Arizona vs Nevada: Which Is Better to Live In?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Nevada #40 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 100.7 vs 100); Arizona collects a similar share of income in taxes. Arizona scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 3.
- Property crime rate is 24% lower in Arizona (1,514 vs. 1,996 in Nevada).
- Residential electricity price is 14% lower in Nevada (13.15¢/kWh vs. 15.32¢/kWh in Arizona).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 5% lower in Arizona ($104,042 vs. $110,080 in Nevada).
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +2 pts | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | 45.8#40 of 50 · C | +2 pts | — | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 100#34 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$539 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$539 | -$11,758 | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$24,037 (-5%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $442,027#36 of 50 | -$24,037-5% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.4 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 8.62%#24 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -1 (0%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 379#37 of 50 | -10% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$352 (0%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $81,134#22 of 50 | +$3520% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.4 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 81.7%#43 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| Life expectancyGap +0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 76.4#34 of 50 | +0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,339 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +8,977#10 of 50 | +8,339 | -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 Nevada better to live in?
Arizona scores higher overall: 47.8 to 45.8 out of 100, #38 of 50 against #40. Arizona leads 4 of 11 categories, Nevada leads 3, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +14.6 | 15% | 42.6#31 · C+ | 28.0#46 · D | +14.6 pts | AZ |
| Safety12% of scoregap +7.3 | 12% | 63.2#32 · C+ | 55.9#42 · C | +7.3 pts | AZ |
| Health12% of scoregap +4.8 | 12% | 49.7#31 · C+ | 44.9#34 · C+ | +4.8 pts | AZ |
| Education12% of scoregap -7.7 | 12% | 32.6#47 · D | 40.3#45 · D | -7.7 pts | NV |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -1.4 | 10% | 60.3#35 · C | 61.7#33 · C+ | -1.4 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +1.8 | 8% | 59.4#25 · B | 57.6#28 · C+ | +1.8 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +6.4 | 7% | 48.3#16 · B+ | 41.9#23 · B | +6.4 pts | AZ |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1 | 7% | 53.4#18 · B+ | 52.4#21 · B | +1 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -21.4 | 7% | 24.3#42 · C | 45.7#11 · B+ | -21.4 pts | NV |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -1.6 | 6% | 37.7#16 · B+ | 39.3#13 · B+ | -1.6 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -15.6 | 4% | 25.9#44 · D | 41.5#24 · B | -15.6 pts | NV |
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 Nevada?
Arizona and Nevada cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 100.7 vs 100 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 ends up in about the same place in both after typical costs.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 100#34 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.9 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 96.3#24 of 50 | -0.9 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.17¢ (+17%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | +2.17¢+17% | 17.84¢/kWh | NV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.44 (+41%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | +$5.44+41% | $15.83/Mcf | NV |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.16 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | -$0.16-4% | $3.32/gal | AZ |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$751 (+5%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $15,633#28 of 50 | +$751+5% | $15,633 | NV |
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 | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$437 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$30,194costs $44,806 | -$437 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$387 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$19,388costs $55,612 | +$387 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$539 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$19,034costs $94,034 | -$539 | Even |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$137 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$33,290costs $41,710 | +$137 | Even |
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 | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$1,328 | $27,704 | $29,032 | -$1,328 | AZ |
| ChildcareGap +$1,502 | $32,768 | $31,266 | +$1,502 | NV |
| UtilitiesGap +$34 | $4,834 | $4,800 | +$34 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$101 | $10,745 | $10,846 | -$101 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$503 | $11,943 | $12,446 | -$503 | AZ |
| State and local taxesGap +$935 | $6,579 | $5,644 | +$935 | NV |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Nevada?
Arizona and Nevada collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.22% vs 8.62%. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.4 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 8.62%#24 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.5 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | none#8 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.5%#4 of 50 | +0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.28 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 8.24%#38 of 50 | +0.28 pts | 6.66% | Even |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Arizona or Nevada?
Homes cost 6% more in Nevada: a typical home value of $417,990 in Arizona vs $442,027 in Nevada. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of income in Arizona and $110,080 in Nevada; the median household earns $81,486 and $81,134.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$24,037 (-5%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $442,027#36 of 50 | -$24,037-5% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.7 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.2% | AZ |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$20 (-1%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,742#26 of 50 | -$20-1% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$6,038 (-5%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $110,080#33 of 50 | -$6,038-5% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-6%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 5.4x#38 of 50 | -0.3x-6% | 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 | NV | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,151 | $2,274 |
| Income needed vs. median | +28% | +36% |
| Five-year change | +9.1% | +15.6% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Phoenix | Las Vegas |
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 Nevada?
Median household income is about the same, $81,486 in Arizona and $81,134 in Nevada, with unemployment at 4.3% and 5.3%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Nevada's in 5.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$352 (0%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $81,134#22 of 50 | +$3520% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 5.3%#49 of 50 | -1 pts | 3.95% | AZ |
| GDP per capitaGap +$100 (0%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $58,723#34 of 50 | +$1000% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.9 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +5%#1 of 50 | -1.9 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Population growthGap +0.01 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.88%#11 of 50 | +0.01 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 | NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | $209,938$203,640 in Las Vegas | AZ |
| Software Developers | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | $133,486$129,481 in Las Vegas | NV |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | $97,329$94,409 in Las Vegas | AZ |
| Lawyers | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | $137,613$133,485 in Las Vegas | AZ |
| Accountants & Auditors | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | $78,524$76,168 in Las Vegas | NV |
| Registered Nurses | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | $81,389$78,947 in Las Vegas | AZ |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | $76,196$73,910 in Las Vegas | NV |
| General & Operations Managers | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | $96,681$93,781 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Electricians | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | $59,447$57,664 in Las Vegas | NV |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | $54,097$52,474 in Las Vegas | AZ |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | $34,427$33,394 in Las Vegas | NV |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | $57,052$55,340 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | $69,961$67,862 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | $52,365$50,794 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | $52,057$50,495 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | $63,200$61,304 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | $45,077$43,725 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | $43,246$41,949 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | $97,688$94,757 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | $61,171$59,336 in Las Vegas | 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 Nevada?
Violent crime is about the same: 378 per 100,000 residents in Arizona and 379 in Nevada (FBI). Property crime runs 1,514 and 1,996 per 100,000.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -1 (0%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 379#37 of 50 | -10% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -483 (-24%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 1,996#47 of 50 | -483-24% | 1,535 | AZ |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
- Mesquite, NV119 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Arizona or Nevada?
Nevada scores higher for education (#45 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 77.3% and 81.7%. Arizona scores higher for health (#31 vs #34); life expectancy is 76.7 years in Arizona and 76.4 in Nevada.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 265#44 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 253#42 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.4 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 81.7%#43 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| Life expectancyGap +0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 76.4#34 of 50 | +0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.9 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 34.2%#26 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 11.4%#47 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | AZ |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+10%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 41#33 of 50 | +4 pts+10% | 38.8 | NV |
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
- Fernley, NVeducation score 87
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, Nevada #45. Health: Arizona #31, Nevada #34.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Nevada, or from Nevada to Arizona?
3,387 households moved from Arizona to Nevada and 4,057 moved from Nevada to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 670 households for Arizona. Movers to Nevada reported an average income of $68,737; movers to Arizona reported $77,796. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,504 people (±1,946) moving from Arizona to Nevada and 6,026 (±2,172) 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 | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +54,893 (+82%) | 121,675#10 of 50 | 66,782#22 of 50 | +54,893+82% | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +46,554 (+81%) | 104,359#38 of 50 | 57,805#27 of 50 | +46,554+81% | NV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,339 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +8,977#10 of 50 | +8,339 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -0.4 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$242 (0%) | $87,497#11 of 50 | $87,255#12 of 50 | +$2420% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$967 (+1%) | $75,593#21 of 50 | $74,626#23 of 50 | +$967+1% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.5 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -0.5 | NV |
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 Nevada?
Arizona is the better fit for young professionals and small business; Nevada is the better fit for remote workers and outdoor enthusiasts; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +2 places | #45score 47.8 | #43score 50.2 | +2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +2 places | #37score 54.6 | #35score 56.2 | +2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +4 places | #35score 47.2 | #31score 49 | +4 places | NV |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -6 places | #31score 51 | #37score 45.7 | -6 places | AZ |
| Small BusinessGap -7 places | #30score 52.2 | #37score 46.4 | -7 places | AZ |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +4 places | #28score 42.7 | #24score 45.4 | +4 places | NV |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#45 vs #43)
- RetireesEven (#37 vs #35)
- Remote WorkersNevada (#31 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsArizona (#31 vs #37)
- Small BusinessArizona (#30 vs #37)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNevada (#24 vs #28)
Which cities stand out in Arizona and Nevada?
Arizona has 23 tracked cities and Nevada has 20; the largest are Phoenix and Las Vegas. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Phoenix1,642,323 people | Las Vegas660,400 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Queen Creekscore 66.2 | Summerlin Southscore 61.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Marana61 violent per 100K | Mesquite119 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yumacost index 92.7 | Pahrumpcost index 94.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 | Spring Valleywalkability 13.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 | Pahrumpcounty median AQI 26 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Peoria95.1% graduation rate | Fernley87% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 | Spanish Springsmedian income $127,658 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Queen Creek+8.2% growth | Fernley+2.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Arizona and Nevada compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Arizona carries AA credit rating and Nevada AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -16 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 32%#20 of 50 | -16 pts | 29.34% | NV |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +5.8 (+23%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 25.7#24 of 50 | +5.8+23% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap -46.3 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 84.9%#1 of 50 | -46.3 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | +0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 2.5%#12 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 2.29% | NV |
| Workers working from homeGap +5 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 11.3%#32 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 95.1%#2 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 92.67% | NV |
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 | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 90#36 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.1 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 7.4%#40 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 76%#24 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | NV |
| State debt per capitaGap -$220 (-9%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $2,410#18 of 50 | -$220-9% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Arizona AA, Nevada 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 Nevada: 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, Nevada on 15, and 22 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | NevadaNV | GapAZ−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,341,630 (+132%) · US 6.8 million | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | 3.3 million#31 of 50 | +4,341,630+132% | 6.8 million | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$352 (0%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $81,134#22 of 50 | +$3520% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 5.3%#49 of 50 | -1 pts | 3.95% | AZ |
| Population growthGap +0.01 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.88%#11 of 50 | +0.01 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$100 (0%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $58,723#34 of 50 | +$1000% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.9 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +5%#1 of 50 | -1.9 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -1 (0%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 379#37 of 50 | -10% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -483 (-24%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 1,996#47 of 50 | -483-24% | 1,535 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.4 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 81.7%#43 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 232#45 of 50 | 233#41 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 265#44 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 214 | 208#45 of 50 | 213#35 of 50 | -5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 253#42 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 76.4#34 of 50 | +0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.9 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 34.2%#26 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 11.4%#47 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | AZ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$24,037 (-5%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $442,027#36 of 50 | -$24,037-5% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.7 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.2% | AZ |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$20 (-1%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,742#26 of 50 | -$20-1% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$6,038 (-5%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $110,080#33 of 50 | -$6,038-5% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 100#34 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-6%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 5.4x#38 of 50 | -0.3x-6% | 4.6x | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.17¢ (+17%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | +2.17¢+17% | 17.84¢/kWh | NV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.44 (+41%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | +$5.44+41% | $15.83/Mcf | NV |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.16 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | -$0.16-4% | $3.32/gal | AZ |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.9 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 96.3#24 of 50 | -0.9 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$751 (+5%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $15,633#28 of 50 | +$751+5% | $15,633 | NV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.4 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 8.62%#24 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.5 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | none#8 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.5%#4 of 50 | +0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.28 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 8.24%#38 of 50 | +0.28 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 90#36 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.1 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 7.4%#40 of 50 | +4.1 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 76%#24 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | NV |
| State debt per capitaGap -$220 (-9%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $2,410#18 of 50 | -$220-9% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+10%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 41#33 of 50 | +4 pts+10% | 38.8 | NV |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -16 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 32%#20 of 50 | -16 pts | 29.34% | NV |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +5.8 (+23%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 25.7#24 of 50 | +5.8+23% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap -46.3 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 84.9%#1 of 50 | -46.3 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | +0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 2.5%#12 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 2.29% | NV |
| Workers working from homeGap +5 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 11.3%#32 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 95.1%#2 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 92.67% | NV |
| Households moving inIRSGap +54,893 (+82%) · US 78,682 | 121,675#10 of 50 | 66,782#22 of 50 | +54,893+82% | 78,682 | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +46,554 (+81%) · US 78,715 | 104,359#38 of 50 | 57,805#27 of 50 | +46,554+81% | 78,715 | NV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,339 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +8,977#10 of 50 | +8,339 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.4 · US +0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -0.4 | +0.4 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$242 (0%) · US $77,690 | $87,497#11 of 50 | $87,255#12 of 50 | +$2420% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$967 (+1%) · US $77,024 | $75,593#21 of 50 | $74,626#23 of 50 | +$967+1% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.5 · US +1.1 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -0.5 | +1.1 | NV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$539 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$539 | -$11,758 | Even |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$437 · US +$31,418 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$30,194#28 of 50 | -$437 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$137 · US +$35,970 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$33,290#30 of 50 | +$137 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Nevada numbers say when read together.
Arizona ranks higher overall
Arizona leads 4 of the 11 categories to Nevada's 3, with 4 even; Nevada is ahead on livability and environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Arizona is ahead on 14 and Nevada on 15.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 100.7 in Arizona and 100 in Nevada, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $417,990 and $442,027. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 a year after typical costs in Arizona and -$19,034 in Nevada.
Tax burdens are close
Arizona collects 8.22% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Nevada collects 8.62% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Pay and safety are close
Median household income is $81,486 in Arizona and $81,134 in Nevada, with unemployment at 4.3% and 5.3%. Violent crime runs 378 per 100,000 residents in Arizona and 379 in Nevada.
Moves between the two run about even
5,504 people moved from Arizona to Nevada and 6,026 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Families and retirees: a split decision
For families, Arizona ranks #45 of 50 and Nevada #43; for retirees, Arizona ranks #37 and Nevada #35.
Arizona vs Nevada: frequently asked questions
Is Arizona or Nevada better to live in?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Nevada #40 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 100.7 vs 100); Arizona collects a similar share of income in taxes. Arizona scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Arizona cheaper than Nevada?
Arizona and Nevada cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 100.7 vs 100 (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 -$19,034 in Nevada. The typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $442,027 in Nevada.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Nevada?
Arizona and Nevada have similar tax burdens: 8.22% vs 8.62% 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%; Nevada's are zero, 0.5% and 8.24%.
Is Arizona safer than Nevada?
Arizona and Nevada have similar violent crime rates: 378 vs 379 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Arizona ranks #36 of 50 for violent crime and Nevada #37. Property crime is 1,514 per 100,000 in Arizona and 1,996 in Nevada. The safest tracked cities are Marana, AZ, and Mesquite, NV.
Are homes more expensive in Arizona or Nevada?
Homes are 6% more expensive in Nevada: the typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $442,027 in Nevada. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of household income in Arizona and $110,080 in Nevada, against median incomes of $81,486 and $81,134.
Do people earn more in Arizona or Nevada?
Arizona and Nevada pay about the same: median household income is $81,486 vs $81,134, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Arizona and 5.3% in Nevada. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Nevada's in 5, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Nevada or from Nevada to Arizona?
3,387 households moved from Arizona to Nevada and 4,057 moved from Nevada to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 670 households for Arizona. Movers to Nevada reported an average income of $68,737; movers to Arizona reported $77,796. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,504 people (±1,946) moving from Arizona to Nevada and 6,026 (±2,172) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Arizona or Nevada?
Arizona and Nevada are close for retirees: #37 and #35 of 50 on the retiree index. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$33,427 left after typical costs in Arizona and +$33,290 in Nevada.
Which is better for families, Arizona or Nevada?
Arizona and Nevada are close for families: #45 and #43 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $16,384 a year in Arizona and $15,633 in Nevada. High school graduation rates are 77.3% and 81.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 after typical costs in Arizona and -$19,034 in Nevada.
Is Nevada better than Arizona?
No: Arizona ranks higher than Nevada overall, #38 of 50 vs #40, with a composite score of 47.8 to 45.8. Arizona leads 4 of 11 categories and Nevada leads 3, including livability and environment. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Arizona vs Nevada.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (4,057 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).