Florida vs Alaska: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 102.4); Florida carries a 1.6-point higher tax burden and has a 62% lower violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 6.
- Violent crime rate is 62% lower in Florida (275 vs. 729 in Alaska).
- Residential electricity price is 42% lower in Florida (15.24¢/kWh vs. 26.09¢/kWh in Alaska).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 30% lower in Alaska ($1,860 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +15.6 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 44.3#42 of 50 · C | +15.6 pts | — | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$4,972 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | +$4,972 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$23,193 (-6%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | -$23,193-6% | $368,697 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.56 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +1.56 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -454 (-62%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -454-62% | 328 | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$17,930 (-19%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | -$17,930-19% | $80,903 | AK |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +9.5 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,738 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +56,738 | -33 | FL |
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 Florida or Alaska better to live in?
Florida scores higher overall: 59.9 to 44.3 out of 100, #21 of 50 against #42. Florida leads 5 of 11 categories, Alaska leads 6, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -4.1 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 49.1#23 · B | -4.1 pts | AK |
| Safety12% of scoregap +43.6 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 29.5#50 · F | +43.6 pts | FL |
| Health12% of scoregap +17.9 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 42.6#37 · C | +17.9 pts | FL |
| Education12% of scoregap +44.4 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 16.7#49 · F | +44.4 pts | FL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +14.3 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 47.6#42 · C | +14.3 pts | FL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -4 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 74.2#4 · A+ | -4 pts | AK |
| Growth7% of scoregap +31.5 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 13.4#49 · F | +31.5 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -22.5 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 66.1#2 · A+ | -22.5 pts | AK |
| Livability7% of scoregap -11.3 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 38.2#16 · B+ | -11.3 pts | AK |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -72.2 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 100.0#1 · A+ | -72.2 pts | AK |
| Environment4% of scoregap -15.5 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 49.5#14 · B+ | -15.5 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 Florida cheaper than Alaska?
Florida and Alaska cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 103.4 vs 102.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $4,972 more a year in Florida after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -8.2 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -8.2 pts-8% | 100 | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -10.85¢ (-42%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | -10.85¢-42% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$12.52 (+97%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | +$12.52+97% | $15.83/Mcf | AK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.64 (-35%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$1.64-35% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,805 (+15%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | +$1,805+15% | $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 | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$4,480 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$28,904costs $46,097 | +$4,480 | FL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$6,887 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$17,172costs $57,829 | +$6,887 | FL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$4,972 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$15,458costs $90,458 | +$4,972 | FL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$5,434 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$31,565costs $43,435 | +$5,434 | FL |
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 | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$2,953 | $25,862 | $28,815 | -$2,953 | FL |
| ChildcareGap +$3,610 | $28,460 | $24,850 | +$3,610 | AK |
| UtilitiesGap +$48 | $4,963 | $4,915 | +$48 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$924 | $11,049 | $11,973 | -$924 | FL |
| TransportationGap -$5,154 | $9,680 | $14,834 | -$5,154 | FL |
| State and local taxesGap +$401 | $5,472 | $5,071 | +$401 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Alaska?
Alaska collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 4.93% vs 6.49%. Florida has no income tax, with property 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 | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.56 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +1.56 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.34 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.34 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +5.16 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +5.16 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 Florida or Alaska?
Homes cost 6% more in Alaska: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $111,424 in Alaska; the median household earns $77,735 and $95,665.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$23,193 (-6%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | -$23,193-6% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -7.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -7.2 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$806 (+43%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | +$806+43% | $1,948 | AK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$3,144 (-3%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | -$3,144-3% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+14%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +0.6x+14% | 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.
| FL | AK | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $2,051 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +17% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +17.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Miami | 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 Florida or Alaska?
Alaska pays more: median household income $95,665 vs $77,735, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 4.7% in Alaska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Alaska's in 20.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$17,930 (-19%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | -$17,930-19% | $80,903 | AK |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$15,760 (-21%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | -$15,760-21% | $64,333 | AK |
| Real GDP growthGap +4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +4 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.75 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +0.75 pts | +0.51% | FL |
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 | FL | AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $249,940$254,939 in Anchorage | AK |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $77,079$78,621 in Anchorage | AK |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $106,236$108,361 in Anchorage | AK |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $78,774$80,349 in Anchorage | AK |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $138,621$141,393 in Anchorage | AK |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $112,653$114,906 in Anchorage | AK |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $82,608$84,260 in Anchorage | AK |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $72,753$74,208 in Anchorage | AK |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $93,505$95,375 in Anchorage | AK |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $61,927$63,166 in Anchorage | AK |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $155,460$158,569 in Anchorage | AK |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $88,647$90,420 in Anchorage | AK |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $114,302$116,588 in Anchorage | AK |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $60,366$61,573 in Anchorage | AK |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $72,714$74,168 in Anchorage | AK |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $63,334$64,601 in Anchorage | AK |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $45,850$46,767 in Anchorage | AK |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $56,353$57,480 in Anchorage | AK |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $52,287$53,333 in Anchorage | AK |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $35,845$36,562 in Anchorage | AK |
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 Florida safer than Alaska?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,893 per 100,000. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -454 (-62%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -454-62% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -491 (-26%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | -491-26% | 1,535 | FL |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- Palmer, AK206 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Alaska?
Florida scores higher for education (#23 of 50 vs #49), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 77.8%. Florida scores higher for health (#19 vs #37); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 75.8 in Alaska.
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +9.5 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.4 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.1 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +16 pts (+64%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +16 pts+64% | 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).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- 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: Florida #23, Alaska #49. Health: Florida #19, Alaska #37.
Are more people moving from Florida to Alaska, or from Alaska to Florida?
866 households moved from Florida to Alaska and 970 moved from Alaska to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 104 households for Florida. Movers to Alaska reported an average income of $56,372; movers to Florida reported $75,999. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,069 people (±680) moving from Florida to Alaska and 2,693 (±1,896) 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 | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +339,483 (+2,321%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +339,483+2,321% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +282,745 (+1,765%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +282,745+1,765% | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,738 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +56,738 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.3 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +4.3 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$59,246 (+94%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$59,246+94% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,224 (+7%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | +$5,224+7% | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +7.1 | FL |
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, Florida or Alaska?
Florida 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 | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -25 places | #24score 65.4 | #49score 33.6 | -25 places | FL |
| RetireesGap -16 places | #18score 66.2 | #34score 57 | -16 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap +12 places | #27score 51.6 | #15score 58.5 | +12 places | AK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -21 places | #24score 53.9 | #45score 39.2 | -21 places | FL |
| Small BusinessGap -17 places | #19score 62.4 | #36score 46.8 | -17 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +20 places | #26score 44.3 | #6score 73 | +20 places | AK |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesFlorida (#24 vs #49)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #34)
- Remote WorkersAlaska (#15 vs #27)
- Young ProfessionalsFlorida (#24 vs #45)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #36)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsAlaska (#6 vs #26)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Alaska?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Alaska has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Anchorage. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Anchorage288,976 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Sitkascore 68.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Palmer206 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Juneaucost index 96.2 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Sitkawalkability 12.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Knik-Fairviewcounty median AQI 9 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Sitka89.8% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Gatewaymedian income $137,772 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Bethel+4.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Alaska compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Alaska AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -23 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | -23 pts | 29.34% | AK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -77.5 (-78%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -77.5-78% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap -35.5 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | -35.5 pts | 17.16% | AK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +9.1 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +9.1 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +7.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +7.1 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 92.67% | FL |
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 | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -56.5 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -56.5 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap +7 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | +7 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,930 (-60%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$2,930-60% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -7.3 pts | +4.66% | AK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, 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).
Florida vs Alaska: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Florida is ahead on 29 of 51, Alaska on 15, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | AlaskaAK | GapFL−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +22,725,248 (+3,082%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 737,270#48 of 50 | +22,725,248+3,082% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$17,930 (-19%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | -$17,930-19% | $80,903 | AK |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.75 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +0.75 pts | +0.51% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$15,760 (-21%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | -$15,760-21% | $64,333 | AK |
| Real GDP growthGap +4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +4 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -454 (-62%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -454-62% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -491 (-26%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | -491-26% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +9.5 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +18 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 226#49 of 50 | +18 | 237 | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +17 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 202#49 of 50 | +17 | 214 | FL |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.4 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.1 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$23,193 (-6%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | -$23,193-6% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -7.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -7.2 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$806 (+43%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | +$806+43% | $1,948 | AK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$3,144 (-3%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | -$3,144-3% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+14%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +0.6x+14% | 4.6x | AK |
| Residential electricity priceGap -10.85¢ (-42%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | -10.85¢-42% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$12.52 (+97%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | +$12.52+97% | $15.83/Mcf | AK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.64 (-35%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$1.64-35% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -8.2 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -8.2 pts-8% | 100 | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,805 (+15%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | +$1,805+15% | $15,633 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.56 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +1.56 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.34 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.34 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +5.16 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +5.16 pts | 6.66% | AK |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -56.5 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -56.5 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap +7 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | +7 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,930 (-60%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$2,930-60% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -7.3 pts | +4.66% | AK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +16 pts (+64%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +16 pts+64% | 38.8 | AK |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -23 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | -23 pts | 29.34% | AK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -77.5 (-78%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -77.5-78% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap -35.5 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | -35.5 pts | 17.16% | AK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +9.1 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +9.1 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +7.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +7.1 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +339,483 (+2,321%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +339,483+2,321% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +282,745 (+1,765%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +282,745+1,765% | 78,715 | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,738 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +56,738 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.3 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +4.3 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$59,246 (+94%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$59,246+94% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,224 (+7%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | +$5,224+7% | $77,024 | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.1 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +7.1 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$4,972 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | +$4,972 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$4,480 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$28,904#32 of 50 | +$4,480 | +$31,418 | FL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$5,434 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$31,565#34 of 50 | +$5,434 | +$35,970 | FL |
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 Florida and Alaska numbers say when read together.
Florida ranks higher overall
Florida leads 5 of the 11 categories to Alaska's 6, with 0 even; Alaska is ahead on outdoor access and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 29 and Alaska on 15.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 103.4 in Florida and 102.4 in Alaska, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $375,470 and $398,663. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Alaska takes a smaller share in taxes
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property 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).
Alaska pays more
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $95,665 in Alaska, with unemployment at 3.9% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 729 in Alaska.
Moves between the two run about even
1,069 people moved from Florida to Alaska and 2,693 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Florida fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Alaska #49; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Alaska #34.
Florida vs Alaska: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Alaska better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 102.4); Florida carries a 1.6-point higher tax burden and has a 62% lower violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 6.
Is Florida cheaper than Alaska?
Florida and Alaska cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 103.4 vs 102.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and -$15,458 in Alaska. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $398,663 in Alaska.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Alaska?
Alaska has the lower tax burden: 4.93% of income in state and local taxes vs 6.49% in Florida. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Alaska's are zero, 1.16% and 1.82%.
Is Florida safer than Alaska?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Alaska #50. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,893 in Alaska. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Pembroke Pines, FL, and Palmer, AK.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Alaska?
Homes are 6% more expensive in Alaska: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $111,424 in Alaska, against median incomes of $77,735 and $95,665.
Do people earn more in Florida or Alaska?
Alaska pays more: median household income is $95,665 vs $77,735 in Florida, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 4.7% in Alaska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Alaska's in 20.
Are more people moving from Florida to Alaska or from Alaska to Florida?
866 households moved from Florida to Alaska and 970 moved from Alaska to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 104 households for Florida. Movers to Alaska reported an average income of $56,372; movers to Florida reported $75,999. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,069 people (±680) moving from Florida to Alaska and 2,693 (±1,896) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Alaska?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #34 for Alaska. Florida has no income tax, with property 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 +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$31,565 in Alaska.
Which is better for families, Florida or Alaska?
Florida is the better fit for families: #24 of 50 on the families index vs #49 for Alaska. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $12,425 in Alaska. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 77.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Is Alaska better than Florida?
No: Florida ranks higher than Alaska overall, #21 of 50 vs #42, with a composite score of 59.9 to 44.3. Florida leads 5 of 11 categories and Alaska leads 6, including outdoor access and transportation. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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