California vs Rhode Island: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Rhode Island #19 as of the latest release. Rhode Island is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 102.3 vs 110.7), has a 0.9-point lower tax burden, and has a 67% lower violent crime rate. Rhode Island scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 67% lower in Rhode Island (144 vs. 433 in California).
- Property crime rate is 49% lower in Rhode Island (911 vs. 1,792 in California).
- Typical home value is 33% lower in Rhode Island ($511,233 vs. $764,158 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -21.8 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 62.0#19 of 50 · B | -21.8 pts | — | RI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.4 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +8.4 pts+8% | 100 | RI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$25,852 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$34,145#42 of 50 | -$25,852 | -$11,758 | RI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$252,925 (+49%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | +$252,925+49% | $368,697 | RI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.92 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | +0.92 pts | 8.74% | RI |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +289 (+200%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | +289+200% | 328 | RI |
| Median household incomeGap +$16,645 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | +$16,645+20% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | +0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,268 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | -100,268 | -33 | RI |
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 Rhode Island better to live in?
Rhode Island scores higher overall: 62 to 40.2 out of 100, #19 of 50 against #47. California leads 2 of 11 categories, Rhode Island leads 6, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +0.1 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 41.4#35 · C | +0.1 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -36.1 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 90.8#3 · A+ | -36.1 pts | RI |
| Health12% of scoregap +1.1 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 76.5#6 · A | +1.1 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -1.8 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 53.5#33 · C+ | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -31.1 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 45.4#43 · D | -31.1 pts | RI |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +4.5 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 43.0#45 · D | +4.5 pts | CA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -21.8 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 27.9#38 · C | -21.8 pts | RI |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -6.9 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 52.9#19 · B | -6.9 pts | RI |
| Livability7% of scoregap -16.5 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 48.2#7 · A | -16.5 pts | RI |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +3.4 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 37.4#17 · B+ | +3.4 pts | CA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -28.7 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 53.4#10 · A | -28.7 pts | RI |
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is cheaper: cost of living index 102.3 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $25,852 more a year in Rhode Island after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.4 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +8.4 pts+8% | 100 | RI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.9 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 97.2#30 of 50 | +8.9 pts+9% | 100 | RI |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.08¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 29.46¢/kWh#47 of 50 | +3.08¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | RI |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.35 (+2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $21.66/Mcf#46 of 50 | +$0.35+2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.08 (+32%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.34/gal#38 of 50 | +$1.08+32% | $3.32/gal | RI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,099 (+22%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $18,972#38 of 50 | +$4,099+22% | $15,633 | RI |
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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$11,337 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$23,466costs $51,534 | -$11,337 | RI |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$14,363 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$12,059costs $62,941 | -$14,363 | RI |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$25,852 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$34,145costs $109,145 | -$25,852 | RI |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$12,137 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$26,413costs $48,588 | -$12,137 | RI |
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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$13,667 | $51,794 | $38,127 | +$13,667 | RI |
| ChildcareGap +$8,198 | $46,142 | $37,944 | +$8,198 | RI |
| UtilitiesGap +$404 | $5,314 | $4,910 | +$404 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$1,002 | $11,950 | $10,948 | +$1,002 | RI |
| TransportationGap +$3,394 | $13,891 | $10,497 | +$3,394 | RI |
| State and local taxesGap -$813 | $5,906 | $6,719 | -$813 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 10.08% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Rhode Island has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.92 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | +0.92 pts | 8.74% | RI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.41 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 5.99%#32 of 50 | +8.41 pts | 5.46% | RI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.68 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.39%#38 of 50 | -0.68 pts | 1.02% | CA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.99 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 7%#25 of 50 | +1.99 pts | 6.66% | RI |
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 Rhode Island?
Homes cost 49% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $511,233 in Rhode Island. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $139,686 in Rhode Island; the median household earns $100,149 and $83,504.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$252,925 (+49%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | +$252,925+49% | $368,697 | RI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +3.4%#13 of 50 | -3 pts | +1.2% | RI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$774 (+36%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $2,167#38 of 50 | +$774+36% | $1,948 | RI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$57,576 (+41%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $139,686#44 of 50 | +$57,576+41% | $100,006 | RI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 6.1x#45 of 50 | +1.5x+25% | 4.6x | RI |
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 | RI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $2,630 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +67% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +33.6% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Warm |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Providence |
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 Rhode Island?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $83,504, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 4.5% in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$16,645 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | +$16,645+20% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.5%#38 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | RI |
| GDP per capitaGap +$26,003 (+42%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $62,367#24 of 50 | +$26,003+42% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.9%#26 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap -0.39 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.37%#31 of 50 | -0.39 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 | RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $133,650$134,986 in Providence | CA |
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $150,708$152,215 in Providence | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $84,974$85,824 in Providence | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $230,643$232,949 in Providence | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $73,593$74,329 in Providence | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $64,685$65,332 in Providence | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $102,402$103,426 in Providence | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $99,493$100,488 in Providence | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $99,044$100,034 in Providence | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $71,962$72,682 in Providence | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $34,961$35,311 in Providence | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $81,887$82,706 in Providence | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $67,652$68,329 in Providence | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $46,438$46,902 in Providence | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $69,039$69,729 in Providence | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $56,064$56,625 in Providence | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $59,125$59,716 in Providence | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $57,200$57,772 in Providence | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $56,037$56,597 in Providence | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $45,732$46,189 in Providence | 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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is safer: 144 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 911 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +289 (+200%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | +289+200% | 328 | RI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +882 (+97%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 911#3 of 50 | +882+97% | 1,535 | RI |
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
- Westerly, RI26 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or Rhode Island?
California and Rhode Island are close on education (#37 and #33 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 83.3%. They are close on health (#5 and #6); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 79.2 in Rhode Island.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 270#32 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 258#23 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | +0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 31.1%#12 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 4.6%#5 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 7.6% | RI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +13 pts (+37%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 35#12 of 50 | +13 pts+37% | 38.8 | RI |
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
- Westerly, RIeducation score 87
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, Rhode Island #33. Health: California #5, Rhode Island #6.
Are more people moving from California to Rhode Island, or from Rhode Island to California?
806 households moved from California to Rhode Island and 754 moved from Rhode Island to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 52 households for Rhode Island. Movers to Rhode Island reported an average income of $88,779; movers to California reported $85,143. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,959 people (±1,072) moving from California to Rhode Island and 1,458 (±1,002) 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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +234,866 (+1,305%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 17,997#45 of 50 | +234,866+1,305% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +335,134 (+1,849%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 18,126#8 of 50 | +335,134+1,849% | RI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,268 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | -100,268 | RI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -0.1#29 of 50 | -2.5 | RI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$12,928 (+16%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $82,595#15 of 50 | +$12,928+16% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$22,186 (+28%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $79,934#16 of 50 | +$22,186+28% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.4 | -5.8#47 of 50 | -1.4#39 of 50 | -4.4 | RI |
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island 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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +32 places | #48score 43.1 | #16score 73.6 | +32 places | RI |
| RetireesGap +35 places | #49score 43.4 | #14score 68.6 | +35 places | RI |
| Remote WorkersGap +20 places | #50score 19.5 | #30score 49.3 | +20 places | RI |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +20 places | #50score 24.3 | #30score 51.4 | +20 places | RI |
| Small BusinessGap +10 places | #50score 26.8 | #40score 43.3 | +10 places | RI |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +21 places | #31score 36.7 | #10score 62.8 | +21 places | RI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesRhode Island (#16 vs #48)
- RetireesRhode Island (#14 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersRhode Island (#30 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsRhode Island (#30 vs #50)
- Small BusinessRhode Island (#40 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsRhode Island (#10 vs #31)
Which cities stand out in California and Rhode Island?
California has 188 tracked cities and Rhode Island has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Providence. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Providence191,767 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Westerlyscore 70.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Westerly26 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Providencecost index 101.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Providencewalkability 15.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Warwickcounty median AQI 31 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Westerly87% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Cumberland Hillmedian income $130,506 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Warwick+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and Rhode Island compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and Rhode Island AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +40 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 12%#34 of 50 | +40 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +53.9 (+2,246%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 2.4#2 of 50 | +53.9+2,246% | 29.6 | RI |
| Public land shareGap +41.4 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 4.4%#37 of 50 | +41.4 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 26.3 min#29 of 50 | +3.4 min | 25.2 min | RI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.2 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 2.1%#15 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.5 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 11.6%#31 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 93.4%#17 of 50 | +1.6 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 | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#31 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | RI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2.8 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 5.5%#44 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 12.39% | CA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 58%#46 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | CA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,060 (-20%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $5,240#44 of 50 | -$1,060-20% | $3,506 | CA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.3 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +3.1%#38 of 50 | -6.3 pts | +4.66% | RI |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island: 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 16 of 51, Rhode Island on 28, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | Rhode IslandRI | GapCA−RI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +38,240,788 (+3,431%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 1.1 million#44 of 50 | +38,240,788+3,431% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$16,645 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $83,504#17 of 50 | +$16,645+20% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.5%#38 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | RI |
| Population growthGap -0.39 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.37%#31 of 50 | -0.39 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$26,003 (+42%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $62,367#24 of 50 | +$26,003+42% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.9%#26 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +289 (+200%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 144#4 of 50 | +289+200% | 328 | RI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +882 (+97%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 911#3 of 50 | +882+97% | 1,535 | RI |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 83.3%#37 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 237#28 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 270#32 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 216#13 of 50 | -5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 258#23 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 79.2#8 of 50 | +0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 31.1%#12 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 4.6%#5 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 7.6% | RI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$252,925 (+49%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $511,233#41 of 50 | +$252,925+49% | $368,697 | RI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +3.4%#13 of 50 | -3 pts | +1.2% | RI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$774 (+36%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $2,167#38 of 50 | +$774+36% | $1,948 | RI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$57,576 (+41%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $139,686#44 of 50 | +$57,576+41% | $100,006 | RI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.4 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 102.3#37 of 50 | +8.4 pts+8% | 100 | RI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.5x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 6.1x#45 of 50 | +1.5x+25% | 4.6x | RI |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.08¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 29.46¢/kWh#47 of 50 | +3.08¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | RI |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.35 (+2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $21.66/Mcf#46 of 50 | +$0.35+2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.08 (+32%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.34/gal#38 of 50 | +$1.08+32% | $3.32/gal | RI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.9 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 97.2#30 of 50 | +8.9 pts+9% | 100 | RI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,099 (+22%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $18,972#38 of 50 | +$4,099+22% | $15,633 | RI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.92 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 10.08%#43 of 50 | +0.92 pts | 8.74% | RI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.41 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 5.99%#32 of 50 | +8.41 pts | 5.46% | RI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.68 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.39%#38 of 50 | -0.68 pts | 1.02% | CA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.99 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 7%#25 of 50 | +1.99 pts | 6.66% | RI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#31 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | RI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2.8 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 5.5%#44 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 12.39% | CA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 58%#46 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | CA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,060 (-20%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $5,240#44 of 50 | -$1,060-20% | $3,506 | CA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.3 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +3.1%#38 of 50 | -6.3 pts | +4.66% | RI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +13 pts (+37%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 35#12 of 50 | +13 pts+37% | 38.8 | RI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +40 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 12%#34 of 50 | +40 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +53.9 (+2,246%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 2.4#2 of 50 | +53.9+2,246% | 29.6 | RI |
| Public land shareGap +41.4 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 4.4%#37 of 50 | +41.4 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 26.3 min#29 of 50 | +3.4 min | 25.2 min | RI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.2 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 2.1%#15 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.5 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 11.6%#31 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 93.4%#17 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +234,866 (+1,305%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 17,997#45 of 50 | +234,866+1,305% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +335,134 (+1,849%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 18,126#8 of 50 | +335,134+1,849% | 78,715 | RI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,268 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -129#29 of 50 | -100,268 | -33 | RI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -0.1#29 of 50 | -2.5 | +0.4 | RI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$12,928 (+16%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $82,595#15 of 50 | +$12,928+16% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$22,186 (+28%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $79,934#16 of 50 | +$22,186+28% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.4 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | -1.4#39 of 50 | -4.4 | +1.1 | RI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$25,852 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$34,145#42 of 50 | -$25,852 | -$11,758 | RI |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$11,337 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$23,466#43 of 50 | -$11,337 | +$31,418 | RI |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$12,137 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$26,413#42 of 50 | -$12,137 | +$35,970 | RI |
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 Rhode Island numbers say when read together.
Rhode Island ranks higher overall
Rhode Island leads 6 of the 11 categories to California's 2, with 3 even; California is ahead on fiscal health and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 16 and Rhode Island on 28.
Rhode Island is cheaper day to day
Rhode Island's cost of living index is 102.3 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $511,233 in Rhode Island. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$34,145 in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island 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); Rhode Island collects 10.08% (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
California pays more
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $83,504 in Rhode Island, with unemployment at 5.5% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 144 in Rhode Island.
Moves between the two run about even
1,959 people moved from California to Rhode Island and 1,458 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Rhode Island fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and Rhode Island #16; for retirees, California ranks #49 and Rhode Island #14.
California vs Rhode Island: frequently asked questions
Is California or Rhode Island better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Rhode Island #19 as of the latest release. Rhode Island is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 102.3 vs 110.7), has a 0.9-point lower tax burden, and has a 67% lower violent crime rate. Rhode Island scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
Is California cheaper than Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is cheaper than California: cost of living index 102.3 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 -$34,145 in Rhode Island. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $511,233 in Rhode Island.
Which has lower taxes, California or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island has the lower tax burden: 10.08% 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%; Rhode Island's are 5.99%, 1.39% and 7%.
Is California safer than Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is safer: 144 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and Rhode Island #4. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 911 in Rhode Island. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Westerly, RI.
Are homes more expensive in California or Rhode Island?
Homes are 49% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $511,233 in Rhode Island. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $139,686 in Rhode Island, against median incomes of $100,149 and $83,504.
Do people earn more in California or Rhode Island?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $83,504 in Rhode Island, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 4.5% in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to Rhode Island or from Rhode Island to California?
806 households moved from California to Rhode Island and 754 moved from Rhode Island to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 52 households for Rhode Island. Movers to Rhode Island reported an average income of $88,779; movers to California reported $85,143. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,959 people (±1,072) moving from California to Rhode Island and 1,458 (±1,002) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, California or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is the better fit for retirees: #14 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; Rhode Island has high property tax, with income 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 +$26,413 in Rhode Island.
Which is better for families, California or Rhode Island?
Rhode Island is the better fit for families: #16 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $18,972 in Rhode Island. High school graduation rates are 87% and 83.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$34,145 in Rhode Island.
Is Rhode Island better than California?
Yes: Rhode Island ranks higher than California overall, #19 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 62 to 40.2. Rhode Island leads 6 of 11 categories and California leads 2, including fiscal health and outdoor access. 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 Rhode Island.