Arizona vs Montana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. Montana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 100.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 10% higher violent crime rate. Montana scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 0.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 17% lower in Montana ($1,426 vs. $1,722 in Arizona).
- Residential electricity price is 15% lower in Montana (12.98¢/kWh vs. 15.32¢/kWh in Arizona).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 13% lower in Arizona ($104,042 vs. $119,850 in Montana).
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -27.2 pts | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | 75.0#7 of 50 · A | -27.2 pts | — | MT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.1 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +6.1 pts+6% | 100 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$1,579 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | +$1,579 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$53,756 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | -$53,756-11% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.35 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +0.35 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -41 (-10%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -41-10% | 328 | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$6,146 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$6,146+8% | $80,903 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap -8.5 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | -8.5 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap -0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | -0.6 yrs | 76.9 | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,220 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +14,220 | -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 Montana better to live in?
Montana scores higher overall: 75 to 47.8 out of 100, #7 of 50 against #38. Arizona leads 0 of 11 categories, Montana leads 9, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -8.9 | 15% | 42.6#31 · C+ | 51.5#17 · B+ | -8.9 pts | MT |
| Safety12% of scoregap +2.3 | 12% | 63.2#32 · C+ | 60.9#36 · C | +2.3 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -9.2 | 12% | 49.7#31 · C+ | 58.9#22 · B | -9.2 pts | MT |
| Education12% of scoregap -34.5 | 12% | 32.6#47 · D | 67.1#12 · B+ | -34.5 pts | MT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -8.6 | 10% | 60.3#35 · C | 68.9#26 · B | -8.6 pts | MT |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -0.1 | 8% | 59.4#25 · B | 59.5#24 · B | -0.1 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap -5.3 | 7% | 48.3#16 · B+ | 53.6#6 · A | -5.3 pts | MT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -5.3 | 7% | 53.4#18 · B+ | 58.7#7 · A | -5.3 pts | MT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -37.6 | 7% | 24.3#42 · C | 61.9#1 · A+ | -37.6 pts | MT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -34 | 6% | 37.7#16 · B+ | 71.7#3 · A+ | -34 pts | MT |
| Environment4% of scoregap -37 | 4% | 25.9#44 · D | 62.9#6 · A | -37 pts | MT |
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 Montana?
Montana is cheaper: cost of living index 94.6 vs 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $1,579 more a year in Arizona after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.1 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +6.1 pts+6% | 100 | MT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.6 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | -0.6 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.34¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | +2.34¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | MT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.59 (+107%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | +$9.59+107% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.47 (+14%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | +$0.47+14% | $3.32/gal | MT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$908 (+6%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | +$908+6% | $15,633 | MT |
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 | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,314 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$26,443costs $48,557 | +$3,314 | AZ |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,775 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$17,000costs $58,000 | +$2,775 | AZ |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$1,579 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$21,152costs $96,152 | +$1,579 | AZ |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,745 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$30,682costs $44,318 | +$2,745 | 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 | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$4,648 | $27,704 | $32,352 | -$4,648 | AZ |
| ChildcareGap +$1,816 | $32,768 | $30,952 | +$1,816 | MT |
| UtilitiesGap +$293 | $4,834 | $4,541 | +$293 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$67 | $10,745 | $10,812 | -$67 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$1,477 | $11,943 | $10,466 | +$1,477 | MT |
| State and local taxesGap -$450 | $6,579 | $7,029 | -$450 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Montana?
Arizona and Montana collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.22% vs 7.87%. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.35 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +0.35 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.4 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.23 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | -0.23 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +8.52 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +8.52 pts | 6.66% | MT |
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 Montana?
Homes cost 13% more in Montana: a typical home value of $417,990 in Arizona vs $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of income in Arizona and $119,850 in Montana; the median household earns $81,486 and $75,340.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$53,756 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | -$53,756-11% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$296 (+21%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$296+21% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$15,808 (-13%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | -$15,808-13% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.2x (-19%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | -1.2x-19% | 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 | MT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,151 | $2,427 |
| Income needed vs. median | +28% | +59% |
| Five-year change | +9.1% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Phoenix | Billings |
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 Montana?
Arizona pays more: median household income $81,486 vs $75,340, with unemployment at 4.3% in Arizona and 3.3% in Montana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Montana's in 0.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$6,146 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$6,146+8% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | MT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,934 (+9%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | +$4,934+9% | $64,333 | AZ |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Population growthGap +0.26 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.26 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 | MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | $199,317$179,385 in Billings | AZ |
| Lawyers | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | $128,043$115,239 in Billings | AZ |
| Civil Engineers | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | $84,653$76,188 in Billings | AZ |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | $92,892$83,603 in Billings | AZ |
| Registered Nurses | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | $74,941$67,447 in Billings | AZ |
| Software Developers | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | $116,186$104,567 in Billings | AZ |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | $50,682$45,614 in Billings | AZ |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | $63,372$57,035 in Billings | AZ |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | $68,716$61,844 in Billings | AZ |
| General & Operations Managers | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | $90,166$81,149 in Billings | AZ |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | $51,552$46,397 in Billings | AZ |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | $60,323$54,291 in Billings | AZ |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | $49,906$44,915 in Billings | AZ |
| Mental Health Counselors | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | $47,868$43,081 in Billings | AZ |
| Construction Laborers | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | $40,154$36,139 in Billings | AZ |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | $58,723$52,851 in Billings | AZ |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | $44,668$40,201 in Billings | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | $31,814$28,633 in Billings | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | $74,913$67,422 in Billings | Even |
| Electricians | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | $57,082$51,374 in Billings | 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 Montana?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,514 and 1,449 per 100,000.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -41 (-10%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -41-10% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +65 (+4%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | +65+4% | 1,535 | Even |
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
- Whitefish, MT176 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Arizona or Montana?
Montana scores higher for education (#12 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 77.3% and 85.8%. Montana scores higher for health (#22 vs #31); life expectancy is 76.7 years in Arizona and 77.3 in Montana.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -8.5 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | -8.5 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap -0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | -0.6 yrs | 76.9 | MT |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.3 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.5 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 7.6% | MT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +18 pts (+67%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | +18 pts+67% | 38.8 | MT |
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
- Whitefish, MTeducation 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, Montana #12. Health: Arizona #31, Montana #22.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Montana, or from Montana to Arizona?
964 households moved from Arizona to Montana and 1,144 moved from Montana to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 180 households for Arizona. Movers to Montana reported an average income of $76,324; movers to Arizona reported $80,184. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,330 people (±1,157) moving from Arizona to Montana and 4,304 (±2,162) 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 | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +100,285 (+469%) | 121,675#10 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +100,285+469% | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +86,065 (+470%) | 104,359#38 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +86,065+470% | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,220 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +14,220 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -0.4 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,387 (+11%) | $87,497#11 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | +$8,387+11% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,429 (+16%) | $75,593#21 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | +$10,429+16% | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | -1.5 | MT |
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 Montana?
Montana 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 | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +35 places | #45score 47.8 | #10score 79.4 | +35 places | MT |
| RetireesGap +27 places | #37score 54.6 | #10score 76.8 | +27 places | MT |
| Remote WorkersGap +31 places | #35score 47.2 | #4score 76.6 | +31 places | MT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +26 places | #31score 51 | #5score 70.2 | +26 places | MT |
| Small BusinessGap +20 places | #30score 52.2 | #10score 71 | +20 places | MT |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +26 places | #28score 42.7 | #2score 81.7 | +26 places | MT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMontana (#10 vs #45)
- RetireesMontana (#10 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersMontana (#4 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsMontana (#5 vs #31)
- Small BusinessMontana (#10 vs #30)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMontana (#2 vs #28)
Which cities stand out in Arizona and Montana?
Arizona has 23 tracked cities and Montana has 20; the largest are Phoenix and Billings. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Phoenix1,642,323 people | Billings119,434 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Queen Creekscore 66.2 | Bozemanscore 64.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Marana61 violent per 100K | Whitefish176 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yumacost index 92.7 | Buttecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 | Bozemanwalkability 15.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 | Bozemancounty median AQI 11 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Peoria95.1% graduation rate | Whitefish92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 | Belgrademedian income $97,328 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Queen Creek+8.2% growth | Sidney+2.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Arizona and Montana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Arizona carries AA credit rating and Montana AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -37 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | -37 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -18.3 (-37%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | -18.3-37% | 29.6 | AZ |
| Public land shareGap +8.7 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | +8.7 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.9 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +6.9 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.6 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | +4.6 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +2.1 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 | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | MT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.2 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap -1 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | -1 pts | 74.3% | MT |
| State debt per capitaGap -$560 (-20%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | -$560-20% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Arizona AA, Montana 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 Montana: 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 20 of 51, Montana on 20, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | MontanaMT | GapAZ−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,479,124 (+566%) · US 6.8 million | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | 1.1 million#43 of 50 | +6,479,124+566% | 6.8 million | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$6,146 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$6,146+8% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | MT |
| Population growthGap +0.26 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.26 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,934 (+9%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | +$4,934+9% | $64,333 | AZ |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -41 (-10%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -41-10% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +65 (+4%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | +65+4% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -8.5 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | -8.5 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 237 | 232#45 of 50 | 239#20 of 50 | -6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -9 · US 214 | 208#45 of 50 | 217#12 of 50 | -9 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | -0.6 yrs | 76.9 | MT |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.3 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.5 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 7.6% | MT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$53,756 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | -$53,756-11% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$296 (+21%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$296+21% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$15,808 (-13%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | -$15,808-13% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.1 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +6.1 pts+6% | 100 | MT |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.2x (-19%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | -1.2x-19% | 4.6x | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.34¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | +2.34¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | MT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.59 (+107%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | +$9.59+107% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.47 (+14%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | +$0.47+14% | $3.32/gal | MT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.6 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | -0.6 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$908 (+6%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | +$908+6% | $15,633 | MT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.35 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +0.35 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.4 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.23 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | -0.23 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +8.52 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +8.52 pts | 6.66% | MT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | MT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.2 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap -1 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | -1 pts | 74.3% | MT |
| State debt per capitaGap -$560 (-20%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | -$560-20% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +18 pts (+67%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | +18 pts+67% | 38.8 | MT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -37 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | -37 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -18.3 (-37%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | -18.3-37% | 29.6 | AZ |
| Public land shareGap +8.7 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | +8.7 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.9 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +6.9 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.6 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | +4.6 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
| Households moving inIRSGap +100,285 (+469%) · US 78,682 | 121,675#10 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +100,285+469% | 78,682 | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +86,065 (+470%) · US 78,715 | 104,359#38 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +86,065+470% | 78,715 | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,220 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +14,220 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.4 · US +0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -0.4 | +0.4 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,387 (+11%) · US $77,690 | $87,497#11 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | +$8,387+11% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,429 (+16%) · US $77,024 | $75,593#21 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | +$10,429+16% | $77,024 | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 · US +1.1 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | -1.5 | +1.1 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$1,579 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | +$1,579 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,314 · US +$31,418 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$26,443#38 of 50 | +$3,314 | +$31,418 | AZ |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,745 · US +$35,970 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$30,682#37 of 50 | +$2,745 | +$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 Montana numbers say when read together.
Montana ranks higher overall
Montana leads 9 of the 11 categories to Arizona's 0, with 2 even. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Arizona is ahead on 20 and Montana on 20.
Montana is cheaper day to day
Montana's cost of living index is 94.6 against 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). The typical home costs $417,990 in Arizona and $471,746 in Montana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 a year after typical costs in Arizona and -$21,152 in Montana.
Tax burdens are close
Arizona collects 8.22% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Montana collects 7.87% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Arizona pays more and is safer
Median household income is $81,486 in Arizona and $75,340 in Montana, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.3%. Violent crime runs 378 per 100,000 residents in Arizona and 419 in Montana.
Moves between the two run about even
2,330 people moved from Arizona to Montana and 4,304 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Montana fits families and retirees better
For families, Arizona ranks #45 of 50 and Montana #10; for retirees, Arizona ranks #37 and Montana #10.
Arizona vs Montana: frequently asked questions
Is Arizona or Montana better to live in?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. Montana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 100.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 10% higher violent crime rate. Montana scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 0.
Is Arizona cheaper than Montana?
Montana is cheaper than Arizona: cost of living index 94.6 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 -$21,152 in Montana. The typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $471,746 in Montana.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Montana?
Arizona and Montana have similar tax burdens: 8.22% vs 7.87% of income in state and local taxes. Arizona's top income tax rate is 2.5%, its effective property tax rate 0.56% and its combined sales tax 8.52%; Montana's are 5.9%, 0.79% and 0%.
Is Arizona safer than Montana?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana, per the FBI. Arizona ranks #36 of 50 for violent crime and Montana #42. Property crime is 1,514 per 100,000 in Arizona and 1,449 in Montana. The safest tracked cities are Marana, AZ, and Whitefish, MT.
Are homes more expensive in Arizona or Montana?
Homes are 13% more expensive in Montana: the typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of household income in Arizona and $119,850 in Montana, against median incomes of $81,486 and $75,340.
Do people earn more in Arizona or Montana?
Arizona pays more: median household income is $81,486 vs $75,340 in Montana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Arizona and 3.3% in Montana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Montana's in 0, with 4 even.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Montana or from Montana to Arizona?
964 households moved from Arizona to Montana and 1,144 moved from Montana to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 180 households for Arizona. Movers to Montana reported an average income of $76,324; movers to Arizona reported $80,184. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,330 people (±1,157) moving from Arizona to Montana and 4,304 (±2,162) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Arizona or Montana?
Montana is the better fit for retirees: #10 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$33,427 left after typical costs in Arizona and +$30,682 in Montana.
Which is better for families, Arizona or Montana?
Montana is the better fit for families: #10 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $16,384 a year in Arizona and $15,476 in Montana. High school graduation rates are 77.3% and 85.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 after typical costs in Arizona and -$21,152 in Montana.
Is Montana better than Arizona?
Yes: Montana ranks higher than Arizona overall, #7 of 50 vs #38, with a composite score of 75 to 47.8. Montana leads 9 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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