Idaho vs Alaska: Which Is Better to Live In?
Idaho ranks #4 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. Idaho is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 95.5 vs 102.4), carries a 2.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 70% lower violent crime rate. Idaho scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 70% lower in Idaho (217 vs. 729 in Alaska).
- Property crime rate is 68% lower in Idaho (605 vs. 1,893 in Alaska).
- Residential electricity price is 55% lower in Idaho (11.82¢/kWh vs. 26.09¢/kWh in Alaska).
| Measure | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +34.1 pts | 78.4#4 of 50 · A+ | 44.3#42 of 50 · C | +34.1 pts | — | ID |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.9 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 95.5#23 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | -6.9 pts-7% | 100 | ID |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$3,567 · US -$11,758 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | +$3,567 | -$11,758 | ID |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$80,081 (+20%) · US $368,697 | $478,744#39 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$80,081+20% | $368,697 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.61 pts · US 8.74% | 7.54%#10 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +2.61 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -512 (-70%) · US 328 | 217#11 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -512-70% | 328 | ID |
| Median household incomeGap -$14,499 (-15%) · US $80,903 | $81,166#21 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | -$14,499-15% | $80,903 | AK |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 79.9%#47 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 85.62% | ID |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +7,200 · US -33 | +5,811#12 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +7,200 | -33 | ID |
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 Idaho or Alaska better to live in?
Idaho scores higher overall: 78.4 to 44.3 out of 100, #4 of 50 against #42. Idaho leads 6 of 11 categories, Alaska leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +1.8 | 15% | 50.9#19 · B | 49.1#23 · B | +1.8 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +57.1 | 12% | 86.6#5 · A+ | 29.5#50 · F | +57.1 pts | ID |
| Health12% of scoregap +19.3 | 12% | 61.9#16 · B+ | 42.6#37 · C | +19.3 pts | ID |
| Education12% of scoregap +38.5 | 12% | 55.2#32 · C+ | 16.7#49 · F | +38.5 pts | ID |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +24.5 | 10% | 72.1#24 · B | 47.6#42 · C | +24.5 pts | ID |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -3.2 | 8% | 71.0#9 · A | 74.2#4 · A+ | -3.2 pts | AK |
| Growth7% of scoregap +59.2 | 7% | 72.6#1 · A+ | 13.4#49 · F | +59.2 pts | ID |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -10.3 | 7% | 55.8#10 · A | 66.1#2 · A+ | -10.3 pts | AK |
| Livability7% of scoregap +1.4 | 7% | 39.6#15 · B+ | 38.2#16 · B+ | +1.4 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -49.8 | 6% | 50.2#6 · A | 100.0#1 · A+ | -49.8 pts | AK |
| Environment4% of scoregap +20.5 | 4% | 70.0#4 · A+ | 49.5#14 · B+ | +20.5 pts | ID |
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 Idaho cheaper than Alaska?
Idaho is cheaper: cost of living index 95.5 vs 102.4 in Alaska (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $3,567 more a year in Idaho after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.9 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 95.5#23 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | -6.9 pts-7% | 100 | ID |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -10 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 96.3#21 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -10 pts-9% | 100 | ID |
| Residential electricity priceGap -14.27¢ (-55%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | -14.27¢-55% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.27 (-41%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | -$5.27-41% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.37 (-29%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$1.37-29% | $3.32/gal | ID |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,538 (-12%) · US $15,633 | $10,887#7 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | -$1,538-12% | $15,633 | ID |
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 | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,267 | +$26,637costs $48,363 | +$28,904costs $46,097 | -$2,267 | AK |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$53 | +$17,119costs $57,881 | +$17,172costs $57,829 | -$53 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$3,567 | -$11,891costs $86,891 | -$15,458costs $90,458 | +$3,567 | ID |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$751 | +$30,814costs $44,187 | +$31,565costs $43,435 | -$751 | Even |
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 | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,915 | $31,730 | $28,815 | +$2,915 | AK |
| ChildcareGap -$3,076 | $21,774 | $24,850 | -$3,076 | ID |
| UtilitiesGap -$331 | $4,584 | $4,915 | -$331 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$1,127 | $10,846 | $11,973 | -$1,127 | ID |
| TransportationGap -$4,305 | $10,529 | $14,834 | -$4,305 | ID |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,357 | $7,428 | $5,071 | +$2,357 | AK |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Idaho or Alaska?
Alaska collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 4.93% vs 7.54%. Idaho 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 | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.61 pts · US 8.74% | 7.54%#10 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +2.61 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.7 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#27 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 5.46% | AK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.6 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#10 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 1.02% | ID |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +4.21 pts · US 6.66% | 6.03%#14 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +4.21 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 Idaho or Alaska?
Homes cost 20% more in Idaho: a typical home value of $478,744 in Idaho vs $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $118,073 of income in Idaho and $111,424 in Alaska; the median household earns $81,166 and $95,665.
| Measure | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$80,081 (+20%) · US $368,697 | $478,744#39 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$80,081+20% | $368,697 | AK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#27 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$59 (+3%) · US $1,948 | $1,919#33 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | +$59+3% | $1,948 | AK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$6,649 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $118,073#37 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | +$6,649+6% | $100,006 | AK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.7x (+40%) · US 4.6x | 5.9x#43 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +1.7x+40% | 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.
| ID | AK | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,463 | $2,051 |
| Income needed vs. median | +46% | +17% |
| Five-year change | +6.2% | +17.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Boise City | 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 Idaho or Alaska?
Alaska pays more: median household income $95,665 vs $81,166, with unemployment at 3.7% in Idaho and 4.7% in Alaska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Idaho's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Alaska's in 19.
| Measure | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$14,499 (-15%) · US $80,903 | $81,166#21 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | -$14,499-15% | $80,903 | AK |
| Unemployment rateGap -1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.7%#18 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | -1 pts | 3.95% | ID |
| GDP per capitaGap -$25,649 (-34%) · US $64,333 | $50,766#46 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | -$25,649-34% | $64,333 | AK |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3%#8 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +3.5 pts | +1.91% | ID |
| Population growthGap +1.34 pts · US +0.51% | +1.44%#2 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +1.34 pts | +0.51% | ID |
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 | ID | AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $211,918$192,845 in Boise City | $249,940$254,939 in Anchorage | AK |
| Electricians | $62,723$57,078 in Boise City | $77,079$78,621 in Anchorage | AK |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $100,132$91,120 in Boise City | $114,302$116,588 in Anchorage | AK |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $65,962$60,025 in Boise City | $78,774$80,349 in Anchorage | AK |
| General & Operations Managers | $100,669$91,609 in Boise City | $112,653$114,906 in Anchorage | AK |
| Accountants & Auditors | $77,057$70,122 in Boise City | $88,647$90,420 in Anchorage | AK |
| Secondary School Teachers | $61,521$55,984 in Boise City | $72,753$74,208 in Anchorage | AK |
| Lawyers | $145,444$132,354 in Boise City | $155,460$158,569 in Anchorage | AK |
| Registered Nurses | $83,721$76,186 in Boise City | $93,505$95,375 in Anchorage | AK |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $63,548$57,829 in Boise City | $72,714$74,168 in Anchorage | AK |
| Civil Engineers | $97,456$88,685 in Boise City | $106,236$108,361 in Anchorage | AK |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $74,170$67,495 in Boise City | $82,608$84,260 in Anchorage | AK |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,174$48,388 in Boise City | $60,366$61,573 in Anchorage | AK |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $56,668$51,568 in Boise City | $63,334$64,601 in Anchorage | AK |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,982$41,844 in Boise City | $52,287$53,333 in Anchorage | AK |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $57,605$52,421 in Boise City | $61,927$63,166 in Anchorage | AK |
| Software Developers | $135,305$123,128 in Boise City | $138,621$141,393 in Anchorage | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,795$29,843 in Boise City | $35,845$36,562 in Anchorage | AK |
| Construction Laborers | $42,880$39,021 in Boise City | $45,850$46,767 in Anchorage | AK |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,186$49,309 in Boise City | $56,353$57,480 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 Idaho safer than Alaska?
Idaho is safer: 217 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska (FBI). Property crime runs 605 and 1,893 per 100,000.
| Measure | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -512 (-70%) · US 328 | 217#11 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -512-70% | 328 | ID |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -1,288 (-68%) · US 1,535 | 605#1 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | -1,288-68% | 1,535 | ID |
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.
- Moscow, ID37 violent per 100K
- Palmer, AK206 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Idaho or Alaska?
Idaho scores higher for education (#32 of 50 vs #49), with high school graduation rates of 79.9% and 77.8%. Idaho scores higher for health (#16 vs #37); life expectancy is 78.4 years in Idaho and 75.8 in Alaska.
| Measure | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 278#14 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +14 | 273 | ID |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 257 | 261#9 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +14 | 257 | ID |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 79.9%#47 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 85.62% | ID |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.3 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#18 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 34.03% | ID |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.8 pts · US 7.6% | 9.2%#38 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 7.6% | ID |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +9 pts (+36%) · US 38.8 | 34#6 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +9 pts+36% | 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).
- Coeur d'Alene, IDeducation score 92
- 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: Idaho #32, Alaska #49. Health: Idaho #16, Alaska #37.
Are more people moving from Idaho to Alaska, or from Alaska to Idaho?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 350 people (±307) moving from Idaho to Alaska and 938 (±650) 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 | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +21,202 (+145%) | 35,831#34 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +21,202+145% | ID |
| Households moving outIRSGap +14,002 (+87%) | 30,020#14 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +14,002+87% | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +7,200 | +5,811#12 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +7,200 | ID |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.8 | +2.9#5 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +4.8 | ID |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$17,955 (+28%) | $81,248#19 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$17,955+28% | ID |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$6,849 (-10%) | $64,061#43 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | -$6,849-10% | AK |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +16.0 | +9.9#2 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +16.0 | ID |
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, Idaho or Alaska?
Idaho is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 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 | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -42 places | #7score 80.6 | #49score 33.6 | -42 places | ID |
| RetireesGap -32 places | #2score 84.8 | #34score 57 | -32 places | ID |
| Remote WorkersGap -12 places | #3score 80.2 | #15score 58.5 | -12 places | ID |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -43 places | #2score 77.2 | #45score 39.2 | -43 places | ID |
| Small BusinessGap -34 places | #2score 80.2 | #36score 46.8 | -34 places | ID |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -2 places | #4score 78.6 | #6score 73 | -2 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIdaho (#7 vs #49)
- RetireesIdaho (#2 vs #34)
- Remote WorkersIdaho (#3 vs #15)
- Young ProfessionalsIdaho (#2 vs #45)
- Small BusinessIdaho (#2 vs #36)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#4 vs #6)
Which cities stand out in Idaho and Alaska?
Idaho has 20 tracked cities and Alaska has 20; the largest are Boise and Anchorage. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IdahoID | AlaskaAK |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Boise237,242 people | Anchorage288,976 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Meridianscore 64.7 | Sitkascore 68.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Moscow37 violent per 100K | Palmer206 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pocatellocost index 88.9 | Juneaucost index 96.2 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boisewalkability 13.6 of 20 | Sitkawalkability 12.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Idaho Fallscounty median AQI 22 | Knik-Fairviewcounty median AQI 9 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Coeur d'Alene92% graduation rate | Sitka89.8% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Eaglemedian income $122,894 | Gatewaymedian income $137,772 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Star+14.8% growth | Bethel+4.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Idaho and Alaska compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Idaho carries AA+ credit rating and Alaska AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +37 pts · US 29.34% | 70%#5 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | +37 pts | 29.34% | ID |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -78.3 (-78%) · US 29.6 | 21.7#18 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -78.3-78% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap +0.7 pts · US 17.16% | 62.5%#3 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 17.16% | ID |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.4 min · US 25.2 min | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +2.4 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#39 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.3 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#23 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +4.3 pts | 12.28% | ID |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#25 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 92.67% | AK |
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 | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#18 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | ID |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -53.4 pts · US 12.39% | 14.8%#9 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -53.4 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap +16 pts · US 74.3% | 91%#6 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | +16 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,310 (-68%) · US $3,506 | $1,580#4 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$3,310-68% | $3,506 | ID |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.6 pts · US +4.66% | +7.5%#8 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -4.6 pts | +4.66% | AK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Idaho 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).
Idaho vs Alaska: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Idaho is ahead on 32 of 51, Alaska on 17, and 2 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IdahoID | AlaskaAK | GapID−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,292,463 (+175%) · US 6.8 million | 2 million#37 of 50 | 737,270#48 of 50 | +1,292,463+175% | 6.8 million | ID |
| Median household incomeGap -$14,499 (-15%) · US $80,903 | $81,166#21 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | -$14,499-15% | $80,903 | AK |
| Unemployment rateGap -1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.7%#18 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | -1 pts | 3.95% | ID |
| Population growthGap +1.34 pts · US +0.51% | +1.44%#2 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +1.34 pts | +0.51% | ID |
| GDP per capitaGap -$25,649 (-34%) · US $64,333 | $50,766#46 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | -$25,649-34% | $64,333 | AK |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3%#8 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +3.5 pts | +1.91% | ID |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -512 (-70%) · US 328 | 217#11 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -512-70% | 328 | ID |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -1,288 (-68%) · US 1,535 | 605#1 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | -1,288-68% | 1,535 | ID |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 79.9%#47 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 85.62% | ID |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +13 · US 237 | 238#21 of 50 | 226#49 of 50 | +13 | 237 | ID |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 278#14 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +14 | 273 | ID |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +14 · US 214 | 216#18 of 50 | 202#49 of 50 | +14 | 214 | ID |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 257 | 261#9 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +14 | 257 | ID |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.3 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#18 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 34.03% | ID |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.8 pts · US 7.6% | 9.2%#38 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 7.6% | ID |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$80,081 (+20%) · US $368,697 | $478,744#39 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$80,081+20% | $368,697 | AK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#27 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$59 (+3%) · US $1,948 | $1,919#33 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | +$59+3% | $1,948 | AK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$6,649 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $118,073#37 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | +$6,649+6% | $100,006 | AK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.9 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 95.5#23 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | -6.9 pts-7% | 100 | ID |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.7x (+40%) · US 4.6x | 5.9x#43 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +1.7x+40% | 4.6x | AK |
| Residential electricity priceGap -14.27¢ (-55%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | -14.27¢-55% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.27 (-41%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | -$5.27-41% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.37 (-29%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$1.37-29% | $3.32/gal | ID |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -10 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 96.3#21 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -10 pts-9% | 100 | ID |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,538 (-12%) · US $15,633 | $10,887#7 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | -$1,538-12% | $15,633 | ID |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.61 pts · US 8.74% | 7.54%#10 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +2.61 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.7 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#27 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 5.46% | AK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.6 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#10 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 1.02% | ID |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +4.21 pts · US 6.66% | 6.03%#14 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +4.21 pts | 6.66% | AK |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#18 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | ID |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -53.4 pts · US 12.39% | 14.8%#9 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -53.4 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap +16 pts · US 74.3% | 91%#6 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | +16 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,310 (-68%) · US $3,506 | $1,580#4 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$3,310-68% | $3,506 | ID |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.6 pts · US +4.66% | +7.5%#8 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -4.6 pts | +4.66% | AK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +9 pts (+36%) · US 38.8 | 34#6 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +9 pts+36% | 38.8 | AK |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +37 pts · US 29.34% | 70%#5 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | +37 pts | 29.34% | ID |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -78.3 (-78%) · US 29.6 | 21.7#18 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -78.3-78% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap +0.7 pts · US 17.16% | 62.5%#3 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 17.16% | ID |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.4 min · US 25.2 min | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +2.4 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#39 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.3 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#23 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +4.3 pts | 12.28% | ID |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#25 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 92.67% | AK |
| Households moving inIRSGap +21,202 (+145%) · US 78,682 | 35,831#34 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +21,202+145% | 78,682 | ID |
| Households moving outIRSGap +14,002 (+87%) · US 78,715 | 30,020#14 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +14,002+87% | 78,715 | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +7,200 · US -33 | +5,811#12 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +7,200 | -33 | ID |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.8 · US +0.4 | +2.9#5 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +4.8 | +0.4 | ID |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$17,955 (+28%) · US $77,690 | $81,248#19 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$17,955+28% | $77,690 | ID |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$6,849 (-10%) · US $77,024 | $64,061#43 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | -$6,849-10% | $77,024 | AK |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +16.0 · US +1.1 | +9.9#2 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +16.0 | +1.1 | ID |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$3,567 · US -$11,758 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | +$3,567 | -$11,758 | ID |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,267 · US +$31,418 | +$26,637#37 of 50 | +$28,904#32 of 50 | -$2,267 | +$31,418 | AK |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$751 · US +$35,970 | +$30,814#36 of 50 | +$31,565#34 of 50 | -$751 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Idaho and Alaska numbers say when read together.
Idaho ranks higher overall
Idaho leads 6 of the 11 categories to Alaska's 3, with 2 even; Alaska is ahead on outdoor access and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Idaho is ahead on 32 and Alaska on 17.
Idaho is cheaper day to day
Idaho's cost of living index is 95.5 against 102.4 in Alaska (US = 100). The typical home costs $478,744 in Idaho and $398,663 in Alaska. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,891 a year after typical costs in Idaho and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Alaska takes a smaller share in taxes
Idaho collects 7.54% 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).
Alaska pays more
Median household income is $81,166 in Idaho and $95,665 in Alaska, with unemployment at 3.7% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 217 per 100,000 residents in Idaho and 729 in Alaska.
Moves between the two run about even
350 people moved from Idaho to Alaska and 938 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Idaho fits families and retirees better
For families, Idaho ranks #7 of 50 and Alaska #49; for retirees, Idaho ranks #2 and Alaska #34.
Idaho vs Alaska: frequently asked questions
Is Idaho or Alaska better to live in?
Idaho ranks #4 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. Idaho is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 95.5 vs 102.4), carries a 2.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 70% lower violent crime rate. Idaho scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Idaho cheaper than Alaska?
Idaho is cheaper than Alaska: cost of living index 95.5 vs 102.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,891 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Idaho, and -$15,458 in Alaska. The typical home value is $478,744 in Idaho and $398,663 in Alaska.
Which has lower taxes, Idaho or Alaska?
Alaska has the lower tax burden: 4.93% of income in state and local taxes vs 7.54% in Idaho. Idaho's top income tax rate is 5.7%, its effective property tax rate 0.56% and its combined sales tax 6.03%; Alaska's are zero, 1.16% and 1.82%.
Is Idaho safer than Alaska?
Idaho is safer: 217 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska, per the FBI. Idaho ranks #11 of 50 for violent crime and Alaska #50. Property crime is 605 per 100,000 in Idaho and 1,893 in Alaska. The safest tracked cities are Moscow, ID, and Palmer, AK.
Are homes more expensive in Idaho or Alaska?
Homes are 20% more expensive in Idaho: the typical home value is $478,744 in Idaho and $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $118,073 of household income in Idaho and $111,424 in Alaska, against median incomes of $81,166 and $95,665.
Do people earn more in Idaho or Alaska?
Alaska pays more: median household income is $95,665 vs $81,166 in Idaho, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.7% in Idaho and 4.7% in Alaska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Idaho's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Alaska's in 19, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Idaho to Alaska or from Alaska to Idaho?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 350 people (±307) moving from Idaho to Alaska and 938 (±650) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Idaho or Alaska?
Idaho is the better fit for retirees: #2 of 50 on the retiree index vs #34 for Alaska. Idaho 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 +$30,814 left after typical costs in Idaho and +$31,565 in Alaska.
Which is better for families, Idaho or Alaska?
Idaho is the better fit for families: #7 of 50 on the families index vs #49 for Alaska. Center-based infant care costs $10,887 a year in Idaho and $12,425 in Alaska. High school graduation rates are 79.9% and 77.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,891 after typical costs in Idaho and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Is Alaska better than Idaho?
No: Idaho ranks higher than Alaska overall, #4 of 50 vs #42, with a composite score of 78.4 to 44.3. Idaho leads 6 of 11 categories and Alaska leads 3, 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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