California vs Arizona: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. Arizona is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100.7 vs 110.7), has a 2.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 13% lower violent crime rate. Arizona scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Residential electricity price is 53% lower in Arizona (15.32¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 47% lower in Arizona ($104,042 vs. $197,262 in California).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 41% lower in Arizona ($1,722 vs. $2,941 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -7.6 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | -7.6 pts | — | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | +10 pts+10% | 100 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$40,424 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$40,424 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$346,168 (+83%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | +$346,168+83% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.78 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +2.78 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +55 (+15%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | +55+15% | 328 | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$18,663 (+23%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$18,663+23% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +9.7 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -117,713 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -117,713 | -33 | AZ |
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 California or Arizona better to live in?
Arizona scores higher overall: 47.8 to 40.2 out of 100, #38 of 50 against #47. California leads 4 of 11 categories, Arizona leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -1.1 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 42.6#31 · C+ | -1.1 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -8.5 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 63.2#32 · C+ | -8.5 pts | AZ |
| Health12% of scoregap +27.9 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 49.7#31 · C+ | +27.9 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap +19.1 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 32.6#47 · D | +19.1 pts | CA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -46 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 60.3#35 · C | -46 pts | AZ |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -11.9 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 59.4#25 · B | -11.9 pts | AZ |
| Growth7% of scoregap -42.2 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 48.3#16 · B+ | -42.2 pts | AZ |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -7.4 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 53.4#18 · B+ | -7.4 pts | AZ |
| Livability7% of scoregap +7.4 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 24.3#42 · C | +7.4 pts | CA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +3.1 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 37.7#16 · B+ | +3.1 pts | CA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -1.2 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 25.9#44 · D | -1.2 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 California cheaper than Arizona?
Arizona is cheaper: cost of living index 100.7 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $40,424 more a year in Arizona after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | +10 pts+10% | 100 | AZ |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.7 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +10.7 pts+11% | 100 | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap +17.22¢ (+112%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | +17.22¢+112% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.43 (+18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | +$3.43+18% | $15.83/Mcf | AZ |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.62 (+16%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | +$0.62+16% | $3.32/gal | AZ |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,687 (+41%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | +$6,687+41% | $15,633 | AZ |
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 | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$17,628 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | -$17,628 | AZ |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$22,079 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | -$22,079 | AZ |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$40,424 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$40,424 | AZ |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$19,151 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | -$19,151 | AZ |
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 | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$24,090 | $51,794 | $27,704 | +$24,090 | AZ |
| ChildcareGap +$13,374 | $46,142 | $32,768 | +$13,374 | AZ |
| UtilitiesGap +$480 | $5,314 | $4,834 | +$480 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$1,205 | $11,950 | $10,745 | +$1,205 | AZ |
| TransportationGap +$1,948 | $13,891 | $11,943 | +$1,948 | AZ |
| State and local taxesGap -$673 | $5,906 | $6,579 | -$673 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or Arizona?
Arizona collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.22% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.78 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +2.78 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +11.9 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +11.9 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.15 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +0.15 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.47 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | +0.47 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 California or Arizona?
Homes cost 83% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $104,042 in Arizona; the median household earns $100,149 and $81,486.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$346,168 (+83%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | +$346,168+83% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.5 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.2% | CA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,219 (+71%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$1,219+71% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$93,220 (+90%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | +$93,220+90% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.5x (+49%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | +2.5x+49% | 4.6x | AZ |
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.
| CA | AZ | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $2,151 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +28% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +9.1% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Cold |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Phoenix |
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 California or Arizona?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $81,486, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$18,663 (+23%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$18,663+23% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | AZ |
| GDP per capitaGap +$29,547 (+50%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$29,547+50% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.91 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.91 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
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 | CA | AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | CA |
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | CA |
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 California safer than Arizona?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,514 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +55 (+15%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | +55+15% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +279 (+18%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | +279+18% | 1,535 | AZ |
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.
- Yorba Linda, CA47 violent per 100K
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or Arizona?
California scores higher for education (#37 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 77.3%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #31); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 76.7 in Arizona.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +9.7 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.2 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.4 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+7%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | +3 pts+7% | 38.8 | AZ |
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).
- San Ramon, CAeducation score 98
- Peoria, AZeducation score 95.1
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: California #37, Arizona #47. Health: California #5, Arizona #31.
Are more people moving from California to Arizona, or from Arizona to California?
28,402 households moved from California to Arizona and 16,283 moved from Arizona to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 12,119 households for Arizona. Movers to Arizona reported an average income of $87,556; movers to California reported $75,193. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 52,383 people (±6,890) moving from California to Arizona and 28,174 (±4,463) the other way, a net gain of about 24,209 people for Arizona beyond the margin of error.
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 | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +131,188 (+108%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | +131,188+108% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +248,901 (+239%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +248,901+239% | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -117,713 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -117,713 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.9 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -4.9 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,026 (+9%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | +$8,026+9% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$26,527 (+35%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | +$26,527+35% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -9.9 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -9.9 | AZ |
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, California or Arizona?
Arizona is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 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 | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +3 places | #48score 43.1 | #45score 47.8 | +3 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +12 places | #49score 43.4 | #37score 54.6 | +12 places | AZ |
| Remote WorkersGap +15 places | #50score 19.5 | #35score 47.2 | +15 places | AZ |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +19 places | #50score 24.3 | #31score 51 | +19 places | AZ |
| Small BusinessGap +20 places | #50score 26.8 | #30score 52.2 | +20 places | AZ |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +3 places | #31score 36.7 | #28score 42.7 | +3 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#48 vs #45)
- RetireesArizona (#37 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersArizona (#35 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsArizona (#31 vs #50)
- Small BusinessArizona (#30 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#31 vs #28)
Which cities stand out in California and Arizona?
California has 188 tracked cities and Arizona has 23; the largest are Los Angeles and Phoenix. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Phoenix1,642,323 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Queen Creekscore 66.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Marana61 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Yumacost index 92.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Peoria95.1% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Queen Creek+8.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and Arizona compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and Arizona AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +36 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | +36 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +24.8 (+79%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | +24.8+79% | 29.6 | AZ |
| Public land shareGap +7.2 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.3 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | +3.3 min | 25.2 min | AZ |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.2 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 92.67% | CA |
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 | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | AZ |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.2 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,990 (+91%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | +$1,990+91% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | -8 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, Arizona 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).
California vs Arizona: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. California is ahead on 13 of 51, Arizona on 30, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArizonaAZ | GapCA−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +31,731,491 (+416%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | +31,731,491+416% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$18,663 (+23%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$18,663+23% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | AZ |
| Population growthGap -0.91 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.91 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
| GDP per capitaGap +$29,547 (+50%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$29,547+50% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +55 (+15%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | +55+15% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +279 (+18%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | +279+18% | 1,535 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +9.7 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 232#45 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 208#45 of 50 | +4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.2 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.4 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$346,168 (+83%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | +$346,168+83% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.5 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.2% | CA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,219 (+71%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$1,219+71% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$93,220 (+90%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | +$93,220+90% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | +10 pts+10% | 100 | AZ |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.5x (+49%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | +2.5x+49% | 4.6x | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap +17.22¢ (+112%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | +17.22¢+112% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.43 (+18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | +$3.43+18% | $15.83/Mcf | AZ |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.62 (+16%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | +$0.62+16% | $3.32/gal | AZ |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.7 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +10.7 pts+11% | 100 | AZ |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,687 (+41%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | +$6,687+41% | $15,633 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.78 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +2.78 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +11.9 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +11.9 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.15 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +0.15 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.47 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | +0.47 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | AZ |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.2 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,990 (+91%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | +$1,990+91% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | -8 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+7%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | +3 pts+7% | 38.8 | AZ |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +36 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | +36 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +24.8 (+79%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | +24.8+79% | 29.6 | AZ |
| Public land shareGap +7.2 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.3 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | +3.3 min | 25.2 min | AZ |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.2 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +131,188 (+108%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | +131,188+108% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +248,901 (+239%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +248,901+239% | 78,715 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -117,713 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -117,713 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.9 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -4.9 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,026 (+9%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | +$8,026+9% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$26,527 (+35%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | +$26,527+35% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -9.9 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -9.9 | +1.1 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$40,424 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$40,424 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$17,628 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | -$17,628 | +$31,418 | AZ |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$19,151 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | -$19,151 | +$35,970 | AZ |
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 California and Arizona numbers say when read together.
Arizona ranks higher overall
Arizona leads 5 of the 11 categories to California's 4, with 2 even; California is ahead on health and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 13 and Arizona on 30.
Arizona is cheaper day to day
Arizona's cost of living index is 100.7 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $417,990 in Arizona. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Arizona takes a smaller share in taxes
California collects 11% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Arizona collects 8.22% (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
California pays more
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $81,486 in Arizona, with unemployment at 5.5% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 378 in Arizona.
People move to Arizona on net
52,383 people moved to Arizona from California in the latest Census release, against 28,174 going the other way.
Arizona is the better fit for retirees
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and Arizona #45; for retirees, California ranks #49 and Arizona #37.
California vs Arizona: frequently asked questions
Is California or Arizona better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. Arizona is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100.7 vs 110.7), has a 2.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 13% lower violent crime rate. Arizona scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is California cheaper than Arizona?
Arizona is cheaper than California: cost of living index 100.7 vs 110.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$59,997 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in California, and -$19,573 in Arizona. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $417,990 in Arizona.
Which has lower taxes, California or Arizona?
Arizona has the lower tax burden: 8.22% of income in state and local taxes vs 11% in California. California's top income tax rate is 14.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.71% and its combined sales tax 8.99%; Arizona's are 2.5%, 0.56% and 8.52%.
Is California safer than Arizona?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and Arizona #36. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,514 in Arizona. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Marana, AZ.
Are homes more expensive in California or Arizona?
Homes are 83% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $104,042 in Arizona, against median incomes of $100,149 and $81,486.
Do people earn more in California or Arizona?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $81,486 in Arizona, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to Arizona or from Arizona to California?
28,402 households moved from California to Arizona and 16,283 moved from Arizona to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 12,119 households for Arizona. Movers to Arizona reported an average income of $87,556; movers to California reported $75,193. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 52,383 people (±6,890) moving from California to Arizona and 28,174 (±4,463) the other way, a net gain of about 24,209 people for Arizona beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, California or Arizona?
Arizona is the better fit for retirees: #37 of 50 on the retiree index vs #49 for California. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$33,427 in Arizona.
Which is better for families, California or Arizona?
California and Arizona are close for families: #48 and #45 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $16,384 in Arizona. High school graduation rates are 87% and 77.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Is Arizona better than California?
Yes: Arizona ranks higher than California overall, #38 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 47.8 to 40.2. Arizona leads 5 of 11 categories and California leads 4, including health and education. 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 California vs Arizona.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (28,402 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).