California vs South Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and South Dakota #3 as of the latest release. South Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.6 vs 110.7), has no income tax, and has a 29% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 10 of 11 categories to 1.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 62% lower in South Dakota ($8,859 vs. $23,071 in California).
- Residential electricity price is 59% lower in South Dakota (13.38¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
- Typical home value is 58% lower in South Dakota ($321,574 vs. $764,158 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -39.1 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 79.3#3 of 50 · A+ | -39.1 pts | — | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +22.1 pts (+25%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +22.1 pts+25% | 100 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$63,553 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$63,553 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$442,584 (+138%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$442,584+138% | $368,697 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.54 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +4.54 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +125 (+41%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +125+41% | 328 | SD |
| Median household incomeGap +$23,268 (+30%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$23,268+30% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -101,936 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -101,936 | -33 | SD |
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 South Dakota better to live in?
South Dakota scores higher overall: 79.3 to 40.2 out of 100, #3 of 50 against #47. California leads 1 of 11 categories, South Dakota leads 10, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -28.5 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 70.0#3 · A+ | -28.5 pts | SD |
| Safety12% of scoregap -17.1 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 71.8#25 · B | -17.1 pts | SD |
| Health12% of scoregap +25.9 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 51.7#28 · C+ | +25.9 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap -8.9 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 60.6#25 · B | -8.9 pts | SD |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -70.4 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 84.7#8 · A | -70.4 pts | SD |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -28.8 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 76.3#2 · A+ | -28.8 pts | SD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -54.2 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 60.3#4 · A+ | -54.2 pts | SD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -8.4 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 54.4#15 · B+ | -8.4 pts | SD |
| Livability7% of scoregap -10.5 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 42.2#12 · B+ | -10.5 pts | SD |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -5 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 45.8#7 · A | -5 pts | SD |
| Environment4% of scoregap -28.6 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 53.3#11 · B+ | -28.6 pts | SD |
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 South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 88.6 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $63,553 more a year in South Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +22.1 pts (+25%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +22.1 pts+25% | 100 | SD |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.6 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | +10.6 pts+11% | 100 | SD |
| Residential electricity priceGap +19.16¢ (+143%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +19.16¢+143% | 17.84¢/kWh | SD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$12.15 (+123%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$12.15+123% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.19 (+37%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | +$1.19+37% | $3.32/gal | SD |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$14,212 (+160%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$14,212+160% | $15,633 | SD |
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 | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$23,225 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$35,354costs $39,647 | -$23,225 | SD |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$28,921 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$26,617costs $48,383 | -$28,921 | SD |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$63,553 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | +$3,556costs $71,445 | -$63,553 | SD |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$25,077 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$39,353costs $35,647 | -$25,077 | SD |
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 | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$28,615 | $51,794 | $23,179 | +$28,615 | SD |
| ChildcareGap +$28,424 | $46,142 | $17,718 | +$28,424 | SD |
| UtilitiesGap +$1,061 | $5,314 | $4,253 | +$1,061 | SD |
| GroceriesGap +$1,194 | $11,950 | $10,756 | +$1,194 | SD |
| TransportationGap +$3,740 | $13,891 | $10,151 | +$3,740 | SD |
| State and local taxesGap +$518 | $5,906 | $5,388 | +$518 | SD |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or South Dakota?
South Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.46% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.54 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +4.54 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +14.4 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +14.4 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.43 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | -0.43 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.88 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +2.88 pts | 6.66% | SD |
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 South Dakota?
Homes cost 138% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $90,326 in South Dakota; the median household earns $100,149 and $76,881.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$442,584 (+138%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$442,584+138% | $368,697 | SD |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.1 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | -2.1 pts | +1.2% | SD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,652 (+128%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$1,652+128% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$106,936 (+118%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | +$106,936+118% | $100,006 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.4x (+81%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | +3.4x+81% | 4.6x | SD |
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 | SD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $1,654 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +18% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +24.2% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Cool |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Sioux Falls |
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 South Dakota?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $76,881, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 2.1% in South 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 South Dakota's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$23,268 (+30%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$23,268+30% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +3.4 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap +$23,578 (+36%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | +$23,578+36% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap -0.88 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.88 pts | +0.51% | SD |
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 | SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $124,314$109,396 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $141,728$124,721 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $202,091$177,840 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $79,282$69,768 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $70,181$61,759 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $55,802$49,106 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $93,043$81,878 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $90,123$79,308 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $88,719$78,073 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $62,577$55,068 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $76,534$67,350 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $32,119$28,265 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $48,506$42,685 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $63,552$55,926 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $53,188$46,805 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $48,902$43,034 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $63,716$56,070 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $43,748$38,498 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $55,730$49,042 in Sioux Falls | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $40,411$35,562 in Sioux Falls | 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 South Dakota?
South Dakota is safer: 308 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,312 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +125 (+41%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +125+41% | 328 | SD |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +480 (+37%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +480+37% | 1,535 | SD |
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
- Brandon, SD46 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or South Dakota?
South Dakota scores higher for education (#25 of 50 vs #37), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 82.1%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #28); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 77.3 in South Dakota.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -12 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -12 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -7.9 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +13 pts (+37%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +13 pts+37% | 38.8 | SD |
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
- Brandon, SDeducation score 98
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, South Dakota #25. Health: California #5, South Dakota #28.
Are more people moving from California to South Dakota, or from South Dakota to California?
1,243 households moved from California to South Dakota and 583 moved from South Dakota to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 660 households for South Dakota. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $90,331; movers to California reported $63,925. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,983 people (±862) moving from California to South Dakota and 697 (±388) the other way, a net gain of about 1,286 people for South Dakota 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 | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +236,877 (+1,482%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +236,877+1,482% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +338,813 (+2,345%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +338,813+2,345% | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -101,936 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -101,936 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.2 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -4.2 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$21,780 (+30%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | +$21,780+30% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$38,228 (+60%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$38,228+60% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -8.1 | SD |
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 South Dakota?
South 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 | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +42 places | #48score 43.1 | #6score 81 | +42 places | SD |
| RetireesGap +46 places | #49score 43.4 | #3score 82.8 | +46 places | SD |
| Remote WorkersGap +48 places | #50score 19.5 | #2score 83.3 | +48 places | SD |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +49 places | #50score 24.3 | #1score 81.7 | +49 places | SD |
| Small BusinessGap +49 places | #50score 26.8 | #1score 87.4 | +49 places | SD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +23 places | #31score 36.7 | #8score 68.2 | +23 places | SD |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesSouth Dakota (#6 vs #48)
- RetireesSouth Dakota (#3 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersSouth Dakota (#2 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Dakota (#1 vs #50)
- Small BusinessSouth Dakota (#1 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsSouth Dakota (#8 vs #31)
Which cities stand out in California and South Dakota?
California has 188 tracked cities and South Dakota has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Sioux Falls. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Sioux Falls201,469 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Brandonscore 70 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Brandon46 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Dakota Dunescost index 86.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Sioux Fallswalkability 12.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Pierrecounty median AQI 18 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Brandon98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Dakota Dunesmedian income $136,125 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Tea+4.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and South Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and South Dakota AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -28 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -28 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -9.8 (-15%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -9.8-15% | 29.6 | CA |
| Public land shareGap +40.4 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | +40.4 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +11.2 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +11.2 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.1 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.1 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +6.1 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.7 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +3.7 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 | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | SD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.6 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -4.6 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -28 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -28 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,840 (+79%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$1,840+79% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -11 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -11 pts | +4.66% | SD |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, South Dakota AAA), 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 South 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, South Dakota on 32, and 5 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South DakotaSD | GapCA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +38,420,215 (+4,109%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 935,094#46 of 50 | +38,420,215+4,109% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$23,268 (+30%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$23,268+30% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +3.4 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| Population growthGap -0.88 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.88 pts | +0.51% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap +$23,578 (+36%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | +$23,578+36% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +125 (+41%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +125+41% | 328 | SD |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +480 (+37%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +480+37% | 1,535 | SD |
| High school graduation rateGap +4.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 240#11 of 50 | -7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -12 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -12 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 214#30 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -7.9 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$442,584 (+138%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$442,584+138% | $368,697 | SD |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.1 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | -2.1 pts | +1.2% | SD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,652 (+128%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$1,652+128% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$106,936 (+118%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | +$106,936+118% | $100,006 | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +22.1 pts (+25%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +22.1 pts+25% | 100 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.4x (+81%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | +3.4x+81% | 4.6x | SD |
| Residential electricity priceGap +19.16¢ (+143%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +19.16¢+143% | 17.84¢/kWh | SD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$12.15 (+123%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$12.15+123% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.19 (+37%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | +$1.19+37% | $3.32/gal | SD |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.6 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | +10.6 pts+11% | 100 | SD |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$14,212 (+160%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$14,212+160% | $15,633 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +4.54 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +4.54 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +14.4 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +14.4 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.43 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | -0.43 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.88 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +2.88 pts | 6.66% | SD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | SD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.6 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -4.6 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -28 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -28 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,840 (+79%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$1,840+79% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -11 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -11 pts | +4.66% | SD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +13 pts (+37%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +13 pts+37% | 38.8 | SD |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -28 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -28 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -9.8 (-15%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -9.8-15% | 29.6 | CA |
| Public land shareGap +40.4 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | +40.4 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +11.2 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +11.2 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.1 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.1 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +6.1 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.7 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +236,877 (+1,482%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +236,877+1,482% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +338,813 (+2,345%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +338,813+2,345% | 78,715 | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -101,936 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -101,936 | -33 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.2 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -4.2 | +0.4 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$21,780 (+30%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | +$21,780+30% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$38,228 (+60%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$38,228+60% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.1 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -8.1 | +1.1 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$63,553 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$63,553 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$23,225 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$35,354#15 of 50 | -$23,225 | +$31,418 | SD |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$25,077 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$39,353#17 of 50 | -$25,077 | +$35,970 | SD |
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 South Dakota numbers say when read together.
South Dakota ranks higher overall
South Dakota leads 10 of the 11 categories to California's 1, with 0 even; California is ahead on health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 14 and South Dakota on 32.
South Dakota is cheaper day to day
South Dakota's cost of living index is 88.6 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $321,574 in South Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
South 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); South Dakota collects 6.46% (no 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 $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 5.5% and 2.1%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 308 in South Dakota.
People move to South Dakota on net
1,983 people moved to South Dakota from California in the latest Census release, against 697 going the other way.
South Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and South Dakota #6; for retirees, California ranks #49 and South Dakota #3.
California vs South Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is California or South Dakota better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and South Dakota #3 as of the latest release. South Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.6 vs 110.7), has no income tax, and has a 29% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 10 of 11 categories to 1.
Is California cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper than California: cost of living index 88.6 vs 110.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$59,997 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in California, and +$3,556 in South Dakota. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $321,574 in South Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, California or South Dakota?
South Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.46% 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%; South Dakota's are zero, 1.14% and 6.11%.
Is California safer than South Dakota?
South Dakota is safer: 308 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and South Dakota #28. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,312 in South Dakota. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Brandon, SD.
Are homes more expensive in California or South Dakota?
Homes are 138% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $90,326 in South Dakota, against median incomes of $100,149 and $76,881.
Do people earn more in California or South Dakota?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $76,881 in South Dakota, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 2.1% in South 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 South Dakota's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to South Dakota or from South Dakota to California?
1,243 households moved from California to South Dakota and 583 moved from South Dakota to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 660 households for South Dakota. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $90,331; movers to California reported $63,925. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,983 people (±862) moving from California to South Dakota and 697 (±388) the other way, a net gain of about 1,286 people for South Dakota beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, California or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #3 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; South Dakota has no 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 +$39,353 in South Dakota.
Which is better for families, California or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for families: #6 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $8,859 in South Dakota. High school graduation rates are 87% and 82.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
Is South Dakota better than California?
Yes: South Dakota ranks higher than California overall, #3 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 79.3 to 40.2. South Dakota leads 10 of 11 categories and California leads 1, including health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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