Arizona vs Wisconsin: Which Is Better to Live In?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Wisconsin #11 as of the latest release. Wisconsin is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.1 vs 100.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 36% lower violent crime rate. Wisconsin scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 36% lower in Wisconsin (240 vs. 378 in Arizona).
- Property crime rate is 33% lower in Wisconsin (1,017 vs. 1,514 in Arizona).
- Typical home value is 19% lower in Wisconsin ($339,699 vs. $417,990 in Arizona).
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -22.8 pts | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | 70.6#11 of 50 · B+ | -22.8 pts | — | WI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.6 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | +6.6 pts+7% | 100 | WI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$1,424 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$20,997#32 of 50 | +$1,424 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$78,291 (+23%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | +$78,291+23% | $368,697 | WI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.09 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | -0.09 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +138 (+57%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +138+57% | 328 | WI |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,998 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | +$3,998+5% | $80,903 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap -13 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | -13 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| Life expectancyGap -1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | -1.4 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +16,800 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | +16,800 | -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 Wisconsin better to live in?
Wisconsin scores higher overall: 70.6 to 47.8 out of 100, #11 of 50 against #38. Arizona leads 2 of 11 categories, Wisconsin leads 8, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -12.2 | 15% | 42.6#31 · C+ | 54.8#13 · B+ | -12.2 pts | WI |
| Safety12% of scoregap -18.4 | 12% | 63.2#32 · C+ | 81.6#8 · A | -18.4 pts | WI |
| Health12% of scoregap -10.8 | 12% | 49.7#31 · C+ | 60.5#18 · B+ | -10.8 pts | WI |
| Education12% of scoregap -43.9 | 12% | 32.6#47 · D | 76.5#4 · A+ | -43.9 pts | WI |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -9.5 | 10% | 60.3#35 · C | 69.8#25 · B | -9.5 pts | WI |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -4.2 | 8% | 59.4#25 · B | 63.6#18 · B+ | -4.2 pts | WI |
| Growth7% of scoregap +8.3 | 7% | 48.3#16 · B+ | 40.0#26 · B | +8.3 pts | AZ |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1.1 | 7% | 53.4#18 · B+ | 52.3#22 · B | +1.1 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -11.6 | 7% | 24.3#42 · C | 35.9#18 · B+ | -11.6 pts | WI |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +13.8 | 6% | 37.7#16 · B+ | 23.9#25 · B | +13.8 pts | AZ |
| Environment4% of scoregap -14.7 | 4% | 25.9#44 · D | 40.6#26 · B | -14.7 pts | WI |
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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is cheaper: cost of living index 94.1 vs 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $1,424 more a year in Arizona after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.6 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | +6.6 pts+7% | 100 | WI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 94.3#8 of 50 | +1.1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.84¢ (-16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 18.16¢/kWh#36 of 50 | -2.84¢-16% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.84 (+73%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $10.74/Mcf#8 of 50 | +$7.84+73% | $15.83/Mcf | WI |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.52 (+16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.28/gal#30 of 50 | +$0.52+16% | $3.32/gal | WI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,220 (-12%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $18,604#36 of 50 | -$2,220-12% | $15,633 | AZ |
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 | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$893 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$30,650costs $44,350 | -$893 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$2,320 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$22,095costs $52,904 | -$2,320 | WI |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$1,424 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$20,997costs $95,997 | +$1,424 | AZ |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$1,728 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$35,155costs $39,845 | -$1,728 | WI |
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 | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$1,690 | $27,704 | $26,014 | +$1,690 | WI |
| ChildcareGap -$4,440 | $32,768 | $37,208 | -$4,440 | AZ |
| UtilitiesGap +$317 | $4,834 | $4,517 | +$317 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$124 | $10,745 | $10,621 | +$124 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$1,634 | $11,943 | $10,309 | +$1,634 | WI |
| State and local taxesGap -$749 | $6,579 | $7,328 | -$749 | AZ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Wisconsin?
Arizona and Wisconsin collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.22% vs 8.31%. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Wisconsin has high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.09 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | -0.09 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.15 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 7.65%#40 of 50 | -5.15 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -1.03 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 1.59%#43 of 50 | -1.03 pts | 1.02% | AZ |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.8 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 5.72%#9 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 6.66% | WI |
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 Wisconsin?
Homes cost 23% more in Arizona: a typical home value of $417,990 in Arizona vs $339,699 in Wisconsin. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of income in Arizona and $95,433 in Wisconsin; the median household earns $81,486 and $77,488.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$78,291 (+23%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | +$78,291+23% | $368,697 | WI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -6.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +5.1%#5 of 50 | -6.2 pts | +1.2% | WI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$159 (+10%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,563#19 of 50 | +$159+10% | $1,948 | WI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,609 (+9%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $95,433#25 of 50 | +$8,609+9% | $100,006 | WI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.7x (+16%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 4.4x#25 of 50 | +0.7x+16% | 4.6x | WI |
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 | WI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,151 | $1,748 |
| Income needed vs. median | +28% | +23% |
| Five-year change | +9.1% | +31.1% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Phoenix | Milwaukee |
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 Wisconsin?
Arizona pays more: median household income $81,486 vs $77,488, with unemployment at 4.3% in Arizona and 3.2% in Wisconsin. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Wisconsin's in 20.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$3,998 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | +$3,998+5% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 3.2%#8 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | WI |
| GDP per capitaGap -$992 (-2%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $59,815#30 of 50 | -$992-2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +1.6%#32 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Population growthGap +0.63 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.26%#36 of 50 | +0.63 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | AZ | WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | $143,200$133,176 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Lawyers | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | $159,830$148,642 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | $235,570$219,080 in Madison | WI |
| General & Operations Managers | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | $108,261$100,683 in Madison | WI |
| Accountants & Auditors | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | $88,282$82,102 in Madison | WI |
| Electricians | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | $66,432$61,782 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | $70,619$65,676 in Madison | WI |
| Registered Nurses | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | $93,505$86,960 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | $112,575$104,695 in Madison | WI |
| Civil Engineers | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | $105,622$98,228 in Madison | WI |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | $71,514$66,508 in Madison | WI |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | $80,384$74,757 in Madison | WI |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | $59,692$55,514 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Mental Health Counselors | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | $57,405$53,387 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | $52,176$48,524 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | $61,763$57,440 in Madison | WI |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | $60,992$56,723 in Madison | WI |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | $36,595$34,033 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | $72,169$67,117 in Madison | WI |
| Construction Laborers | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | $44,939$41,793 in Madison | WI |
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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is safer: 240 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona (FBI). Property crime runs 1,514 and 1,017 per 100,000.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +138 (+57%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +138+57% | 328 | WI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +497 (+49%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 1,017#5 of 50 | +497+49% | 1,535 | WI |
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
- New Berlin, WI47 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Arizona or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin scores higher for education (#4 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 77.3% and 90.3%. Wisconsin scores higher for health (#18 vs #31); life expectancy is 76.7 years in Arizona and 78.1 in Wisconsin.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 283#2 of 50 | -13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 260#13 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -13 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | -13 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| Life expectancyGap -1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | -1.4 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.1 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 37.4%#41 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 5.3%#10 of 50 | +5 pts | 7.6% | WI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+22%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 37#16 of 50 | +8 pts+22% | 38.8 | WI |
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
- Brookfield, WIeducation score 98
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, Wisconsin #4. Health: Arizona #31, Wisconsin #18.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Wisconsin, or from Wisconsin to Arizona?
1,916 households moved from Arizona to Wisconsin and 2,415 moved from Wisconsin to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 499 households for Arizona. Movers to Wisconsin reported an average income of $68,849; movers to Arizona reported $75,944. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,156 people (±1,446) moving from Arizona to Wisconsin and 5,018 (±1,728) 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 | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +65,000 (+115%) | 121,675#10 of 50 | 56,675#24 of 50 | +65,000+115% | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +48,200 (+86%) | 104,359#38 of 50 | 56,159#26 of 50 | +48,200+86% | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +16,800 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | +16,800 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.2 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +0.1#25 of 50 | +2.2 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$15,124 (+21%) | $87,497#11 of 50 | $72,373#32 of 50 | +$15,124+21% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,207 (+2%) | $75,593#21 of 50 | $74,386#24 of 50 | +$1,207+2% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +1.2#23 of 50 | +2.9 | AZ |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Arizona or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin 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 | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +41 places | #45score 47.8 | #4score 81.6 | +41 places | WI |
| RetireesGap +24 places | #37score 54.6 | #13score 72.5 | +24 places | WI |
| Remote WorkersGap +23 places | #35score 47.2 | #12score 59.9 | +23 places | WI |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +19 places | #31score 51 | #12score 63.5 | +19 places | WI |
| Small BusinessGap +19 places | #30score 52.2 | #11score 68.2 | +19 places | WI |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #28score 42.7 | #22score 50.4 | +6 places | WI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWisconsin (#4 vs #45)
- RetireesWisconsin (#13 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersWisconsin (#12 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsWisconsin (#12 vs #31)
- Small BusinessWisconsin (#11 vs #30)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWisconsin (#22 vs #28)
Which cities stand out in Arizona and Wisconsin?
Arizona has 23 tracked cities and Wisconsin has 20; the largest are Phoenix and Milwaukee. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Phoenix1,642,323 people | Milwaukee566,973 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Queen Creekscore 66.2 | Brookfieldscore 71.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Marana61 violent per 100K | New Berlin47 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yumacost index 92.7 | Fond du Laccost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 | West Alliswalkability 14.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 | Wausaucounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Peoria95.1% graduation rate | Brookfield98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 | Brookfieldmedian income $129,548 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Queen Creek+8.2% growth | Menomonee Falls+1.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Arizona and Wisconsin compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Arizona carries AA credit rating and Wisconsin AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +3 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 13%#31 of 50 | +3 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.1 (+24%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 25.4#23 of 50 | +6.1+24% | 29.6 | WI |
| Public land shareGap +32.8 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 5.8%#32 of 50 | +32.8 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 22.7 min#10 of 50 | +3.7 min | 25.2 min | WI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 1.4%#20 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.5 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 11.8%#27 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 92.3%#32 of 50 | +1.3 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 | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 90#30 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.3 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 8.2%#36 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap -28 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 100%#2 of 50 | -28 pts | 74.3% | WI |
| State debt per capitaGap -$670 (-23%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $2,860#25 of 50 | -$670-23% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +5.8%#16 of 50 | -1 pts | +4.66% | WI |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Arizona AA, Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin: 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 19 of 51, Wisconsin on 21, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | WisconsinWI | GapAZ−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,651,031 (+28%) · US 6.8 million | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | 6 million#21 of 50 | +1,651,031+28% | 6.8 million | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,998 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | +$3,998+5% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 3.2%#8 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | WI |
| Population growthGap +0.63 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.26%#36 of 50 | +0.63 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
| GDP per capitaGap -$992 (-2%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $59,815#30 of 50 | -$992-2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +1.6%#32 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +138 (+57%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +138+57% | 328 | WI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +497 (+49%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 1,017#5 of 50 | +497+49% | 1,535 | WI |
| High school graduation rateGap -13 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | -13 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 237 | 232#45 of 50 | 239#14 of 50 | -7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 283#2 of 50 | -13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 214 | 208#45 of 50 | 215#22 of 50 | -7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 260#13 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | -1.4 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.1 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 37.4%#41 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 5.3%#10 of 50 | +5 pts | 7.6% | WI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$78,291 (+23%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | +$78,291+23% | $368,697 | WI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -6.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +5.1%#5 of 50 | -6.2 pts | +1.2% | WI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$159 (+10%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,563#19 of 50 | +$159+10% | $1,948 | WI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,609 (+9%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $95,433#25 of 50 | +$8,609+9% | $100,006 | WI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.6 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | +6.6 pts+7% | 100 | WI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.7x (+16%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 4.4x#25 of 50 | +0.7x+16% | 4.6x | WI |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.84¢ (-16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 18.16¢/kWh#36 of 50 | -2.84¢-16% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$7.84 (+73%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $10.74/Mcf#8 of 50 | +$7.84+73% | $15.83/Mcf | WI |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.52 (+16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.28/gal#30 of 50 | +$0.52+16% | $3.32/gal | WI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 94.3#8 of 50 | +1.1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,220 (-12%) · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | $18,604#36 of 50 | -$2,220-12% | $15,633 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.09 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | -0.09 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.15 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 7.65%#40 of 50 | -5.15 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -1.03 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 1.59%#43 of 50 | -1.03 pts | 1.02% | AZ |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.8 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 5.72%#9 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 6.66% | WI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 90#30 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.3 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 8.2%#36 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap -28 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 100%#2 of 50 | -28 pts | 74.3% | WI |
| State debt per capitaGap -$670 (-23%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $2,860#25 of 50 | -$670-23% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +5.8%#16 of 50 | -1 pts | +4.66% | WI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+22%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 37#16 of 50 | +8 pts+22% | 38.8 | WI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +3 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 13%#31 of 50 | +3 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.1 (+24%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 25.4#23 of 50 | +6.1+24% | 29.6 | WI |
| Public land shareGap +32.8 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 5.8%#32 of 50 | +32.8 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 22.7 min#10 of 50 | +3.7 min | 25.2 min | WI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 1.4%#20 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.5 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 11.8%#27 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 92.3%#32 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
| Households moving inIRSGap +65,000 (+115%) · US 78,682 | 121,675#10 of 50 | 56,675#24 of 50 | +65,000+115% | 78,682 | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +48,200 (+86%) · US 78,715 | 104,359#38 of 50 | 56,159#26 of 50 | +48,200+86% | 78,715 | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +16,800 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | +16,800 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.2 · US +0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +0.1#25 of 50 | +2.2 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$15,124 (+21%) · US $77,690 | $87,497#11 of 50 | $72,373#32 of 50 | +$15,124+21% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,207 (+2%) · US $77,024 | $75,593#21 of 50 | $74,386#24 of 50 | +$1,207+2% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 · US +1.1 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +1.2#23 of 50 | +2.9 | +1.1 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$1,424 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$20,997#32 of 50 | +$1,424 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$893 · US +$31,418 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$30,650#26 of 50 | -$893 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$1,728 · US +$35,970 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$35,155#26 of 50 | -$1,728 | +$35,970 | WI |
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 Wisconsin numbers say when read together.
Wisconsin ranks higher overall
Wisconsin leads 8 of the 11 categories to Arizona's 2, with 1 even; Arizona is ahead on outdoor access and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Arizona is ahead on 19 and Wisconsin on 21.
Wisconsin is cheaper day to day
Wisconsin's cost of living index is 94.1 against 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). The typical home costs $417,990 in Arizona and $339,699 in Wisconsin. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 a year after typical costs in Arizona and -$20,997 in Wisconsin.
Tax burdens are close
Arizona collects 8.22% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Wisconsin collects 8.31% (high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax).
Arizona pays more
Median household income is $81,486 in Arizona and $77,488 in Wisconsin, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.2%. Violent crime runs 378 per 100,000 residents in Arizona and 240 in Wisconsin.
Moves between the two run about even
3,156 people moved from Arizona to Wisconsin and 5,018 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Wisconsin fits families and retirees better
For families, Arizona ranks #45 of 50 and Wisconsin #4; for retirees, Arizona ranks #37 and Wisconsin #13.
Arizona vs Wisconsin: frequently asked questions
Is Arizona or Wisconsin better to live in?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and Wisconsin #11 as of the latest release. Wisconsin is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.1 vs 100.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 36% lower violent crime rate. Wisconsin scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Arizona cheaper than Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is cheaper than Arizona: cost of living index 94.1 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 -$20,997 in Wisconsin. The typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $339,699 in Wisconsin.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or Wisconsin?
Arizona and Wisconsin have similar tax burdens: 8.22% vs 8.31% 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%; Wisconsin's are 7.65%, 1.59% and 5.72%.
Is Arizona safer than Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is safer: 240 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona, per the FBI. Arizona ranks #36 of 50 for violent crime and Wisconsin #18. Property crime is 1,514 per 100,000 in Arizona and 1,017 in Wisconsin. The safest tracked cities are Marana, AZ, and New Berlin, WI.
Are homes more expensive in Arizona or Wisconsin?
Homes are 23% more expensive in Arizona: the typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $339,699 in Wisconsin. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of household income in Arizona and $95,433 in Wisconsin, against median incomes of $81,486 and $77,488.
Do people earn more in Arizona or Wisconsin?
Arizona pays more: median household income is $81,486 vs $77,488 in Wisconsin, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Arizona and 3.2% in Wisconsin. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Wisconsin's in 20.
Are more people moving from Arizona to Wisconsin or from Wisconsin to Arizona?
1,916 households moved from Arizona to Wisconsin and 2,415 moved from Wisconsin to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 499 households for Arizona. Movers to Wisconsin reported an average income of $68,849; movers to Arizona reported $75,944. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,156 people (±1,446) moving from Arizona to Wisconsin and 5,018 (±1,728) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Arizona or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is the better fit for retirees: #13 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Wisconsin has high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$33,427 left after typical costs in Arizona and +$35,155 in Wisconsin.
Which is better for families, Arizona or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is the better fit for families: #4 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $16,384 a year in Arizona and $18,604 in Wisconsin. High school graduation rates are 77.3% and 90.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 after typical costs in Arizona and -$20,997 in Wisconsin.
Is Wisconsin better than Arizona?
Yes: Wisconsin ranks higher than Arizona overall, #11 of 50 vs #38, with a composite score of 70.6 to 47.8. Wisconsin leads 8 of 11 categories and Arizona leads 2, including outdoor access and growth. 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 Wisconsin.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,415 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).