Alaska vs Wyoming: Which Is Better to Live In?
Alaska ranks #42 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. Wyoming is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.7 vs 102.4), carries a 0.9-point higher tax burden, and has a 75% lower violent crime rate. Wyoming scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 75% lower in Wyoming (180 vs. 729 in Alaska).
- Residential electricity price is 49% lower in Wyoming (13.38¢/kWh vs. 26.09¢/kWh in Alaska).
- Property crime rate is 45% lower in Wyoming (1,038 vs. 1,893 in Alaska).
| Measure | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -35.6 pts | 44.3#42 of 50 · C | 79.9#2 of 50 · A+ | -35.6 pts | — | WY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.7 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 102.4#38 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +9.7 pts+10% | 100 | WY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$9,158 · US -$11,758 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$9,158 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$26,809 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $398,663#29 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$26,809+7% | $368,697 | WY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.86 pts · US 8.74% | 4.93%#1 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | -0.86 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +549 (+305%) · US 328 | 729#50 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +549+305% | 328 | WY |
| Median household incomeGap +$20,133 (+27%) · US $80,903 | $95,665#11 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$20,133+27% | $80,903 | AK |
| High school graduation rateGap -4 pts · US 85.62% | 77.8%#48 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | -4 pts | 85.62% | WY |
| Life expectancyGap -1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.8#37 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | -1.0 yrs | 76.9 | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,576 · US -33 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | -1,576 | -33 | WY |
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 Alaska or Wyoming better to live in?
Wyoming scores higher overall: 79.9 to 44.3 out of 100, #2 of 50 against #42. Alaska leads 2 of 11 categories, Wyoming leads 7, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -1.2 | 15% | 49.1#23 · B | 50.3#20 · B | -1.2 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -56.6 | 12% | 29.5#50 · F | 86.1#6 · A | -56.6 pts | WY |
| Health12% of scoregap -8.8 | 12% | 42.6#37 · C | 51.4#29 · C+ | -8.8 pts | WY |
| Education12% of scoregap -48.6 | 12% | 16.7#49 · F | 65.3#16 · B+ | -48.6 pts | WY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -28.9 | 10% | 47.6#42 · C | 76.5#18 · B+ | -28.9 pts | WY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -5.2 | 8% | 74.2#4 · A+ | 79.4#1 · A+ | -5.2 pts | WY |
| Growth7% of scoregap -29.1 | 7% | 13.4#49 · F | 42.5#22 · B | -29.1 pts | WY |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +18.5 | 7% | 66.1#2 · A+ | 47.6#31 · C+ | +18.5 pts | AK |
| Livability7% of scoregap -12.3 | 7% | 38.2#16 · B+ | 50.5#3 · A+ | -12.3 pts | WY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +4.3 | 6% | 100.0#1 · A+ | 95.7#2 · A+ | +4.3 pts | AK |
| Environment4% of scoregap +2.9 | 4% | 49.5#14 · B+ | 46.6#18 · B+ | +2.9 pts | Even |
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 Alaska cheaper than Wyoming?
Wyoming is cheaper: cost of living index 92.7 vs 102.4 in Alaska (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $9,158 more a year in Wyoming after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.7 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 102.4#38 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +9.7 pts+10% | 100 | WY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.9 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.3#47 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | +10.9 pts+11% | 100 | WY |
| Residential electricity priceGap +12.71¢ (+95%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | +12.71¢+95% | 17.84¢/kWh | WY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.22 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | +$1.22+10% | $15.83/Mcf | WY |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.60 (+51%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$1.60+51% | $3.32/gal | WY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$695 (-5%) · US $15,633 | $12,425#13 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | -$695-5% | $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 | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$5,602 | +$28,904costs $46,097 | +$34,506costs $40,494 | -$5,602 | WY |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,392 | +$17,172costs $57,829 | +$25,564costs $49,436 | -$8,392 | WY |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$9,158 | -$15,458costs $90,458 | -$6,300costs $81,300 | -$9,158 | WY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$6,812 | +$31,565costs $43,435 | +$38,377costs $36,623 | -$6,812 | WY |
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 | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$4,095 | $28,815 | $24,720 | +$4,095 | WY |
| ChildcareGap -$1,390 | $24,850 | $26,240 | -$1,390 | AK |
| UtilitiesGap +$465 | $4,915 | $4,450 | +$465 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$1,228 | $11,973 | $10,745 | +$1,228 | WY |
| TransportationGap +$5,028 | $14,834 | $9,806 | +$5,028 | WY |
| State and local taxesGap -$268 | $5,071 | $5,339 | -$268 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Alaska or Wyoming?
Alaska collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 4.93% vs 5.79%. Alaska has no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Wyoming has no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.86 pts · US 8.74% | 4.93%#1 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | -0.86 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#9 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.58 pts · US 1.02% | 1.16%#34 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | +0.58 pts | 1.02% | WY |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.74 pts · US 6.66% | 1.82%#5 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | -3.74 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 Alaska or Wyoming?
Homes cost 7% more in Alaska: a typical home value of $398,663 in Alaska vs $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $111,424 of income in Alaska and $95,729 in Wyoming; the median household earns $95,665 and $75,532.
| Measure | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$26,809 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $398,663#29 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$26,809+7% | $368,697 | WY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.7%#1 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | +4.3 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$328 (+21%) · US $1,948 | $1,860#31 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | +$328+21% | $1,948 | WY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$15,695 (+16%) · US $100,006 | $111,424#34 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | +$15,695+16% | $100,006 | WY |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-14%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#24 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | -0.7x-14% | 4.6x | AK |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| AK | WY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,051 | $1,913 |
| Income needed vs. median | +17% | +27% |
| Five-year change | +17.6% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Anchorage | Cheyenne |
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 Alaska or Wyoming?
Alaska pays more: median household income $95,665 vs $75,532, with unemployment at 4.7% in Alaska and 3.4% in Wyoming. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Alaska's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 0.
| Measure | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$20,133 (+27%) · US $80,903 | $95,665#11 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$20,133+27% | $80,903 | AK |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.7%#44 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 3.95% | WY |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,892 (+5%) · US $64,333 | $76,415#6 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | +$3,892+5% | $64,333 | AK |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | -0.5%#48 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | AK |
| Population growthGap -0.25 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | -0.25 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | AK | WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $249,940$254,939 in Anchorage | $203,633$185,306 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Lawyers | $155,460$158,569 in Anchorage | $134,581$122,469 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,302$116,588 in Anchorage | $95,089$86,531 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Electricians | $77,079$78,621 in Anchorage | $57,929$52,715 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Registered Nurses | $93,505$95,375 in Anchorage | $77,469$70,497 in Cheyenne | AK |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,653$114,906 in Anchorage | $96,752$88,044 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,608$84,260 in Anchorage | $66,726$60,721 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,774$80,349 in Anchorage | $64,019$58,257 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Civil Engineers | $106,236$108,361 in Anchorage | $91,746$83,489 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $72,714$74,168 in Anchorage | $59,243$53,911 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Secondary School Teachers | $72,753$74,208 in Anchorage | $61,856$56,289 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,647$90,420 in Anchorage | $77,879$70,870 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $61,927$63,166 in Anchorage | $51,290$46,674 in Cheyenne | AK |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,334$64,601 in Anchorage | $52,707$47,963 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Software Developers | $138,621$141,393 in Anchorage | $128,625$117,049 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,366$61,573 in Anchorage | $51,243$46,631 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $52,287$53,333 in Anchorage | $44,963$40,916 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,353$57,480 in Anchorage | $49,484$45,030 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Construction Laborers | $45,850$46,767 in Anchorage | $39,819$36,235 in Cheyenne | AK |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,845$36,562 in Anchorage | $31,541$28,702 in Cheyenne | 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 Alaska safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska (FBI). Property crime runs 1,893 and 1,038 per 100,000.
| Measure | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +549 (+305%) · US 328 | 729#50 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +549+305% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +855 (+82%) · US 1,535 | 1,893#44 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | +855+82% | 1,535 | WY |
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.
- Palmer, AK206 violent per 100K
- Laramie, WY93 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Alaska or Wyoming?
Wyoming scores higher for education (#16 of 50 vs #49), with high school graduation rates of 77.8% and 81.8%. Wyoming scores higher for health (#29 vs #37); life expectancy is 75.8 years in Alaska and 76.8 in Wyoming.
| Measure | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -14 · US 273 | 264#46 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | -14 | 273 | WY |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -14 · US 257 | 246#49 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | -14 | 257 | WY |
| High school graduation rateGap -4 pts · US 85.62% | 77.8%#48 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | -4 pts | 85.62% | WY |
| Life expectancyGap -1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.8#37 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | -1.0 yrs | 76.9 | WY |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34%#23 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 34.03% | WY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.7 pts · US 7.6% | 11%#46 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 7.6% | WY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -10 pts (-29%) · US 38.8 | 25#2 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | -10 pts-29% | 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).
- Sitka, AKeducation score 89.8
- Powell, WYeducation score 97
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: Alaska #49, Wyoming #16. Health: Alaska #37, Wyoming #29.
Are more people moving from Alaska to Wyoming, or from Wyoming to Alaska?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 194 people (±193) moving from Alaska to Wyoming and 446 (±586) 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 | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +1,927 (+15%) | 14,629#47 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +1,927+15% | AK |
| Households moving outIRSGap +3,503 (+28%) | 16,018#5 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +3,503+28% | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,576 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | -1,576 | WY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.2 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | -2.2 | WY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$16,595 (-21%) | $63,293#41 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | -$16,595-21% | WY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,751 (+3%) | $70,910#30 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | +$1,751+3% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.6 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | -8.6 | WY |
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, Alaska or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +47 places | #49score 33.6 | #2score 86.8 | +47 places | WY |
| RetireesGap +33 places | #34score 57 | #1score 85.6 | +33 places | WY |
| Remote WorkersGap +14 places | #15score 58.5 | #1score 83.6 | +14 places | WY |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +37 places | #45score 39.2 | #8score 67.5 | +37 places | WY |
| Small BusinessGap +30 places | #36score 46.8 | #6score 77.9 | +30 places | WY |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +5 places | #6score 73 | #1score 95 | +5 places | WY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWyoming (#2 vs #49)
- RetireesWyoming (#1 vs #34)
- Remote WorkersWyoming (#1 vs #15)
- Young ProfessionalsWyoming (#8 vs #45)
- Small BusinessWyoming (#6 vs #36)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWyoming (#1 vs #6)
Which cities stand out in Alaska and Wyoming?
Alaska has 20 tracked cities and Wyoming has 20; the largest are Anchorage and Cheyenne. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Anchorage288,976 people | Cheyenne65,239 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Sitkascore 68.9 | Jacksonscore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Palmer206 violent per 100K | Laramie93 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Juneaucost index 96.2 | Gillettecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Sitkawalkability 12.9 of 20 | Torringtonwalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Knik-Fairviewcounty median AQI 9 | Rawlinscounty median AQI 8 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sitka89.8% graduation rate | Powell97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Gatewaymedian income $137,772 | Ranchettesmedian income $121,445 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Bethel+4.2% growth | Cheyenne+1.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Alaska and Wyoming compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Alaska carries AA credit rating and Wyoming AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 33%#19 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +62.0 (+163%) · US 29.6 | 100.0#50 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | +62.0+163% | 29.6 | WY |
| Public land shareGap +13.6 pts · US 17.16% | 61.8%#4 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | +13.6 pts | 17.16% | AK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.1 min · US 25.2 min | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | +0.1 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 0.7%#33 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.3 pts · US 12.28% | 8.4%#45 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 12.28% | WY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.7 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#16 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +3.7 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 | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#37 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | WY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +23 pts · US 12.39% | 68.2%#1 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | +23 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap -2 pts · US 74.3% | 75%#26 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | -2 pts | 74.3% | WY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,470 (+244%) · US $3,506 | $4,890#43 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | +$3,470+244% | $3,506 | WY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.6 pts · US +4.66% | +12.1%#1 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | +3.6 pts | +4.66% | AK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Alaska AA, Wyoming AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Alaska vs Wyoming: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Alaska is ahead on 13 of 51, Wyoming on 32, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | AlaskaAK | WyomingWY | GapAK−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +148,517 (+25%) · US 6.8 million | 737,270#48 of 50 | 588,753#50 of 50 | +148,517+25% | 6.8 million | AK |
| Median household incomeGap +$20,133 (+27%) · US $80,903 | $95,665#11 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$20,133+27% | $80,903 | AK |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.7%#44 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 3.95% | WY |
| Population growthGap -0.25 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#43 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | -0.25 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,892 (+5%) · US $64,333 | $76,415#6 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | +$3,892+5% | $64,333 | AK |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | -0.5%#48 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | AK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +549 (+305%) · US 328 | 729#50 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +549+305% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +855 (+82%) · US 1,535 | 1,893#44 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | +855+82% | 1,535 | WY |
| High school graduation rateGap -4 pts · US 85.62% | 77.8%#48 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | -4 pts | 85.62% | WY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -18 · US 237 | 226#49 of 50 | 243#2 of 50 | -18 | 237 | WY |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -14 · US 273 | 264#46 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | -14 | 273 | WY |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -20 · US 214 | 202#49 of 50 | 222#2 of 50 | -20 | 214 | WY |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -14 · US 257 | 246#49 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | -14 | 257 | WY |
| Life expectancyGap -1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.8#37 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | -1.0 yrs | 76.9 | WY |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34%#23 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 34.03% | WY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.7 pts · US 7.6% | 11%#46 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 7.6% | WY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$26,809 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $398,663#29 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$26,809+7% | $368,697 | WY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.7%#1 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | +4.3 pts | +1.2% | AK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$328 (+21%) · US $1,948 | $1,860#31 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | +$328+21% | $1,948 | WY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$15,695 (+16%) · US $100,006 | $111,424#34 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | +$15,695+16% | $100,006 | WY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.7 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 102.4#38 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +9.7 pts+10% | 100 | WY |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-14%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#24 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | -0.7x-14% | 4.6x | AK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +12.71¢ (+95%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.09¢/kWh#43 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | +12.71¢+95% | 17.84¢/kWh | WY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.22 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $12.96/Mcf#17 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | +$1.22+10% | $15.83/Mcf | WY |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.60 (+51%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.72/gal#49 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$1.60+51% | $3.32/gal | WY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.9 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.3#47 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | +10.9 pts+11% | 100 | WY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$695 (-5%) · US $15,633 | $12,425#13 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | -$695-5% | $15,633 | AK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.86 pts · US 8.74% | 4.93%#1 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | -0.86 pts | 8.74% | AK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#9 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.58 pts · US 1.02% | 1.16%#34 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | +0.58 pts | 1.02% | WY |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.74 pts · US 6.66% | 1.82%#5 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | -3.74 pts | 6.66% | AK |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#37 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | WY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +23 pts · US 12.39% | 68.2%#1 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | +23 pts | 12.39% | AK |
| Pension funded ratioGap -2 pts · US 74.3% | 75%#26 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | -2 pts | 74.3% | WY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,470 (+244%) · US $3,506 | $4,890#43 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | +$3,470+244% | $3,506 | WY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.6 pts · US +4.66% | +12.1%#1 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | +3.6 pts | +4.66% | AK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -10 pts (-29%) · US 38.8 | 25#2 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | -10 pts-29% | 38.8 | AK |
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 33%#19 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +62.0 (+163%) · US 29.6 | 100.0#50 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | +62.0+163% | 29.6 | WY |
| Public land shareGap +13.6 pts · US 17.16% | 61.8%#4 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | +13.6 pts | 17.16% | AK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.1 min · US 25.2 min | 19.8 min#5 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | +0.1 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 0.7%#33 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.3 pts · US 12.28% | 8.4%#45 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 12.28% | WY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.7 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#16 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 92.67% | AK |
| Households moving inIRSGap +1,927 (+15%) · US 78,682 | 14,629#47 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +1,927+15% | 78,682 | AK |
| Households moving outIRSGap +3,503 (+28%) · US 78,715 | 16,018#5 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +3,503+28% | 78,715 | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,576 · US -33 | -1,389#33 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | -1,576 | -33 | WY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.2 · US +0.4 | -1.9#43 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | -2.2 | +0.4 | WY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$16,595 (-21%) · US $77,690 | $63,293#41 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | -$16,595-21% | $77,690 | WY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,751 (+3%) · US $77,024 | $70,910#30 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | +$1,751+3% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.6 · US +1.1 | -6.1#48 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | -8.6 | +1.1 | WY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$9,158 · US -$11,758 | -$15,458#27 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$9,158 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$5,602 · US +$31,418 | +$28,904#32 of 50 | +$34,506#17 of 50 | -$5,602 | +$31,418 | WY |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$6,812 · US +$35,970 | +$31,565#34 of 50 | +$38,377#21 of 50 | -$6,812 | +$35,970 | WY |
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 Alaska and Wyoming numbers say when read together.
Wyoming ranks higher overall
Wyoming leads 7 of the 11 categories to Alaska's 2, with 2 even; Alaska is ahead on transportation and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Alaska is ahead on 13 and Wyoming on 32.
Wyoming is cheaper day to day
Wyoming's cost of living index is 92.7 against 102.4 in Alaska (US = 100). The typical home costs $398,663 in Alaska and $371,854 in Wyoming. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$15,458 a year after typical costs in Alaska and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Alaska takes a smaller share in taxes
Alaska collects 4.93% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Wyoming collects 5.79% (no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Alaska pays more
Median household income is $95,665 in Alaska and $75,532 in Wyoming, with unemployment at 4.7% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 729 per 100,000 residents in Alaska and 180 in Wyoming.
Moves between the two run about even
194 people moved from Alaska to Wyoming and 446 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Wyoming fits families and retirees better
For families, Alaska ranks #49 of 50 and Wyoming #2; for retirees, Alaska ranks #34 and Wyoming #1.
Alaska vs Wyoming: frequently asked questions
Is Alaska or Wyoming better to live in?
Alaska ranks #42 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. Wyoming is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.7 vs 102.4), carries a 0.9-point higher tax burden, and has a 75% lower violent crime rate. Wyoming scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Alaska cheaper than Wyoming?
Wyoming is cheaper than Alaska: cost of living index 92.7 vs 102.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$15,458 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Alaska, and -$6,300 in Wyoming. The typical home value is $398,663 in Alaska and $371,854 in Wyoming.
Which has lower taxes, Alaska or Wyoming?
Alaska has the lower tax burden: 4.93% of income in state and local taxes vs 5.79% in Wyoming. Alaska's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.16% and its combined sales tax 1.82%; Wyoming's are zero, 0.58% and 5.56%.
Is Alaska safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 729 in Alaska, per the FBI. Alaska ranks #50 of 50 for violent crime and Wyoming #5. Property crime is 1,893 per 100,000 in Alaska and 1,038 in Wyoming. The safest tracked cities are Palmer, AK, and Laramie, WY.
Are homes more expensive in Alaska or Wyoming?
Homes are 7% more expensive in Alaska: the typical home value is $398,663 in Alaska and $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $111,424 of household income in Alaska and $95,729 in Wyoming, against median incomes of $95,665 and $75,532.
Do people earn more in Alaska or Wyoming?
Alaska pays more: median household income is $95,665 vs $75,532 in Wyoming, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.7% in Alaska and 3.4% in Wyoming. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Alaska's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 0.
Are more people moving from Alaska to Wyoming or from Wyoming to Alaska?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 194 people (±193) moving from Alaska to Wyoming and 446 (±586) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Alaska or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for retirees: #1 of 50 on the retiree index vs #34 for Alaska. Alaska has no income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Wyoming has no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$31,565 left after typical costs in Alaska and +$38,377 in Wyoming.
Which is better for families, Alaska or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families: #2 of 50 on the families index vs #49 for Alaska. Center-based infant care costs $12,425 a year in Alaska and $13,120 in Wyoming. High school graduation rates are 77.8% and 81.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$15,458 after typical costs in Alaska and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Is Wyoming better than Alaska?
Yes: Wyoming ranks higher than Alaska overall, #2 of 50 vs #42, with a composite score of 79.9 to 44.3. Wyoming leads 7 of 11 categories and Alaska leads 2, including transportation and outdoor access. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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