Arizona vs North Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. North Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89 vs 100.7), has a 1.6-point lower tax burden, and has a 32% lower violent crime rate. North Dakota scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 0.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 36% lower in North Dakota ($1,100 vs. $1,722 in Arizona).
- Violent crime rate is 32% lower in North Dakota (257 vs. 378 in Arizona).
- Typical home value is 30% lower in North Dakota ($292,293 vs. $417,990 in Arizona).
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -27.7 pts | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | 75.5#5 of 50 · A+ | -27.7 pts | — | ND |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +11.7 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +11.7 pts+13% | 100 | ND |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$18,451 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | -$18,451 | -$11,758 | ND |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$125,697 (+43%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$125,697+43% | $368,697 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.61 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +1.61 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +121 (+47%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +121+47% | 328 | ND |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,615 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | +$3,615+5% | $80,903 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap -7.8 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | -7.8 pts | 85.62% | ND |
| Life expectancyGap -1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | -1.2 yrs | 76.9 | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +17,362 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +17,362 | -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 North Dakota better to live in?
North Dakota scores higher overall: 75.5 to 47.8 out of 100, #5 of 50 against #38. Arizona leads 0 of 11 categories, North Dakota leads 9, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -21.1 | 15% | 42.6#31 · C+ | 63.7#8 · A | -21.1 pts | ND |
| Safety12% of scoregap -7 | 12% | 63.2#32 · C+ | 70.2#27 · C+ | -7 pts | ND |
| Health12% of scoregap -9.1 | 12% | 49.7#31 · C+ | 58.8#23 · B | -9.1 pts | ND |
| Education12% of scoregap -32.7 | 12% | 32.6#47 · D | 65.3#17 · B+ | -32.7 pts | ND |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -23.2 | 10% | 60.3#35 · C | 83.5#9 · A | -23.2 pts | ND |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -10.4 | 8% | 59.4#25 · B | 69.8#11 · B+ | -10.4 pts | ND |
| Growth7% of scoregap -3.4 | 7% | 48.3#16 · B+ | 51.7#8 · A | -3.4 pts | ND |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -1.2 | 7% | 53.4#18 · B+ | 54.6#14 · B+ | -1.2 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -17.8 | 7% | 24.3#42 · C | 42.1#13 · B+ | -17.8 pts | ND |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -1.4 | 6% | 37.7#16 · B+ | 39.1#14 · B+ | -1.4 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -12.6 | 4% | 25.9#44 · D | 38.5#27 · C+ | -12.6 pts | ND |
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 89 vs 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $18,451 more a year in North Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +11.7 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +11.7 pts+13% | 100 | ND |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | -0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.51¢ (+30%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +3.51¢+30% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.08 (+96%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | +$9.08+96% | $15.83/Mcf | ND |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.49 (+15%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | +$0.49+15% | $3.32/gal | ND |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,103 (+33%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | +$4,103+33% | $15,633 | ND |
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 | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$6,714 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$36,471costs $38,529 | -$6,714 | ND |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,579 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$28,354costs $46,646 | -$8,579 | ND |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$18,451 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$1,122costs $76,122 | -$18,451 | ND |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,476 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$40,903costs $34,097 | -$7,476 | ND |
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 | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$7,074 | $27,704 | $20,630 | +$7,074 | ND |
| ChildcareGap +$8,206 | $32,768 | $24,562 | +$8,206 | ND |
| UtilitiesGap +$562 | $4,834 | $4,272 | +$562 | ND |
| GroceriesGap -$34 | $10,745 | $10,779 | -$34 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$1,540 | $11,943 | $10,403 | +$1,540 | ND |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,103 | $6,579 | $5,476 | +$1,103 | ND |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or North Dakota?
North Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.61% vs 8.22%. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.61 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +1.61 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.43 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | -0.43 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.43 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | +1.43 pts | 6.66% | ND |
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 North Dakota?
Homes cost 43% more in Arizona: a typical home value of $417,990 in Arizona vs $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of income in Arizona and $79,542 in North Dakota; the median household earns $81,486 and $77,871.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$125,697 (+43%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$125,697+43% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -6.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -6.3 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$622 (+57%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$622+57% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,500 (+31%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$24,500+31% | $100,006 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.3x (+34%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +1.3x+34% | 4.6x | ND |
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 | ND | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,151 | $1,504 |
| Income needed vs. median | +28% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +9.1% | +19% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Hot |
| Largest metro | Phoenix | Fargo |
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 North Dakota?
Arizona pays more: median household income $81,486 vs $77,871, with unemployment at 4.3% in Arizona and 2.6% in North Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and North Dakota's in 4.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$3,615 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | +$3,615+5% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.7 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 3.95% | ND |
| GDP per capitaGap -$14,991 (-20%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | -$14,991-20% | $64,333 | ND |
| Real GDP growthGap +4.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +4.1 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Population growthGap +0.14 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | +0.14 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 | ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | $209,320$186,295 in Fargo | AZ |
| Civil Engineers | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | $90,154$80,237 in Fargo | AZ |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | $97,121$86,438 in Fargo | AZ |
| Accountants & Auditors | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | $79,062$70,365 in Fargo | ND |
| General & Operations Managers | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | $98,070$87,282 in Fargo | ND |
| Software Developers | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | $121,375$108,024 in Fargo | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | $64,757$57,634 in Fargo | ND |
| Registered Nurses | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | $81,213$72,280 in Fargo | AZ |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | $52,555$46,774 in Fargo | AZ |
| Mental Health Counselors | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | $53,440$47,562 in Fargo | ND |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | $43,729$38,919 in Fargo | AZ |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | $30,856$27,462 in Fargo | AZ |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | $72,022$64,100 in Fargo | Even |
| Electricians | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | $58,621$52,173 in Fargo | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | $69,862$62,177 in Fargo | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | $55,304$49,221 in Fargo | Even |
| Lawyers | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | $141,894$126,286 in Fargo | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | $42,722$38,023 in Fargo | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | $64,392$57,309 in Fargo | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | $53,196$47,344 in Fargo | 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 North Dakota?
North Dakota is safer: 257 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona (FBI). Property crime runs 1,514 and 1,698 per 100,000. North Dakota shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +121 (+47%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +121+47% | 328 | ND |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -185 (-11%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | -185-11% | 1,535 | AZ |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. North Dakota uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
- Lincoln, ND44 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Arizona or North Dakota?
North Dakota scores higher for education (#17 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 77.3% and 85.1%. North Dakota scores higher for health (#23 vs #31); life expectancy is 76.7 years in Arizona and 77.9 in North Dakota.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -10 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | -10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -7.8 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | -7.8 pts | 85.62% | ND |
| Life expectancyGap -1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | -1.2 yrs | 76.9 | ND |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.5 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.2 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 7.6% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+18%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | +7 pts+18% | 38.8 | ND |
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
- Beulah, NDeducation score 95
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, North Dakota #17. Health: Arizona #31, North Dakota #23.
Are more people moving from Arizona to North Dakota, or from North Dakota to Arizona?
538 households moved from Arizona to North Dakota and 680 moved from North Dakota to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 142 households for Arizona. Movers to North Dakota reported an average income of $56,424; movers to Arizona reported $82,013. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,028 people (±789) moving from Arizona to North Dakota and 916 (±603) 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 | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +107,894 (+783%) | 121,675#10 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +107,894+783% | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +90,532 (+655%) | 104,359#38 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +90,532+655% | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +17,362 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +17,362 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | +2.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$32,901 (+60%) | $87,497#11 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$32,901+60% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,789 (+17%) | $75,593#21 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | +$10,789+17% | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | +3.5 | AZ |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Arizona or North Dakota?
North Dakota 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 | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +40 places | #45score 47.8 | #5score 81.1 | +40 places | ND |
| RetireesGap +33 places | #37score 54.6 | #4score 79.1 | +33 places | ND |
| Remote WorkersGap +30 places | #35score 47.2 | #5score 73.2 | +30 places | ND |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +28 places | #31score 51 | #3score 75.9 | +28 places | ND |
| Small BusinessGap +27 places | #30score 52.2 | #3score 79.1 | +27 places | ND |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +17 places | #28score 42.7 | #11score 59.9 | +17 places | ND |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNorth Dakota (#5 vs #45)
- RetireesNorth Dakota (#4 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersNorth Dakota (#5 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Dakota (#3 vs #31)
- Small BusinessNorth Dakota (#3 vs #30)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNorth Dakota (#11 vs #28)
Which cities stand out in Arizona and North Dakota?
Arizona has 23 tracked cities and North Dakota has 20; the largest are Phoenix and Fargo. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Phoenix1,642,323 people | Fargo131,627 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Queen Creekscore 66.2 | West Fargoscore 69.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Marana61 violent per 100K | Lincoln44 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yumacost index 92.7 | Grand Forkscost index 86.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 | West Fargowalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 | Minotcounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Peoria95.1% graduation rate | Beulah95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 | Horacemedian income $138,578 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Queen Creek+8.2% growth | Horace+12.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Arizona and North Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Arizona carries AA credit rating and North Dakota AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -25 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | -25 pts | 29.34% | ND |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -21.2 (-40%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | -21.2-40% | 29.6 | AZ |
| Public land shareGap +34.7 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +34.7 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +8.9 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +8.9 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | AZ |
| Workers working from homeGap +9.2 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +9.2 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.9 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +2.9 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 | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | ND |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7.1 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -7.1 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +2 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +2 pts | 74.3% | AZ |
| State debt per capitaGap $0 (0%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | $00% | $3,506 | Even |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | ND |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Arizona AA, North Dakota 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 North Dakota: 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 15 of 51, North Dakota on 27, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | North DakotaND | GapAZ−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,824,460 (+854%) · US 6.8 million | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | 799,358#47 of 50 | +6,824,460+854% | 6.8 million | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,615 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | +$3,615+5% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.7 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 3.95% | ND |
| Population growthGap +0.14 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | +0.14 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$14,991 (-20%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | -$14,991-20% | $64,333 | ND |
| Real GDP growthGap +4.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +4.1 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +121 (+47%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +121+47% | 328 | ND |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -185 (-11%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | -185-11% | 1,535 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap -7.8 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | -7.8 pts | 85.62% | ND |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -9 · US 237 | 232#45 of 50 | 241#6 of 50 | -9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -10 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | -10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 214 | 208#45 of 50 | 216#21 of 50 | -7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | -1.2 yrs | 76.9 | ND |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.5 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.2 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 7.6% | ND |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$125,697 (+43%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$125,697+43% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -6.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -6.3 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$622 (+57%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$622+57% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,500 (+31%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$24,500+31% | $100,006 | ND |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +11.7 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +11.7 pts+13% | 100 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.3x (+34%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +1.3x+34% | 4.6x | ND |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.51¢ (+30%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +3.51¢+30% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.08 (+96%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | +$9.08+96% | $15.83/Mcf | ND |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.49 (+15%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | +$0.49+15% | $3.32/gal | ND |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | -0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,103 (+33%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | +$4,103+33% | $15,633 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.61 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +1.61 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.43 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | -0.43 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.43 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | +1.43 pts | 6.66% | ND |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | ND |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7.1 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -7.1 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +2 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +2 pts | 74.3% | AZ |
| State debt per capitaGap $0 (0%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | $00% | $3,506 | Even |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+18%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | +7 pts+18% | 38.8 | ND |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -25 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | -25 pts | 29.34% | ND |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -21.2 (-40%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | -21.2-40% | 29.6 | AZ |
| Public land shareGap +34.7 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +34.7 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +8.9 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +8.9 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | AZ |
| Workers working from homeGap +9.2 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +9.2 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.9 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
| Households moving inIRSGap +107,894 (+783%) · US 78,682 | 121,675#10 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +107,894+783% | 78,682 | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +90,532 (+655%) · US 78,715 | 104,359#38 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +90,532+655% | 78,715 | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +17,362 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +17,362 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 · US +0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | +2.4 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$32,901 (+60%) · US $77,690 | $87,497#11 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$32,901+60% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,789 (+17%) · US $77,024 | $75,593#21 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | +$10,789+17% | $77,024 | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 · US +1.1 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | +3.5 | +1.1 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$18,451 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | -$18,451 | -$11,758 | ND |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$6,714 · US +$31,418 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$36,471#9 of 50 | -$6,714 | +$31,418 | ND |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,476 · US +$35,970 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$40,903#10 of 50 | -$7,476 | +$35,970 | ND |
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 North Dakota numbers say when read together.
North Dakota ranks higher overall
North Dakota 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 15 and North Dakota on 27.
North Dakota is cheaper day to day
North Dakota's cost of living index is 89 against 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). The typical home costs $417,990 in Arizona and $292,293 in North Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 a year after typical costs in Arizona and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
North Dakota takes a smaller share in taxes
Arizona collects 8.22% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); North Dakota collects 6.61% (low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Arizona pays more
Median household income is $81,486 in Arizona and $77,871 in North Dakota, with unemployment at 4.3% and 2.6%. Violent crime runs 378 per 100,000 residents in Arizona and 257 in North Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
1,028 people moved from Arizona to North Dakota and 916 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, Arizona ranks #45 of 50 and North Dakota #5; for retirees, Arizona ranks #37 and North Dakota #4.
Arizona vs North Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Arizona or North Dakota better to live in?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. North Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89 vs 100.7), has a 1.6-point lower tax burden, and has a 32% lower violent crime rate. North Dakota scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 0.
Is Arizona cheaper than North Dakota?
North Dakota is cheaper than Arizona: cost of living index 89 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 -$1,122 in North Dakota. The typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $292,293 in North Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or North Dakota?
North Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.61% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.22% in Arizona. Arizona's top income tax rate is 2.5%, its effective property tax rate 0.56% and its combined sales tax 8.52%; North Dakota's are 2.5%, 0.99% and 7.09%.
Is Arizona safer than North Dakota?
North Dakota is safer: 257 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona, per the FBI. Arizona ranks #36 of 50 for violent crime and North Dakota #22. Property crime is 1,514 per 100,000 in Arizona and 1,698 in North Dakota. North Dakota shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Marana, AZ, and Lincoln, ND.
Are homes more expensive in Arizona or North Dakota?
Homes are 43% more expensive in Arizona: the typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of household income in Arizona and $79,542 in North Dakota, against median incomes of $81,486 and $77,871.
Do people earn more in Arizona or North Dakota?
Arizona pays more: median household income is $81,486 vs $77,871 in North Dakota, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Arizona and 2.6% in North Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and North Dakota's in 4, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from Arizona to North Dakota or from North Dakota to Arizona?
538 households moved from Arizona to North Dakota and 680 moved from North Dakota to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 142 households for Arizona. Movers to North Dakota reported an average income of $56,424; movers to Arizona reported $82,013. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,028 people (±789) moving from Arizona to North Dakota and 916 (±603) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Arizona or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #4 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$33,427 left after typical costs in Arizona and +$40,903 in North Dakota.
Which is better for families, Arizona or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for families: #5 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $16,384 a year in Arizona and $12,281 in North Dakota. High school graduation rates are 77.3% and 85.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 after typical costs in Arizona and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
Is North Dakota better than Arizona?
Yes: North Dakota ranks higher than Arizona overall, #5 of 50 vs #38, with a composite score of 75.5 to 47.8. North Dakota 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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