Nevada vs Alaska: Which Is Better to Live In?
Nevada ranks #40 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. Nevada is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 102.4), carries a 3.7-point higher tax burden, and has a 48% lower violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.5 points apart, too close to call: Nevada leads 5 of 11 categories, Alaska leads 5.
- Residential electricity price is 50% lower in Nevada (13.15¢/kWh vs. 26.09¢/kWh in Alaska).
- Violent crime rate is 48% lower in Nevada (379 vs. 729 in Alaska).
- Total tax burden is 43% lower in Alaska (4.93% vs. 8.62% in Nevada).
| Measure | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +1.5 pts | 45.8#40 of 50 · C | 44.3#42 of 50 · C | +1.5 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | NV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,576 · US -$11,758 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | -$3,576 | -$11,758 | AK |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$43,364 (+11%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$43,364+11% | $368,697 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.69 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +3.69 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -350 (-48%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -350-48% | 328 | NV |
| Median household incomeGap -$14,531 (-15%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | -$14,531-15% | $80,903 | AK |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.9 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | NV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +10,366 · US -33 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +10,366 | -33 | NV |
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 Nevada or Alaska better to live in?
Nevada scores 45.8 and Alaska scores 44.3 out of 100, a 1.5-point gap this site treats as even. Nevada leads 5 of 11 categories, Alaska leads 5, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -21.1 | 15% | 28.0#46 · D | 49.1#23 · B | -21.1 pts | AK |
| Safety12% of scoregap +26.4 | 12% | 55.9#42 · C | 29.5#50 · F | +26.4 pts | NV |
| Health12% of scoregap +2.3 | 12% | 44.9#34 · C+ | 42.6#37 · C | +2.3 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +23.6 | 12% | 40.3#45 · D | 16.7#49 · F | +23.6 pts | NV |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +14.1 | 10% | 61.7#33 · C+ | 47.6#42 · C | +14.1 pts | NV |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -16.6 | 8% | 57.6#28 · C+ | 74.2#4 · A+ | -16.6 pts | AK |
| Growth7% of scoregap +28.5 | 7% | 41.9#23 · B | 13.4#49 · F | +28.5 pts | NV |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -13.7 | 7% | 52.4#21 · B | 66.1#2 · A+ | -13.7 pts | AK |
| Livability7% of scoregap +7.5 | 7% | 45.7#11 · B+ | 38.2#16 · B+ | +7.5 pts | NV |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -60.7 | 6% | 39.3#13 · B+ | 100.0#1 · A+ | -60.7 pts | AK |
| Environment4% of scoregap -8 | 4% | 41.5#24 · B | 49.5#14 · B+ | -8 pts | AK |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Nevada cheaper than Alaska?
Nevada is cheaper: cost of living index 100 vs 102.4 in Alaska (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $3,576 more a year in Alaska after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | NV |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -10 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 96.3#24 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -10 pts-9% | 100 | NV |
| Residential electricity priceGap -12.94¢ (-50%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | -12.94¢-50% | 17.84¢/kWh | NV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.18 (+1%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | +$0.18+1% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.76 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$0.76-16% | $3.32/gal | NV |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,208 (+26%) · US $15,633 | $15,633#28 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | +$3,208+26% | $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 | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,290 | +$30,194costs $44,806 | +$28,904costs $46,097 | +$1,290 | NV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,216 | +$19,388costs $55,612 | +$17,172costs $57,829 | +$2,216 | NV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$3,576 | -$19,034costs $94,034 | -$15,458costs $90,458 | -$3,576 | AK |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,725 | +$33,290costs $41,710 | +$31,565costs $43,435 | +$1,725 | NV |
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 | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$217 | $29,032 | $28,815 | +$217 | Even |
| ChildcareGap +$6,416 | $31,266 | $24,850 | +$6,416 | AK |
| UtilitiesGap -$115 | $4,800 | $4,915 | -$115 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$1,127 | $10,846 | $11,973 | -$1,127 | NV |
| TransportationGap -$2,388 | $12,446 | $14,834 | -$2,388 | NV |
| State and local taxesGap +$573 | $5,644 | $5,071 | +$573 | AK |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Nevada or Alaska?
Alaska collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 4.93% vs 8.62%. Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Alaska has no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.69 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +3.69 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#8 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.66 pts · US 1.02% | 0.5%#4 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.66 pts | 1.02% | NV |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.42 pts · US 6.66% | 8.24%#38 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +6.42 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 Nevada or Alaska?
Homes cost 11% more in Nevada: a typical home value of $442,027 in Nevada vs $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $110,080 of income in Nevada and $111,424 in Alaska; the median household earns $81,134 and $95,665.
| Measure | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$43,364 (+11%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$43,364+11% | $368,697 | AK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -7.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -7.5 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$118 (-6%) · US $1,948 | $1,742#26 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | -$118-6% | $1,948 | NV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$1,344 (-1%) · US $100,006 | $110,080#33 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | -$1,344-1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.2x (+29%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#38 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +1.2x+29% | 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.
| NV | AK | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,274 | $2,051 |
| Income needed vs. median | +36% | +17% |
| Five-year change | +15.6% | +17.6% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Las Vegas | 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 Nevada or Alaska?
Alaska pays more: median household income $95,665 vs $81,134, with unemployment at 5.3% in Nevada and 4.7% in Alaska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nevada's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Alaska's in 20.
| Measure | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$14,531 (-15%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | -$14,531-15% | $80,903 | AK |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 5.3%#49 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | AK |
| GDP per capitaGap -$17,692 (-23%) · US $64,333 | $58,723#34 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | -$17,692-23% | $64,333 | AK |
| Real GDP growthGap +5.5 pts · US +1.91% | +5%#1 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +5.5 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Population growthGap +0.78 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#11 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +0.78 pts | +0.51% | NV |
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 | NV | AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $209,938$203,640 in Las Vegas | $249,940$254,939 in Anchorage | AK |
| Lawyers | $137,613$133,485 in Las Vegas | $155,460$158,569 in Anchorage | AK |
| Electricians | $59,447$57,664 in Las Vegas | $77,079$78,621 in Anchorage | AK |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $97,329$94,409 in Las Vegas | $114,302$116,588 in Anchorage | AK |
| General & Operations Managers | $96,681$93,781 in Las Vegas | $112,653$114,906 in Anchorage | AK |
| Registered Nurses | $81,389$78,947 in Las Vegas | $93,505$95,375 in Anchorage | AK |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,171$59,336 in Las Vegas | $72,714$74,168 in Anchorage | AK |
| Accountants & Auditors | $78,524$76,168 in Las Vegas | $88,647$90,420 in Anchorage | AK |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,200$61,304 in Las Vegas | $72,753$74,208 in Anchorage | AK |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $69,961$67,862 in Las Vegas | $78,774$80,349 in Anchorage | AK |
| Civil Engineers | $97,688$94,757 in Las Vegas | $106,236$108,361 in Anchorage | AK |
| Mental Health Counselors | $52,365$50,794 in Las Vegas | $60,366$61,573 in Anchorage | AK |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,097$52,474 in Las Vegas | $61,927$63,166 in Anchorage | AK |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,077$43,725 in Las Vegas | $52,287$53,333 in Anchorage | AK |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $76,196$73,910 in Las Vegas | $82,608$84,260 in Anchorage | AK |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $57,052$55,340 in Las Vegas | $63,334$64,601 in Anchorage | AK |
| Software Developers | $133,486$129,481 in Las Vegas | $138,621$141,393 in Anchorage | AK |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $52,057$50,495 in Las Vegas | $56,353$57,480 in Anchorage | AK |
| Construction Laborers | $43,246$41,949 in Las Vegas | $45,850$46,767 in Anchorage | AK |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,427$33,394 in Las Vegas | $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 Nevada safer than Alaska?
Nevada is safer: 379 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska (FBI). Property crime runs 1,996 and 1,893 per 100,000.
| Measure | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -350 (-48%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -350-48% | 328 | NV |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +103 (+5%) · US 1,535 | 1,996#47 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | +103+5% | 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.
- Mesquite, NV119 violent per 100K
- Palmer, AK206 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Nevada or Alaska?
Nevada scores higher for education (#45 of 50 vs #49), with high school graduation rates of 81.7% and 77.8%. They are close on health (#34 and #37); life expectancy is 76.4 years in Nevada and 75.8 in Alaska.
| Measure | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 265#44 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 253#42 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.9 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | NV |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#26 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 11.4%#47 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +16 pts (+64%) · US 38.8 | 41#33 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).
- Fernley, NVeducation score 87
- 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: Nevada #45, Alaska #49. Health: Nevada #34, Alaska #37.
Are more people moving from Nevada to Alaska, or from Alaska to Nevada?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 655 people (±596) moving from Nevada to Alaska and 271 (±194) 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 | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +52,153 (+357%) | 66,782#22 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +52,153+357% | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap +41,787 (+261%) | 57,805#27 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +41,787+261% | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +10,366 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +10,366 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.6 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +4.6 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$23,962 (+38%) | $87,255#12 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$23,962+38% | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,716 (+5%) | $74,626#23 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | +$3,716+5% | NV |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +10.7 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +10.7 | NV |
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, Nevada or Alaska?
Nevada is the better fit for families and young professionals; Alaska is the better fit for remote workers and outdoor enthusiasts; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -6 places | #43score 50.2 | #49score 33.6 | -6 places | NV |
| RetireesGap +1 places | #35score 56.2 | #34score 57 | +1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +16 places | #31score 49 | #15score 58.5 | +16 places | AK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -8 places | #37score 45.7 | #45score 39.2 | -8 places | NV |
| Small BusinessGap +1 places | #37score 46.4 | #36score 46.8 | +1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +18 places | #24score 45.4 | #6score 73 | +18 places | AK |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNevada (#43 vs #49)
- RetireesEven (#35 vs #34)
- Remote WorkersAlaska (#15 vs #31)
- Young ProfessionalsNevada (#37 vs #45)
- Small BusinessEven (#37 vs #36)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsAlaska (#6 vs #24)
Which cities stand out in Nevada and Alaska?
Nevada has 20 tracked cities and Alaska has 20; the largest are Las Vegas and Anchorage. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Las Vegas660,400 people | Anchorage288,976 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Summerlin Southscore 61.3 | Sitkascore 68.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Mesquite119 violent per 100K | Palmer206 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pahrumpcost index 94.8 | Juneaucost index 96.2 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Spring Valleywalkability 13.7 of 20 | Sitkawalkability 12.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pahrumpcounty median AQI 26 | Knik-Fairviewcounty median AQI 9 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Fernley87% graduation rate | Sitka89.8% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Spanish Springsmedian income $127,658 | Gatewaymedian income $137,772 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Fernley+2.7% growth | Bethel+4.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Nevada and Alaska compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Nevada carries AA credit rating and Alaska AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 32%#20 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | AK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -74.3 (-74%) · US 29.6 | 25.7#24 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -74.3-74% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap +23.1 pts · US 17.16% | 84.9%#1 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | +23.1 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.9 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +5.9 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.8 pts · US 2.29% | 2.5%#12 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 2.29% | NV |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.9 pts · US 12.28% | 11.3%#32 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 12.28% | NV |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.5 pts · US 92.67% | 95.1%#2 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 92.67% | NV |
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 | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#36 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -60.8 pts · US 12.39% | 7.4%#40 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -60.8 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap +1 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#24 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | +1 pts | 74.3% | NV |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,480 (-51%) · US $3,506 | $2,410#18 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$2,480-51% | $3,506 | NV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.6 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -8.6 pts | +4.66% | AK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Nevada 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).
Nevada vs Alaska: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Nevada is ahead on 26 of 51, Alaska on 16, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | NevadaNV | AlaskaAK | GapNV−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,544,918 (+345%) · US 6.8 million | 3.3 million#31 of 50 | 737,270#48 of 50 | +2,544,918+345% | 6.8 million | NV |
| Median household incomeGap -$14,531 (-15%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | -$14,531-15% | $80,903 | AK |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 5.3%#49 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | AK |
| Population growthGap +0.78 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#11 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +0.78 pts | +0.51% | NV |
| GDP per capitaGap -$17,692 (-23%) · US $64,333 | $58,723#34 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | -$17,692-23% | $64,333 | AK |
| Real GDP growthGap +5.5 pts · US +1.91% | +5%#1 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +5.5 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -350 (-48%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -350-48% | 328 | NV |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +103 (+5%) · US 1,535 | 1,996#47 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | +103+5% | 1,535 | AK |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.9 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 237 | 233#41 of 50 | 226#49 of 50 | +7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 265#44 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +12 · US 214 | 213#35 of 50 | 202#49 of 50 | +12 | 214 | NV |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 253#42 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | NV |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#26 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 11.4%#47 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$43,364 (+11%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$43,364+11% | $368,697 | AK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -7.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -7.5 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$118 (-6%) · US $1,948 | $1,742#26 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | -$118-6% | $1,948 | NV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$1,344 (-1%) · US $100,006 | $110,080#33 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | -$1,344-1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | NV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.2x (+29%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#38 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +1.2x+29% | 4.6x | AK |
| Residential electricity priceGap -12.94¢ (-50%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | -12.94¢-50% | 17.84¢/kWh | NV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.18 (+1%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | +$0.18+1% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.76 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$0.76-16% | $3.32/gal | NV |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -10 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 96.3#24 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -10 pts-9% | 100 | NV |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,208 (+26%) · US $15,633 | $15,633#28 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | +$3,208+26% | $15,633 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.69 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +3.69 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#8 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.66 pts · US 1.02% | 0.5%#4 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.66 pts | 1.02% | NV |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.42 pts · US 6.66% | 8.24%#38 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +6.42 pts | 6.66% | AK |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#36 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -60.8 pts · US 12.39% | 7.4%#40 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -60.8 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap +1 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#24 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | +1 pts | 74.3% | NV |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,480 (-51%) · US $3,506 | $2,410#18 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$2,480-51% | $3,506 | NV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.6 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -8.6 pts | +4.66% | AK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +16 pts (+64%) · US 38.8 | 41#33 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +16 pts+64% | 38.8 | AK |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 32%#20 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | AK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -74.3 (-74%) · US 29.6 | 25.7#24 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -74.3-74% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap +23.1 pts · US 17.16% | 84.9%#1 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | +23.1 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.9 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +5.9 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.8 pts · US 2.29% | 2.5%#12 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 2.29% | NV |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.9 pts · US 12.28% | 11.3%#32 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 12.28% | NV |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.5 pts · US 92.67% | 95.1%#2 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 92.67% | NV |
| Households moving inIRSGap +52,153 (+357%) · US 78,682 | 66,782#22 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +52,153+357% | 78,682 | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap +41,787 (+261%) · US 78,715 | 57,805#27 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +41,787+261% | 78,715 | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +10,366 · US -33 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +10,366 | -33 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.6 · US +0.4 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +4.6 | +0.4 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$23,962 (+38%) · US $77,690 | $87,255#12 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$23,962+38% | $77,690 | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,716 (+5%) · US $77,024 | $74,626#23 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | +$3,716+5% | $77,024 | NV |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +10.7 · US +1.1 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +10.7 | +1.1 | NV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,576 · US -$11,758 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | -$3,576 | -$11,758 | AK |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,290 · US +$31,418 | +$30,194#28 of 50 | +$28,904#32 of 50 | +$1,290 | +$31,418 | NV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,725 · US +$35,970 | +$33,290#30 of 50 | +$31,565#34 of 50 | +$1,725 | +$35,970 | NV |
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 Nevada and Alaska numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Nevada (45.8, #40) and Alaska (44.3, #42) are within 2 composite points. Nevada leads 5 categories, Alaska leads 5, and 1 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Nevada is cheaper day to day
Nevada's cost of living index is 100 against 102.4 in Alaska (US = 100). The typical home costs $442,027 in Nevada and $398,663 in Alaska. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,034 a year after typical costs in Nevada and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Alaska takes a smaller share in taxes
Nevada collects 8.62% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); 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 $81,134 in Nevada and $95,665 in Alaska, with unemployment at 5.3% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 379 per 100,000 residents in Nevada and 729 in Alaska.
Moves between the two run about even
655 people moved from Nevada to Alaska and 271 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Nevada is the better fit for families
For families, Nevada ranks #43 of 50 and Alaska #49; for retirees, Nevada ranks #35 and Alaska #34.
Nevada vs Alaska: frequently asked questions
Is Nevada or Alaska better to live in?
Nevada ranks #40 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. Nevada is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 102.4), carries a 3.7-point higher tax burden, and has a 48% lower violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.5 points apart, too close to call: Nevada leads 5 of 11 categories, Alaska leads 5.
Is Nevada cheaper than Alaska?
Nevada is cheaper than Alaska: cost of living index 100 vs 102.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$19,034 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Nevada, and -$15,458 in Alaska. The typical home value is $442,027 in Nevada and $398,663 in Alaska.
Which has lower taxes, Nevada or Alaska?
Alaska has the lower tax burden: 4.93% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.62% in Nevada. Nevada's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.5% and its combined sales tax 8.24%; Alaska's are zero, 1.16% and 1.82%.
Is Nevada safer than Alaska?
Nevada is safer: 379 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska, per the FBI. Nevada ranks #37 of 50 for violent crime and Alaska #50. Property crime is 1,996 per 100,000 in Nevada and 1,893 in Alaska. The safest tracked cities are Mesquite, NV, and Palmer, AK.
Are homes more expensive in Nevada or Alaska?
Homes are 11% more expensive in Nevada: the typical home value is $442,027 in Nevada and $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $110,080 of household income in Nevada and $111,424 in Alaska, against median incomes of $81,134 and $95,665.
Do people earn more in Nevada or Alaska?
Alaska pays more: median household income is $95,665 vs $81,134 in Nevada, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.3% in Nevada and 4.7% in Alaska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nevada's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Alaska's in 20.
Are more people moving from Nevada to Alaska or from Alaska to Nevada?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 655 people (±596) moving from Nevada to Alaska and 271 (±194) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Nevada or Alaska?
Nevada and Alaska are close for retirees: #35 and #34 of 50 on the retiree index. Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; 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 +$33,290 left after typical costs in Nevada and +$31,565 in Alaska.
Which is better for families, Nevada or Alaska?
Nevada is the better fit for families: #43 of 50 on the families index vs #49 for Alaska. Center-based infant care costs $15,633 a year in Nevada and $12,425 in Alaska. High school graduation rates are 81.7% and 77.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,034 after typical costs in Nevada and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Which has better schools, Nevada or Alaska?
Nevada scores higher for education: #45 of 50 vs #49 for Alaska. Eighth graders average 265 in NAEP math in Nevada and 264 in Alaska. High school graduation rates are 81.7% in Nevada and 77.8% in Alaska, and the education category scores are 40.3 and 16.7 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Fernley and Sitka have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
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