Arizona vs Idaho: Which Is Better to Live In?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Idaho #4 as of the latest release. Idaho is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 95.5 vs 100.7), has a 0.7-point lower tax burden, and has a 42% lower violent crime rate. Idaho scores higher overall, leading 10 of 11 categories to 0.
- Property crime rate is 60% lower in Idaho (605 vs. 1,514 in Arizona).
- Violent crime rate is 42% lower in Idaho (217 vs. 378 in Arizona).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 34% lower in Idaho ($10,887 vs. $16,384 in Arizona).
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -30.6 pts | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | 78.4#4 of 50 · A+ | -30.6 pts | — | ID |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.2 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 95.5#23 of 50 | +5.2 pts+5% | 100 | ID |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$7,682 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$7,682 | -$11,758 | ID |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$60,754 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $478,744#39 of 50 | -$60,754-13% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.68 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 7.54%#10 of 50 | +0.68 pts | 8.74% | ID |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +161 (+74%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 217#11 of 50 | +161+74% | 328 | ID |
| Median household incomeGap +$320 (0%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $81,166#21 of 50 | +$3200% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 79.9%#47 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | ID |
| Life expectancyGap -1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 78.4#12 of 50 | -1.7 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,505 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +11,505 | -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 Idaho better to live in?
Idaho scores higher overall: 78.4 to 47.8 out of 100, #4 of 50 against #38. Arizona leads 0 of 11 categories, Idaho leads 10, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -8.3 | 15% | 42.6#31 · C+ | 50.9#19 · B | -8.3 pts | ID |
| Safety12% of scoregap -23.4 | 12% | 63.2#32 · C+ | 86.6#5 · A+ | -23.4 pts | ID |
| Health12% of scoregap -12.2 | 12% | 49.7#31 · C+ | 61.9#16 · B+ | -12.2 pts | ID |
| Education12% of scoregap -22.6 | 12% | 32.6#47 · D | 55.2#32 · C+ | -22.6 pts | ID |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -11.8 | 10% | 60.3#35 · C | 72.1#24 · B | -11.8 pts | ID |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -11.6 | 8% | 59.4#25 · B | 71.0#9 · A | -11.6 pts | ID |
| Growth7% of scoregap -24.3 | 7% | 48.3#16 · B+ | 72.6#1 · A+ | -24.3 pts | ID |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -2.4 | 7% | 53.4#18 · B+ | 55.8#10 · A | -2.4 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -15.3 | 7% | 24.3#42 · C | 39.6#15 · B+ | -15.3 pts | ID |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -12.5 | 6% | 37.7#16 · B+ | 50.2#6 · A | -12.5 pts | ID |
| Environment4% of scoregap -44.1 | 4% | 25.9#44 · D | 70.0#4 · A+ | -44.1 pts | ID |
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 Idaho?
Idaho is cheaper: cost of living index 95.5 vs 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $7,682 more a year in Idaho after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.2 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 95.5#23 of 50 | +5.2 pts+5% | 100 | ID |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.9 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 96.3#21 of 50 | -0.9 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.50¢ (+30%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | +3.50¢+30% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$10.89 (+142%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | +$10.89+142% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.45 (+13%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | +$0.45+13% | $3.32/gal | ID |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,497 (+50%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $10,887#7 of 50 | +$5,497+50% | $15,633 | ID |
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 | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,120 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$26,637costs $48,363 | +$3,120 | AZ |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,656 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$17,119costs $57,881 | +$2,656 | AZ |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$7,682 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$11,891costs $86,891 | -$7,682 | ID |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,613 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$30,814costs $44,187 | +$2,613 | 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 | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$4,026 | $27,704 | $31,730 | -$4,026 | AZ |
| ChildcareGap +$10,994 | $32,768 | $21,774 | +$10,994 | ID |
| UtilitiesGap +$250 | $4,834 | $4,584 | +$250 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$101 | $10,745 | $10,846 | -$101 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$1,414 | $11,943 | $10,529 | +$1,414 | ID |
| State and local taxesGap -$849 | $6,579 | $7,428 | -$849 | AZ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Idaho?
Idaho collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.54% vs 8.22%. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Idaho has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.68 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 7.54%#10 of 50 | +0.68 pts | 8.74% | ID |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.2 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 5.7%#27 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap 0 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.56%#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.49 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 6.03%#14 of 50 | +2.49 pts | 6.66% | ID |
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 Idaho?
Homes cost 15% more in Idaho: a typical home value of $417,990 in Arizona vs $478,744 in Idaho. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of income in Arizona and $118,073 in Idaho; the median household earns $81,486 and $81,166.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$60,754 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $478,744#39 of 50 | -$60,754-13% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +2%#27 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +1.2% | ID |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$197 (-10%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,919#33 of 50 | -$197-10% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$14,031 (-12%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $118,073#37 of 50 | -$14,031-12% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-14%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 5.9x#43 of 50 | -0.8x-14% | 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 | ID | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,151 | $2,463 |
| Income needed vs. median | +28% | +46% |
| Five-year change | +9.1% | +6.2% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Phoenix | Boise City |
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 Idaho?
Median household income is about the same, $81,486 in Arizona and $81,166 in Idaho, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.7%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Idaho's in 5.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$320 (0%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $81,166#21 of 50 | +$3200% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 3.7%#18 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | ID |
| GDP per capitaGap +$8,057 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $50,766#46 of 50 | +$8,057+16% | $64,333 | AZ |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +3%#8 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.55 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +1.44%#2 of 50 | -0.55 pts | +0.51% | ID |
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 | ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | $135,305$123,128 in Boise City | ID |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | $211,918$192,845 in Boise City | AZ |
| General & Operations Managers | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | $100,669$91,609 in Boise City | ID |
| Electricians | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | $62,723$57,078 in Boise City | ID |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | $100,132$91,120 in Boise City | AZ |
| Lawyers | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | $145,444$132,354 in Boise City | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | $61,521$55,984 in Boise City | AZ |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | $65,962$60,025 in Boise City | AZ |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | $63,548$57,829 in Boise City | ID |
| Mental Health Counselors | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | $53,174$48,388 in Boise City | ID |
| Accountants & Auditors | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | $77,057$70,122 in Boise City | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | $57,605$52,421 in Boise City | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | $56,668$51,568 in Boise City | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | $54,186$49,309 in Boise City | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | $83,721$76,186 in Boise City | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | $74,170$67,495 in Boise City | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | $32,795$29,843 in Boise City | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | $45,982$41,844 in Boise City | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | $97,456$88,685 in Boise City | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | $42,880$39,021 in Boise City | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Arizona safer than Idaho?
Idaho is safer: 217 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona (FBI). Property crime runs 1,514 and 605 per 100,000.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +161 (+74%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 217#11 of 50 | +161+74% | 328 | ID |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +909 (+150%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 605#1 of 50 | +909+150% | 1,535 | ID |
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
- Moscow, ID37 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Arizona or Idaho?
Idaho scores higher for education (#32 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 77.3% and 79.9%. Idaho scores higher for health (#16 vs #31); life expectancy is 76.7 years in Arizona and 78.4 in Idaho.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 278#14 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 261#9 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 79.9%#47 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | ID |
| Life expectancyGap -1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 78.4#12 of 50 | -1.7 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.6 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 32.7%#18 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 34.03% | ID |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 9.2%#38 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 7.6% | ID |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +11 pts (+32%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 34#6 of 50 | +11 pts+32% | 38.8 | ID |
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
- Coeur d'Alene, IDeducation score 92
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, Idaho #32. Health: Arizona #31, Idaho #16.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Idaho, or from Idaho to Arizona?
1,702 households moved from Arizona to Idaho and 1,745 moved from Idaho to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 43 households for Arizona. Movers to Idaho reported an average income of $70,961; movers to Arizona reported $69,942. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,511 people (±1,645) moving from Arizona to Idaho and 5,130 (±2,437) 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 | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +85,844 (+240%) | 121,675#10 of 50 | 35,831#34 of 50 | +85,844+240% | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +74,339 (+248%) | 104,359#38 of 50 | 30,020#14 of 50 | +74,339+248% | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,505 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +11,505 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.6 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +2.9#5 of 50 | -0.6 | ID |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,249 (+8%) | $87,497#11 of 50 | $81,248#19 of 50 | +$6,249+8% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,532 (+18%) | $75,593#21 of 50 | $64,061#43 of 50 | +$11,532+18% | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.8 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +9.9#2 of 50 | -5.8 | ID |
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 Idaho?
Idaho 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 | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +38 places | #45score 47.8 | #7score 80.6 | +38 places | ID |
| RetireesGap +35 places | #37score 54.6 | #2score 84.8 | +35 places | ID |
| Remote WorkersGap +32 places | #35score 47.2 | #3score 80.2 | +32 places | ID |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +29 places | #31score 51 | #2score 77.2 | +29 places | ID |
| Small BusinessGap +28 places | #30score 52.2 | #2score 80.2 | +28 places | ID |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +24 places | #28score 42.7 | #4score 78.6 | +24 places | ID |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIdaho (#7 vs #45)
- RetireesIdaho (#2 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersIdaho (#3 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsIdaho (#2 vs #31)
- Small BusinessIdaho (#2 vs #30)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIdaho (#4 vs #28)
Which cities stand out in Arizona and Idaho?
Arizona has 23 tracked cities and Idaho has 20; the largest are Phoenix and Boise. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Phoenix1,642,323 people | Boise237,242 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Queen Creekscore 66.2 | Meridianscore 64.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Marana61 violent per 100K | Moscow37 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yumacost index 92.7 | Pocatellocost index 88.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 | Boisewalkability 13.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 | Idaho Fallscounty median AQI 22 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Peoria95.1% graduation rate | Coeur d'Alene92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 | Eaglemedian income $122,894 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Queen Creek+8.2% growth | Star+14.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Arizona and Idaho compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Arizona carries AA credit rating and Idaho AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -54 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 70%#5 of 50 | -54 pts | 29.34% | ID |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +9.8 (+45%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 21.7#18 of 50 | +9.8+45% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap -23.9 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 62.5%#3 of 50 | -23.9 pts | 17.16% | ID |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.2 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | +4.2 min | 25.2 min | ID |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 0.5%#39 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | AZ |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.6 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 12.7%#23 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 92.8%#25 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
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 | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 95#18 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | ID |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.3 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 14.8%#9 of 50 | -3.3 pts | 12.39% | ID |
| Pension funded ratioGap -19 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 91%#6 of 50 | -19 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap +$610 (+39%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $1,580#4 of 50 | +$610+39% | $3,506 | ID |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +7.5%#8 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +4.66% | ID |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Arizona AA, Idaho 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 Idaho: 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 14 of 51, Idaho on 29, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | IdahoID | GapAZ−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,594,085 (+276%) · US 6.8 million | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | 2 million#37 of 50 | +5,594,085+276% | 6.8 million | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$320 (0%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $81,166#21 of 50 | +$3200% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 3.7%#18 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | ID |
| Population growthGap -0.55 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +1.44%#2 of 50 | -0.55 pts | +0.51% | ID |
| GDP per capitaGap +$8,057 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $50,766#46 of 50 | +$8,057+16% | $64,333 | AZ |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +3%#8 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +161 (+74%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 217#11 of 50 | +161+74% | 328 | ID |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +909 (+150%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 605#1 of 50 | +909+150% | 1,535 | ID |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 79.9%#47 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | ID |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 237 | 232#45 of 50 | 238#21 of 50 | -6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 278#14 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -8 · US 214 | 208#45 of 50 | 216#18 of 50 | -8 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 261#9 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 78.4#12 of 50 | -1.7 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.6 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 32.7%#18 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 34.03% | ID |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 9.2%#38 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 7.6% | ID |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$60,754 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $478,744#39 of 50 | -$60,754-13% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +2%#27 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +1.2% | ID |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$197 (-10%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,919#33 of 50 | -$197-10% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$14,031 (-12%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $118,073#37 of 50 | -$14,031-12% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.2 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 95.5#23 of 50 | +5.2 pts+5% | 100 | ID |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-14%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 5.9x#43 of 50 | -0.8x-14% | 4.6x | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.50¢ (+30%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | +3.50¢+30% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$10.89 (+142%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | +$10.89+142% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.45 (+13%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | +$0.45+13% | $3.32/gal | ID |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.9 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 96.3#21 of 50 | -0.9 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,497 (+50%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $10,887#7 of 50 | +$5,497+50% | $15,633 | ID |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.68 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 7.54%#10 of 50 | +0.68 pts | 8.74% | ID |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.2 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 5.7%#27 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap 0 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.56%#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.49 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 6.03%#14 of 50 | +2.49 pts | 6.66% | ID |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 95#18 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | ID |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.3 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 14.8%#9 of 50 | -3.3 pts | 12.39% | ID |
| Pension funded ratioGap -19 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 91%#6 of 50 | -19 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap +$610 (+39%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $1,580#4 of 50 | +$610+39% | $3,506 | ID |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +7.5%#8 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +4.66% | ID |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +11 pts (+32%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 34#6 of 50 | +11 pts+32% | 38.8 | ID |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -54 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 70%#5 of 50 | -54 pts | 29.34% | ID |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +9.8 (+45%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 21.7#18 of 50 | +9.8+45% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap -23.9 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 62.5%#3 of 50 | -23.9 pts | 17.16% | ID |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.2 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | +4.2 min | 25.2 min | ID |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 0.5%#39 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | AZ |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.6 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 12.7%#23 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 92.8%#25 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
| Households moving inIRSGap +85,844 (+240%) · US 78,682 | 121,675#10 of 50 | 35,831#34 of 50 | +85,844+240% | 78,682 | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +74,339 (+248%) · US 78,715 | 104,359#38 of 50 | 30,020#14 of 50 | +74,339+248% | 78,715 | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,505 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +11,505 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.6 · US +0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +2.9#5 of 50 | -0.6 | +0.4 | ID |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,249 (+8%) · US $77,690 | $87,497#11 of 50 | $81,248#19 of 50 | +$6,249+8% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,532 (+18%) · US $77,024 | $75,593#21 of 50 | $64,061#43 of 50 | +$11,532+18% | $77,024 | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.8 · US +1.1 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +9.9#2 of 50 | -5.8 | +1.1 | ID |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$7,682 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$7,682 | -$11,758 | ID |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,120 · US +$31,418 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$26,637#37 of 50 | +$3,120 | +$31,418 | AZ |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,613 · US +$35,970 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$30,814#36 of 50 | +$2,613 | +$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 Idaho numbers say when read together.
Idaho ranks higher overall
Idaho leads 10 of the 11 categories to Arizona's 0, with 1 even. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Arizona is ahead on 14 and Idaho on 29.
Idaho is cheaper day to day
Idaho's cost of living index is 95.5 against 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). The typical home costs $417,990 in Arizona and $478,744 in Idaho. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 a year after typical costs in Arizona and -$11,891 in Idaho.
Idaho 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); Idaho collects 7.54% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Idaho is safer
Median household income is $81,486 in Arizona and $81,166 in Idaho, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 378 per 100,000 residents in Arizona and 217 in Idaho.
Moves between the two run about even
4,511 people moved from Arizona to Idaho and 5,130 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Idaho fits families and retirees better
For families, Arizona ranks #45 of 50 and Idaho #7; for retirees, Arizona ranks #37 and Idaho #2.
Arizona vs Idaho: frequently asked questions
Is Arizona or Idaho better to live in?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Idaho #4 as of the latest release. Idaho is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 95.5 vs 100.7), has a 0.7-point lower tax burden, and has a 42% lower violent crime rate. Idaho scores higher overall, leading 10 of 11 categories to 0.
Is Arizona cheaper than Idaho?
Idaho is cheaper than Arizona: cost of living index 95.5 vs 100.7 (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 -$11,891 in Idaho. The typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $478,744 in Idaho.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Idaho?
Idaho has the lower tax burden: 7.54% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.22% in Arizona. Arizona's top income tax rate is 2.5%, its effective property tax rate 0.56% and its combined sales tax 8.52%; Idaho's are 5.7%, 0.56% and 6.03%.
Is Arizona safer than Idaho?
Idaho is safer: 217 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona, per the FBI. Arizona ranks #36 of 50 for violent crime and Idaho #11. Property crime is 1,514 per 100,000 in Arizona and 605 in Idaho. The safest tracked cities are Marana, AZ, and Moscow, ID.
Are homes more expensive in Arizona or Idaho?
Homes are 15% more expensive in Idaho: the typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $478,744 in Idaho. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of household income in Arizona and $118,073 in Idaho, against median incomes of $81,486 and $81,166.
Do people earn more in Arizona or Idaho?
Arizona and Idaho pay about the same: median household income is $81,486 vs $81,166, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Arizona and 3.7% in Idaho. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 4 after adjusting for local costs and Idaho's in 5, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Idaho or from Idaho to Arizona?
1,702 households moved from Arizona to Idaho and 1,745 moved from Idaho to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 43 households for Arizona. Movers to Idaho reported an average income of $70,961; movers to Arizona reported $69,942. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,511 people (±1,645) moving from Arizona to Idaho and 5,130 (±2,437) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Arizona or Idaho?
Idaho is the better fit for retirees: #2 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Idaho 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 +$30,814 in Idaho.
Which is better for families, Arizona or Idaho?
Idaho is the better fit for families: #7 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $16,384 a year in Arizona and $10,887 in Idaho. High school graduation rates are 77.3% and 79.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 after typical costs in Arizona and -$11,891 in Idaho.
Is Idaho better than Arizona?
Yes: Idaho ranks higher than Arizona overall, #4 of 50 vs #38, with a composite score of 78.4 to 47.8. Idaho leads 10 of 11 categories and Arizona leads 0. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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