7 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +114,715+549% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +115,173 (+575%) · US 78,715 | 135,188#44 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +115,173+575% | 78,715 | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -458 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -458 | -33 | WV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.5 · US +0.4 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | -0.5 | +0.4 | WV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$23,843 (+41%) · US $77,690 | $82,327#17 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$23,843+41% | $77,690 | VA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$28,814 (+48%) · US $77,024 | $89,328#9 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | +$28,814+48% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.9 · US +1.1 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -2.9 | +1.1 | WV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$32,934 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$32,934 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$10,801 · US +$31,418 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$39,203#2 of 50 | -$10,801 | +$31,418 | WV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$12,093 · US +$35,970 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$44,356#3 of 50 | -$12,093 | +$35,970 | WV |
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 West Virginia numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 7 of the 11 categories to West Virginia's 1, with 3 even; West Virginia is ahead on affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Virginia is ahead on 21 and West Virginia on 24.
West Virginia is cheaper day to day
West Virginia's cost of living index is 89.5 against 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). The typical home costs $414,662 in Virginia and $179,496 in West Virginia. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 a year after typical costs in Virginia and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
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); West Virginia collects 8.85% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Virginia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $92,090 in Virginia and $60,798 in West Virginia, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 206 per 100,000 residents in Virginia and 242 in West Virginia.
Moves between the two run about even
7,315 people moved from Virginia to West Virginia and 4,965 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, Virginia ranks #17 of 50 and West Virginia #36; for retirees, Virginia ranks #15 and West Virginia #38.
Virginia vs West Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Virginia or West Virginia better to live in?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. West Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89.5 vs 101.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 15% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Virginia cheaper than West Virginia?
West Virginia is cheaper than Virginia: cost of living index 89.5 vs 101.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$21,950 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Virginia, and +$10,984 in West Virginia. The typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $179,496 in West Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or West Virginia?
Virginia and West Virginia have similar tax burdens: 8.86% vs 8.85% 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%; West Virginia's are 4.82%, 0.55% and 6.59%.
Is Virginia safer than West Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 242 in West Virginia, per the FBI. Virginia ranks #8 of 50 for violent crime and West Virginia #19. Property crime is 1,354 per 100,000 in Virginia and 1,053 in West Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Virginia Beach, VA, and Bridgeport, WV.
Are homes more expensive in Virginia or West Virginia?
Homes are 131% more expensive in Virginia: the typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of household income in Virginia and $47,071 in West Virginia, against median incomes of $92,090 and $60,798.
Do people earn more in Virginia or West Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income is $92,090 vs $60,798 in West Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Virginia and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
Are more people moving from Virginia to West Virginia or from West Virginia to Virginia?
3,792 households moved from Virginia to West Virginia and 2,725 moved from West Virginia to Virginia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,067 households for West Virginia. Movers to West Virginia reported an average income of $67,489; movers to Virginia reported $56,777. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,315 people (±2,190) moving from Virginia to West Virginia and 4,965 (±1,864) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Virginia or West Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #38 for West Virginia. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$32,263 left after typical costs in Virginia and +$44,356 in West Virginia.
Which is better for families, Virginia or West Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #36 for West Virginia. Center-based infant care costs $17,264 a year in Virginia and $9,339 in West Virginia. High school graduation rates are 89.1% and 91.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 after typical costs in Virginia and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
Is West Virginia better than Virginia?
No: Virginia ranks higher than West Virginia overall, #15 of 50 vs #44, with a composite score of 67.7 to 42.8. Virginia leads 7 of 11 categories and West Virginia leads 1, including affordability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Virginia vs West Virginia.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (3,792 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).