California vs Alaska: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. Alaska is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 102.4 vs 110.7), has no income tax, and has a 41% higher violent crime rate. Alaska scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Total tax burden is 55% lower in Alaska (4.93% vs. 11% in California).
- Typical home value is 48% lower in Alaska ($398,663 vs. $764,158 in California).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 46% lower in Alaska ($12,425 vs. $23,071 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4.1 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 44.3#42 of 50 · C | -4.1 pts | — | AK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.3 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +8.3 pts+8% | 100 | AK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$44,539 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | -$44,539 | -$11,758 | AK |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$365,495 (+92%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$365,495+92% | $368,697 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +6.07 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +6.07 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -297 (-41%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -297-41% | 328 | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$4,484 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | +$4,484+5% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +9.2 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +3.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +3.5 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -99,008 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | -99,008 | -33 | AK |
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 Alaska better to live in?
Alaska scores higher overall: 44.3 to 40.2 out of 100, #42 of 50 against #47. California leads 3 of 11 categories, Alaska leads 8, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -7.6 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 49.1#23 · B | -7.6 pts | AK |
| Safety12% of scoregap +25.2 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 29.5#50 · F | +25.2 pts | CA |
| Health12% of scoregap +35 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 42.6#37 · C | +35 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap +35 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 16.7#49 · F | +35 pts | CA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -33.3 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 47.6#42 · C | -33.3 pts | AK |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -26.7 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 74.2#4 · A+ | -26.7 pts | AK |
| Growth7% of scoregap -7.3 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 13.4#49 · F | -7.3 pts | AK |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -20.1 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 66.1#2 · A+ | -20.1 pts | AK |
| Livability7% of scoregap -6.5 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 38.2#16 · B+ | -6.5 pts | AK |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -59.2 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 100.0#1 · A+ | -59.2 pts | AK |
| Environment4% of scoregap -24.8 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 49.5#14 · B+ | -24.8 pts | AK |
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 Alaska?
Alaska is cheaper: cost of living index 102.4 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $44,539 more a year in Alaska after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.3 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +8.3 pts+8% | 100 | AK |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.45¢ (+25%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | +6.45¢+25% | 17.84¢/kWh | AK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.05 (+70%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | +$9.05+70% | $15.83/Mcf | AK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.30 (-6%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$0.30-6% | $3.32/gal | CA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,646 (+86%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | +$10,646+86% | $15,633 | AK |
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 | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$16,775 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$28,904costs $46,097 | -$16,775 | AK |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$19,476 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$17,172costs $57,829 | -$19,476 | AK |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$44,539 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$15,458costs $90,458 | -$44,539 | AK |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$17,289 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$31,565costs $43,435 | -$17,289 | AK |
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 | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$22,979 | $51,794 | $28,815 | +$22,979 | AK |
| ChildcareGap +$21,292 | $46,142 | $24,850 | +$21,292 | AK |
| UtilitiesGap +$399 | $5,314 | $4,915 | +$399 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$23 | $11,950 | $11,973 | -$23 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$943 | $13,891 | $14,834 | -$943 | CA |
| State and local taxesGap +$835 | $5,906 | $5,071 | +$835 | AK |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or Alaska?
Alaska collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 4.93% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Alaska has no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +6.07 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +6.07 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +14.4 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | +14.4 pts | 5.46% | AK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.45 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.45 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +7.17 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +7.17 pts | 6.66% | AK |
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 Alaska?
Homes cost 92% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $111,424 in Alaska; the median household earns $100,149 and $95,665.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$365,495 (+92%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$365,495+92% | $368,697 | AK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.3 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -5.3 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,081 (+58%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | +$1,081+58% | $1,948 | AK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$85,838 (+77%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | +$85,838+77% | $100,006 | AK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.4x (+81%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +3.4x+81% | 4.6x | AK |
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 | AK | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $2,051 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +17% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +17.6% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Cool |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Anchorage |
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 Alaska?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $95,665, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 4.7% in Alaska. 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 Alaska's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$4,484 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | +$4,484+5% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | AK |
| GDP per capitaGap +$11,955 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | +$11,955+16% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | -0.12 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 | CA | AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $138,621$141,393 in Anchorage | CA |
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $155,460$158,569 in Anchorage | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $93,505$95,375 in Anchorage | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $82,608$84,260 in Anchorage | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $249,940$254,939 in Anchorage | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $77,079$78,621 in Anchorage | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $35,845$36,562 in Anchorage | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $114,302$116,588 in Anchorage | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $106,236$108,361 in Anchorage | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $56,353$57,480 in Anchorage | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $78,774$80,349 in Anchorage | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $112,653$114,906 in Anchorage | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $88,647$90,420 in Anchorage | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $61,927$63,166 in Anchorage | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $72,714$74,168 in Anchorage | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $72,753$74,208 in Anchorage | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $45,850$46,767 in Anchorage | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $52,287$53,333 in Anchorage | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $60,366$61,573 in Anchorage | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $63,334$64,601 in Anchorage | 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 Alaska?
California is safer: 433 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,893 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -297 (-41%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -297-41% | 328 | CA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -101 (-5%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | -101-5% | 1,535 | CA |
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
- Palmer, AK206 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or Alaska?
California scores higher for education (#37 of 50 vs #49), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 77.8%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #37); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 75.8 in Alaska.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +8 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +9.2 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +3.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +3.5 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -5.1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +23 pts (+92%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +23 pts+92% | 38.8 | AK |
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
- Sitka, AKeducation score 89.8
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, Alaska #49. Health: California #5, Alaska #37.
Are more people moving from California to Alaska, or from Alaska to California?
1,363 households moved from California to Alaska and 1,143 moved from Alaska to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 220 households for Alaska. Movers to Alaska reported an average income of $63,302; movers to California reported $62,171. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,950 people (±807) moving from California to Alaska and 3,022 (±1,823) 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 | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +238,234 (+1,629%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +238,234+1,629% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +337,242 (+2,105%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +337,242+2,105% | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -99,008 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | -99,008 | AK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.7 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | -0.7 | AK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$32,230 (+51%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$32,230+51% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$31,210 (+44%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | +$31,210+44% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.3 | -5.8#47 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +0.3 | Even |
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 Alaska?
Alaska is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -1 places | #48score 43.1 | #49score 33.6 | -1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +15 places | #49score 43.4 | #34score 57 | +15 places | AK |
| Remote WorkersGap +35 places | #50score 19.5 | #15score 58.5 | +35 places | AK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +5 places | #50score 24.3 | #45score 39.2 | +5 places | AK |
| Small BusinessGap +14 places | #50score 26.8 | #36score 46.8 | +14 places | AK |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +25 places | #31score 36.7 | #6score 73 | +25 places | AK |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#48 vs #49)
- RetireesAlaska (#34 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersAlaska (#15 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsAlaska (#45 vs #50)
- Small BusinessAlaska (#36 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsAlaska (#6 vs #31)
Which cities stand out in California and Alaska?
California has 188 tracked cities and Alaska has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Anchorage. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Anchorage288,976 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Sitkascore 68.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Palmer206 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Juneaucost index 96.2 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Sitkawalkability 12.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Knik-Fairviewcounty median AQI 9 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Sitka89.8% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Gatewaymedian income $137,772 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Bethel+4.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and Alaska compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and Alaska AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +19 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | +19 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -43.7 (-44%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -43.7-44% | 29.6 | CA |
| Public land shareGap -16 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | -16 pts | 17.16% | AK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +9.9 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +9.9 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.6 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | +1.4 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 | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | AK |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -59.9 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -59.9 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap -3 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | -3 pts | 74.3% | AK |
| State debt per capitaGap -$710 (-15%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$710-15% | $3,506 | CA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -15.3 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -15.3 pts | +4.66% | AK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, Alaska 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 Alaska: 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 18 of 51, Alaska on 25, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | AlaskaAK | GapCA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +38,618,039 (+5,238%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 737,270#48 of 50 | +38,618,039+5,238% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$4,484 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | +$4,484+5% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | AK |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | -0.12 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$11,955 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | +$11,955+16% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -297 (-41%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -297-41% | 328 | CA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -101 (-5%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | -101-5% | 1,535 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +9.2 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 226#49 of 50 | +7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +10 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 202#49 of 50 | +10 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +8 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +3.5 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -5.1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$365,495 (+92%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$365,495+92% | $368,697 | AK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.3 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -5.3 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,081 (+58%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | +$1,081+58% | $1,948 | AK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$85,838 (+77%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | +$85,838+77% | $100,006 | AK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.3 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +8.3 pts+8% | 100 | AK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.4x (+81%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +3.4x+81% | 4.6x | AK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.45¢ (+25%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | +6.45¢+25% | 17.84¢/kWh | AK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.05 (+70%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | +$9.05+70% | $15.83/Mcf | AK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.30 (-6%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$0.30-6% | $3.32/gal | CA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,646 (+86%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | +$10,646+86% | $15,633 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +6.07 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +6.07 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +14.4 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | +14.4 pts | 5.46% | AK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.45 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.45 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +7.17 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +7.17 pts | 6.66% | AK |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | AK |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -59.9 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -59.9 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap -3 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | -3 pts | 74.3% | AK |
| State debt per capitaGap -$710 (-15%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$710-15% | $3,506 | CA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -15.3 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -15.3 pts | +4.66% | AK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +23 pts (+92%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +23 pts+92% | 38.8 | AK |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +19 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | +19 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -43.7 (-44%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -43.7-44% | 29.6 | CA |
| Public land shareGap -16 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | -16 pts | 17.16% | AK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +9.9 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +9.9 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.6 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +238,234 (+1,629%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +238,234+1,629% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +337,242 (+2,105%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +337,242+2,105% | 78,715 | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -99,008 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | -99,008 | -33 | AK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.7 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | -0.7 | +0.4 | AK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$32,230 (+51%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$32,230+51% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$31,210 (+44%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | +$31,210+44% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.3 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +0.3 | +1.1 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$44,539 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | -$44,539 | -$11,758 | AK |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$16,775 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$28,904#32 of 50 | -$16,775 | +$31,418 | AK |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$17,289 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$31,565#34 of 50 | -$17,289 | +$35,970 | AK |
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 Alaska numbers say when read together.
Alaska ranks higher overall
Alaska leads 8 of the 11 categories to California's 3, with 0 even; California is ahead on health and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 18 and Alaska on 25.
Alaska is cheaper day to day
Alaska's cost of living index is 102.4 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $398,663 in Alaska. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Alaska 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); Alaska collects 4.93% (no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
California pays more and is safer
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $95,665 in Alaska, with unemployment at 5.5% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 729 in Alaska.
Moves between the two run about even
1,950 people moved from California to Alaska and 3,022 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Alaska is the better fit for retirees
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and Alaska #49; for retirees, California ranks #49 and Alaska #34.
California vs Alaska: frequently asked questions
Is California or Alaska better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. Alaska is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 102.4 vs 110.7), has no income tax, and has a 41% higher violent crime rate. Alaska scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is California cheaper than Alaska?
Alaska is cheaper than California: cost of living index 102.4 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 -$15,458 in Alaska. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $398,663 in Alaska.
Which has lower taxes, California or Alaska?
Alaska has the lower tax burden: 4.93% 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%; Alaska's are zero, 1.16% and 1.82%.
Is California safer than Alaska?
California is safer: 433 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and Alaska #50. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,893 in Alaska. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Palmer, AK.
Are homes more expensive in California or Alaska?
Homes are 92% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $111,424 in Alaska, against median incomes of $100,149 and $95,665.
Do people earn more in California or Alaska?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $95,665 in Alaska, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 4.7% in Alaska. 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 Alaska's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to Alaska or from Alaska to California?
1,363 households moved from California to Alaska and 1,143 moved from Alaska to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 220 households for Alaska. Movers to Alaska reported an average income of $63,302; movers to California reported $62,171. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,950 people (±807) moving from California to Alaska and 3,022 (±1,823) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, California or Alaska?
Alaska is the better fit for retirees: #34 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; Alaska has no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$31,565 in Alaska.
Which is better for families, California or Alaska?
California and Alaska are close for families: #48 and #49 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $12,425 in Alaska. High school graduation rates are 87% and 77.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Is Alaska better than California?
Yes: Alaska ranks higher than California overall, #42 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 44.3 to 40.2. Alaska leads 8 of 11 categories and California leads 3, including health and education. 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 Alaska.
Why this pair is featured: busiest corridor for a small state.