California vs Iowa: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Iowa #14 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 110.7), has a 1.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 46% lower violent crime rate. Iowa scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical home value is 69% lower in Iowa ($239,547 vs. $764,158 in California).
- Residential electricity price is 58% lower in Iowa (13.72¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 56% lower in Iowa ($1,297 vs. $2,941 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -29 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 69.2#14 of 50 · B+ | -29 pts | — | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +22.9 pts (+26%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +22.9 pts+26% | 100 | IA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$57,680 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$57,680 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$524,611 (+219%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$524,611+219% | $368,697 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.77 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | +1.77 pts | 8.74% | IA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +199 (+85%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +199+85% | 328 | IA |
| Median household incomeGap +$24,648 (+33%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$24,648+33% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -97,983 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -97,983 | -33 | IA |
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 Iowa better to live in?
Iowa scores higher overall: 69.2 to 40.2 out of 100, #14 of 50 against #47. California leads 3 of 11 categories, Iowa leads 8, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -7.3 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 48.8#24 · B | -7.3 pts | IA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -25.1 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 79.8#12 · B+ | -25.1 pts | IA |
| Health12% of scoregap +17.3 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 60.3#20 · B | +17.3 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap -17.3 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 69.0#9 · A | -17.3 pts | IA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -72 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 86.3#5 · A+ | -72 pts | IA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -18.5 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 66.0#14 · B+ | -18.5 pts | IA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -28.9 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 35.0#29 · C+ | -28.9 pts | IA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -9.6 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 55.6#13 · B+ | -9.6 pts | IA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +4.1 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 27.6#34 · C+ | +4.1 pts | CA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +18.4 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 22.4#28 · C+ | +18.4 pts | CA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -22 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 46.7#17 · B+ | -22 pts | IA |
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 Iowa?
Iowa is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $57,680 more a year in Iowa after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +22.9 pts (+26%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +22.9 pts+26% | 100 | IA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +12.4 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 93.7#2 of 50 | +12.4 pts+13% | 100 | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +18.82¢ (+137%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | +18.82¢+137% | 17.84¢/kWh | IA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$11.40 (+107%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | +$11.40+107% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.30 (+42%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | +$1.30+42% | $3.32/gal | IA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,818 (+74%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $13,253#17 of 50 | +$9,818+74% | $15,633 | IA |
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 | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$23,707 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$35,836costs $39,165 | -$23,707 | IA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$30,622 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$28,318costs $46,683 | -$30,622 | IA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$57,680 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$2,317costs $77,317 | -$57,680 | IA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$26,190 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$40,466costs $34,534 | -$26,190 | IA |
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 | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$33,689 | $51,794 | $18,105 | +$33,689 | IA |
| ChildcareGap +$19,636 | $46,142 | $26,506 | +$19,636 | IA |
| UtilitiesGap +$1,100 | $5,314 | $4,214 | +$1,100 | IA |
| GroceriesGap +$1,397 | $11,950 | $10,553 | +$1,397 | IA |
| TransportationGap +$4,085 | $13,891 | $9,806 | +$4,085 | IA |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,227 | $5,906 | $8,133 | -$2,227 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or Iowa?
Iowa collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.23% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.77 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | +1.77 pts | 8.74% | IA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.6 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 3.8%#13 of 50 | +10.6 pts | 5.46% | IA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.78 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.49%#41 of 50 | -0.78 pts | 1.02% | CA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.05 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 6.94%#22 of 50 | +2.05 pts | 6.66% | IA |
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 Iowa?
Homes cost 219% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $239,547 in Iowa. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $70,437 in Iowa; the median household earns $100,149 and $75,501.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$524,611 (+219%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$524,611+219% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.1 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +3.5%#11 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +1.2% | IA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,644 (+127%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,297#6 of 50 | +$1,644+127% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$126,825 (+180%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $70,437#8 of 50 | +$126,825+180% | $100,006 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +4.4x (+137%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 3.2x#2 of 50 | +4.4x+137% | 4.6x | IA |
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 | IA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $1,232 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | -7% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +26.1% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Warm |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Des Moines |
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 Iowa?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $75,501, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 3.5% in Iowa. 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 Iowa's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$24,648 (+33%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$24,648+33% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +2 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 3.5%#15 of 50 | +2 pts | 3.95% | IA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$23,606 (+36%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $64,764#21 of 50 | +$23,606+36% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.6 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap -0.27 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.25%#37 of 50 | -0.27 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 | CA | IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $143,340$127,573 in Des Moines | CA |
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $141,671$126,087 in Des Moines | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $90,444$80,495 in Des Moines | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $73,833$65,711 in Des Moines | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $241,727$215,137 in Des Moines | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $65,071$57,913 in Des Moines | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $107,679$95,834 in Des Moines | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $100,113$89,101 in Des Moines | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $105,399$93,805 in Des Moines | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $80,166$71,348 in Des Moines | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $35,545$31,635 in Des Moines | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $75,354$67,065 in Des Moines | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $56,506$50,290 in Des Moines | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $67,263$59,864 in Des Moines | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $56,109$49,937 in Des Moines | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $70,096$62,385 in Des Moines | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $56,442$50,233 in Des Moines | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $58,447$52,018 in Des Moines | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $43,482$38,699 in Des Moines | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $51,294$45,652 in Des Moines | 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 Iowa?
Iowa is safer: 234 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,172 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +199 (+85%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +199+85% | 328 | IA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +621 (+53%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,172#11 of 50 | +621+53% | 1,535 | IA |
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
- Bettendorf, IA94 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or Iowa?
Iowa scores higher for education (#9 of 50 vs #37), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 89.9%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #20); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 77.9 in Iowa.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 275#23 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 261#10 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 36.6%#34 of 50 | -7.5 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 5.4%#11 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+12%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 43#39 of 50 | +5 pts+12% | 38.8 | IA |
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
- Urbandale, IAeducation score 98.3
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, Iowa #9. Health: California #5, Iowa #20.
Are more people moving from California to Iowa, or from Iowa to California?
1,830 households moved from California to Iowa and 1,351 moved from Iowa to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 479 households for Iowa. Movers to Iowa reported an average income of $67,794; movers to California reported $67,690. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,485 people (±1,155) moving from California to Iowa and 1,147 (±543) the other way, a net gain of about 1,338 people for Iowa beyond the margin of error.
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 | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +219,319 (+654%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 33,544#35 of 50 | +219,319+654% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +317,302 (+882%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 35,958#18 of 50 | +317,302+882% | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -97,983 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -97,983 | IA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.9 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -0.7#34 of 50 | -1.9 | IA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$33,915 (+55%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $61,608#43 of 50 | +$33,915+55% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$37,237 (+57%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $64,883#41 of 50 | +$37,237+57% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 | -5.8#47 of 50 | -0.3#35 of 50 | -5.5 | IA |
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 Iowa?
Iowa 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 | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +45 places | #48score 43.1 | #3score 81.7 | +45 places | IA |
| RetireesGap +41 places | #49score 43.4 | #8score 77.8 | +41 places | IA |
| Remote WorkersGap +40 places | #50score 19.5 | #10score 63.9 | +40 places | IA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +35 places | #50score 24.3 | #15score 62.7 | +35 places | IA |
| Small BusinessGap +36 places | #50score 26.8 | #14score 65.8 | +36 places | IA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +13 places | #31score 36.7 | #18score 52.5 | +13 places | IA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIowa (#3 vs #48)
- RetireesIowa (#8 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersIowa (#10 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsIowa (#15 vs #50)
- Small BusinessIowa (#14 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIowa (#18 vs #31)
Which cities stand out in California and Iowa?
California has 188 tracked cities and Iowa has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Des Moines. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Des Moines212,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Waukeescore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Bettendorf94 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Marshalltowncost index 84.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Fort Dodgewalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Iowa Citycounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Urbandale98.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Urbandalemedian income $112,795 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Waukee+9.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and Iowa compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and Iowa AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -15 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 67%#6 of 50 | -15 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.0 (+47%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 38.3#36 of 50 | +18.0+47% | 29.6 | IA |
| Public land shareGap +44.7 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 1.1%#48 of 50 | +44.7 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +9.3 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | +9.3 min | 25.2 min | IA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.5 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.8%#31 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 9.9%#36 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.3 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 90.7%#45 of 50 | +4.3 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 | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 100#6 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | IA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 10.6%#23 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 12.39% | IA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -15 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 87%#9 of 50 | -15 pts | 74.3% | IA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,530 (+58%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,650#22 of 50 | +$1,530+58% | $3,506 | IA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -10.3 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +7.1%#10 of 50 | -10.3 pts | +4.66% | IA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, Iowa AAA), 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 Iowa: 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 12 of 51, Iowa on 34, and 5 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | IowaIA | GapCA−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +36,116,922 (+1,115%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 3.2 million#32 of 50 | +36,116,922+1,115% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$24,648 (+33%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$24,648+33% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +2 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 3.5%#15 of 50 | +2 pts | 3.95% | IA |
| Population growthGap -0.27 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.25%#37 of 50 | -0.27 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$23,606 (+36%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $64,764#21 of 50 | +$23,606+36% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.6 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +199 (+85%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +199+85% | 328 | IA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +621 (+53%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,172#11 of 50 | +621+53% | 1,535 | IA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 237#30 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 275#23 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 215#25 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 261#10 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 36.6%#34 of 50 | -7.5 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 5.4%#11 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$524,611 (+219%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$524,611+219% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.1 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +3.5%#11 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +1.2% | IA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,644 (+127%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,297#6 of 50 | +$1,644+127% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$126,825 (+180%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $70,437#8 of 50 | +$126,825+180% | $100,006 | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +22.9 pts (+26%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +22.9 pts+26% | 100 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +4.4x (+137%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 3.2x#2 of 50 | +4.4x+137% | 4.6x | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +18.82¢ (+137%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | +18.82¢+137% | 17.84¢/kWh | IA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$11.40 (+107%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | +$11.40+107% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.30 (+42%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | +$1.30+42% | $3.32/gal | IA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +12.4 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 93.7#2 of 50 | +12.4 pts+13% | 100 | IA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,818 (+74%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $13,253#17 of 50 | +$9,818+74% | $15,633 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.77 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | +1.77 pts | 8.74% | IA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.6 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 3.8%#13 of 50 | +10.6 pts | 5.46% | IA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.78 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.49%#41 of 50 | -0.78 pts | 1.02% | CA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.05 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 6.94%#22 of 50 | +2.05 pts | 6.66% | IA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 100#6 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | IA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 10.6%#23 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 12.39% | IA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -15 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 87%#9 of 50 | -15 pts | 74.3% | IA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,530 (+58%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,650#22 of 50 | +$1,530+58% | $3,506 | IA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -10.3 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +7.1%#10 of 50 | -10.3 pts | +4.66% | IA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+12%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 43#39 of 50 | +5 pts+12% | 38.8 | IA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -15 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 67%#6 of 50 | -15 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.0 (+47%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 38.3#36 of 50 | +18.0+47% | 29.6 | IA |
| Public land shareGap +44.7 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 1.1%#48 of 50 | +44.7 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +9.3 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | +9.3 min | 25.2 min | IA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.5 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.8%#31 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.2 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 9.9%#36 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.3 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 90.7%#45 of 50 | +4.3 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +219,319 (+654%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 33,544#35 of 50 | +219,319+654% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +317,302 (+882%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 35,958#18 of 50 | +317,302+882% | 78,715 | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -97,983 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -97,983 | -33 | IA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.9 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -0.7#34 of 50 | -1.9 | +0.4 | IA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$33,915 (+55%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $61,608#43 of 50 | +$33,915+55% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$37,237 (+57%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $64,883#41 of 50 | +$37,237+57% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | -0.3#35 of 50 | -5.5 | +1.1 | IA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$57,680 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$57,680 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$23,707 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$35,836#12 of 50 | -$23,707 | +$31,418 | IA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$26,190 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$40,466#12 of 50 | -$26,190 | +$35,970 | IA |
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 Iowa numbers say when read together.
Iowa ranks higher overall
Iowa leads 8 of the 11 categories to California's 3, with 0 even; California is ahead on outdoor access and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 12 and Iowa on 34.
Iowa is cheaper day to day
Iowa's cost of living index is 87.8 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $239,547 in Iowa. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$2,317 in Iowa.
Iowa 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); Iowa collects 9.23% (low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
California pays more
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $75,501 in Iowa, with unemployment at 5.5% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 234 in Iowa.
People move to Iowa on net
2,485 people moved to Iowa from California in the latest Census release, against 1,147 going the other way.
Iowa fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and Iowa #3; for retirees, California ranks #49 and Iowa #8.
California vs Iowa: frequently asked questions
Is California or Iowa better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Iowa #14 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 110.7), has a 1.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 46% lower violent crime rate. Iowa scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is California cheaper than Iowa?
Iowa is cheaper than California: cost of living index 87.8 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 -$2,317 in Iowa. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $239,547 in Iowa.
Which has lower taxes, California or Iowa?
Iowa has the lower tax burden: 9.23% 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%; Iowa's are 3.8%, 1.49% and 6.94%.
Is California safer than Iowa?
Iowa is safer: 234 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and Iowa #16. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,172 in Iowa. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Bettendorf, IA.
Are homes more expensive in California or Iowa?
Homes are 219% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $239,547 in Iowa. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $70,437 in Iowa, against median incomes of $100,149 and $75,501.
Do people earn more in California or Iowa?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $75,501 in Iowa, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 3.5% in Iowa. 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 Iowa's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to Iowa or from Iowa to California?
1,830 households moved from California to Iowa and 1,351 moved from Iowa to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 479 households for Iowa. Movers to Iowa reported an average income of $67,794; movers to California reported $67,690. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,485 people (±1,155) moving from California to Iowa and 1,147 (±543) the other way, a net gain of about 1,338 people for Iowa beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, California or Iowa?
Iowa is the better fit for retirees: #8 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; Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$40,466 in Iowa.
Which is better for families, California or Iowa?
Iowa is the better fit for families: #3 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $13,253 in Iowa. High school graduation rates are 87% and 89.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$2,317 in Iowa.
Is Iowa better than California?
Yes: Iowa ranks higher than California overall, #14 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 69.2 to 40.2. Iowa leads 8 of 11 categories and California leads 3, including outdoor access and health. 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 California vs Iowa.