California vs Montana: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. Montana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 110.7), has a 3.1-point lower tax burden. Montana scores higher overall, leading 10 of 11 categories to 1.
- Residential electricity price is 60% lower in Montana (12.98¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 52% lower in Montana ($1,426 vs. $2,941 in California).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 39% lower in Montana ($119,850 vs. $197,262 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -34.8 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 75.0#7 of 50 · A | -34.8 pts | — | MT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16.1 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +16.1 pts+17% | 100 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$38,845 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$38,845 | -$11,758 | MT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$292,412 (+62%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$292,412+62% | $368,697 | MT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.13 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +3.13 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +14 (+3%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | +14+3% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$24,809 (+33%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$24,809+33% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -103,493 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | -103,493 | -33 | MT |
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 Montana better to live in?
Montana scores higher overall: 75 to 40.2 out of 100, #7 of 50 against #47. California leads 1 of 11 categories, Montana leads 10, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -10 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 51.5#17 · B+ | -10 pts | MT |
| Safety12% of scoregap -6.2 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 60.9#36 · C | -6.2 pts | MT |
| Health12% of scoregap +18.7 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 58.9#22 · B | +18.7 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap -15.4 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 67.1#12 · B+ | -15.4 pts | MT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -54.6 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 68.9#26 · B | -54.6 pts | MT |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -12 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 59.5#24 · B | -12 pts | MT |
| Growth7% of scoregap -47.5 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 53.6#6 · A | -47.5 pts | MT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -12.7 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 58.7#7 · A | -12.7 pts | MT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -30.2 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 61.9#1 · A+ | -30.2 pts | MT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -30.9 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 71.7#3 · A+ | -30.9 pts | MT |
| Environment4% of scoregap -38.2 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 62.9#6 · A | -38.2 pts | MT |
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 Montana?
Montana is cheaper: cost of living index 94.6 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $38,845 more a year in Montana after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16.1 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +16.1 pts+17% | 100 | MT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.1 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | +10.1 pts+11% | 100 | MT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +19.56¢ (+151%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | +19.56¢+151% | 17.84¢/kWh | MT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$13.02 (+145%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | +$13.02+145% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.09 (+33%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | +$1.09+33% | $3.32/gal | MT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,595 (+49%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | +$7,595+49% | $15,633 | MT |
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 | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$14,314 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$26,443costs $48,557 | -$14,314 | MT |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$19,304 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$17,000costs $58,000 | -$19,304 | MT |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$38,845 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$21,152costs $96,152 | -$38,845 | MT |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$16,406 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$30,682costs $44,318 | -$16,406 | MT |
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 | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$19,442 | $51,794 | $32,352 | +$19,442 | MT |
| ChildcareGap +$15,190 | $46,142 | $30,952 | +$15,190 | MT |
| UtilitiesGap +$773 | $5,314 | $4,541 | +$773 | MT |
| GroceriesGap +$1,138 | $11,950 | $10,812 | +$1,138 | MT |
| TransportationGap +$3,425 | $13,891 | $10,466 | +$3,425 | MT |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,123 | $5,906 | $7,029 | -$1,123 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or Montana?
Montana collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.87% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.13 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +3.13 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.5 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | +8.5 pts | 5.46% | MT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.08 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | -0.08 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +8.99 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +8.99 pts | 6.66% | MT |
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 Montana?
Homes cost 62% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $119,850 in Montana; the median household earns $100,149 and $75,340.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$292,412 (+62%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$292,412+62% | $368,697 | MT |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.6 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,515 (+106%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$1,515+106% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$77,412 (+65%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | +$77,412+65% | $100,006 | MT |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.3x (+21%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | +1.3x+21% | 4.6x | MT |
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 | MT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $2,427 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +59% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Warm |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Billings |
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 Montana?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $75,340, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 3.3% in Montana. 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 Montana's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$24,809 (+33%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$24,809+33% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.2 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 3.95% | MT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$34,481 (+64%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | +$34,481+64% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap -0.65 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | -0.65 pts | +0.51% | MT |
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 | MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $128,043$115,239 in Billings | CA |
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $116,186$104,567 in Billings | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $199,317$179,385 in Billings | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $74,941$67,447 in Billings | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $68,716$61,844 in Billings | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $57,082$51,374 in Billings | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $92,892$83,603 in Billings | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $84,653$76,188 in Billings | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $90,166$81,149 in Billings | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $63,372$57,035 in Billings | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $74,913$67,422 in Billings | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $58,723$52,851 in Billings | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $31,814$28,633 in Billings | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $60,323$54,291 in Billings | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $50,682$45,614 in Billings | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $47,868$43,081 in Billings | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $49,906$44,915 in Billings | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $51,552$46,397 in Billings | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $44,668$40,201 in Billings | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $40,154$36,139 in Billings | 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 Montana?
Violent crime is about the same: 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 419 in Montana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,449 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +14 (+3%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | +14+3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +344 (+24%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | +344+24% | 1,535 | MT |
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
- Whitefish, MT176 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or Montana?
Montana scores higher for education (#12 of 50 vs #37), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 85.8%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #22); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 77.3 in Montana.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -10 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | -10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +21 pts (+78%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | +21 pts+78% | 38.8 | MT |
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
- Whitefish, MTeducation score 92
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, Montana #12. Health: California #5, Montana #22.
Are more people moving from California to Montana, or from Montana to California?
2,817 households moved from California to Montana and 1,338 moved from Montana to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,479 households for Montana. Movers to Montana reported an average income of $108,914; movers to California reported $71,176. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,872 people (±1,563) moving from California to Montana and 2,531 (±925) the other way, a net gain of about 2,341 people for Montana 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 | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +231,473 (+1,082%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +231,473+1,082% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +334,966 (+1,831%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +334,966+1,831% | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -103,493 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | -103,493 | MT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.3 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -5.3 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$16,413 (+21%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | +$16,413+21% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$36,956 (+57%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | +$36,956+57% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.4 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | -11.4 | MT |
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 Montana?
Montana 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 | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +38 places | #48score 43.1 | #10score 79.4 | +38 places | MT |
| RetireesGap +39 places | #49score 43.4 | #10score 76.8 | +39 places | MT |
| Remote WorkersGap +46 places | #50score 19.5 | #4score 76.6 | +46 places | MT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +45 places | #50score 24.3 | #5score 70.2 | +45 places | MT |
| Small BusinessGap +40 places | #50score 26.8 | #10score 71 | +40 places | MT |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +29 places | #31score 36.7 | #2score 81.7 | +29 places | MT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMontana (#10 vs #48)
- RetireesMontana (#10 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersMontana (#4 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsMontana (#5 vs #50)
- Small BusinessMontana (#10 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMontana (#2 vs #31)
Which cities stand out in California and Montana?
California has 188 tracked cities and Montana has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Billings. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Billings119,434 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Bozemanscore 64.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Whitefish176 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Buttecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Bozemanwalkability 15.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Bozemancounty median AQI 11 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Whitefish92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Belgrademedian income $97,328 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Sidney+2.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and Montana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and Montana AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.5 (+13%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | +6.5+13% | 29.6 | MT |
| Public land shareGap +15.9 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | +15.9 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +10.2 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +10.2 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.5 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.4 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.5 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +3.5 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 | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | MT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.39% | MT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -1 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | -1 pts | 74.3% | MT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,430 (+52%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | +$1,430+52% | $3,506 | MT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.4 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | -8.4 pts | +4.66% | MT |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, Montana 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 Montana: 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 13 of 51, Montana on 32, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | MontanaMT | GapCA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +38,210,615 (+3,338%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 1.1 million#43 of 50 | +38,210,615+3,338% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$24,809 (+33%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$24,809+33% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.2 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 3.95% | MT |
| Population growthGap -0.65 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | -0.65 pts | +0.51% | MT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$34,481 (+64%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | +$34,481+64% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +14 (+3%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | +14+3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +344 (+24%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | +344+24% | 1,535 | MT |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 239#20 of 50 | -6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -10 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | -10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 217#12 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | -2.9 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$292,412 (+62%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$292,412+62% | $368,697 | MT |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.6 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,515 (+106%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$1,515+106% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$77,412 (+65%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | +$77,412+65% | $100,006 | MT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16.1 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +16.1 pts+17% | 100 | MT |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.3x (+21%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | +1.3x+21% | 4.6x | MT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +19.56¢ (+151%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | +19.56¢+151% | 17.84¢/kWh | MT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$13.02 (+145%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | +$13.02+145% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.09 (+33%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | +$1.09+33% | $3.32/gal | MT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.1 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | +10.1 pts+11% | 100 | MT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,595 (+49%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | +$7,595+49% | $15,633 | MT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.13 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +3.13 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.5 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | +8.5 pts | 5.46% | MT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.08 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | -0.08 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +8.99 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +8.99 pts | 6.66% | MT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | MT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.39% | MT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -1 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | -1 pts | 74.3% | MT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,430 (+52%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | +$1,430+52% | $3,506 | MT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.4 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | -8.4 pts | +4.66% | MT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +21 pts (+78%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | +21 pts+78% | 38.8 | MT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +6.5 (+13%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | +6.5+13% | 29.6 | MT |
| Public land shareGap +15.9 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | +15.9 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +10.2 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +10.2 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.5 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.4 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.5 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +231,473 (+1,082%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +231,473+1,082% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +334,966 (+1,831%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +334,966+1,831% | 78,715 | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -103,493 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | -103,493 | -33 | MT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.3 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -5.3 | +0.4 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$16,413 (+21%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | +$16,413+21% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$36,956 (+57%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | +$36,956+57% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.4 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | -11.4 | +1.1 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$38,845 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$38,845 | -$11,758 | MT |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$14,314 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$26,443#38 of 50 | -$14,314 | +$31,418 | MT |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$16,406 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$30,682#37 of 50 | -$16,406 | +$35,970 | MT |
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 Montana numbers say when read together.
Montana ranks higher overall
Montana leads 10 of the 11 categories to California's 1, with 0 even; California is ahead on health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 13 and Montana on 32.
Montana is cheaper day to day
Montana's cost of living index is 94.6 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $471,746 in Montana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$21,152 in Montana.
Montana 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); Montana collects 7.87% (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 $75,340 in Montana, with unemployment at 5.5% and 3.3%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 419 in Montana.
People move to Montana on net
4,872 people moved to Montana from California in the latest Census release, against 2,531 going the other way.
Montana fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and Montana #10; for retirees, California ranks #49 and Montana #10.
California vs Montana: frequently asked questions
Is California or Montana better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. Montana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 110.7), has a 3.1-point lower tax burden. Montana scores higher overall, leading 10 of 11 categories to 1.
Is California cheaper than Montana?
Montana is cheaper than California: cost of living index 94.6 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 -$21,152 in Montana. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $471,746 in Montana.
Which has lower taxes, California or Montana?
Montana has the lower tax burden: 7.87% 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%; Montana's are 5.9%, 0.79% and 0%.
Is California safer than Montana?
California and Montana have similar violent crime rates: 433 vs 419 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and Montana #42. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,449 in Montana. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Whitefish, MT.
Are homes more expensive in California or Montana?
Homes are 62% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $119,850 in Montana, against median incomes of $100,149 and $75,340.
Do people earn more in California or Montana?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $75,340 in Montana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 3.3% in Montana. 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 Montana's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to Montana or from Montana to California?
2,817 households moved from California to Montana and 1,338 moved from Montana to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,479 households for Montana. Movers to Montana reported an average income of $108,914; movers to California reported $71,176. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,872 people (±1,563) moving from California to Montana and 2,531 (±925) the other way, a net gain of about 2,341 people for Montana beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, California or Montana?
Montana is the better fit for retirees: #10 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; Montana 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 +$30,682 in Montana.
Which is better for families, California or Montana?
Montana is the better fit for families: #10 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $15,476 in Montana. High school graduation rates are 87% and 85.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$21,152 in Montana.
Is Montana better than California?
Yes: Montana ranks higher than California overall, #7 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 75 to 40.2. Montana leads 10 of 11 categories and California leads 1, including 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 Montana.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,817 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).