California vs North Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. North Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89 vs 110.7), has a 4.4-point lower tax burden, and has a 41% lower violent crime rate. North Dakota scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 1.
- Residential electricity price is 64% lower in North Dakota (11.81¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 63% lower in North Dakota ($1,100 vs. $2,941 in California).
- Typical home value is 62% lower in North Dakota ($292,293 vs. $764,158 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -35.3 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 75.5#5 of 50 · A+ | -35.3 pts | — | ND |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +21.7 pts (+24%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +21.7 pts+24% | 100 | ND |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$58,875 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | -$58,875 | -$11,758 | ND |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$471,865 (+161%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$471,865+161% | $368,697 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.39 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +4.39 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +176 (+69%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +176+69% | 328 | ND |
| Median household incomeGap +$22,278 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | +$22,278+29% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,351 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | -100,351 | -33 | ND |
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 North Dakota better to live in?
North Dakota scores higher overall: 75.5 to 40.2 out of 100, #5 of 50 against #47. California leads 1 of 11 categories, North Dakota leads 9, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -22.2 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 63.7#8 · A | -22.2 pts | ND |
| Safety12% of scoregap -15.5 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 70.2#27 · C+ | -15.5 pts | ND |
| Health12% of scoregap +18.8 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 58.8#23 · B | +18.8 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap -13.6 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 65.3#17 · B+ | -13.6 pts | ND |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -69.2 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 83.5#9 · A | -69.2 pts | ND |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -22.3 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 69.8#11 · B+ | -22.3 pts | ND |
| Growth7% of scoregap -45.6 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 51.7#8 · A | -45.6 pts | ND |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -8.6 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 54.6#14 · B+ | -8.6 pts | ND |
| Livability7% of scoregap -10.4 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 42.1#13 · B+ | -10.4 pts | ND |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +1.7 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 39.1#14 · B+ | +1.7 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -13.8 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 38.5#27 · C+ | -13.8 pts | ND |
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 89 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $58,875 more a year in North Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +21.7 pts (+24%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +21.7 pts+24% | 100 | ND |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.4 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | +10.4 pts+11% | 100 | ND |
| Residential electricity priceGap +20.73¢ (+176%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +20.73¢+176% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$12.51 (+132%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | +$12.51+132% | $15.83/Mcf | ND |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.11 (+34%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | +$1.11+34% | $3.32/gal | ND |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,790 (+88%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | +$10,790+88% | $15,633 | ND |
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 | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$24,342 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$36,471costs $38,529 | -$24,342 | ND |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$30,658 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$28,354costs $46,646 | -$30,658 | ND |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$58,875 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$1,122costs $76,122 | -$58,875 | ND |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$26,627 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$40,903costs $34,097 | -$26,627 | ND |
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 | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$31,164 | $51,794 | $20,630 | +$31,164 | ND |
| ChildcareGap +$21,580 | $46,142 | $24,562 | +$21,580 | ND |
| UtilitiesGap +$1,042 | $5,314 | $4,272 | +$1,042 | ND |
| GroceriesGap +$1,171 | $11,950 | $10,779 | +$1,171 | ND |
| TransportationGap +$3,488 | $13,891 | $10,403 | +$3,488 | ND |
| State and local taxesGap +$430 | $5,906 | $5,476 | +$430 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or North Dakota?
North Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.61% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.39 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +4.39 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +11.9 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | +11.9 pts | 5.46% | ND |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.28 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | -0.28 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.9 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 6.66% | ND |
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 North Dakota?
Homes cost 161% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $79,542 in North Dakota; the median household earns $100,149 and $77,871.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$471,865 (+161%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$471,865+161% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.8 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -4.8 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,841 (+167%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$1,841+167% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$117,720 (+148%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$117,720+148% | $100,006 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.8x (+100%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +3.8x+100% | 4.6x | ND |
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 | ND | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $1,504 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +19% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Hot |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Fargo |
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 North Dakota?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $77,871, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 2.6% in North Dakota. 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 North Dakota's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$22,278 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | +$22,278+29% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.9 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 3.95% | ND |
| GDP per capitaGap +$14,556 (+20%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | +$14,556+20% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +3.8 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap -0.77 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | -0.77 pts | +0.51% | ND |
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 | ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $121,375$108,024 in Fargo | CA |
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $141,894$126,286 in Fargo | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $209,320$186,295 in Fargo | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $81,213$72,280 in Fargo | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $72,022$64,100 in Fargo | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $58,621$52,173 in Fargo | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $97,121$86,438 in Fargo | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $90,154$80,237 in Fargo | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $98,070$87,282 in Fargo | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $30,856$27,462 in Fargo | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $69,862$62,177 in Fargo | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $79,062$70,365 in Fargo | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $64,757$57,634 in Fargo | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $64,392$57,309 in Fargo | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $52,555$46,774 in Fargo | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $55,304$49,221 in Fargo | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $43,729$38,919 in Fargo | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $53,196$47,344 in Fargo | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $53,440$47,562 in Fargo | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $42,722$38,023 in Fargo | 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 North Dakota?
North Dakota is safer: 257 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,698 per 100,000. North Dakota shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +176 (+69%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +176+69% | 328 | ND |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +94 (+6%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | +94+6% | 1,535 | ND |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. North Dakota uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Yorba Linda, CA47 violent per 100K
- Lincoln, ND44 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or North Dakota?
North Dakota scores higher for education (#17 of 50 vs #37), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 85.1%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #23); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 77.9 in North Dakota.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -11 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | -11 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.7 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | -7.7 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +10 pts (+26%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | +10 pts+26% | 38.8 | ND |
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
- Beulah, NDeducation score 95
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, North Dakota #17. Health: California #5, North Dakota #23.
Are more people moving from California to North Dakota, or from North Dakota to California?
749 households moved from California to North Dakota and 492 moved from North Dakota to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 257 households for North Dakota. Movers to North Dakota reported an average income of $52,896; movers to California reported $58,675. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 859 people (±692) moving from California to North Dakota and 466 (±441) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +239,082 (+1,735%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +239,082+1,735% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +339,433 (+2,455%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +339,433+2,455% | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,351 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | -100,351 | ND |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | -2.5 | ND |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$40,927 (+75%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$40,927+75% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$37,316 (+58%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | +$37,316+58% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.4 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | -6.4 | ND |
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota 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 | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +43 places | #48score 43.1 | #5score 81.1 | +43 places | ND |
| RetireesGap +45 places | #49score 43.4 | #4score 79.1 | +45 places | ND |
| Remote WorkersGap +45 places | #50score 19.5 | #5score 73.2 | +45 places | ND |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +47 places | #50score 24.3 | #3score 75.9 | +47 places | ND |
| Small BusinessGap +47 places | #50score 26.8 | #3score 79.1 | +47 places | ND |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +20 places | #31score 36.7 | #11score 59.9 | +20 places | ND |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNorth Dakota (#5 vs #48)
- RetireesNorth Dakota (#4 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersNorth Dakota (#5 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Dakota (#3 vs #50)
- Small BusinessNorth Dakota (#3 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNorth Dakota (#11 vs #31)
Which cities stand out in California and North Dakota?
California has 188 tracked cities and North Dakota has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Fargo. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Fargo131,627 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | West Fargoscore 69.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Lincoln44 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Grand Forkscost index 86.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | West Fargowalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Minotcounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Beulah95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Horacemedian income $138,578 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Horace+12.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and North Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and North Dakota AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +11 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | +11 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +3.6 (+7%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | +3.6+7% | 29.6 | ND |
| Public land shareGap +41.9 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +41.9 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +12.2 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +12.2 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.8 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +7 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.3 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +4.3 pts | 92.67% | CA |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | ND |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -10.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -10.3 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +2 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +2 pts | 74.3% | CA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,990 (+91%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | +$1,990+91% | $3,506 | ND |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -12 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -12 pts | +4.66% | ND |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, North Dakota 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 North Dakota: 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 14 of 51, North Dakota on 31, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North DakotaND | GapCA−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +38,555,951 (+4,823%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 799,358#47 of 50 | +38,555,951+4,823% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$22,278 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | +$22,278+29% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.9 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 3.95% | ND |
| Population growthGap -0.77 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | -0.77 pts | +0.51% | ND |
| GDP per capitaGap +$14,556 (+20%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | +$14,556+20% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +3.8 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +176 (+69%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +176+69% | 328 | ND |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +94 (+6%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | +94+6% | 1,535 | ND |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -8 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 241#6 of 50 | -8 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -11 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | -11 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 216#21 of 50 | -4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.7 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | -7.7 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$471,865 (+161%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$471,865+161% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.8 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -4.8 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,841 (+167%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$1,841+167% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$117,720 (+148%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$117,720+148% | $100,006 | ND |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +21.7 pts (+24%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +21.7 pts+24% | 100 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.8x (+100%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +3.8x+100% | 4.6x | ND |
| Residential electricity priceGap +20.73¢ (+176%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +20.73¢+176% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$12.51 (+132%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | +$12.51+132% | $15.83/Mcf | ND |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.11 (+34%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | +$1.11+34% | $3.32/gal | ND |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.4 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | +10.4 pts+11% | 100 | ND |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,790 (+88%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | +$10,790+88% | $15,633 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.39 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +4.39 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +11.9 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | +11.9 pts | 5.46% | ND |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.28 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | -0.28 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.9 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 6.66% | ND |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | ND |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -10.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -10.3 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +2 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +2 pts | 74.3% | CA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,990 (+91%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | +$1,990+91% | $3,506 | ND |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -12 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -12 pts | +4.66% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +10 pts (+26%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | +10 pts+26% | 38.8 | ND |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +11 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | +11 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +3.6 (+7%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | +3.6+7% | 29.6 | ND |
| Public land shareGap +41.9 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +41.9 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +12.2 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +12.2 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.8 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +7 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.3 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +4.3 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +239,082 (+1,735%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +239,082+1,735% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +339,433 (+2,455%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +339,433+2,455% | 78,715 | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,351 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | -100,351 | -33 | ND |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | -2.5 | +0.4 | ND |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$40,927 (+75%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$40,927+75% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$37,316 (+58%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | +$37,316+58% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.4 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | -6.4 | +1.1 | ND |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$58,875 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | -$58,875 | -$11,758 | ND |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$24,342 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$36,471#9 of 50 | -$24,342 | +$31,418 | ND |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$26,627 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$40,903#10 of 50 | -$26,627 | +$35,970 | ND |
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 North Dakota numbers say when read together.
North Dakota ranks higher overall
North Dakota leads 9 of the 11 categories to California's 1, with 1 even; California is ahead on health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 14 and North Dakota on 31.
North Dakota is cheaper day to day
North Dakota's cost of living index is 89 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $292,293 in North Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
North Dakota 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); North Dakota collects 6.61% (low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
California pays more
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $77,871 in North Dakota, with unemployment at 5.5% and 2.6%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 257 in North Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
859 people moved from California to North Dakota and 466 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and North Dakota #5; for retirees, California ranks #49 and North Dakota #4.
California vs North Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is California or North Dakota better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. North Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89 vs 110.7), has a 4.4-point lower tax burden, and has a 41% lower violent crime rate. North Dakota scores higher overall, leading 9 of 11 categories to 1.
Is California cheaper than North Dakota?
North Dakota is cheaper than California: cost of living index 89 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 -$1,122 in North Dakota. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $292,293 in North Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, California or North Dakota?
North Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.61% of income in state and local taxes vs 11% in California. California's top income tax rate is 14.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.71% and its combined sales tax 8.99%; North Dakota's are 2.5%, 0.99% and 7.09%.
Is California safer than North Dakota?
North Dakota is safer: 257 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and North Dakota #22. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,698 in North Dakota. North Dakota shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Lincoln, ND.
Are homes more expensive in California or North Dakota?
Homes are 161% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $79,542 in North Dakota, against median incomes of $100,149 and $77,871.
Do people earn more in California or North Dakota?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $77,871 in North Dakota, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 2.6% in North Dakota. 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 North Dakota's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to North Dakota or from North Dakota to California?
749 households moved from California to North Dakota and 492 moved from North Dakota to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 257 households for North Dakota. Movers to North Dakota reported an average income of $52,896; movers to California reported $58,675. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 859 people (±692) moving from California to North Dakota and 466 (±441) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, California or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #4 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; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$40,903 in North Dakota.
Which is better for families, California or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for families: #5 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $12,281 in North Dakota. High school graduation rates are 87% and 85.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
Is North Dakota better than California?
Yes: North Dakota ranks higher than California overall, #5 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 75.5 to 40.2. North Dakota leads 9 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.
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