California vs Alabama: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Alabama #37 as of the latest release. Alabama is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 110.7), has a 3-point lower tax burden, and has a 20% lower violent crime rate. Alabama scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Typical home value is 68% lower in Alabama ($241,613 vs. $764,158 in California).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 62% lower in Alabama ($8,859 vs. $23,071 in California).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 51% lower in Alabama ($1,433 vs. $2,941 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -8.3 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 48.5#37 of 50 · C | -8.3 pts | — | AL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +21.9 pts (+25%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +21.9 pts+25% | 100 | AL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$68,842 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | -$68,842 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$522,545 (+216%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$522,545+216% | $368,697 | AL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.01 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | +3.01 pts | 8.74% | AL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +84 (+24%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | +84+24% | 328 | AL |
| Median household incomeGap +$33,490 (+50%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$33,490+50% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| Life expectancyGap +5.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +5.5 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -106,599 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | -106,599 | -33 | AL |
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 California or Alabama better to live in?
Alabama scores higher overall: 48.5 to 40.2 out of 100, #37 of 50 against #47. California leads 4 of 11 categories, Alabama leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -8.3 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 49.8#21 · B | -8.3 pts | AL |
| Safety12% of scoregap -11.6 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 66.3#28 · C+ | -11.6 pts | AL |
| Health12% of scoregap +48.1 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 29.5#45 · D | +48.1 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap +2.3 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 49.4#39 · C | +2.3 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -71.2 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 85.5#7 · A | -71.2 pts | AL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -8.9 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 56.4#31 · C+ | -8.9 pts | AL |
| Growth7% of scoregap -47.5 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 53.6#7 · A | -47.5 pts | AL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +13.1 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 32.9#49 · F | +13.1 pts | CA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +8.9 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 22.8#45 · D | +8.9 pts | CA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +34.2 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 6.6#47 · D | +34.2 pts | CA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -3.6 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 28.3#43 · D | -3.6 pts | AL |
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 California cheaper than Alabama?
Alabama is cheaper: cost of living index 88.8 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $68,842 more a year in Alabama after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +21.9 pts (+25%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +21.9 pts+25% | 100 | AL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +9.7 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96.4#26 of 50 | +9.7 pts+10% | 100 | AL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +16.44¢ (+102%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | +16.44¢+102% | 17.84¢/kWh | AL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.45 (+25%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | +$4.45+25% | $15.83/Mcf | AL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.53 (+53%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | +$1.53+53% | $3.32/gal | AL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$14,212 (+160%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $8,859#3 of 50 | +$14,212+160% | $15,633 | AL |
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 | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$24,660 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$36,789costs $38,211 | -$24,660 | AL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$32,499 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$30,195costs $44,805 | -$32,499 | AL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$68,842 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | +$8,845costs $66,155 | -$68,842 | AL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$27,680 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$41,956costs $33,044 | -$27,680 | AL |
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 | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$36,191 | $51,794 | $15,603 | +$36,191 | AL |
| ChildcareGap +$28,424 | $46,142 | $17,718 | +$28,424 | AL |
| UtilitiesGap +$1,052 | $5,314 | $4,262 | +$1,052 | AL |
| GroceriesGap +$1,092 | $11,950 | $10,858 | +$1,092 | AL |
| TransportationGap +$4,808 | $13,891 | $9,083 | +$4,808 | AL |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,725 | $5,906 | $8,631 | -$2,725 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or Alabama?
Alabama collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.99% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.01 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | +3.01 pts | 8.74% | AL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.25 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 4.15%#15 of 50 | +10.25 pts | 5.46% | AL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.32 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.39%#2 of 50 | +0.32 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.47 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 9.46%#46 of 50 | -0.47 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 California or Alabama?
Homes cost 216% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $241,613 in Alabama. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $63,954 in Alabama; the median household earns $100,149 and $66,659.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$522,545 (+216%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$522,545+216% | $368,697 | AL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +1.9%#29 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | AL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,508 (+105%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,433#11 of 50 | +$1,508+105% | $1,948 | AL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$133,308 (+208%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $63,954#5 of 50 | +$133,308+208% | $100,006 | AL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +4x (+111%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 3.6x#8 of 50 | +4x+111% | 4.6x | AL |
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.
| CA | AL | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $1,243 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | -4% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +17.7% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Cool |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Birmingham |
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 California or Alabama?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $66,659, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 2.9% in Alabama. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Alabama's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$33,490 (+50%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$33,490+50% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.6 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 2.9%#5 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| GDP per capitaGap +$37,283 (+73%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $51,087#44 of 50 | +$37,283+73% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap -0.6 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.58%#20 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +0.51% | AL |
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 | CA | AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $143,248$128,923 in Birmingham | CA |
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $134,596$121,136 in Birmingham | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $87,941$79,147 in Birmingham | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $70,578$63,520 in Birmingham | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $239,510$215,559 in Birmingham | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $62,286$56,057 in Birmingham | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $95,904$86,314 in Birmingham | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $104,288$93,859 in Birmingham | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $65,068$58,561 in Birmingham | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $96,769$87,092 in Birmingham | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $61,371$55,234 in Birmingham | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $33,911$30,520 in Birmingham | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $79,326$71,393 in Birmingham | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $64,834$58,351 in Birmingham | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $55,494$49,945 in Birmingham | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $52,873$47,586 in Birmingham | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $55,134$49,621 in Birmingham | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $53,592$48,233 in Birmingham | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $41,163$37,047 in Birmingham | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $48,637$43,773 in Birmingham | CA |
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 California safer than Alabama?
Alabama is safer: 348 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,462 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +84 (+24%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | +84+24% | 328 | AL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +330 (+23%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,462#27 of 50 | +330+23% | 1,535 | AL |
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.
- Yorba Linda, CA47 violent per 100K
- Daphne, AL57 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or Alabama?
California and Alabama are close on education (#37 and #39 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 88.2%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #45); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 73.8 in Alabama.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 262#48 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 250#45 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| Life expectancyGap +5.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +5.5 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -9.8 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 38.9%#46 of 50 | -9.8 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 8.2%#32 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+14%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 42#37 of 50 | +6 pts+14% | 38.8 | AL |
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).
- San Ramon, CAeducation score 98
- Florence, ALeducation 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: California #37, Alabama #39. Health: California #5, Alabama #45.
Are more people moving from California to Alabama, or from Alabama to California?
2,342 households moved from California to Alabama and 1,589 moved from Alabama to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 753 households for Alabama. Movers to Alabama reported an average income of $74,207; movers to California reported $69,859. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,145 people (±2,936) moving from California to Alabama and 1,440 (±735) the other way, a net gain of about 5,705 people for Alabama beyond the margin of error.
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 | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +197,494 (+357%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 55,369#25 of 50 | +197,494+357% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +304,093 (+618%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 49,167#24 of 50 | +304,093+618% | AL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -106,599 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | -106,599 | AL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.8 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +1.2#19 of 50 | -3.8 | AL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$29,056 (+44%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $66,467#36 of 50 | +$29,056+44% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$38,253 (+60%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $63,867#45 of 50 | +$38,253+60% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -10.3 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +4.5#11 of 50 | -10.3 | AL |
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, California or Alabama?
California is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Alabama is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +9 places | #48score 43.1 | #39score 56.2 | +9 places | AL |
| RetireesGap +5 places | #49score 43.4 | #44score 51.9 | +5 places | AL |
| Remote WorkersGap +24 places | #50score 19.5 | #26score 52 | +24 places | AL |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +28 places | #50score 24.3 | #22score 55.2 | +28 places | AL |
| Small BusinessGap +26 places | #50score 26.8 | #24score 58.7 | +26 places | AL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -17 places | #31score 36.7 | #48score 25.3 | -17 places | CA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesAlabama (#39 vs #48)
- RetireesAlabama (#44 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersAlabama (#26 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsAlabama (#22 vs #50)
- Small BusinessAlabama (#24 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsCalifornia (#31 vs #48)
Which cities stand out in California and Alabama?
California has 188 tracked cities and Alabama has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Huntsville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Huntsville222,791 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Madisonscore 72.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Daphne57 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Enterprisecost index 83.2 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Montgomerywalkability 12.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Alabastercounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Florence98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Madisonmedian income $134,655 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Madison+6.5% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and Alabama compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and Alabama AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +43 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 9%#40 of 50 | +43 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +25.2 (+81%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 31.1#28 of 50 | +25.2+81% | 29.6 | AL |
| Public land shareGap +42.1 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 3.7%#40 of 50 | +42.1 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 26 min#27 of 50 | +3.7 min | 25.2 min | AL |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.9 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.8 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 8.3%#46 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.4 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 91.6%#38 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 92.67% | CA |
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 | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#34 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | AL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 9.8%#28 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 12.39% | AL |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 72%#29 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,724 (+70%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,456#19 of 50 | +$1,724+70% | $3,506 | AL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.4 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +5.2%#23 of 50 | -8.4 pts | +4.66% | AL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, Alabama 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).
California vs Alabama: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. California is ahead on 13 of 51, Alabama on 31, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlabamaAL | GapCA−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +34,162,221 (+658%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 5.2 million#24 of 50 | +34,162,221+658% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$33,490 (+50%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$33,490+50% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.6 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 2.9%#5 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| Population growthGap -0.6 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.58%#20 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +0.51% | AL |
| GDP per capitaGap +$37,283 (+73%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $51,087#44 of 50 | +$37,283+73% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +84 (+24%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | +84+24% | 328 | AL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +330 (+23%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,462#27 of 50 | +330+23% | 1,535 | AL |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 236#31 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 262#48 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 213#33 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 250#45 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +5.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +5.5 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -9.8 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 38.9%#46 of 50 | -9.8 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 8.2%#32 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$522,545 (+216%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$522,545+216% | $368,697 | AL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +1.9%#29 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | AL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,508 (+105%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,433#11 of 50 | +$1,508+105% | $1,948 | AL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$133,308 (+208%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $63,954#5 of 50 | +$133,308+208% | $100,006 | AL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +21.9 pts (+25%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +21.9 pts+25% | 100 | AL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +4x (+111%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 3.6x#8 of 50 | +4x+111% | 4.6x | AL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +16.44¢ (+102%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | +16.44¢+102% | 17.84¢/kWh | AL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.45 (+25%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | +$4.45+25% | $15.83/Mcf | AL |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.53 (+53%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | +$1.53+53% | $3.32/gal | AL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +9.7 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96.4#26 of 50 | +9.7 pts+10% | 100 | AL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$14,212 (+160%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $8,859#3 of 50 | +$14,212+160% | $15,633 | AL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.01 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | +3.01 pts | 8.74% | AL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.25 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 4.15%#15 of 50 | +10.25 pts | 5.46% | AL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.32 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.39%#2 of 50 | +0.32 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.47 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 9.46%#46 of 50 | -0.47 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#34 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | AL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 9.8%#28 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 12.39% | AL |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 72%#29 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,724 (+70%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,456#19 of 50 | +$1,724+70% | $3,506 | AL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.4 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +5.2%#23 of 50 | -8.4 pts | +4.66% | AL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+14%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 42#37 of 50 | +6 pts+14% | 38.8 | AL |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +43 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 9%#40 of 50 | +43 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +25.2 (+81%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 31.1#28 of 50 | +25.2+81% | 29.6 | AL |
| Public land shareGap +42.1 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 3.7%#40 of 50 | +42.1 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 26 min#27 of 50 | +3.7 min | 25.2 min | AL |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.9 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.8 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 8.3%#46 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.4 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 91.6%#38 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +197,494 (+357%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 55,369#25 of 50 | +197,494+357% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +304,093 (+618%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 49,167#24 of 50 | +304,093+618% | 78,715 | AL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -106,599 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | -106,599 | -33 | AL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.8 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +1.2#19 of 50 | -3.8 | +0.4 | AL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$29,056 (+44%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $66,467#36 of 50 | +$29,056+44% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$38,253 (+60%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $63,867#45 of 50 | +$38,253+60% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -10.3 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +4.5#11 of 50 | -10.3 | +1.1 | AL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$68,842 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | -$68,842 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$24,660 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$36,789#7 of 50 | -$24,660 | +$31,418 | AL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$27,680 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$41,956#6 of 50 | -$27,680 | +$35,970 | AL |
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 California and Alabama numbers say when read together.
Alabama ranks higher overall
Alabama leads 6 of the 11 categories to California's 4, with 1 even; California is ahead on health and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 13 and Alabama on 31.
Alabama is cheaper day to day
Alabama's cost of living index is 88.8 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $241,613 in Alabama. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and +$8,845 in Alabama.
Alabama takes a smaller share in taxes
California collects 11% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Alabama collects 7.99% (low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack).
California pays more
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $66,659 in Alabama, with unemployment at 5.5% and 2.9%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 348 in Alabama.
People move to Alabama on net
7,145 people moved to Alabama from California in the latest Census release, against 1,440 going the other way.
Alabama fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and Alabama #39; for retirees, California ranks #49 and Alabama #44.
California vs Alabama: frequently asked questions
Is California or Alabama better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Alabama #37 as of the latest release. Alabama is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 110.7), has a 3-point lower tax burden, and has a 20% lower violent crime rate. Alabama scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is California cheaper than Alabama?
Alabama is cheaper than California: cost of living index 88.8 vs 110.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$59,997 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in California, and +$8,845 in Alabama. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $241,613 in Alabama.
Which has lower taxes, California or Alabama?
Alabama has the lower tax burden: 7.99% of income in state and local taxes vs 11% in California. California's top income tax rate is 14.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.71% and its combined sales tax 8.99%; Alabama's are 4.15%, 0.39% and 9.46%.
Is California safer than Alabama?
Alabama is safer: 348 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and Alabama #33. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,462 in Alabama. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Daphne, AL.
Are homes more expensive in California or Alabama?
Homes are 216% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $241,613 in Alabama. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $63,954 in Alabama, against median incomes of $100,149 and $66,659.
Do people earn more in California or Alabama?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $66,659 in Alabama, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 2.9% in Alabama. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Alabama's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to Alabama or from Alabama to California?
2,342 households moved from California to Alabama and 1,589 moved from Alabama to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 753 households for Alabama. Movers to Alabama reported an average income of $74,207; movers to California reported $69,859. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,145 people (±2,936) moving from California to Alabama and 1,440 (±735) the other way, a net gain of about 5,705 people for Alabama beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, California or Alabama?
Alabama is the better fit for retirees: #44 of 50 on the retiree index vs #49 for California. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$41,956 in Alabama.
Which is better for families, California or Alabama?
Alabama is the better fit for families: #39 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $8,859 in Alabama. High school graduation rates are 87% and 88.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and +$8,845 in Alabama.
Is Alabama better than California?
Yes: Alabama ranks higher than California overall, #37 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 48.5 to 40.2. Alabama leads 6 of 11 categories and California leads 4, including health 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 California vs Alabama.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,342 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).