Arizona vs Colorado: Which Is Better to Live In?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Colorado #18 as of the latest release. Arizona is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100.7 vs 103.1), has a 0.5-point lower tax burden, and has a 10% lower violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Property crime rate is 29% lower in Arizona (1,514 vs. 2,144 in Colorado).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 25% lower in Arizona ($104,042 vs. $138,758 in Colorado).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 22% lower in Arizona ($16,384 vs. $20,978 in Colorado).
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -16.9 pts | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | -16.9 pts | — | CO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$15,757 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$15,757 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$114,758 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$114,758-22% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -44 (-10%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -44-10% | 328 | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap -$15,627 (-16%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$15,627-16% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap -5 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | -5 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| Life expectancyGap -1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -1.8 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,975 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +5,975 | -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 Arizona or Colorado better to live in?
Colorado scores higher overall: 64.7 to 47.8 out of 100, #18 of 50 against #38. Arizona leads 3 of 11 categories, Colorado leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -17.7 | 15% | 42.6#31 · C+ | 60.3#9 · A | -17.7 pts | CO |
| Safety12% of scoregap +12.8 | 12% | 63.2#32 · C+ | 50.4#46 · D | +12.8 pts | AZ |
| Health12% of scoregap -25.7 | 12% | 49.7#31 · C+ | 75.4#7 · A | -25.7 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap -32.7 | 12% | 32.6#47 · D | 65.3#18 · B+ | -32.7 pts | CO |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +7.2 | 10% | 60.3#35 · C | 53.1#38 · C | +7.2 pts | AZ |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -1 | 8% | 59.4#25 · B | 60.4#22 · B | -1 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +17.3 | 7% | 48.3#16 · B+ | 31.0#33 · C+ | +17.3 pts | AZ |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -8 | 7% | 53.4#18 · B+ | 61.4#3 · A+ | -8 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap -9.9 | 7% | 24.3#42 · C | 34.2#24 · B | -9.9 pts | CO |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -6.8 | 6% | 37.7#16 · B+ | 44.5#9 · A | -6.8 pts | CO |
| Environment4% of scoregap -20 | 4% | 25.9#44 · D | 45.9#20 · B | -20 pts | CO |
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 Arizona cheaper than Colorado?
Arizona is cheaper: cost of living index 100.7 vs 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $15,757 more a year in Arizona after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | AZ |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -3.3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 98.7#36 of 50 | -3.3 pts-3% | 100 | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.53¢ (-3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | -0.53¢-3% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.41 (+66%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | +$7.41+66% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.67 (+21%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | +$0.67+21% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,594 (-22%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $20,978#42 of 50 | -$4,594-22% | $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 | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$4,592 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$4,592 | AZ |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$5,185 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$5,185 | AZ |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$15,757 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | +$15,757 | AZ |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$4,941 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$4,941 | 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 | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$7,233 | $27,704 | $34,937 | -$7,233 | AZ |
| ChildcareGap -$9,188 | $32,768 | $41,956 | -$9,188 | AZ |
| UtilitiesGap -$115 | $4,834 | $4,949 | -$115 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$372 | $10,745 | $11,117 | -$372 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$2,106 | $11,943 | $9,837 | +$2,106 | CO |
| State and local taxesGap -$956 | $6,579 | $7,535 | -$956 | AZ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Colorado?
Arizona collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.22% vs 8.73%. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.9 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 4.4%#17 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.07 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.49%#3 of 50 | +0.07 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.63 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 7.89%#35 of 50 | +0.63 pts | 6.66% | CO |
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 Arizona or Colorado?
Homes cost 27% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $417,990 in Arizona vs $532,748 in Colorado. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of income in Arizona and $138,758 in Colorado; the median household earns $81,486 and $97,113.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$114,758 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$114,758-22% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$200 (-10%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,922#34 of 50 | -$200-10% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$34,716 (-25%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $138,758#43 of 50 | -$34,716-25% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-7%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 5.5x#40 of 50 | -0.4x-7% | 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.
| AZ | CO | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,151 | $2,741 |
| Income needed vs. median | +28% | +43% |
| Five-year change | +9.1% | +6.8% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Phoenix | Denver |
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 Arizona or Colorado?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $81,486, with unemployment at 4.3% in Arizona and 4% in Colorado. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Colorado's in 20.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$15,627 (-16%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$15,627-16% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 4%#26 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$16,201 (-22%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $75,024#7 of 50 | -$16,201-22% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Population growthGap +0.49 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.49 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 | AZ | CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | CO |
| Software Developers | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | CO |
| General & Operations Managers | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | CO |
| Electricians | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | CO |
| Registered Nurses | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | CO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | CO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | CO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | CO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | CO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | CO |
| Lawyers | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | CO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | CO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | CO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | CO |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | CO |
| Civil Engineers | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | CO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | CO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | CO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | CO |
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 Arizona safer than Colorado?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 1,514 and 2,144 per 100,000.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -44 (-10%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -44-10% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -630 (-29%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 2,144#49 of 50 | -630-29% | 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.
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Arizona or Colorado?
Colorado scores higher for education (#18 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 77.3% and 82.3%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #31); life expectancy is 76.7 years in Arizona and 78.5 in Colorado.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 278#15 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -10 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 265#3 of 50 | -10 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -5 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | -5 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| Life expectancyGap -1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -1.8 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap +8.3 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 25%#1 of 50 | +8.3 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 7.9%#30 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 7.6% | CO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+7%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 42#35 of 50 | +3 pts+7% | 38.8 | CO |
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).
- Peoria, AZeducation score 95.1
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
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: Arizona #47, Colorado #18. Health: Arizona #31, Colorado #7.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Colorado, or from Colorado to Arizona?
5,683 households moved from Arizona to Colorado and 6,012 moved from Colorado to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 329 households for Arizona. Movers to Colorado reported an average income of $82,116; movers to Arizona reported $97,216. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 9,762 people (±2,707) moving from Arizona to Colorado and 10,284 (±2,531) 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 | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +285 (0%) | 121,675#10 of 50 | 121,390#11 of 50 | +2850% | Even |
| Households moving outIRSGap -5,690 (-5%) | 104,359#38 of 50 | 110,049#39 of 50 | -5,690-5% | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,975 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +5,975 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,965 (+6%) | $87,497#11 of 50 | $82,532#16 of 50 | +$4,965+6% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$8,947 (-11%) | $75,593#21 of 50 | $84,540#13 of 50 | -$8,947-11% | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.1 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +6.1 | 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, Arizona or Colorado?
Colorado 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 | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +23 places | #45score 47.8 | #22score 66.1 | +23 places | CO |
| RetireesGap +21 places | #37score 54.6 | #16score 67 | +21 places | CO |
| Remote WorkersGap +12 places | #35score 47.2 | #23score 53.8 | +12 places | CO |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +11 places | #31score 51 | #20score 56.7 | +11 places | CO |
| Small BusinessGap +10 places | #30score 52.2 | #20score 59.8 | +10 places | CO |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +13 places | #28score 42.7 | #15score 55.8 | +13 places | CO |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesColorado (#22 vs #45)
- RetireesColorado (#16 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersColorado (#23 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsColorado (#20 vs #31)
- Small BusinessColorado (#20 vs #30)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsColorado (#15 vs #28)
Which cities stand out in Arizona and Colorado?
Arizona has 23 tracked cities and Colorado has 20; the largest are Phoenix and Denver. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Phoenix1,642,323 people | Denver718,877 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Queen Creekscore 66.2 | Broomfieldscore 68.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Marana61 violent per 100K | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yumacost index 92.7 | Pueblocost index 91.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Peoria95.1% graduation rate | Pueblo93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Queen Creek+8.2% growth | Grand Junction+1.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Arizona and Colorado compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Arizona carries AA credit rating and Colorado AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -23 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 39%#14 of 50 | -23 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.6 (+76%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 17.9#16 of 50 | +13.6+76% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +2.4 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 36.2%#9 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | +0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 1.7%#18 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.6 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 19.9%#1 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 94.9%#5 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | CO |
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 | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 95#24 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 13.2%#14 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +5 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 67%#37 of 50 | +5 pts | 74.3% | AZ |
| State debt per capitaGap -$930 (-30%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $3,120#29 of 50 | -$930-30% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Arizona AA, Colorado 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).
Arizona vs Colorado: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Arizona is ahead on 24 of 51, Colorado on 19, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | ColoradoCO | GapAZ−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,611,257 (+27%) · US 6.8 million | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | 6 million#20 of 50 | +1,611,257+27% | 6.8 million | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap -$15,627 (-16%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$15,627-16% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 4%#26 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.49 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.49 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$16,201 (-22%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $75,024#7 of 50 | -$16,201-22% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -44 (-10%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -44-10% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -630 (-29%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 2,144#49 of 50 | -630-29% | 1,535 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap -5 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | -5 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 237 | 232#45 of 50 | 239#18 of 50 | -7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 278#15 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -13 · US 214 | 208#45 of 50 | 221#5 of 50 | -13 | 214 | CO |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -10 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 265#3 of 50 | -10 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -1.8 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap +8.3 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 25%#1 of 50 | +8.3 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 7.9%#30 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 7.6% | CO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$114,758 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$114,758-22% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$200 (-10%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,922#34 of 50 | -$200-10% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$34,716 (-25%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $138,758#43 of 50 | -$34,716-25% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.4 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -2.4 pts-2% | 100 | AZ |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-7%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 5.5x#40 of 50 | -0.4x-7% | 4.6x | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.53¢ (-3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | -0.53¢-3% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.41 (+66%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | +$7.41+66% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.67 (+21%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | +$0.67+21% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -3.3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 98.7#36 of 50 | -3.3 pts-3% | 100 | AZ |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,594 (-22%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $20,978#42 of 50 | -$4,594-22% | $15,633 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.51 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.9 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 4.4%#17 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.07 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.49%#3 of 50 | +0.07 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.63 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 7.89%#35 of 50 | +0.63 pts | 6.66% | CO |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 95#24 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 13.2%#14 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +5 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 67%#37 of 50 | +5 pts | 74.3% | AZ |
| State debt per capitaGap -$930 (-30%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $3,120#29 of 50 | -$930-30% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+7%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 42#35 of 50 | +3 pts+7% | 38.8 | CO |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -23 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 39%#14 of 50 | -23 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.6 (+76%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 17.9#16 of 50 | +13.6+76% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +2.4 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 36.2%#9 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | +0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 1.7%#18 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.6 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 19.9%#1 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 94.9%#5 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +285 (0%) · US 78,682 | 121,675#10 of 50 | 121,390#11 of 50 | +2850% | 78,682 | Even |
| Households moving outIRSGap -5,690 (-5%) · US 78,715 | 104,359#38 of 50 | 110,049#39 of 50 | -5,690-5% | 78,715 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,975 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +5,975 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.4 · US +0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +0.4 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,965 (+6%) · US $77,690 | $87,497#11 of 50 | $82,532#16 of 50 | +$4,965+6% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$8,947 (-11%) · US $77,024 | $75,593#21 of 50 | $84,540#13 of 50 | -$8,947-11% | $77,024 | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.1 · US +1.1 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +6.1 | +1.1 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$15,757 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$15,757 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$4,592 · US +$31,418 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$4,592 | +$31,418 | AZ |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$4,941 · US +$35,970 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$4,941 | +$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 Arizona and Colorado numbers say when read together.
Colorado ranks higher overall
Colorado leads 7 of the 11 categories to Arizona's 3, with 1 even; Arizona is ahead on growth and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Arizona is ahead on 24 and Colorado on 19.
Arizona is cheaper day to day
Arizona's cost of living index is 100.7 against 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). The typical home costs $417,990 in Arizona and $532,748 in Colorado. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 a year after typical costs in Arizona and -$35,330 in Colorado.
Arizona takes a smaller share in taxes
Arizona collects 8.22% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Colorado collects 8.73% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Colorado pays more
Median household income is $81,486 in Arizona and $97,113 in Colorado, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4%. Violent crime runs 378 per 100,000 residents in Arizona and 422 in Colorado.
Moves between the two run about even
9,762 people moved from Arizona to Colorado and 10,284 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Colorado fits families and retirees better
For families, Arizona ranks #45 of 50 and Colorado #22; for retirees, Arizona ranks #37 and Colorado #16.
Arizona vs Colorado: frequently asked questions
Is Arizona or Colorado better to live in?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Colorado #18 as of the latest release. Arizona is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100.7 vs 103.1), has a 0.5-point lower tax burden, and has a 10% lower violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Arizona cheaper than Colorado?
Arizona is cheaper than Colorado: cost of living index 100.7 vs 103.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$19,573 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Arizona, and -$35,330 in Colorado. The typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $532,748 in Colorado.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Colorado?
Arizona has the lower tax burden: 8.22% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.73% in Colorado. Arizona's top income tax rate is 2.5%, its effective property tax rate 0.56% and its combined sales tax 8.52%; Colorado's are 4.4%, 0.49% and 7.89%.
Is Arizona safer than Colorado?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado, per the FBI. Arizona ranks #36 of 50 for violent crime and Colorado #43. Property crime is 1,514 per 100,000 in Arizona and 2,144 in Colorado. The safest tracked cities are Marana, AZ, and Castle Rock, CO.
Are homes more expensive in Arizona or Colorado?
Homes are 27% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $532,748 in Colorado. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of household income in Arizona and $138,758 in Colorado, against median incomes of $81,486 and $97,113.
Do people earn more in Arizona or Colorado?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $81,486 in Arizona, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Arizona and 4% in Colorado. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Colorado's in 20.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Colorado or from Colorado to Arizona?
5,683 households moved from Arizona to Colorado and 6,012 moved from Colorado to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 329 households for Arizona. Movers to Colorado reported an average income of $82,116; movers to Arizona reported $97,216. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 9,762 people (±2,707) moving from Arizona to Colorado and 10,284 (±2,531) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Arizona or Colorado?
Colorado is the better fit for retirees: #16 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$33,427 left after typical costs in Arizona and +$28,486 in Colorado.
Which is better for families, Arizona or Colorado?
Colorado is the better fit for families: #22 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $16,384 a year in Arizona and $20,978 in Colorado. High school graduation rates are 77.3% and 82.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 after typical costs in Arizona and -$35,330 in Colorado.
Is Colorado better than Arizona?
Yes: Colorado ranks higher than Arizona overall, #18 of 50 vs #38, with a composite score of 64.7 to 47.8. Colorado leads 7 of 11 categories and Arizona leads 3, including growth and safety. 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 Arizona vs Colorado.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (6,012 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).