Washington vs Alaska: Which Is Better to Live In?
Washington ranks #20 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. Alaska is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 102.4 vs 107), has a 3.7-point lower tax burden, and has a 61% higher violent crime rate. Washington scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Violent crime rate is 61% lower in Washington (284 vs. 729 in Alaska).
- Residential electricity price is 50% lower in Washington (13.11¢/kWh vs. 26.09¢/kWh in Alaska).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 46% lower in Alaska ($12,425 vs. $23,136 in Washington).
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +17.5 pts | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | 44.3#42 of 50 · C | +17.5 pts | — | WA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.6 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +4.6 pts+4% | 100 | AK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$32,435 · US -$11,758 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | -$32,435 | -$11,758 | AK |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$193,216 (+48%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$193,216+48% | $368,697 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.68 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +3.68 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -445 (-61%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -445-61% | 328 | WA |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,724 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | +$3,724+4% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.8 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 85.62% | WA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,228 · US -33 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +11,228 | -33 | WA |
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 Washington or Alaska better to live in?
Washington scores higher overall: 61.8 to 44.3 out of 100, #20 of 50 against #42. Washington leads 6 of 11 categories, Alaska leads 5, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +3.2 | 15% | 52.3#16 · B+ | 49.1#23 · B | +3.2 pts | WA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +34.4 | 12% | 63.9#30 · C+ | 29.5#50 · F | +34.4 pts | WA |
| Health12% of scoregap +25.6 | 12% | 68.2#13 · B+ | 42.6#37 · C | +25.6 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap +40.7 | 12% | 57.4#29 · C+ | 16.7#49 · F | +40.7 pts | WA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -8.5 | 10% | 39.1#46 · D | 47.6#42 · C | -8.5 pts | AK |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -9.9 | 8% | 64.3#17 · B+ | 74.2#4 · A+ | -9.9 pts | AK |
| Growth7% of scoregap +27.4 | 7% | 40.8#24 · B | 13.4#49 · F | +27.4 pts | WA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -7.5 | 7% | 58.6#8 · A | 66.1#2 · A+ | -7.5 pts | AK |
| Livability7% of scoregap -4.3 | 7% | 33.9#25 · B | 38.2#16 · B+ | -4.3 pts | AK |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -64.6 | 6% | 35.4#19 · B | 100.0#1 · A+ | -64.6 pts | AK |
| Environment4% of scoregap +23.6 | 4% | 73.1#3 · A+ | 49.5#14 · B+ | +23.6 pts | WA |
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 Washington cheaper than Alaska?
Alaska is cheaper: cost of living index 102.4 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $32,435 more a year in Alaska after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.6 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +4.6 pts+4% | 100 | AK |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.9 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 104.4#44 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -1.9 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -12.98¢ (-50%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | -12.98¢-50% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.66 (+36%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | +$4.66+36% | $15.83/Mcf | AK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.65 (-14%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$0.65-14% | $3.32/gal | WA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,711 (+86%) · US $15,633 | $23,136#47 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | +$10,711+86% | $15,633 | AK |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$6,772 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$28,904costs $46,097 | -$6,772 | AK |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,753 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$17,172costs $57,829 | -$8,753 | AK |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$32,435 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | -$15,458costs $90,458 | -$32,435 | AK |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,898 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$31,565costs $43,435 | -$7,898 | AK |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$12,308 | $41,123 | $28,815 | +$12,308 | AK |
| ChildcareGap +$21,422 | $46,272 | $24,850 | +$21,422 | AK |
| UtilitiesGap +$221 | $5,136 | $4,915 | +$221 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$214 | $11,759 | $11,973 | -$214 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$2,043 | $12,791 | $14,834 | -$2,043 | WA |
| State and local taxesGap +$741 | $5,812 | $5,071 | +$741 | AK |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Washington or Alaska?
Alaska collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 4.93% vs 8.61%. Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Alaska has no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.68 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +3.68 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#4 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.28 pts · US 1.02% | 0.88%#27 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.28 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +7.69 pts · US 6.66% | 9.51%#48 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +7.69 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 Washington or Alaska?
Homes cost 48% more in Washington: a typical home value of $591,879 in Washington vs $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $155,542 of income in Washington and $111,424 in Alaska; the median household earns $99,389 and $95,665.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$193,216 (+48%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$193,216+48% | $368,697 | AK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -6 pts · US +1.2% | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -6 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$418 (+22%) · US $1,948 | $2,278#41 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | +$418+22% | $1,948 | AK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$44,118 (+40%) · US $100,006 | $155,542#46 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | +$44,118+40% | $100,006 | AK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.8x (+43%) · US 4.6x | 6x#44 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +1.8x+43% | 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.
| WA | AK | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,045 | $2,051 |
| Income needed vs. median | +57% | +17% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +17.6% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Seattle | 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 Washington or Alaska?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $95,665, with unemployment at 4.7% in Washington and 4.7% in Alaska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Washington's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 11 after adjusting for local costs and Alaska's in 1.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$3,724 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | +$3,724+4% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.7%#43 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,574 (+18%) · US $64,333 | $89,989#3 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | +$13,574+18% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.7 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +3.7 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Population growthGap +0.82 pts · US +0.51% | +0.92%#7 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +0.82 pts | +0.51% | WA |
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 | WA | AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | $138,621$141,393 in Anchorage | WA |
| Registered Nurses | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | $93,505$95,375 in Anchorage | WA |
| Civil Engineers | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | $106,236$108,361 in Anchorage | WA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | $249,940$254,939 in Anchorage | Even |
| Electricians | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | $77,079$78,621 in Anchorage | AK |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | $52,287$53,333 in Anchorage | WA |
| Lawyers | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | $155,460$158,569 in Anchorage | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | $45,850$46,767 in Anchorage | WA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | $35,845$36,562 in Anchorage | WA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | $56,353$57,480 in Anchorage | WA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | $88,647$90,420 in Anchorage | WA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | $63,334$64,601 in Anchorage | WA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | $78,774$80,349 in Anchorage | WA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | $82,608$84,260 in Anchorage | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | $60,366$61,573 in Anchorage | WA |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | $112,653$114,906 in Anchorage | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | $72,714$74,168 in Anchorage | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | $72,753$74,208 in Anchorage | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | $61,927$63,166 in Anchorage | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | $114,302$116,588 in Anchorage | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Washington safer than Alaska?
Washington is safer: 284 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska (FBI). Property crime runs 1,975 and 1,893 per 100,000.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -445 (-61%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -445-61% | 328 | WA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +82 (+4%) · US 1,535 | 1,975#46 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | +82+4% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
- Palmer, AK206 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Washington or Alaska?
Washington scores higher for education (#29 of 50 vs #49), with high school graduation rates of 83.6% and 77.8%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #37); life expectancy is 78.4 years in Washington and 75.8 in Alaska.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 273 | 274#25 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 257 | 259#17 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +13 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.8 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 85.62% | WA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.5 pts · US 34.03% | 31.5%#13 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.5 pts · US 7.6% | 6.5%#19 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+12%) · US 38.8 | 28#4 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +3 pts+12% | 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).
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
- 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: Washington #29, Alaska #49. Health: Washington #13, Alaska #37.
Are more people moving from Washington to Alaska, or from Alaska to Washington?
1,310 households moved from Washington to Alaska and 1,600 moved from Alaska to Washington in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 290 households for Washington. Movers to Alaska reported an average income of $69,664; movers to Washington reported $76,663. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,597 people (±1,264) moving from Washington to Alaska and 3,176 (±1,175) 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 | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +107,555 (+735%) | 122,184#9 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +107,555+735% | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +96,327 (+601%) | 112,345#40 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +96,327+601% | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,228 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +11,228 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.1 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +3.1 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$26,597 (+42%) | $89,890#8 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$26,597+42% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$29,212 (+41%) | $100,122#7 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | +$29,212+41% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.3 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +7.3 | WA |
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, Washington or Alaska?
Washington 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 | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -17 places | #32score 61 | #49score 33.6 | -17 places | WA |
| RetireesGap -17 places | #17score 66.7 | #34score 57 | -17 places | WA |
| Remote WorkersGap +4 places | #19score 54.8 | #15score 58.5 | +4 places | AK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -18 places | #27score 53.3 | #45score 39.2 | -18 places | WA |
| Small BusinessGap -13 places | #23score 58.8 | #36score 46.8 | -13 places | WA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +7 places | #13score 57.4 | #6score 73 | +7 places | AK |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWashington (#32 vs #49)
- RetireesWashington (#17 vs #34)
- Remote WorkersAlaska (#15 vs #19)
- Young ProfessionalsWashington (#27 vs #45)
- Small BusinessWashington (#23 vs #36)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsAlaska (#6 vs #13)
Which cities stand out in Washington and Alaska?
Washington has 26 tracked cities and Alaska has 20; the largest are Seattle and Anchorage. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Seattle754,195 people | Anchorage288,976 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Redmondscore 71.1 | Sitkascore 68.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Kirkland67 violent per 100K | Palmer206 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yakimacost index 95.5 | Juneaucost index 96.2 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 | Sitkawalkability 12.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pascocounty median AQI 23 | Knik-Fairviewcounty median AQI 9 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate | Sitka89.8% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 | Gatewaymedian income $137,772 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kirkland+3% growth | Bethel+4.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Washington and Alaska compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Washington carries AA+ credit rating and Alaska AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +41 pts · US 29.34% | 74%#4 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | +41 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -58.5 (-59%) · US 29.6 | 41.5#41 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -58.5-59% | 29.6 | WA |
| Public land shareGap -33.3 pts · US 17.16% | 28.5%#12 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | -33.3 pts | 17.16% | AK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.4 min · US 25.2 min | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +7.4 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.5 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#7 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap +8 pts · US 12.28% | 16.4%#3 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +8 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#3 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 92.67% | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#25 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | WA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -58.4 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#27 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -58.4 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap +7 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#12 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | +7 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,240 (-25%) · US $3,506 | $3,650#36 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$1,240-25% | $3,506 | WA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -9.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -9.3 pts | +4.66% | AK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Washington 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).
Washington vs Alaska: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Washington is ahead on 25 of 51, Alaska on 18, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | WashingtonWA | AlaskaAK | GapWA−AK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +7,263,750 (+985%) · US 6.8 million | 8 million#13 of 50 | 737,270#48 of 50 | +7,263,750+985% | 6.8 million | WA |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,724 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $95,665#11 of 50 | +$3,724+4% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.7%#43 of 50 | 4.7%#44 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.82 pts · US +0.51% | +0.92%#7 of 50 | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +0.82 pts | +0.51% | WA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,574 (+18%) · US $64,333 | $89,989#3 of 50 | $76,415#6 of 50 | +$13,574+18% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.7 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -0.5%#48 of 50 | +3.7 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -445 (-61%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 729#50 of 50 | -445-61% | 328 | WA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +82 (+4%) · US 1,535 | 1,975#46 of 50 | 1,893#44 of 50 | +82+4% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.8 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 77.8%#48 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 85.62% | WA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +12 · US 237 | 238#26 of 50 | 226#49 of 50 | +12 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 273 | 274#25 of 50 | 264#46 of 50 | +10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +14 · US 214 | 216#19 of 50 | 202#49 of 50 | +14 | 214 | WA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 257 | 259#17 of 50 | 246#49 of 50 | +13 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 75.8#37 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.5 pts · US 34.03% | 31.5%#13 of 50 | 34%#23 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.5 pts · US 7.6% | 6.5%#19 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$193,216 (+48%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $398,663#29 of 50 | +$193,216+48% | $368,697 | AK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -6 pts · US +1.2% | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +5.7%#1 of 50 | -6 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$418 (+22%) · US $1,948 | $2,278#41 of 50 | $1,860#31 of 50 | +$418+22% | $1,948 | AK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$44,118 (+40%) · US $100,006 | $155,542#46 of 50 | $111,424#34 of 50 | +$44,118+40% | $100,006 | AK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.6 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 102.4#38 of 50 | +4.6 pts+4% | 100 | AK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.8x (+43%) · US 4.6x | 6x#44 of 50 | 4.2x#24 of 50 | +1.8x+43% | 4.6x | AK |
| Residential electricity priceGap -12.98¢ (-50%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | -12.98¢-50% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.66 (+36%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | +$4.66+36% | $15.83/Mcf | AK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.65 (-14%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | -$0.65-14% | $3.32/gal | WA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.9 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 104.4#44 of 50 | 106.3#47 of 50 | -1.9 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,711 (+86%) · US $15,633 | $23,136#47 of 50 | $12,425#13 of 50 | +$10,711+86% | $15,633 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.68 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 4.93%#1 of 50 | +3.68 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#4 of 50 | none#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.28 pts · US 1.02% | 0.88%#27 of 50 | 1.16%#34 of 50 | -0.28 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +7.69 pts · US 6.66% | 9.51%#48 of 50 | 1.82%#5 of 50 | +7.69 pts | 6.66% | AK |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#25 of 50 | 90#37 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | WA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -58.4 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#27 of 50 | 68.2%#1 of 50 | -58.4 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap +7 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#12 of 50 | 75%#26 of 50 | +7 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,240 (-25%) · US $3,506 | $3,650#36 of 50 | $4,890#43 of 50 | -$1,240-25% | $3,506 | WA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -9.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +12.1%#1 of 50 | -9.3 pts | +4.66% | AK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+12%) · US 38.8 | 28#4 of 50 | 25#2 of 50 | +3 pts+12% | 38.8 | AK |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +41 pts · US 29.34% | 74%#4 of 50 | 33%#19 of 50 | +41 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -58.5 (-59%) · US 29.6 | 41.5#41 of 50 | 100.0#50 of 50 | -58.5-59% | 29.6 | WA |
| Public land shareGap -33.3 pts · US 17.16% | 28.5%#12 of 50 | 61.8%#4 of 50 | -33.3 pts | 17.16% | AK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.4 min · US 25.2 min | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | +7.4 min | 25.2 min | AK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.5 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#7 of 50 | 0.7%#33 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap +8 pts · US 12.28% | 16.4%#3 of 50 | 8.4%#45 of 50 | +8 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#3 of 50 | 93.6%#16 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +107,555 (+735%) · US 78,682 | 122,184#9 of 50 | 14,629#47 of 50 | +107,555+735% | 78,682 | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +96,327 (+601%) · US 78,715 | 112,345#40 of 50 | 16,018#5 of 50 | +96,327+601% | 78,715 | AK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,228 · US -33 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +11,228 | -33 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.1 · US +0.4 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +3.1 | +0.4 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$26,597 (+42%) · US $77,690 | $89,890#8 of 50 | $63,293#41 of 50 | +$26,597+42% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$29,212 (+41%) · US $77,024 | $100,122#7 of 50 | $70,910#30 of 50 | +$29,212+41% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.3 · US +1.1 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +7.3 | +1.1 | WA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$32,435 · US -$11,758 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | -$32,435 | -$11,758 | AK |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$6,772 · US +$31,418 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$28,904#32 of 50 | -$6,772 | +$31,418 | AK |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,898 · US +$35,970 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$31,565#34 of 50 | -$7,898 | +$35,970 | AK |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Washington and Alaska numbers say when read together.
Washington ranks higher overall
Washington leads 6 of the 11 categories to Alaska's 5, with 0 even; Alaska is ahead on outdoor access and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Washington is ahead on 25 and Alaska on 18.
Alaska is cheaper day to day
Alaska's cost of living index is 102.4 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $591,879 in Washington and $398,663 in Alaska. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$47,893 a year after typical costs in Washington and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Alaska takes a smaller share in taxes
Washington collects 8.61% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Alaska collects 4.93% (no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more and is safer
Median household income is $99,389 in Washington and $95,665 in Alaska, with unemployment at 4.7% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 284 per 100,000 residents in Washington and 729 in Alaska.
Moves between the two run about even
2,597 people moved from Washington to Alaska and 3,176 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Washington fits families and retirees better
For families, Washington ranks #32 of 50 and Alaska #49; for retirees, Washington ranks #17 and Alaska #34.
Washington vs Alaska: frequently asked questions
Is Washington or Alaska better to live in?
Washington ranks #20 of 50 overall and Alaska #42 as of the latest release. Alaska is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 102.4 vs 107), has a 3.7-point lower tax burden, and has a 61% higher violent crime rate. Washington scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Washington cheaper than Alaska?
Alaska is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 102.4 vs 107 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$47,893 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Washington, and -$15,458 in Alaska. The typical home value is $591,879 in Washington and $398,663 in Alaska.
Which has lower taxes, Washington or Alaska?
Alaska has the lower tax burden: 4.93% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.61% in Washington. Washington's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.88% and its combined sales tax 9.51%; Alaska's are zero, 1.16% and 1.82%.
Is Washington safer than Alaska?
Washington is safer: 284 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska, per the FBI. Washington ranks #25 of 50 for violent crime and Alaska #50. Property crime is 1,975 per 100,000 in Washington and 1,893 in Alaska. The safest tracked cities are Kirkland, WA, and Palmer, AK.
Are homes more expensive in Washington or Alaska?
Homes are 48% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $591,879 in Washington and $398,663 in Alaska. Buying the typical home takes about $155,542 of household income in Washington and $111,424 in Alaska, against median incomes of $99,389 and $95,665.
Do people earn more in Washington or Alaska?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $95,665 in Alaska, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.7% in Washington and 4.7% in Alaska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Washington's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 11 after adjusting for local costs and Alaska's in 1, with 8 even.
Are more people moving from Washington to Alaska or from Alaska to Washington?
1,310 households moved from Washington to Alaska and 1,600 moved from Alaska to Washington in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 290 households for Washington. Movers to Alaska reported an average income of $69,664; movers to Washington reported $76,663. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,597 people (±1,264) moving from Washington to Alaska and 3,176 (±1,175) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Washington or Alaska?
Washington is the better fit for retirees: #17 of 50 on the retiree index vs #34 for Alaska. Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Alaska has no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$23,667 left after typical costs in Washington and +$31,565 in Alaska.
Which is better for families, Washington or Alaska?
Washington is the better fit for families: #32 of 50 on the families index vs #49 for Alaska. Center-based infant care costs $23,136 a year in Washington and $12,425 in Alaska. High school graduation rates are 83.6% and 77.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$47,893 after typical costs in Washington and -$15,458 in Alaska.
Is Alaska better than Washington?
No: Washington ranks higher than Alaska overall, #20 of 50 vs #42, with a composite score of 61.8 to 44.3. Washington leads 6 of 11 categories and Alaska leads 5, including outdoor access and fiscal health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Washington vs Alaska.
Why this pair is featured: busiest corridor for a small state.