California vs Arkansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Arkansas #48 as of the latest release. Arkansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 86.9 vs 110.7), has a 2.4-point lower tax burden, and has a 19% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 0.1 points apart, too close to call: California leads 6 of 11 categories, Arkansas leads 3.
- Typical home value is 70% lower in Arkansas ($227,264 vs. $764,158 in California).
- Residential electricity price is 61% lower in Arkansas (12.84¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 58% lower in Arkansas ($9,727 vs. $23,071 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +0.1 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 40.1#48 of 50 · D | +0.1 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +23.8 pts (+27%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +23.8 pts+27% | 100 | AR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$68,360 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | -$68,360 | -$11,758 | AR |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$536,894 (+236%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | +$536,894+236% | $368,697 | AR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.39 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | +2.39 pts | 8.74% | AR |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -99 (-19%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -99-19% | 328 | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$38,043 (+61%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$38,043+61% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| Life expectancyGap +5.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | +5.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -105,666 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | -105,666 | -33 | AR |
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 California or Arkansas better to live in?
California scores 40.2 and Arkansas scores 40.1 out of 100, a 0.1-point gap this site treats as even. California leads 6 of 11 categories, Arkansas leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +12.8 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 28.7#45 · D | +12.8 pts | CA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +5.8 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 48.9#47 · D | +5.8 pts | CA |
| Health12% of scoregap +49.6 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 28.0#47 · D | +49.6 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap +2.4 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 49.3#40 · C | +2.4 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -75.4 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 89.7#2 · A+ | -75.4 pts | AR |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -8.7 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 56.2#33 · C+ | -8.7 pts | AR |
| Growth7% of scoregap -39.7 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 45.8#17 · B+ | -39.7 pts | AR |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +3.1 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 42.9#41 · C | +3.1 pts | CA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +6.9 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 24.8#40 · C | +6.9 pts | CA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +26.1 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 14.7#36 · C | +26.1 pts | CA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -1.1 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 25.8#45 · D | -1.1 pts | Even |
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 California cheaper than Arkansas?
Arkansas is cheaper: cost of living index 86.9 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $68,360 more a year in Arkansas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +23.8 pts (+27%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +23.8 pts+27% | 100 | AR |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +12.5 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 93.6#1 of 50 | +12.5 pts+13% | 100 | AR |
| Residential electricity priceGap +19.70¢ (+153%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | +19.70¢+153% | 17.84¢/kWh | AR |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.76 (+14%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | +$2.76+14% | $15.83/Mcf | AR |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.50 (+51%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | +$1.50+51% | $3.32/gal | AR |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$13,344 (+137%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $9,727#5 of 50 | +$13,344+137% | $15,633 | AR |
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 | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$25,843 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$37,972costs $37,028 | -$25,843 | AR |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$33,594 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$31,290costs $43,710 | -$33,594 | AR |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$68,360 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | +$8,363costs $66,637 | -$68,360 | AR |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$28,736 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$43,012costs $31,987 | -$28,736 | AR |
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 | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$36,663 | $51,794 | $15,131 | +$36,663 | AR |
| ChildcareGap +$26,688 | $46,142 | $19,454 | +$26,688 | AR |
| UtilitiesGap +$1,143 | $5,314 | $4,171 | +$1,143 | AR |
| GroceriesGap +$1,408 | $11,950 | $10,542 | +$1,408 | AR |
| TransportationGap +$4,714 | $13,891 | $9,177 | +$4,714 | AR |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,256 | $5,906 | $8,162 | -$2,256 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or Arkansas?
Arkansas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.61% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Arkansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.39 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | +2.39 pts | 8.74% | AR |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.5 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 3.9%#14 of 50 | +10.5 pts | 5.46% | AR |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.12 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.59%#14 of 50 | +0.12 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.47 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 9.46%#47 of 50 | -0.47 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 California or Arkansas?
Homes cost 236% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $227,264 in Arkansas. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $61,092 in Arkansas; the median household earns $100,149 and $62,106.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$536,894 (+236%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | +$536,894+236% | $368,697 | AR |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.2 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +3.6%#10 of 50 | -3.2 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,676 (+132%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,265#4 of 50 | +$1,676+132% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$136,170 (+223%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $61,092#3 of 50 | +$136,170+223% | $100,006 | AR |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.9x (+105%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 3.7x#16 of 50 | +3.9x+105% | 4.6x | AR |
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.
| CA | AR | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $1,169 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +21.2% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Cool |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Little Rock |
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 California or Arkansas?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $62,106, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 4.1% in Arkansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arkansas's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$38,043 (+61%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$38,043+61% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.4 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.1%#29 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 3.95% | AR |
| GDP per capitaGap +$40,072 (+83%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $48,298#48 of 50 | +$40,072+83% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.5%#38 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap -0.62 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.6%#19 of 50 | -0.62 pts | +0.51% | AR |
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 | CA | AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $134,605$117,106 in Little Rock | CA |
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $127,376$110,817 in Little Rock | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $82,380$71,671 in Little Rock | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $230,893$200,877 in Little Rock | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $70,618$61,438 in Little Rock | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $58,521$50,913 in Little Rock | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $92,963$80,878 in Little Rock | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $87,640$76,247 in Little Rock | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $100,124$87,108 in Little Rock | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $67,807$58,992 in Little Rock | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $58,453$50,854 in Little Rock | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $77,756$67,648 in Little Rock | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $61,684$53,665 in Little Rock | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $32,876$28,602 in Little Rock | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $49,372$42,954 in Little Rock | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $52,449$45,631 in Little Rock | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $54,972$47,826 in Little Rock | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $52,176$45,393 in Little Rock | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $45,602$39,674 in Little Rock | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $40,714$35,421 in Little Rock | CA |
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 California safer than Arkansas?
California is safer: 433 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 532 in Arkansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,645 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -99 (-19%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -99-19% | 328 | CA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +147 (+9%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,645#35 of 50 | +147+9% | 1,535 | AR |
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.
- Yorba Linda, CA47 violent per 100K
- Bella Vista, AR167 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or Arkansas?
California and Arkansas are close on education (#37 and #40 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 88.2%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #47); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 73.9 in Arkansas.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 266#43 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 255#37 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| Life expectancyGap +5.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | +5.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -9.8 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 38.9%#47 of 50 | -9.8 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.5 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 9.4%#39 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+14%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 42#38 of 50 | +6 pts+14% | 38.8 | AR |
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).
- San Ramon, CAeducation score 98
- Benton, AReducation score 93.4
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: California #37, Arkansas #40. Health: California #5, Arkansas #47.
Are more people moving from California to Arkansas, or from Arkansas to California?
2,736 households moved from California to Arkansas and 1,313 moved from Arkansas to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,423 households for Arkansas. Movers to Arkansas reported an average income of $68,900; movers to California reported $64,303. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,676 people (±1,069) moving from California to Arkansas and 2,462 (±1,049) 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 | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +215,866 (+583%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 36,997#33 of 50 | +215,866+583% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +321,532 (+1,013%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 31,728#16 of 50 | +321,532+1,013% | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -105,666 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | -105,666 | AR |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.3 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +1.7#13 of 50 | -4.3 | AR |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$32,541 (+52%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $62,982#42 of 50 | +$32,541+52% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$42,783 (+72%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $59,337#49 of 50 | +$42,783+72% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -10.5 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +4.7#8 of 50 | -10.5 | AR |
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, California or Arkansas?
California is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Arkansas is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +4 places | #48score 43.1 | #44score 49.1 | +4 places | AR |
| RetireesGap +4 places | #49score 43.4 | #45score 48.5 | +4 places | AR |
| Remote WorkersGap +11 places | #50score 19.5 | #39score 45.8 | +11 places | AR |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +12 places | #50score 24.3 | #38score 44.6 | +12 places | AR |
| Small BusinessGap +15 places | #50score 26.8 | #35score 48.5 | +15 places | AR |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -18 places | #31score 36.7 | #49score 23.3 | -18 places | CA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesArkansas (#44 vs #48)
- RetireesArkansas (#45 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersArkansas (#39 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsArkansas (#38 vs #50)
- Small BusinessArkansas (#35 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsCalifornia (#31 vs #49)
Which cities stand out in California and Arkansas?
California has 188 tracked cities and Arkansas has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Little Rock. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Little Rock203,436 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Bentonvillescore 68.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Bella Vista167 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Pine Bluffcost index 83 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | West Memphiswalkability 12.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | West Memphiscounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Benton93.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Bentonvillemedian income $112,792 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Bella Vista+3.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and Arkansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and Arkansas AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +40 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 12%#37 of 50 | +40 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +16.7 (+42%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 39.6#38 of 50 | +16.7+42% | 29.6 | AR |
| Public land shareGap +35.3 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 10.5%#22 of 50 | +35.3 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | +7 min | 25.2 min | AR |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.3%#49 of 50 | +3 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.5 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 8.6%#44 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.2 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 90.8%#43 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 92.67% | CA |
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 | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#40 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | AR |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.6 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 6.7%#42 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 12.39% | CA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 78%#19 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | AR |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,360 (+130%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $1,820#7 of 50 | +$2,360+130% | $3,506 | AR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -9.5 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +6.3%#14 of 50 | -9.5 pts | +4.66% | AR |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, Arkansas 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).
California vs Arkansas: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. California is ahead on 15 of 51, Arkansas on 30, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | ArkansasAR | GapCA−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +36,240,518 (+1,163%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 3.1 million#33 of 50 | +36,240,518+1,163% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$38,043 (+61%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$38,043+61% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.4 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.1%#29 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 3.95% | AR |
| Population growthGap -0.62 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.6%#19 of 50 | -0.62 pts | +0.51% | AR |
| GDP per capitaGap +$40,072 (+83%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $48,298#48 of 50 | +$40,072+83% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.5%#38 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -99 (-19%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -99-19% | 328 | CA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +147 (+9%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,645#35 of 50 | +147+9% | 1,535 | AR |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 230#47 of 50 | +3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 266#43 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 210#41 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 255#37 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +5.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | +5.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -9.8 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 38.9%#47 of 50 | -9.8 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.5 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 9.4%#39 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$536,894 (+236%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | +$536,894+236% | $368,697 | AR |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.2 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +3.6%#10 of 50 | -3.2 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,676 (+132%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,265#4 of 50 | +$1,676+132% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$136,170 (+223%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $61,092#3 of 50 | +$136,170+223% | $100,006 | AR |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +23.8 pts (+27%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +23.8 pts+27% | 100 | AR |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.9x (+105%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 3.7x#16 of 50 | +3.9x+105% | 4.6x | AR |
| Residential electricity priceGap +19.70¢ (+153%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | +19.70¢+153% | 17.84¢/kWh | AR |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.76 (+14%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | +$2.76+14% | $15.83/Mcf | AR |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.50 (+51%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | +$1.50+51% | $3.32/gal | AR |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +12.5 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 93.6#1 of 50 | +12.5 pts+13% | 100 | AR |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$13,344 (+137%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $9,727#5 of 50 | +$13,344+137% | $15,633 | AR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.39 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | +2.39 pts | 8.74% | AR |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.5 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 3.9%#14 of 50 | +10.5 pts | 5.46% | AR |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.12 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.59%#14 of 50 | +0.12 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.47 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 9.46%#47 of 50 | -0.47 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#40 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | AR |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.6 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 6.7%#42 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 12.39% | CA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 78%#19 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | AR |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,360 (+130%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $1,820#7 of 50 | +$2,360+130% | $3,506 | AR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -9.5 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +6.3%#14 of 50 | -9.5 pts | +4.66% | AR |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+14%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 42#38 of 50 | +6 pts+14% | 38.8 | AR |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +40 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 12%#37 of 50 | +40 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +16.7 (+42%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 39.6#38 of 50 | +16.7+42% | 29.6 | AR |
| Public land shareGap +35.3 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 10.5%#22 of 50 | +35.3 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | +7 min | 25.2 min | AR |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.3%#49 of 50 | +3 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.5 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 8.6%#44 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.2 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 90.8%#43 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +215,866 (+583%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 36,997#33 of 50 | +215,866+583% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +321,532 (+1,013%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 31,728#16 of 50 | +321,532+1,013% | 78,715 | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -105,666 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | -105,666 | -33 | AR |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.3 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +1.7#13 of 50 | -4.3 | +0.4 | AR |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$32,541 (+52%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $62,982#42 of 50 | +$32,541+52% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$42,783 (+72%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $59,337#49 of 50 | +$42,783+72% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -10.5 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +4.7#8 of 50 | -10.5 | +1.1 | AR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$68,360 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | -$68,360 | -$11,758 | AR |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$25,843 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$37,972#4 of 50 | -$25,843 | +$31,418 | AR |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$28,736 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$43,012#4 of 50 | -$28,736 | +$35,970 | AR |
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 California and Arkansas numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
California (40.2, #47) and Arkansas (40.1, #48) are within 2 composite points. California leads 6 categories, Arkansas leads 3, and 2 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Arkansas is cheaper day to day
Arkansas's cost of living index is 86.9 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $227,264 in Arkansas. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and +$8,363 in Arkansas.
Arkansas takes a smaller share in taxes
California collects 11% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Arkansas collects 8.61% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
California pays more and is safer
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $62,106 in Arkansas, with unemployment at 5.5% and 4.1%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 532 in Arkansas.
Moves between the two run about even
1,676 people moved from California to Arkansas and 2,462 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Arkansas fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and Arkansas #44; for retirees, California ranks #49 and Arkansas #45.
California vs Arkansas: frequently asked questions
Is California or Arkansas better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Arkansas #48 as of the latest release. Arkansas is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 86.9 vs 110.7), has a 2.4-point lower tax burden, and has a 19% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 0.1 points apart, too close to call: California leads 6 of 11 categories, Arkansas leads 3.
Is California cheaper than Arkansas?
Arkansas is cheaper than California: cost of living index 86.9 vs 110.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$59,997 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in California, and +$8,363 in Arkansas. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $227,264 in Arkansas.
Which has lower taxes, California or Arkansas?
Arkansas has the lower tax burden: 8.61% of income in state and local taxes vs 11% in California. California's top income tax rate is 14.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.71% and its combined sales tax 8.99%; Arkansas's are 3.9%, 0.59% and 9.46%.
Is California safer than Arkansas?
California is safer: 433 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 532 in Arkansas, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and Arkansas #48. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,645 in Arkansas. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Bella Vista, AR.
Are homes more expensive in California or Arkansas?
Homes are 236% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $227,264 in Arkansas. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $61,092 in Arkansas, against median incomes of $100,149 and $62,106.
Do people earn more in California or Arkansas?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $62,106 in Arkansas, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 4.1% in Arkansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arkansas's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to Arkansas or from Arkansas to California?
2,736 households moved from California to Arkansas and 1,313 moved from Arkansas to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,423 households for Arkansas. Movers to Arkansas reported an average income of $68,900; movers to California reported $64,303. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,676 people (±1,069) moving from California to Arkansas and 2,462 (±1,049) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, California or Arkansas?
Arkansas is the better fit for retirees: #45 of 50 on the retiree index vs #49 for California. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Arkansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$43,012 in Arkansas.
Which is better for families, California or Arkansas?
Arkansas is the better fit for families: #44 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $9,727 in Arkansas. High school graduation rates are 87% and 88.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and +$8,363 in Arkansas.
Which has better schools, California or Arkansas?
California and Arkansas are close on education: #37 and #40 of 50 in the education category. Eighth graders average 269 in NAEP math in California and 266 in Arkansas. High school graduation rates are 87% in California and 88.2% in Arkansas, and the education category scores are 51.7 and 49.3 out of 100. Among tracked cities, San Ramon and Benton have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside California vs Arkansas.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,736 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).