Michigan vs Arizona: Which Is Better to Live In?
Michigan ranks #45 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. Michigan is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.2 vs 100.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 9% higher violent crime rate. Arizona scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Typical home value is 36% lower in Michigan ($266,292 vs. $417,990 in Arizona).
- Residential electricity price is 23% lower in Arizona (15.32¢/kWh vs. 20.01¢/kWh in Michigan).
- Property crime rate is 17% lower in Michigan (1,259 vs. 1,514 in Arizona).
| Measure | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -5.1 pts | 42.7#45 of 50 · D | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | -5.1 pts | — | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.5 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -4.5 pts-4% | 100 | MI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$13,939 · US -$11,758 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | +$13,939 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$151,698 (-36%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$151,698-36% | $368,697 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +38 (+10%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | +38+10% | 328 | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap -$9,097 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | -$9,097-11% | $80,903 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | MI |
| Life expectancyGap +0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -26,086 · US -33 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -26,086 | -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 Michigan or Arizona better to live in?
Arizona scores higher overall: 47.8 to 42.7 out of 100, #38 of 50 against #45. Michigan leads 4 of 11 categories, Arizona leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -20.7 | 15% | 21.9#50 · F | 42.6#31 · C+ | -20.7 pts | AZ |
| Safety12% of scoregap +0.7 | 12% | 63.9#31 · C+ | 63.2#32 · C+ | +0.7 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +5.7 | 12% | 55.4#27 · C+ | 49.7#31 · C+ | +5.7 pts | MI |
| Education12% of scoregap +9.6 | 12% | 42.2#44 · D | 32.6#47 · D | +9.6 pts | MI |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +13 | 10% | 73.3#22 · B | 60.3#35 · C | +13 pts | MI |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -3.2 | 8% | 56.2#32 · C+ | 59.4#25 · B | -3.2 pts | AZ |
| Growth7% of scoregap -24 | 7% | 24.3#41 · C | 48.3#16 · B+ | -24 pts | AZ |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -4 | 7% | 49.4#27 · C+ | 53.4#18 · B+ | -4 pts | AZ |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.4 | 7% | 24.7#41 · C | 24.3#42 · C | +0.4 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -19.9 | 6% | 17.8#32 · C+ | 37.7#16 · B+ | -19.9 pts | AZ |
| Environment4% of scoregap +16.1 | 4% | 42.0#23 · B | 25.9#44 · D | +16.1 pts | MI |
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 Michigan cheaper than Arizona?
Michigan is cheaper: cost of living index 96.2 vs 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $13,939 more a year in Michigan after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.5 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -4.5 pts-4% | 100 | MI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96#16 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.69¢ (+31%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | +4.69¢+31% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$7.66 (-41%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | -$7.66-41% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.70 (-18%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.70-18% | $3.32/gal | MI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,320 (-14%) · US $15,633 | $14,064#21 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | -$2,320-14% | $15,633 | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$4,670 | +$34,427costs $40,573 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$4,670 | MI |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$6,917 | +$26,692costs $48,308 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$6,917 | MI |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$13,939 | -$5,634costs $80,634 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | +$13,939 | MI |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$5,580 | +$39,007costs $35,994 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$5,580 | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$7,951 | $19,753 | $27,704 | -$7,951 | MI |
| ChildcareGap -$4,640 | $28,128 | $32,768 | -$4,640 | MI |
| UtilitiesGap -$216 | $4,618 | $4,834 | -$216 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$67 | $10,812 | $10,745 | +$67 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$2,200 | $9,743 | $11,943 | -$2,200 | MI |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,001 | $7,580 | $6,579 | +$1,001 | AZ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Michigan or Arizona?
Michigan and Arizona collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.25% vs 8.22%. Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.15 pts · US 5.46% | 6.65%#36 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +4.15 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.79 pts · US 1.02% | 1.35%#37 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +0.79 pts | 1.02% | AZ |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.52 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#13 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | -2.52 pts | 6.66% | MI |
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 Michigan or Arizona?
Homes cost 57% more in Arizona: a typical home value of $266,292 in Michigan vs $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $73,945 of income in Michigan and $104,042 in Arizona; the median household earns $72,389 and $81,486.
| Measure | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$151,698 (-36%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$151,698-36% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.1 pts · US +1.2% | +4%#7 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +5.1 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$198 (-11%) · US $1,948 | $1,524#16 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | -$198-11% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$30,097 (-29%) · US $100,006 | $73,945#12 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | -$30,097-29% | $100,006 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.4x (-27%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#15 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | -1.4x-27% | 4.6x | MI |
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.
| MI | AZ | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,370 | $2,151 |
| Income needed vs. median | +2% | +28% |
| Five-year change | +24.1% | +9.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Detroit | 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 Michigan or Arizona?
Arizona pays more: median household income $81,486 vs $72,389, with unemployment at 5.2% in Michigan and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Michigan's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
| Measure | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$9,097 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | -$9,097-11% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#48 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | AZ |
| GDP per capitaGap -$3,497 (-6%) · US $64,333 | $55,326#40 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | -$3,497-6% | $64,333 | AZ |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Population growthGap -0.61 pts · US +0.51% | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.61 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 | MI | AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $248,727$233,803 in Detroit | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | MI |
| Software Developers | $143,840$135,210 in Detroit | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | MI |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,373$100,931 in Detroit | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | MI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,498$69,088 in Detroit | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | MI |
| Electricians | $68,769$64,643 in Detroit | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | MI |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $113,783$106,956 in Detroit | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | MI |
| Lawyers | $152,435$143,289 in Detroit | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | MI |
| Civil Engineers | $107,310$100,871 in Detroit | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | MI |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,529$56,897 in Detroit | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | MI |
| Secondary School Teachers | $73,631$69,213 in Detroit | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | MI |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,057$77,134 in Detroit | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | MI |
| Accountants & Auditors | $82,872$77,900 in Detroit | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | MI |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $60,091$56,486 in Detroit | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | MI |
| Construction Laborers | $48,624$45,707 in Detroit | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | MI |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,641$48,543 in Detroit | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | MI |
| Registered Nurses | $89,989$84,590 in Detroit | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | MI |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,151$57,482 in Detroit | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | MI |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $73,448$69,041 in Detroit | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | MI |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,851$33,700 in Detroit | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | MI |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,364$55,802 in Detroit | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | MI |
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 Michigan safer than Arizona?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan (FBI). Property crime runs 1,259 and 1,514 per 100,000.
| Measure | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +38 (+10%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | +38+10% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -255 (-17%) · US 1,535 | 1,259#13 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | -255-17% | 1,535 | MI |
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.
- Rochester Hills, MI62 violent per 100K
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Michigan or Arizona?
Michigan scores higher for education (#44 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 81% and 77.3%. Michigan scores higher for health (#27 vs #31); life expectancy is 76.8 years in Michigan and 76.7 in Arizona.
| Measure | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 273 | 270#31 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | +0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 255#33 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | MI |
| Life expectancyGap +0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.8 pts · US 34.03% | 36.1%#33 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -5.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#8 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -5.2 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-11%) · US 38.8 | 40#27 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | -5 pts-11% | 38.8 | MI |
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).
- Farmington Hills, MIeducation score 94.2
- 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: Michigan #44, Arizona #47. Health: Michigan #27, Arizona #31.
Are more people moving from Michigan to Arizona, or from Arizona to Michigan?
2,521 households moved from Arizona to Michigan in the latest IRS release (average income $69,636); the flow from Michigan to Arizona is too small to appear among Arizona's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,691 people (±3,101) moving from Michigan to Arizona and 4,050 (±1,566) the other way, a net gain of about 3,641 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 | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -49,875 (-41%) | 71,800#20 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | -49,875-41% | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap -23,789 (-23%) | 80,570#33 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | -23,789-23% | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -26,086 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -26,086 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.2 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -3.2 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$13,352 (-15%) | $74,145#30 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | -$13,352-15% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,350 (+3%) | $77,943#18 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | +$2,350+3% | MI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.9 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -3.9 | 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, Michigan or Arizona?
Michigan is the better fit for families and retirees; Arizona is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -4 places | #41score 53.5 | #45score 47.8 | -4 places | MI |
| RetireesGap -7 places | #30score 59.7 | #37score 54.6 | -7 places | MI |
| Remote WorkersGap +8 places | #43score 41.5 | #35score 47.2 | +8 places | AZ |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +16 places | #47score 37.5 | #31score 51 | +16 places | AZ |
| Small BusinessGap +15 places | #45score 36.9 | #30score 52.2 | +15 places | AZ |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +4 places | #32score 36.1 | #28score 42.7 | +4 places | AZ |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMichigan (#41 vs #45)
- RetireesMichigan (#30 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersArizona (#35 vs #43)
- Young ProfessionalsArizona (#31 vs #47)
- Small BusinessArizona (#30 vs #45)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsArizona (#28 vs #32)
Which cities stand out in Michigan and Arizona?
Michigan has 24 tracked cities and Arizona has 23; the largest are Detroit and Phoenix. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Detroit638,530 people | Phoenix1,642,323 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Troyscore 69.5 | Queen Creekscore 66.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Rochester Hills62 violent per 100K | Marana61 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Battle Creekcost index 90.5 | Yumacost index 92.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ann Arborwalkability 13.5 of 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lansingcounty median AQI 38 | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Farmington Hills94.2% graduation rate | Peoria95.1% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Rochester Hillsmedian income $120,694 | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Rapids+0.9% 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 Michigan and Arizona compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Michigan carries AA credit rating and Arizona AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -3 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#33 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | -3 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -21.0 (-67%) · US 29.6 | 10.5#7 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -21.0-67% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap -25.2 pts · US 17.16% | 13.4%#18 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -25.2 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.1 min · US 25.2 min | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | -2.1 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#28 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -5.1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.2%#33 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#27 of 50 | 93.6%#15 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 | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#39 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2 pts · US 12.39% | 13.5%#13 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 68%#35 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | AZ |
| State debt per capitaGap +$990 (+45%) · US $3,506 | $3,180#31 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | +$990+45% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.5 pts · US +4.66% | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Michigan 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).
Michigan vs Arizona: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Michigan is ahead on 21 of 51, Arizona on 21, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MichiganMI | ArizonaAZ | GapMI−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,504,066 (+33%) · US 6.8 million | 10.1 million#10 of 50 | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | +2,504,066+33% | 6.8 million | MI |
| Median household incomeGap -$9,097 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | -$9,097-11% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#48 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | AZ |
| Population growthGap -0.61 pts · US +0.51% | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.61 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
| GDP per capitaGap -$3,497 (-6%) · US $64,333 | $55,326#40 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | -$3,497-6% | $64,333 | AZ |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +38 (+10%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | +38+10% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -255 (-17%) · US 1,535 | 1,259#13 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | -255-17% | 1,535 | MI |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | MI |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 237 | 235#34 of 50 | 232#45 of 50 | +3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 273 | 270#31 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | +0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 209#44 of 50 | 208#45 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 255#33 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.8 pts · US 34.03% | 36.1%#33 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -5.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#8 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -5.2 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$151,698 (-36%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$151,698-36% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.1 pts · US +1.2% | +4%#7 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +5.1 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$198 (-11%) · US $1,948 | $1,524#16 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | -$198-11% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$30,097 (-29%) · US $100,006 | $73,945#12 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | -$30,097-29% | $100,006 | MI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -4.5 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -4.5 pts-4% | 100 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.4x (-27%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#15 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | -1.4x-27% | 4.6x | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.69¢ (+31%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | +4.69¢+31% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$7.66 (-41%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | -$7.66-41% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.70 (-18%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.70-18% | $3.32/gal | MI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96#16 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,320 (-14%) · US $15,633 | $14,064#21 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | -$2,320-14% | $15,633 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.15 pts · US 5.46% | 6.65%#36 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +4.15 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.79 pts · US 1.02% | 1.35%#37 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +0.79 pts | 1.02% | AZ |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.52 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#13 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | -2.52 pts | 6.66% | MI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#39 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2 pts · US 12.39% | 13.5%#13 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 68%#35 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | AZ |
| State debt per capitaGap +$990 (+45%) · US $3,506 | $3,180#31 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | +$990+45% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.5 pts · US +4.66% | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-11%) · US 38.8 | 40#27 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | -5 pts-11% | 38.8 | MI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -3 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#33 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | -3 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -21.0 (-67%) · US 29.6 | 10.5#7 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -21.0-67% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap -25.2 pts · US 17.16% | 13.4%#18 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -25.2 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.1 min · US 25.2 min | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | -2.1 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#28 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -5.1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.2%#33 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#27 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
| Households moving inIRSGap -49,875 (-41%) · US 78,682 | 71,800#20 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | -49,875-41% | 78,682 | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap -23,789 (-23%) · US 78,715 | 80,570#33 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | -23,789-23% | 78,715 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -26,086 · US -33 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -26,086 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.2 · US +0.4 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -3.2 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$13,352 (-15%) · US $77,690 | $74,145#30 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | -$13,352-15% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,350 (+3%) · US $77,024 | $77,943#18 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | +$2,350+3% | $77,024 | MI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.9 · US +1.1 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -3.9 | +1.1 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$13,939 · US -$11,758 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | +$13,939 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$4,670 · US +$31,418 | +$34,427#18 of 50 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$4,670 | +$31,418 | MI |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$5,580 · US +$35,970 | +$39,007#19 of 50 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$5,580 | +$35,970 | MI |
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 Michigan and Arizona numbers say when read together.
Arizona ranks higher overall
Arizona leads 5 of the 11 categories to Michigan's 4, with 2 even; Michigan is ahead on environment and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Michigan is ahead on 21 and Arizona on 21.
Michigan is cheaper day to day
Michigan's cost of living index is 96.2 against 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). The typical home costs $266,292 in Michigan and $417,990 in Arizona. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,634 a year after typical costs in Michigan and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Tax burdens are close
Michigan collects 8.25% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Arizona collects 8.22% (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Arizona pays more and is safer
Median household income is $72,389 in Michigan and $81,486 in Arizona, with unemployment at 5.2% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 416 per 100,000 residents in Michigan and 378 in Arizona.
People move to Arizona on net
7,691 people moved to Arizona from Michigan in the latest Census release, against 4,050 going the other way.
Michigan fits families and retirees better
For families, Michigan ranks #41 of 50 and Arizona #45; for retirees, Michigan ranks #30 and Arizona #37.
Michigan vs Arizona: frequently asked questions
Is Michigan or Arizona better to live in?
Michigan ranks #45 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. Michigan is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.2 vs 100.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 9% higher violent crime rate. Arizona scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Michigan cheaper than Arizona?
Michigan is cheaper than Arizona: cost of living index 96.2 vs 100.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,634 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Michigan, and -$19,573 in Arizona. The typical home value is $266,292 in Michigan and $417,990 in Arizona.
Which has lower taxes, Michigan or Arizona?
Michigan and Arizona have similar tax burdens: 8.25% vs 8.22% of income in state and local taxes. Michigan's top income tax rate is 6.65%, its effective property tax rate 1.35% and its combined sales tax 6%; Arizona's are 2.5%, 0.56% and 8.52%.
Is Michigan safer than Arizona?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan, per the FBI. Michigan ranks #40 of 50 for violent crime and Arizona #36. Property crime is 1,259 per 100,000 in Michigan and 1,514 in Arizona. The safest tracked cities are Rochester Hills, MI, and Marana, AZ.
Are homes more expensive in Michigan or Arizona?
Homes are 57% more expensive in Arizona: the typical home value is $266,292 in Michigan and $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $73,945 of household income in Michigan and $104,042 in Arizona, against median incomes of $72,389 and $81,486.
Do people earn more in Michigan or Arizona?
Arizona pays more: median household income is $81,486 vs $72,389 in Michigan, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.2% in Michigan and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Michigan's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
Are more people moving from Michigan to Arizona or from Arizona to Michigan?
2,521 households moved from Arizona to Michigan in the latest IRS release (average income $69,636); the flow from Michigan to Arizona is too small to appear among Arizona's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,691 people (±3,101) moving from Michigan to Arizona and 4,050 (±1,566) the other way, a net gain of about 3,641 people for Arizona beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Michigan or Arizona?
Michigan is the better fit for retirees: #30 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes 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 +$39,007 left after typical costs in Michigan and +$33,427 in Arizona.
Which is better for families, Michigan or Arizona?
Michigan is the better fit for families: #41 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $14,064 a year in Michigan and $16,384 in Arizona. High school graduation rates are 81% and 77.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,634 after typical costs in Michigan and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Is Arizona better than Michigan?
Yes: Arizona ranks higher than Michigan overall, #38 of 50 vs #45, with a composite score of 47.8 to 42.7. Arizona leads 5 of 11 categories and Michigan leads 4, including environment and affordability. 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 Michigan vs Arizona.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (2,521 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).