Colorado vs Alaska: Which Is Better to Live In?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.1 vs 102.4); Colorado carries a 3.8-point higher tax burden and has a 42% lower violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Total tax burden is 44% lower in Alaska (4.93% vs. 8.73% in Colorado).
- Violent crime rate is 42% lower in Colorado (422 vs. 729 in Alaska).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 41% lower in Alaska ($12,425 vs. $20,978 in Colorado).
| Measure | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +20.4 pts | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | 44.3#42 of 50 · C | +20.4 pts | — | CO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$19,872 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | -$19,872 | -$11,758 | AK |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$134,085 (+34%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$134,085+34% | $368,697 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.8 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -308 (-42%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -308-42% | 328 | CO |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,448 (+2%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | +$1,448+2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.5 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| Life expectancyGap +2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.7 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +12,730 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +12,730 | -33 | CO |
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 Colorado or Alaska better to live in?
Colorado scores higher overall: 64.7 to 44.3 out of 100, #18 of 50 against #42. Colorado leads 6 of 11 categories, Alaska leads 5, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +11.2 | 15% | 60.3#9 · A | 49.1#23 · B | +11.2 pts | CO |
| Safety12% of scoregap +20.9 | 12% | 50.4#46 · D | 29.5#50 · F | +20.9 pts | CO |
| Health12% of scoregap +32.8 | 12% | 75.4#7 · A | 42.6#37 · C | +32.8 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap +48.6 | 12% | 65.3#18 · B+ | 16.7#49 · F | +48.6 pts | CO |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +5.5 | 10% | 53.1#38 · C | 47.6#42 · C | +5.5 pts | CO |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -13.8 | 8% | 60.4#22 · B | 74.2#4 · A+ | -13.8 pts | AK |
| Growth7% of scoregap +17.6 | 7% | 31.0#33 · C+ | 13.4#49 · F | +17.6 pts | CO |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -4.7 | 7% | 61.4#3 · A+ | 66.1#2 · A+ | -4.7 pts | AK |
| Livability7% of scoregap -4 | 7% | 34.2#24 · B | 38.2#16 · B+ | -4 pts | AK |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -55.5 | 6% | 44.5#9 · A | 100.0#1 · A+ | -55.5 pts | AK |
| Environment4% of scoregap -3.6 | 4% | 45.9#20 · B | 49.5#14 · B+ | -3.6 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 Colorado cheaper than Alaska?
Colorado and Alaska cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 103.1 vs 102.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $19,872 more a year in Alaska after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -7.6 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -7.6 pts-7% | 100 | CO |
| Residential electricity priceGap -10.24¢ (-39%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | -10.24¢-39% | 17.84¢/kWh | CO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.79 (-14%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | -$1.79-14% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.59 (-34%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$1.59-34% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$8,553 (+69%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | +$8,553+69% | $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 | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,739 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$28,904costs $46,097 | -$3,739 | AK |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$2,582 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$17,172costs $57,829 | -$2,582 | AK |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$19,872 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | -$15,458costs $90,458 | -$19,872 | AK |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,079 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$31,565costs $43,435 | -$3,079 | 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 | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$6,122 | $34,937 | $28,815 | +$6,122 | AK |
| ChildcareGap +$17,106 | $41,956 | $24,850 | +$17,106 | AK |
| UtilitiesGap +$34 | $4,949 | $4,915 | +$34 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$856 | $11,117 | $11,973 | -$856 | CO |
| TransportationGap -$4,997 | $9,837 | $14,834 | -$4,997 | CO |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,464 | $7,535 | $5,071 | +$2,464 | AK |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Alaska?
Alaska collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 4.93% vs 8.73%. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Alaska has no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.8 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.4 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 5.46% | AK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.67 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.67 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.07 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +6.07 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 Colorado or Alaska?
Homes cost 34% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $532,748 in Colorado vs $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of income in Colorado and $111,424 in Alaska; the median household earns $97,113 and $95,665.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$134,085 (+34%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$134,085+34% | $368,697 | AK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -7.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -7.1 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$62 (+3%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | +$62+3% | $1,948 | AK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$27,334 (+25%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | +$27,334+25% | $100,006 | AK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.3x (+31%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +1.3x+31% | 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.
| CO | AK | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,741 | $2,051 |
| Income needed vs. median | +43% | +17% |
| Five-year change | +6.8% | +17.6% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Denver | 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 Colorado or Alaska?
Median household income is about the same, $97,113 in Colorado and $95,665 in Alaska, with unemployment at 4% and 4.7%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Alaska's in 4.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$1,448 (+2%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | +$1,448+2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 3.95% | CO |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,391 (-2%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | -$1,391-2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +3.1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Population growthGap +0.3 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +0.3 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 | CO | AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | $138,621$141,393 in Anchorage | CO |
| Electricians | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | $77,079$78,621 in Anchorage | AK |
| Civil Engineers | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | $106,236$108,361 in Anchorage | AK |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | $72,753$74,208 in Anchorage | AK |
| Registered Nurses | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | $93,505$95,375 in Anchorage | CO |
| Lawyers | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | $155,460$158,569 in Anchorage | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | $112,653$114,906 in Anchorage | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | $45,850$46,767 in Anchorage | CO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | $61,927$63,166 in Anchorage | AK |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | $88,647$90,420 in Anchorage | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | $249,940$254,939 in Anchorage | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | $52,287$53,333 in Anchorage | CO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | $63,334$64,601 in Anchorage | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | $72,714$74,168 in Anchorage | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | $82,608$84,260 in Anchorage | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | $114,302$116,588 in Anchorage | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | $60,366$61,573 in Anchorage | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | $35,845$36,562 in Anchorage | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | $78,774$80,349 in Anchorage | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | $56,353$57,480 in Anchorage | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Colorado safer than Alaska?
Colorado is safer: 422 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska (FBI). Property crime runs 2,144 and 1,893 per 100,000.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -308 (-42%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -308-42% | 328 | CO |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +251 (+13%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | +251+13% | 1,535 | AK |
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.
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
- Palmer, AK206 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Colorado or Alaska?
Colorado scores higher for education (#18 of 50 vs #49), with high school graduation rates of 82.3% and 77.8%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #37); life expectancy is 78.5 years in Colorado and 75.8 in Alaska.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +14 | 273 | CO |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +18 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +18 | 257 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.5 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| Life expectancyGap +2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.7 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -9 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | -9 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.1 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 7.6% | CO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +17 pts (+68%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +17 pts+68% | 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).
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
- 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: Colorado #18, Alaska #49. Health: Colorado #7, Alaska #37.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Alaska, or from Alaska to Colorado?
625 households moved from Colorado to Alaska and 697 moved from Alaska to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 72 households for Colorado. Movers to Alaska reported an average income of $69,149; movers to Colorado reported $68,653. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,526 people (±788) moving from Colorado to Alaska and 3,700 (±1,512) the other way, a net gain of about 2,174 people for Colorado 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 | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +106,761 (+730%) | 121,390#11 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +106,761+730% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +94,031 (+587%) | 110,049#39 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +94,031+587% | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +12,730 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +12,730 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.8 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +3.8 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$19,239 (+30%) | $82,532#16 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$19,239+30% | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,630 (+19%) | $84,540#13 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | +$13,630+19% | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.1 | -2.0#42 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +4.1 | CO |
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, Colorado or Alaska?
Colorado is the better fit for families, retirees, young professionals, and small business; Alaska is the better fit for remote workers and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -27 places | #22score 66.1 | #49score 33.6 | -27 places | CO |
| RetireesGap -18 places | #16score 67 | #34score 57 | -18 places | CO |
| Remote WorkersGap +8 places | #23score 53.8 | #15score 58.5 | +8 places | AK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -25 places | #20score 56.7 | #45score 39.2 | -25 places | CO |
| Small BusinessGap -16 places | #20score 59.8 | #36score 46.8 | -16 places | CO |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +9 places | #15score 55.8 | #6score 73 | +9 places | AK |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesColorado (#22 vs #49)
- RetireesColorado (#16 vs #34)
- Remote WorkersAlaska (#15 vs #23)
- Young ProfessionalsColorado (#20 vs #45)
- Small BusinessColorado (#20 vs #36)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsAlaska (#6 vs #15)
Which cities stand out in Colorado and Alaska?
Colorado has 20 tracked cities and Alaska has 20; the largest are Denver and Anchorage. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Denver718,877 people | Anchorage288,976 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Broomfieldscore 68.1 | Sitkascore 68.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K | Palmer206 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pueblocost index 91.8 | Juneaucost index 96.2 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 | Sitkawalkability 12.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 | Knik-Fairviewcounty median AQI 9 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Pueblo93% graduation rate | Sitka89.8% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 | Gatewaymedian income $137,772 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Junction+1.8% growth | Bethel+4.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Colorado and Alaska compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Colorado carries AA+ credit rating and Alaska AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -82.1 (-82%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -82.1-82% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -25.6 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | -25.6 pts | 17.16% | AK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.9 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +5.9 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap +11.5 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +11.5 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | CO |
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 | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -55 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -55 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap -8 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | -8 pts | 74.3% | AK |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,770 (-36%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$1,770-36% | $3,506 | CO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.6 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -8.6 pts | +4.66% | AK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Colorado 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).
Colorado vs Alaska: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Colorado is ahead on 28 of 51, Alaska on 19, and 4 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ColoradoCO | AlaskaAK | GapCO−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,275,291 (+716%) · US 6.8 million | 6 million#20 of 50 | 737,270#48 of 50 | +5,275,291+716% | 6.8 million | CO |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,448 (+2%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | +$1,448+2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 3.95% | CO |
| Population growthGap +0.3 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,391 (-2%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | -$1,391-2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +3.1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -308 (-42%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -308-42% | 328 | CO |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +251 (+13%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | +251+13% | 1,535 | AK |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.5 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +13 · US 237 | 239#18 of 50 | 226#49 of 50 | +13 | 237 | CO |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +14 | 273 | CO |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +19 · US 214 | 221#5 of 50 | 202#49 of 50 | +19 | 214 | CO |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +18 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +18 | 257 | CO |
| Life expectancyGap +2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.7 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -9 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | -9 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.1 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 7.6% | CO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$134,085 (+34%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$134,085+34% | $368,697 | AK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -7.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -7.1 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$62 (+3%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | +$62+3% | $1,948 | AK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$27,334 (+25%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | +$27,334+25% | $100,006 | AK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.3x (+31%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +1.3x+31% | 4.6x | AK |
| Residential electricity priceGap -10.24¢ (-39%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | -10.24¢-39% | 17.84¢/kWh | CO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.79 (-14%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | -$1.79-14% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.59 (-34%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$1.59-34% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -7.6 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -7.6 pts-7% | 100 | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$8,553 (+69%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | +$8,553+69% | $15,633 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.8 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.4 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 5.46% | AK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.67 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.67 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.07 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +6.07 pts | 6.66% | AK |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -55 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -55 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap -8 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | -8 pts | 74.3% | AK |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,770 (-36%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$1,770-36% | $3,506 | CO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.6 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -8.6 pts | +4.66% | AK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +17 pts (+68%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +17 pts+68% | 38.8 | AK |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -82.1 (-82%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -82.1-82% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -25.6 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | -25.6 pts | 17.16% | AK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.9 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +5.9 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap +11.5 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +11.5 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +106,761 (+730%) · US 78,682 | 121,390#11 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +106,761+730% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +94,031 (+587%) · US 78,715 | 110,049#39 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +94,031+587% | 78,715 | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +12,730 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +12,730 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.8 · US +0.4 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +3.8 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$19,239 (+30%) · US $77,690 | $82,532#16 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$19,239+30% | $77,690 | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,630 (+19%) · US $77,024 | $84,540#13 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | +$13,630+19% | $77,024 | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.1 · US +1.1 | -2.0#42 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +4.1 | +1.1 | CO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$19,872 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | -$19,872 | -$11,758 | AK |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,739 · US +$31,418 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$28,904#32 of 50 | -$3,739 | +$31,418 | AK |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,079 · US +$35,970 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$31,565#34 of 50 | -$3,079 | +$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 Colorado and Alaska numbers say when read together.
Colorado ranks higher overall
Colorado leads 6 of the 11 categories to Alaska's 5, with 0 even; Alaska is ahead on outdoor access and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Colorado is ahead on 28 and Alaska on 19.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 103.1 in Colorado and 102.4 in Alaska, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $532,748 and $398,663. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 a year after typical costs in Colorado and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Alaska takes a smaller share in taxes
Colorado collects 8.73% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, with income and sales taxes 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).
Colorado is safer
Median household income is $97,113 in Colorado and $95,665 in Alaska, with unemployment at 4% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 422 per 100,000 residents in Colorado and 729 in Alaska.
People move to Colorado on net
3,700 people moved to Colorado from Alaska in the latest Census release, against 1,526 going the other way.
Colorado fits families and retirees better
For families, Colorado ranks #22 of 50 and Alaska #49; for retirees, Colorado ranks #16 and Alaska #34.
Colorado vs Alaska: frequently asked questions
Is Colorado or Alaska better to live in?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.1 vs 102.4); Colorado carries a 3.8-point higher tax burden and has a 42% lower violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Colorado cheaper than Alaska?
Colorado and Alaska cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 103.1 vs 102.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$35,330 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Colorado, and -$15,458 in Alaska. The typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $398,663 in Alaska.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Alaska?
Alaska has the lower tax burden: 4.93% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.73% in Colorado. Colorado's top income tax rate is 4.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.49% and its combined sales tax 7.89%; Alaska's are zero, 1.16% and 1.82%.
Is Colorado safer than Alaska?
Colorado is safer: 422 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska, per the FBI. Colorado ranks #43 of 50 for violent crime and Alaska #50. Property crime is 2,144 per 100,000 in Colorado and 1,893 in Alaska. The safest tracked cities are Castle Rock, CO, and Palmer, AK.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or Alaska?
Homes are 34% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of household income in Colorado and $111,424 in Alaska, against median incomes of $97,113 and $95,665.
Do people earn more in Colorado or Alaska?
Colorado and Alaska pay about the same: median household income is $97,113 vs $95,665, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Colorado and 4.7% in Alaska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Alaska's in 4, with 12 even.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Alaska or from Alaska to Colorado?
625 households moved from Colorado to Alaska and 697 moved from Alaska to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 72 households for Colorado. Movers to Alaska reported an average income of $69,149; movers to Colorado reported $68,653. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,526 people (±788) moving from Colorado to Alaska and 3,700 (±1,512) the other way, a net gain of about 2,174 people for Colorado beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Colorado or Alaska?
Colorado is the better fit for retirees: #16 of 50 on the retiree index vs #34 for Alaska. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes 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 +$28,486 left after typical costs in Colorado and +$31,565 in Alaska.
Which is better for families, Colorado or Alaska?
Colorado is the better fit for families: #22 of 50 on the families index vs #49 for Alaska. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in Colorado and $12,425 in Alaska. High school graduation rates are 82.3% and 77.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 after typical costs in Colorado and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Is Alaska better than Colorado?
No: Colorado ranks higher than Alaska overall, #18 of 50 vs #42, with a composite score of 64.7 to 44.3. Colorado leads 6 of 11 categories and Alaska leads 5, including outdoor access and fiscal health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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