California vs Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 110.7), has a 2.1-point lower tax burden, and has a 52% lower violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Residential electricity price is 53% lower in Virginia (15.28¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
- Violent crime rate is 52% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 433 in California).
- Typical home value is 46% lower in Virginia ($414,662 vs. $764,158 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -27.5 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | -27.5 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.6 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | +9.6 pts+9% | 100 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$38,047 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$38,047 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$349,496 (+84%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | +$349,496+84% | $368,697 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.14 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | +2.14 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +227 (+110%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +227+110% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap +$8,059 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | +$8,059+9% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | +1.8 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,818 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -100,818 | -33 | VA |
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 Virginia better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 40.2 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #47. California leads 3 of 11 categories, Virginia leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -23.1 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 64.6#7 · A | -23.1 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -24.6 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 79.3#13 · B+ | -24.6 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap +16.2 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 61.4#17 · B+ | +16.2 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap -13.7 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 65.4#14 · B+ | -13.7 pts | VA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -46.2 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 60.5#34 · C+ | -46.2 pts | VA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -15.3 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 62.8#20 · B | -15.3 pts | VA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -39 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 45.1#19 · B | -39 pts | VA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -1.8 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 47.8#29 · C+ | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +4.4 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 27.3#35 · C | +4.4 pts | CA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +20.7 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 20.1#30 · C+ | +20.7 pts | CA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -23.3 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 48.0#15 · B+ | -23.3 pts | VA |
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 Virginia?
Virginia is cheaper: cost of living index 101.1 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $38,047 more a year in Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.6 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | +9.6 pts+9% | 100 | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5.7 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | +5.7 pts+6% | 100 | VA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +17.26¢ (+113%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | +17.26¢+113% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.22 (+31%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | +$5.22+31% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.33 (+43%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | +$1.33+43% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,807 (+34%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | +$5,807+34% | $15,633 | VA |
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 | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$16,273 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | -$16,273 | VA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$21,382 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | -$21,382 | VA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$38,047 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | -$38,047 | VA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$17,987 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | -$17,987 | VA |
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 | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$23,481 | $51,794 | $28,313 | +$23,481 | VA |
| ChildcareGap +$11,614 | $46,142 | $34,528 | +$11,614 | VA |
| UtilitiesGap +$461 | $5,314 | $4,853 | +$461 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$642 | $11,950 | $11,308 | +$642 | VA |
| TransportationGap +$4,180 | $13,891 | $9,711 | +$4,180 | VA |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,331 | $5,906 | $8,237 | -$2,331 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or Virginia?
Virginia collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.86% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.14 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | +2.14 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.65 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | +8.65 pts | 5.46% | VA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | -0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.22 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +3.22 pts | 6.66% | VA |
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 Virginia?
Homes cost 84% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $109,920 in Virginia; the median household earns $100,149 and $92,090.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$349,496 (+84%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | +$349,496+84% | $368,697 | VA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.8 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -1.8 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$508 (+21%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | +$508+21% | $1,948 | VA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$87,342 (+79%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | +$87,342+79% | $100,006 | VA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.1x (+69%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | +3.1x+69% | 4.6x | VA |
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 | VA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $2,133 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +23.4% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Cool |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Washington |
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 Virginia?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $92,090, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 1.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$8,059 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | +$8,059+9% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.1 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$21,930 (+33%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | +$21,930+33% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap -0.71 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.71 pts | +0.51% | VA |
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 | VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | CA |
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is California safer than Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,354 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +227 (+110%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +227+110% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +439 (+32%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +439+32% | 1,535 | VA |
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
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or Virginia?
Virginia scores higher for education (#14 of 50 vs #37), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 89.1%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #17); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 77.5 in Virginia.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | +1.8 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.2 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | -1 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +11 pts (+30%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +11 pts+30% | 38.8 | VA |
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
- Leesburg, VAeducation 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, Virginia #14. Health: California #5, Virginia #17.
Are more people moving from California to Virginia, or from Virginia to California?
9,309 households moved from California to Virginia and 8,264 moved from Virginia to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,045 households for Virginia. Movers to Virginia reported an average income of $94,448; movers to California reported $92,364. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 20,180 people (±4,162) moving from California to Virginia and 18,100 (±4,368) 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 | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +117,254 (+86%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | +117,254+86% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +218,072 (+161%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | +218,072+161% | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,818 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -100,818 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.6 | -2.6#49 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -2.6 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$13,196 (+16%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | +$13,196+16% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$12,792 (+14%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | +$12,792+14% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.5 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -6.5 | VA |
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 Virginia?
Virginia 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 | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +31 places | #48score 43.1 | #17score 72.9 | +31 places | VA |
| RetireesGap +34 places | #49score 43.4 | #15score 68.4 | +34 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap +34 places | #50score 19.5 | #16score 58.3 | +34 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +37 places | #50score 24.3 | #13score 63.4 | +37 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap +38 places | #50score 26.8 | #12score 68 | +38 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +8 places | #31score 36.7 | #23score 48 | +8 places | VA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #48)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #50)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #31)
Which cities stand out in California and Virginia?
California has 188 tracked cities and Virginia has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Virginia Beach. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Virginia Beach456,349 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Restonscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Leesburg95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | McLeanmedian income $250,001 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Suffolk+1.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and Virginia AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +42 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | +42 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +50.8 (+924%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +50.8+924% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap +35.3 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | +35.3 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | +1.4 min | 25.2 min | VA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | +2.2 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 | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.6 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.39% | VA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -8 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -8 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,350 (+48%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | +$1,350+48% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.7 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | -7.7 pts | +4.66% | VA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, Virginia 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 Virginia: 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 11 of 51, Virginia on 34, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | VirginiaVA | GapCA−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +30,475,202 (+343%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | +30,475,202+343% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$8,059 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | +$8,059+9% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.1 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap -0.71 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | -0.71 pts | +0.51% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$21,930 (+33%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | +$21,930+33% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +227 (+110%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +227+110% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +439 (+32%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +439+32% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.1 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 238#24 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 214#31 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | +1.8 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.2 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | -1 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$349,496 (+84%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | +$349,496+84% | $368,697 | VA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.8 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -1.8 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$508 (+21%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | +$508+21% | $1,948 | VA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$87,342 (+79%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | +$87,342+79% | $100,006 | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.6 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | +9.6 pts+9% | 100 | VA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.1x (+69%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | +3.1x+69% | 4.6x | VA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +17.26¢ (+113%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | +17.26¢+113% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.22 (+31%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | +$5.22+31% | $15.83/Mcf | VA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.33 (+43%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | +$1.33+43% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5.7 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | +5.7 pts+6% | 100 | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,807 (+34%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | +$5,807+34% | $15,633 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.14 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | +2.14 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.65 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | +8.65 pts | 5.46% | VA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | -0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.22 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +3.22 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | VA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.6 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.39% | VA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -8 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | -8 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,350 (+48%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | +$1,350+48% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.7 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | -7.7 pts | +4.66% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +11 pts (+30%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +11 pts+30% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +42 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | +42 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +50.8 (+924%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +50.8+924% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap +35.3 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | +35.3 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | +1.4 min | 25.2 min | VA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 12.28% | VA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +117,254 (+86%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | +117,254+86% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +218,072 (+161%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | +218,072+161% | 78,715 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,818 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | -100,818 | -33 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.6 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -2.6 | +0.4 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$13,196 (+16%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | +$13,196+16% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$12,792 (+14%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | +$12,792+14% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.5 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -6.5 | +1.1 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$38,047 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$38,047 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$16,273 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | -$16,273 | +$31,418 | VA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$17,987 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | -$17,987 | +$35,970 | VA |
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 Virginia numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 7 of the 11 categories to California's 3, with 1 even; California is ahead on outdoor access and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 11 and Virginia on 34.
Virginia is cheaper day to day
Virginia's cost of living index is 101.1 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $414,662 in Virginia. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Virginia 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); Virginia collects 8.86% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
California pays more
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $92,090 in Virginia, with unemployment at 5.5% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 206 in Virginia.
Moves between the two run about even
20,180 people moved from California to Virginia and 18,100 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and Virginia #17; for retirees, California ranks #49 and Virginia #15.
California vs Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is California or Virginia better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 110.7), has a 2.1-point lower tax burden, and has a 52% lower violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is California cheaper than Virginia?
Virginia is cheaper than California: cost of living index 101.1 vs 110.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$59,997 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in California, and -$21,950 in Virginia. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $414,662 in Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, California or Virginia?
Virginia has the lower tax burden: 8.86% 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%; Virginia's are 5.75%, 0.76% and 5.77%.
Is California safer than Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and Virginia #8. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,354 in Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Virginia Beach, VA.
Are homes more expensive in California or Virginia?
Homes are 84% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $109,920 in Virginia, against median incomes of $100,149 and $92,090.
Do people earn more in California or Virginia?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $92,090 in Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 1, with 12 even.
Are more people moving from California to Virginia or from Virginia to California?
9,309 households moved from California to Virginia and 8,264 moved from Virginia to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,045 households for Virginia. Movers to Virginia reported an average income of $94,448; movers to California reported $92,364. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 20,180 people (±4,162) moving from California to Virginia and 18,100 (±4,368) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, California or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 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; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$32,263 in Virginia.
Which is better for families, California or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $17,264 in Virginia. High school graduation rates are 87% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Is Virginia better than California?
Yes: Virginia ranks higher than California overall, #15 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 67.7 to 40.2. Virginia leads 7 of 11 categories and California leads 3, including outdoor access and health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside California vs Virginia.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (9,309 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).