California vs Michigan: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Michigan #45 as of the latest release. Michigan is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.2 vs 110.7), has a 2.8-point lower tax burden. Michigan scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Typical home value is 65% lower in Michigan ($266,292 vs. $764,158 in California).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 48% lower in Michigan ($1,524 vs. $2,941 in California).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 39% lower in Michigan ($14,064 vs. $23,071 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -2.5 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 42.7#45 of 50 · D | -2.5 pts | — | MI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.5 pts (+15%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +14.5 pts+15% | 100 | MI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$54,363 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$54,363 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$497,866 (+187%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$497,866+187% | $368,697 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.75 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +2.75 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +17 (+4%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | +17+4% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$27,760 (+38%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$27,760+38% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +6 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +6 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | +2.5 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -91,627 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -91,627 | -33 | MI |
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 Michigan better to live in?
Michigan scores higher overall: 42.7 to 40.2 out of 100, #45 of 50 against #47. California leads 5 of 11 categories, Michigan leads 6, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +19.6 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 21.9#50 · F | +19.6 pts | CA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -9.2 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 63.9#31 · C+ | -9.2 pts | MI |
| Health12% of scoregap +22.2 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 55.4#27 · C+ | +22.2 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap +9.5 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 42.2#44 · D | +9.5 pts | CA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -59 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 73.3#22 · B | -59 pts | MI |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -8.7 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 56.2#32 · C+ | -8.7 pts | MI |
| Growth7% of scoregap -18.2 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 24.3#41 · C | -18.2 pts | MI |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -3.4 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 49.4#27 · C+ | -3.4 pts | MI |
| Livability7% of scoregap +7 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 24.7#41 · C | +7 pts | CA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +23 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 17.8#32 · C+ | +23 pts | CA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -17.3 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 42.0#23 · B | -17.3 pts | MI |
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 Michigan?
Michigan is cheaper: cost of living index 96.2 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $54,363 more a year in Michigan after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.5 pts (+15%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +14.5 pts+15% | 100 | MI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.1 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96#16 of 50 | +10.1 pts+11% | 100 | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap +12.53¢ (+63%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | +12.53¢+63% | 17.84¢/kWh | MI |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$11.09 (+102%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | +$11.09+102% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.32 (+43%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | +$1.32+43% | $3.32/gal | MI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,007 (+64%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $14,064#21 of 50 | +$9,007+64% | $15,633 | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$22,298 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$34,427costs $40,573 | -$22,298 | MI |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$28,996 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$26,692costs $48,308 | -$28,996 | MI |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$54,363 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$5,634costs $80,634 | -$54,363 | MI |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$24,731 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$39,007costs $35,994 | -$24,731 | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$32,041 | $51,794 | $19,753 | +$32,041 | MI |
| ChildcareGap +$18,014 | $46,142 | $28,128 | +$18,014 | MI |
| UtilitiesGap +$696 | $5,314 | $4,618 | +$696 | MI |
| GroceriesGap +$1,138 | $11,950 | $10,812 | +$1,138 | MI |
| TransportationGap +$4,148 | $13,891 | $9,743 | +$4,148 | MI |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,674 | $5,906 | $7,580 | -$1,674 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or Michigan?
Michigan collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.25% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.75 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +2.75 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +7.75 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 6.65%#36 of 50 | +7.75 pts | 5.46% | MI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.64 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.35%#37 of 50 | -0.64 pts | 1.02% | CA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.99 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 6%#13 of 50 | +2.99 pts | 6.66% | MI |
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 Michigan?
Homes cost 187% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $266,292 in Michigan. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $73,945 in Michigan; the median household earns $100,149 and $72,389.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$497,866 (+187%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$497,866+187% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.6 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +4%#7 of 50 | -3.6 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,417 (+93%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,524#16 of 50 | +$1,417+93% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$123,317 (+167%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $73,945#12 of 50 | +$123,317+167% | $100,006 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.9x (+105%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 3.7x#15 of 50 | +3.9x+105% | 4.6x | MI |
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 | MI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $1,370 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +24.1% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Cool |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Detroit |
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 Michigan?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $72,389, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 5.2% in Michigan. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Michigan's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$27,760 (+38%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$27,760+38% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 5.2%#48 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$33,044 (+60%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $55,326#40 of 50 | +$33,044+60% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap -0.3 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.28%#35 of 50 | -0.3 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 | MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $152,435$143,289 in Detroit | CA |
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $143,840$135,210 in Detroit | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $89,989$84,590 in Detroit | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $82,057$77,134 in Detroit | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $248,727$233,803 in Detroit | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $68,769$64,643 in Detroit | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $73,448$69,041 in Detroit | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $35,851$33,700 in Detroit | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $107,373$100,931 in Detroit | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $113,783$106,956 in Detroit | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $82,872$77,900 in Detroit | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $107,310$100,871 in Detroit | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $59,364$55,802 in Detroit | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $73,498$69,088 in Detroit | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $60,091$56,486 in Detroit | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $51,641$48,543 in Detroit | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $61,151$57,482 in Detroit | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $73,631$69,213 in Detroit | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $60,529$56,897 in Detroit | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $48,624$45,707 in Detroit | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is California safer than Michigan?
Violent crime is about the same: 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 416 in Michigan (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,259 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +17 (+4%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | +17+4% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +534 (+42%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,259#13 of 50 | +534+42% | 1,535 | MI |
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
- Rochester Hills, MI62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or Michigan?
California scores higher for education (#37 of 50 vs #44), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 81%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #27); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 76.8 in Michigan.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 270#31 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 255#33 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +6 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | +2.5 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -7 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 36.1%#33 of 50 | -7 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.8 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 5.1%#8 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+20%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 40#27 of 50 | +8 pts+20% | 38.8 | MI |
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
- Farmington Hills, MIeducation score 94.2
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, Michigan #44. Health: California #5, Michigan #27.
Are more people moving from California to Michigan, or from Michigan to California?
4,987 households moved from California to Michigan and 5,218 moved from Michigan to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 231 households for California. Movers to Michigan reported an average income of $96,017; movers to California reported $95,447. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 14,005 people (±4,112) moving from California to Michigan and 5,317 (±1,632) the other way, a net gain of about 8,688 people for Michigan 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 | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +181,063 (+252%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 71,800#20 of 50 | +181,063+252% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +272,690 (+338%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 80,570#33 of 50 | +272,690+338% | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -91,627 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -91,627 | MI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -0.9#38 of 50 | -1.7 | MI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$21,378 (+29%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $74,145#30 of 50 | +$21,378+29% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$24,177 (+31%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $77,943#18 of 50 | +$24,177+31% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.0 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +0.2#31 of 50 | -6.0 | MI |
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 Michigan?
Michigan is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, and small business; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +7 places | #48score 43.1 | #41score 53.5 | +7 places | MI |
| RetireesGap +19 places | #49score 43.4 | #30score 59.7 | +19 places | MI |
| Remote WorkersGap +7 places | #50score 19.5 | #43score 41.5 | +7 places | MI |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +3 places | #50score 24.3 | #47score 37.5 | +3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +5 places | #50score 26.8 | #45score 36.9 | +5 places | MI |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -1 places | #31score 36.7 | #32score 36.1 | -1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMichigan (#41 vs #48)
- RetireesMichigan (#30 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersMichigan (#43 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#50 vs #47)
- Small BusinessMichigan (#45 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#31 vs #32)
Which cities stand out in California and Michigan?
California has 188 tracked cities and Michigan has 24; the largest are Los Angeles and Detroit. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Detroit638,530 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Troyscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Rochester Hills62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Battle Creekcost index 90.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Ann Arborwalkability 13.5 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Lansingcounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Farmington Hills94.2% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Rochester Hillsmedian income $120,694 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Grand Rapids+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and Michigan compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and Michigan AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +39 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 13%#33 of 50 | +39 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +45.8 (+436%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 10.5#7 of 50 | +45.8+436% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap +32.4 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 13.4%#18 of 50 | +32.4 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | +5.4 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.3 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 1%#28 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.9 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 11.2%#33 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 92.8%#27 of 50 | +2.2 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 | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#39 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | MI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -5.2 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 13.5%#13 of 50 | -5.2 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 68%#35 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | CA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,000 (+31%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $3,180#31 of 50 | +$1,000+31% | $3,506 | MI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.5 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +4.3%#29 of 50 | -7.5 pts | +4.66% | MI |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, Michigan 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 Michigan: 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, Michigan on 29, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MichiganMI | GapCA−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +29,227,425 (+289%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 10.1 million#10 of 50 | +29,227,425+289% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$27,760 (+38%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$27,760+38% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 5.2%#48 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.3 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.28%#35 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$33,044 (+60%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $55,326#40 of 50 | +$33,044+60% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +17 (+4%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | +17+4% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +534 (+42%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,259#13 of 50 | +534+42% | 1,535 | MI |
| High school graduation rateGap +6 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +6 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 235#34 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 270#31 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 209#44 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 255#33 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | +2.5 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -7 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 36.1%#33 of 50 | -7 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.8 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 5.1%#8 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$497,866 (+187%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$497,866+187% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.6 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +4%#7 of 50 | -3.6 pts | +1.2% | MI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,417 (+93%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,524#16 of 50 | +$1,417+93% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$123,317 (+167%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $73,945#12 of 50 | +$123,317+167% | $100,006 | MI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.5 pts (+15%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +14.5 pts+15% | 100 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.9x (+105%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 3.7x#15 of 50 | +3.9x+105% | 4.6x | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap +12.53¢ (+63%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | +12.53¢+63% | 17.84¢/kWh | MI |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$11.09 (+102%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | +$11.09+102% | $15.83/Mcf | MI |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.32 (+43%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | +$1.32+43% | $3.32/gal | MI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.1 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96#16 of 50 | +10.1 pts+11% | 100 | MI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,007 (+64%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $14,064#21 of 50 | +$9,007+64% | $15,633 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.75 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +2.75 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +7.75 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 6.65%#36 of 50 | +7.75 pts | 5.46% | MI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.64 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.35%#37 of 50 | -0.64 pts | 1.02% | CA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.99 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 6%#13 of 50 | +2.99 pts | 6.66% | MI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#39 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | MI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -5.2 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 13.5%#13 of 50 | -5.2 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 68%#35 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | CA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,000 (+31%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $3,180#31 of 50 | +$1,000+31% | $3,506 | MI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.5 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +4.3%#29 of 50 | -7.5 pts | +4.66% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+20%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 40#27 of 50 | +8 pts+20% | 38.8 | MI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +39 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 13%#33 of 50 | +39 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +45.8 (+436%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 10.5#7 of 50 | +45.8+436% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap +32.4 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 13.4%#18 of 50 | +32.4 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | +5.4 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.3 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 1%#28 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.9 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 11.2%#33 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 92.8%#27 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +181,063 (+252%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 71,800#20 of 50 | +181,063+252% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +272,690 (+338%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 80,570#33 of 50 | +272,690+338% | 78,715 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -91,627 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -91,627 | -33 | MI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -0.9#38 of 50 | -1.7 | +0.4 | MI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$21,378 (+29%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $74,145#30 of 50 | +$21,378+29% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$24,177 (+31%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $77,943#18 of 50 | +$24,177+31% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.0 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +0.2#31 of 50 | -6.0 | +1.1 | MI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$54,363 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$54,363 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$22,298 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$34,427#18 of 50 | -$22,298 | +$31,418 | MI |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$24,731 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$39,007#19 of 50 | -$24,731 | +$35,970 | MI |
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 Michigan numbers say when read together.
Michigan ranks higher overall
Michigan leads 6 of the 11 categories to California's 5, with 0 even; California is ahead on outdoor access and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 15 and Michigan on 29.
Michigan is cheaper day to day
Michigan's cost of living index is 96.2 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $266,292 in Michigan. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$5,634 in Michigan.
Michigan 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); Michigan collects 8.25% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
California pays more
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $72,389 in Michigan, with unemployment at 5.5% and 5.2%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 416 in Michigan.
People move to Michigan on net
14,005 people moved to Michigan from California in the latest Census release, against 5,317 going the other way.
Michigan fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and Michigan #41; for retirees, California ranks #49 and Michigan #30.
California vs Michigan: frequently asked questions
Is California or Michigan better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Michigan #45 as of the latest release. Michigan is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.2 vs 110.7), has a 2.8-point lower tax burden. Michigan scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is California cheaper than Michigan?
Michigan is cheaper than California: cost of living index 96.2 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 -$5,634 in Michigan. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $266,292 in Michigan.
Which has lower taxes, California or Michigan?
Michigan has the lower tax burden: 8.25% 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%; Michigan's are 6.65%, 1.35% and 6%.
Is California safer than Michigan?
California and Michigan have similar violent crime rates: 433 vs 416 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and Michigan #40. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,259 in Michigan. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Rochester Hills, MI.
Are homes more expensive in California or Michigan?
Homes are 187% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $266,292 in Michigan. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $73,945 in Michigan, against median incomes of $100,149 and $72,389.
Do people earn more in California or Michigan?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $72,389 in Michigan, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 5.2% in Michigan. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Michigan's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from California to Michigan or from Michigan to California?
4,987 households moved from California to Michigan and 5,218 moved from Michigan to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 231 households for California. Movers to Michigan reported an average income of $96,017; movers to California reported $95,447. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 14,005 people (±4,112) moving from California to Michigan and 5,317 (±1,632) the other way, a net gain of about 8,688 people for Michigan beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, California or Michigan?
Michigan is the better fit for retirees: #30 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; Michigan has low 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 +$39,007 in Michigan.
Which is better for families, California or Michigan?
Michigan is the better fit for families: #41 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $14,064 in Michigan. High school graduation rates are 87% and 81%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$5,634 in Michigan.
Is Michigan better than California?
Yes: Michigan ranks higher than California overall, #45 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 42.7 to 40.2. Michigan leads 6 of 11 categories and California leads 5, 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 Michigan.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (5,218 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).