California vs New York: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and New York #29 as of the latest release. New York is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 107.9 vs 110.7), carries a 2.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 15% lower violent crime rate. New York scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
- Typical home value is 31% lower in New York ($526,714 vs. $764,158 in California).
- Residential electricity price is 19% lower in New York (26.39¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
- Total tax burden is 19% lower in California (11% vs. 13.56% in New York).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -14.7 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | -14.7 pts | — | NY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 107.9#47 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | NY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$16,769 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$16,769 | -$11,758 | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$237,444 (+45%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $526,714#43 of 50 | +$237,444+45% | $368,697 | NY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.56 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 13.56%#49 of 50 | -2.56 pts | 8.74% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +64 (+17%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 368#35 of 50 | +64+17% | 328 | NY |
| Median household incomeGap +$14,329 (+17%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $85,820#15 of 50 | +$14,329+17% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 86.7%#24 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 79.5#4 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -28,410 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -28,410 | -33 | NY |
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 New York better to live in?
New York scores higher overall: 54.9 to 40.2 out of 100, #29 of 50 against #47. California leads 2 of 11 categories, New York leads 8, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -4.8 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 46.3#25 · B | -4.8 pts | NY |
| Safety12% of scoregap -8.3 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 63.0#34 · C+ | -8.3 pts | NY |
| Health12% of scoregap -2.1 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 79.7#3 · A+ | -2.1 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.9 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 56.6#30 · C+ | -4.9 pts | NY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -22.9 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 37.2#47 · D | -22.9 pts | NY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +3 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 44.5#42 · C | +3 pts | CA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -7.9 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 14.0#48 · D | -7.9 pts | NY |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -6.6 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 52.6#20 · B | -6.6 pts | NY |
| Livability7% of scoregap -17.7 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 49.4#5 · A+ | -17.7 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +10.6 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 30.2#23 · B | +10.6 pts | CA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -33.7 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 58.4#7 · A | -33.7 pts | NY |
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 New York?
New York is cheaper: cost of living index 107.9 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $16,769 more a year in New York after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 107.9#47 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | NY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.2 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 107.3#49 of 50 | -1.2 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.15¢ (+23%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | +6.15¢+23% | 17.84¢/kWh | NY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.43 (+25%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | +$4.43+25% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.25 (+39%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | +$1.25+39% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,093 (+10%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $20,978#43 of 50 | +$2,093+10% | $15,633 | NY |
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 | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$8,142 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | -$8,142 | NY |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$10,418 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | -$10,418 | NY |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$16,769 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$16,769 | NY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$8,372 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | -$8,372 | NY |
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 | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$11,196 | $51,794 | $40,598 | +$11,196 | NY |
| ChildcareGap +$4,186 | $46,142 | $41,956 | +$4,186 | NY |
| UtilitiesGap +$135 | $5,314 | $5,179 | +$135 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$135 | $11,950 | $12,085 | -$135 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$3,928 | $13,891 | $9,963 | +$3,928 | NY |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,542 | $5,906 | $8,448 | -$2,542 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or New York?
California collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 11% vs 13.56%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; New York has high across the board.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.56 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 13.56%#49 of 50 | -2.56 pts | 8.74% | CA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.38 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 14.78%#50 of 50 | -0.38 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.93 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.64%#45 of 50 | -0.93 pts | 1.02% | CA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.45 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 8.54%#41 of 50 | +0.45 pts | 6.66% | Even |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in California or New York?
Homes cost 45% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $526,714 in New York. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $140,709 in New York; the median household earns $100,149 and $85,820.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$237,444 (+45%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $526,714#43 of 50 | +$237,444+45% | $368,697 | NY |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.2 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +5.6%#2 of 50 | -5.2 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$674 (-19%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $3,615#50 of 50 | -$674-19% | $1,948 | CA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$56,553 (+40%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $140,709#45 of 50 | +$56,553+40% | $100,006 | NY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 6.1x#46 of 50 | +1.5x+25% | 4.6x | NY |
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 | NY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $2,710 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +64% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +29.5% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Warm |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | New York |
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 New York?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $85,820, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 4.3% in New York. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and New York's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$14,329 (+17%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $85,820#15 of 50 | +$14,329+17% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.3%#34 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | NY |
| GDP per capitaGap -$13,657 (-13%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $102,027#1 of 50 | -$13,657-13% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.03 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.01%#45 of 50 | -0.03 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 | NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $103,379$111,649 in New York | CA |
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $191,445$206,761 in New York | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $267,162$288,535 in New York | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $76,636$82,767 in New York | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $106,981$115,540 in New York | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $110,483$119,322 in New York | CA |
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $231,909$250,462 in New York | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $122,114$131,883 in New York | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $90,791$98,054 in New York | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $117,051$126,415 in New York | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $75,414$81,447 in New York | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $65,024$70,226 in New York | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $75,227$81,245 in New York | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $47,986$51,825 in New York | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $54,384$58,735 in New York | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $64,892$70,083 in New York | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $65,845$71,113 in New York | Even |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $95,830$103,496 in New York | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $49,203$53,139 in New York | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $65,430$70,664 in New York | 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 New York?
New York is safer: 368 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,575 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +64 (+17%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 368#35 of 50 | +64+17% | 328 | NY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +217 (+14%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,575#31 of 50 | +217+14% | 1,535 | NY |
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
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or New York?
New York scores higher for education (#30 of 50 vs #37), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 86.7%. They are close on health (#5 and #3); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 79.5 in New York.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 271#27 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 257#27 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 86.7%#24 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 79.5#4 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 29.5%#7 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 5%#6 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +12 pts (+33%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 36#14 of 50 | +12 pts+33% | 38.8 | NY |
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
- Levittown, NYeducation 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, New York #30. Health: California #5, New York #3.
Are more people moving from California to New York, or from New York to California?
20,595 households moved from California to New York and 18,440 moved from New York to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,155 households for New York. Movers to New York reported an average income of $137,456; movers to California reported $153,927. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 31,367 people (±4,875) moving from California to New York and 24,927 (±3,680) the other way, a net gain of about 6,440 people for New York 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 | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +60,623 (+32%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 192,240#4 of 50 | +60,623+32% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +89,033 (+34%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 264,227#48 of 50 | +89,033+34% | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -28,410 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -28,410 | NY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.0 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +1.0 | CA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,321 (+1%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $94,202#6 of 50 | +$1,321+1% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,863 (-4%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $105,983#4 of 50 | -$3,863-4% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +1.1 | CA |
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 New York?
New York 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 | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +19 places | #48score 43.1 | #29score 62.6 | +19 places | NY |
| RetireesGap +24 places | #49score 43.4 | #25score 62 | +24 places | NY |
| Remote WorkersGap +6 places | #50score 19.5 | #44score 41.4 | +6 places | NY |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +10 places | #50score 24.3 | #40score 42.8 | +10 places | NY |
| Small BusinessGap +6 places | #50score 26.8 | #44score 37.5 | +6 places | NY |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +10 places | #31score 36.7 | #21score 50.9 | +10 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew York (#29 vs #48)
- RetireesNew York (#25 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersNew York (#44 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsNew York (#40 vs #50)
- Small BusinessNew York (#44 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #31)
Which cities stand out in California and New York?
California has 188 tracked cities and New York has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and New York. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | New York8,483,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Levittownscore 74.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | White Plains115 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Uticacost index 92.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Uticacounty median AQI 27 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Levittown94.2% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Levittownmedian income $146,068 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Yonkers+0.5% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and New York compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and New York AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +22 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 30%#22 of 50 | +22 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +52.5 (+1,382%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 3.8#4 of 50 | +52.5+1,382% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +30.7 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 15.1%#16 of 50 | +30.7 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | -3.5 min | 25.2 min | CA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -20.9 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 24.2%#1 of 50 | -20.9 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.3 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 11.8%#28 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.9 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 93.1%#20 of 50 | +1.9 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 | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#32 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | NY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 3.8%#48 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 12.39% | CA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -18 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 90%#7 of 50 | -18 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,950 (-49%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $8,130#47 of 50 | -$3,950-49% | $3,506 | CA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | -1.5%#48 of 50 | -1.7 pts | +4.66% | NY |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, New York 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 New York: 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, New York on 25, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New YorkNY | GapCA−NY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +19,352,882 (+97%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 20 million#4 of 50 | +19,352,882+97% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$14,329 (+17%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $85,820#15 of 50 | +$14,329+17% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.3%#34 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | NY |
| Population growthGap -0.03 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.01%#45 of 50 | -0.03 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$13,657 (-13%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $102,027#1 of 50 | -$13,657-13% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +64 (+17%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 368#35 of 50 | +64+17% | 328 | NY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +217 (+14%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,575#31 of 50 | +217+14% | 1,535 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 86.7%#24 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 234#38 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 271#27 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 215#26 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 257#27 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 79.5#4 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 29.5%#7 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 5%#6 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$237,444 (+45%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $526,714#43 of 50 | +$237,444+45% | $368,697 | NY |
| Home value change, one yearGap -5.2 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +5.6%#2 of 50 | -5.2 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$674 (-19%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $3,615#50 of 50 | -$674-19% | $1,948 | CA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$56,553 (+40%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $140,709#45 of 50 | +$56,553+40% | $100,006 | NY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 107.9#47 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | NY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 6.1x#46 of 50 | +1.5x+25% | 4.6x | NY |
| Residential electricity priceGap +6.15¢ (+23%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | +6.15¢+23% | 17.84¢/kWh | NY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.43 (+25%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | +$4.43+25% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.25 (+39%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | +$1.25+39% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.2 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 107.3#49 of 50 | -1.2 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,093 (+10%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $20,978#43 of 50 | +$2,093+10% | $15,633 | NY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.56 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 13.56%#49 of 50 | -2.56 pts | 8.74% | CA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.38 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 14.78%#50 of 50 | -0.38 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.93 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.64%#45 of 50 | -0.93 pts | 1.02% | CA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.45 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 8.54%#41 of 50 | +0.45 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#32 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | NY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 3.8%#48 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 12.39% | CA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -18 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 90%#7 of 50 | -18 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,950 (-49%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $8,130#47 of 50 | -$3,950-49% | $3,506 | CA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | -1.5%#48 of 50 | -1.7 pts | +4.66% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +12 pts (+33%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 36#14 of 50 | +12 pts+33% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +22 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 30%#22 of 50 | +22 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +52.5 (+1,382%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 3.8#4 of 50 | +52.5+1,382% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +30.7 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 15.1%#16 of 50 | +30.7 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | -3.5 min | 25.2 min | CA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -20.9 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 24.2%#1 of 50 | -20.9 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.3 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 11.8%#28 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.9 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 93.1%#20 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +60,623 (+32%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 192,240#4 of 50 | +60,623+32% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +89,033 (+34%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 264,227#48 of 50 | +89,033+34% | 78,715 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -28,410 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -28,410 | -33 | NY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.0 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +1.0 | +0.4 | CA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,321 (+1%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $94,202#6 of 50 | +$1,321+1% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,863 (-4%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $105,983#4 of 50 | -$3,863-4% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +1.1 | +1.1 | CA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$16,769 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$16,769 | -$11,758 | NY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$8,142 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | -$8,142 | +$31,418 | NY |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$8,372 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | -$8,372 | +$35,970 | NY |
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 New York numbers say when read together.
New York ranks higher overall
New York leads 8 of the 11 categories to California's 2, with 1 even; California is ahead on outdoor access and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 13 and New York on 25.
New York is cheaper day to day
New York's cost of living index is 107.9 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $526,714 in New York. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$43,228 in New York.
California 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); New York collects 13.56% (high across the board).
California pays more
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $85,820 in New York, with unemployment at 5.5% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 368 in New York.
People move to New York on net
31,367 people moved to New York from California in the latest Census release, against 24,927 going the other way.
New York fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and New York #29; for retirees, California ranks #49 and New York #25.
California vs New York: frequently asked questions
Is California or New York better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and New York #29 as of the latest release. New York is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 107.9 vs 110.7), carries a 2.6-point higher tax burden, and has a 15% lower violent crime rate. New York scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
Is California cheaper than New York?
New York is cheaper than California: cost of living index 107.9 vs 110.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$59,997 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in California, and -$43,228 in New York. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $526,714 in New York.
Which has lower taxes, California or New York?
California has the lower tax burden: 11% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. California's top income tax rate is 14.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.71% and its combined sales tax 8.99%; New York's are 14.78%, 1.64% and 8.54%.
Is California safer than New York?
New York is safer: 368 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and New York #35. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,575 in New York. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and White Plains, NY.
Are homes more expensive in California or New York?
Homes are 45% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $526,714 in New York. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $140,709 in New York, against median incomes of $100,149 and $85,820.
Do people earn more in California or New York?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $85,820 in New York, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 4.3% in New York. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and New York's in 0, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from California to New York or from New York to California?
20,595 households moved from California to New York and 18,440 moved from New York to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,155 households for New York. Movers to New York reported an average income of $137,456; movers to California reported $153,927. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 31,367 people (±4,875) moving from California to New York and 24,927 (±3,680) the other way, a net gain of about 6,440 people for New York beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, California or New York?
New York is the better fit for retirees: #25 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; New York has high across the board. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$22,648 in New York.
Which is better for families, California or New York?
New York is the better fit for families: #29 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $20,978 in New York. High school graduation rates are 87% and 86.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$43,228 in New York.
Is New York better than California?
Yes: New York ranks higher than California overall, #29 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 54.9 to 40.2. New York leads 8 of 11 categories and California leads 2, including outdoor access and fiscal 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 New York.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (20,595 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).