Colorado vs Hawaii: Which Is Better to Live In?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Colorado is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.1 vs 110), has a 5.2-point lower tax burden, and has a 51% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 0.1 points apart, too close to call: Colorado leads 6 of 11 categories, Hawaii leads 4.
- Residential electricity price is 61% lower in Colorado (15.85¢/kWh vs. 40.59¢/kWh in Hawaii).
- Violent crime rate is 51% lower in Hawaii (205 vs. 422 in Colorado).
- Total tax burden is 37% lower in Colorado (8.73% vs. 13.92% in Hawaii).
| Measure | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -0.1 pts | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | 64.8#17 of 50 · B+ | -0.1 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.9 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -6.9 pts-6% | 100 | CO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$33,405 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$33,405 | -$11,758 | CO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$300,592 (-36%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$300,592-36% | $368,697 | CO |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.19 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.19 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +217 (+106%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +217+106% | 328 | HI |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,632 (-4%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$3,632-4% | $80,903 | HI |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| Life expectancyGap -1.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -1.5 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +13,938 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +13,938 | -33 | CO |
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 Colorado or Hawaii better to live in?
Colorado scores 64.7 and Hawaii scores 64.8 out of 100, a 0.1-point gap this site treats as even. Colorado leads 6 of 11 categories, Hawaii leads 4, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -26 | 15% | 60.3#9 · A | 86.3#1 · A+ | -26 pts | HI |
| Safety12% of scoregap -25.3 | 12% | 50.4#46 · D | 75.7#21 · B | -25.3 pts | HI |
| Health12% of scoregap -13.2 | 12% | 75.4#7 · A | 88.6#2 · A+ | -13.2 pts | HI |
| Education12% of scoregap +6.2 | 12% | 65.3#18 · B+ | 59.1#28 · C+ | +6.2 pts | CO |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +48.7 | 10% | 53.1#38 · C | 4.4#50 · F | +48.7 pts | CO |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +23.9 | 8% | 60.4#22 · B | 36.5#48 · D | +23.9 pts | CO |
| Growth7% of scoregap +5.7 | 7% | 31.0#33 · C+ | 25.3#40 · C | +5.7 pts | CO |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +7 | 7% | 61.4#3 · A+ | 54.4#16 · B+ | +7 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap -0.3 | 7% | 34.2#24 · B | 34.5#20 · B | -0.3 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +8.2 | 6% | 44.5#9 · A | 36.3#18 · B+ | +8.2 pts | CO |
| Environment4% of scoregap -11 | 4% | 45.9#20 · B | 56.9#8 · A | -11 pts | HI |
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 Colorado cheaper than Hawaii?
Colorado is cheaper: cost of living index 103.1 vs 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $33,405 more a year in Colorado after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.9 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -6.9 pts-6% | 100 | CO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -12.9 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -12.9 pts-12% | 100 | CO |
| Residential electricity priceGap -24.74¢ (-61%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -24.74¢-61% | 17.84¢/kWh | CO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$41.21 (-79%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$41.21-79% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.60 (-34%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$1.60-34% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,118 (-16%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$4,118-16% | $15,633 | CO |
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 | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$15,443 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$9,722costs $65,279 | +$15,443 | CO |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$20,359 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | -$5,769costs $80,769 | +$20,359 | CO |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$33,405 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | -$68,735costs $143,735 | +$33,405 | CO |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$17,384 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$11,102costs $63,899 | +$17,384 | CO |
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 | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$17,879 | $34,937 | $52,816 | -$17,879 | CO |
| ChildcareGap -$8,236 | $41,956 | $50,192 | -$8,236 | CO |
| UtilitiesGap -$331 | $4,949 | $5,280 | -$331 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$1,453 | $11,117 | $12,570 | -$1,453 | CO |
| TransportationGap -$5,029 | $9,837 | $14,866 | -$5,029 | CO |
| State and local taxesGap -$476 | $7,535 | $8,011 | -$476 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Hawaii?
Colorado collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.73% vs 13.92%. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.19 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.19 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.6 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -6.6 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.22 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.22 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.39 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | +3.39 pts | 6.66% | HI |
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 Colorado or Hawaii?
Homes cost 56% more in Hawaii: a typical home value of $532,748 in Colorado vs $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of income in Colorado and $202,402 in Hawaii; the median household earns $97,113 and $100,745.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$300,592 (-36%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$300,592-36% | $368,697 | CO |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | -2.5 pts | +1.2% | HI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,098 (-36%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$1,098-36% | $1,948 | CO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$63,644 (-31%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$63,644-31% | $100,006 | CO |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.8x (-34%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -2.8x-34% | 4.6x | CO |
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.
| CO | HI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,741 | $4,288 |
| Income needed vs. median | +43% | +101% |
| Five-year change | +6.8% | +16.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Denver | Urban Honolulu |
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 Colorado or Hawaii?
Hawaii pays more: median household income $100,745 vs $97,113, with unemployment at 4% in Colorado and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 2.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$3,632 (-4%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$3,632-4% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,985 (+21%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | +$12,985+21% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Population growthGap +0.55 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +0.55 pts | +0.51% | CO |
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 | CO | HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | $222,456$242,477 in Honolulu | CO |
| Software Developers | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | $130,870$142,648 in Honolulu | CO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | $104,027$113,389 in Honolulu | CO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | $72,942$79,507 in Honolulu | CO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | $70,704$77,067 in Honolulu | CO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | $45,961$50,097 in Honolulu | CO |
| Electricians | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | $63,566$69,287 in Honolulu | CO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | $52,646$57,384 in Honolulu | CO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | $65,250$71,123 in Honolulu | CO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | $53,672$58,503 in Honolulu | CO |
| General & Operations Managers | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | $103,999$113,359 in Honolulu | CO |
| Civil Engineers | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | $95,783$104,403 in Honolulu | CO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | $80,939$88,223 in Honolulu | CO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | $57,100$62,239 in Honolulu | CO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | $51,849$56,515 in Honolulu | CO |
| Lawyers | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | $147,403$160,669 in Honolulu | CO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | $63,497$69,212 in Honolulu | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | $44,856$48,893 in Honolulu | CO |
| Registered Nurses | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | $100,764$109,833 in Honolulu | HI |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | $37,595$40,979 in Honolulu | HI |
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 Colorado safer than Hawaii?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 2,144 and 1,604 per 100,000.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +217 (+106%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +217+106% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +540 (+34%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | +540+34% | 1,535 | HI |
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.
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
- No city crime data
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Colorado or Hawaii?
Colorado scores higher for education (#18 of 50 vs #28), with high school graduation rates of 82.3% and 86%. Hawaii scores higher for health (#2 vs #7); life expectancy is 78.5 years in Colorado and 80.0 in Hawaii.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| Life expectancyGap -1.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -1.5 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.4 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +18 pts (+75%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +18 pts+75% | 38.8 | HI |
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).
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
- Honolulu, HIeducation score 86
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: Colorado #18, Hawaii #28. Health: Colorado #7, Hawaii #2.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Hawaii, or from Hawaii to Colorado?
915 households moved from Colorado to Hawaii and 1,159 moved from Hawaii to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 244 households for Colorado. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $72,471; movers to Colorado reported $68,857. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,054 people (±492) moving from Colorado to Hawaii and 1,815 (±1,836) 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 | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +96,364 (+385%) | 121,390#11 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +96,364+385% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +82,426 (+298%) | 110,049#39 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +82,426+298% | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +13,938 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +13,938 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.7 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +3.7 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,449 (+6%) | $82,532#16 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | +$4,449+6% | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,677 (+19%) | $84,540#13 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$13,677+19% | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.2 | -2.0#42 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +4.2 | CO |
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, Colorado or Hawaii?
Colorado is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -5 places | #22score 66.1 | #27score 63 | -5 places | CO |
| RetireesGap -23 places | #16score 67 | #39score 54.4 | -23 places | CO |
| Remote WorkersGap -22 places | #23score 53.8 | #45score 40.3 | -22 places | CO |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -5 places | #20score 56.7 | #25score 53.7 | -5 places | CO |
| Small BusinessGap -14 places | #20score 59.8 | #34score 48.7 | -14 places | CO |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +1 places | #15score 55.8 | #14score 56.7 | +1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesColorado (#22 vs #27)
- RetireesColorado (#16 vs #39)
- Remote WorkersColorado (#23 vs #45)
- Young ProfessionalsColorado (#20 vs #25)
- Small BusinessColorado (#20 vs #34)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#15 vs #14)
Which cities stand out in Colorado and Hawaii?
Colorado has 20 tracked cities and Hawaii has 20; the largest are Denver and Honolulu. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Denver718,877 people | Honolulu345,482 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Broomfieldscore 68.1 | East Honoluluscore 68.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K | — |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pueblocost index 91.8 | Hilocost index 106.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 | Mililani Maukawalkability 14.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 | Kahuluicounty median AQI 21 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Pueblo93% graduation rate | Honolulu86% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 | East Honolulumedian income $159,518 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Junction+1.8% growth | Honolulu-0.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Colorado and Hawaii compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Colorado carries AA+ credit rating and Hawaii AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +9 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | +9 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -36.1 (-67%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -36.1-67% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +21.1 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | +21.1 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | -1 min | 25.2 min | CO |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap +11 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +11 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.9 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 92.67% | CO |
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 | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.4 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +7.4 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | CO |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,460 (-53%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$3,460-53% | $3,506 | CO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +4.66% | CO |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Colorado AA+, Hawaii 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).
Colorado vs Hawaii: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Colorado is ahead on 34 of 51, Hawaii on 11, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ColoradoCO | HawaiiHI | GapCO−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,579,741 (+320%) · US 6.8 million | 6 million#20 of 50 | 1.4 million#40 of 50 | +4,579,741+320% | 6.8 million | CO |
| Median household incomeGap -$3,632 (-4%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$3,632-4% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| Population growthGap +0.55 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +0.55 pts | +0.51% | CO |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,985 (+21%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | +$12,985+21% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +217 (+106%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +217+106% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +540 (+34%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | +540+34% | 1,535 | HI |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 237 | 239#18 of 50 | 239#15 of 50 | -0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 214 | 221#5 of 50 | 216#16 of 50 | +5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -1.5 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap -2 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | -2 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.4 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$300,592 (-36%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$300,592-36% | $368,697 | CO |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | -2.5 pts | +1.2% | HI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,098 (-36%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$1,098-36% | $1,948 | CO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$63,644 (-31%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$63,644-31% | $100,006 | CO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.9 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -6.9 pts-6% | 100 | CO |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.8x (-34%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -2.8x-34% | 4.6x | CO |
| Residential electricity priceGap -24.74¢ (-61%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -24.74¢-61% | 17.84¢/kWh | CO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$41.21 (-79%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$41.21-79% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.60 (-34%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$1.60-34% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -12.9 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -12.9 pts-12% | 100 | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,118 (-16%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$4,118-16% | $15,633 | CO |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.19 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.19 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.6 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -6.6 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.22 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.22 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.39 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | +3.39 pts | 6.66% | HI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.4 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +7.4 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | CO |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,460 (-53%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$3,460-53% | $3,506 | CO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +4.66% | CO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +18 pts (+75%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +18 pts+75% | 38.8 | HI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +9 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | +9 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -36.1 (-67%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -36.1-67% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +21.1 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | +21.1 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | -1 min | 25.2 min | CO |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap +11 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +11 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.9 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +96,364 (+385%) · US 78,682 | 121,390#11 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +96,364+385% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +82,426 (+298%) · US 78,715 | 110,049#39 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +82,426+298% | 78,715 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +13,938 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +13,938 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.7 · US +0.4 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +3.7 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,449 (+6%) · US $77,690 | $82,532#16 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | +$4,449+6% | $77,690 | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,677 (+19%) · US $77,024 | $84,540#13 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$13,677+19% | $77,024 | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.2 · US +1.1 | -2.0#42 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +4.2 | +1.1 | CO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$33,405 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$33,405 | -$11,758 | CO |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$15,443 · US +$31,418 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$9,722#50 of 50 | +$15,443 | +$31,418 | CO |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$17,384 · US +$35,970 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$11,102#50 of 50 | +$17,384 | +$35,970 | CO |
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 Colorado and Hawaii numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Colorado (64.7, #18) and Hawaii (64.8, #17) are within 2 composite points. Colorado leads 6 categories, Hawaii leads 4, and 1 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Colorado is cheaper day to day
Colorado's cost of living index is 103.1 against 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). The typical home costs $532,748 in Colorado and $833,340 in Hawaii. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 a year after typical costs in Colorado and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Colorado takes a smaller share in taxes
Colorado collects 8.73% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Hawaii collects 13.92% (high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Hawaii pays more and is safer
Median household income is $97,113 in Colorado and $100,745 in Hawaii, with unemployment at 4% and 2.4%. Violent crime runs 422 per 100,000 residents in Colorado and 205 in Hawaii.
Moves between the two run about even
1,054 people moved from Colorado to Hawaii and 1,815 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Colorado fits families and retirees better
For families, Colorado ranks #22 of 50 and Hawaii #27; for retirees, Colorado ranks #16 and Hawaii #39.
Colorado vs Hawaii: frequently asked questions
Is Colorado or Hawaii better to live in?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Colorado is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.1 vs 110), has a 5.2-point lower tax burden, and has a 51% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 0.1 points apart, too close to call: Colorado leads 6 of 11 categories, Hawaii leads 4.
Is Colorado cheaper than Hawaii?
Colorado is cheaper than Hawaii: cost of living index 103.1 vs 110 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$35,330 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Colorado, and -$68,735 in Hawaii. The typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $833,340 in Hawaii.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Hawaii?
Colorado has the lower tax burden: 8.73% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.92% in Hawaii. Colorado's top income tax rate is 4.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.49% and its combined sales tax 7.89%; Hawaii's are 11%, 0.27% and 4.5%.
Is Colorado safer than Hawaii?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado, per the FBI. Colorado ranks #43 of 50 for violent crime and Hawaii #7. Property crime is 2,144 per 100,000 in Colorado and 1,604 in Hawaii.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or Hawaii?
Homes are 56% more expensive in Hawaii: the typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of household income in Colorado and $202,402 in Hawaii, against median incomes of $97,113 and $100,745.
Do people earn more in Colorado or Hawaii?
Hawaii pays more: median household income is $100,745 vs $97,113 in Colorado, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Colorado and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 2.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Hawaii or from Hawaii to Colorado?
915 households moved from Colorado to Hawaii and 1,159 moved from Hawaii to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 244 households for Colorado. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $72,471; movers to Colorado reported $68,857. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,054 people (±492) moving from Colorado to Hawaii and 1,815 (±1,836) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Colorado or Hawaii?
Colorado is the better fit for retirees: #16 of 50 on the retiree index vs #39 for Hawaii. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$28,486 left after typical costs in Colorado and +$11,102 in Hawaii.
Which is better for families, Colorado or Hawaii?
Colorado is the better fit for families: #22 of 50 on the families index vs #27 for Hawaii. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in Colorado and $25,096 in Hawaii. High school graduation rates are 82.3% and 86%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 after typical costs in Colorado and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Which has better schools, Colorado or Hawaii?
Colorado scores higher for education: #18 of 50 vs #28 for Hawaii. Eighth graders average 278 in NAEP math in Colorado and 270 in Hawaii. High school graduation rates are 82.3% in Colorado and 86% in Hawaii, and the education category scores are 65.3 and 59.1 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Pueblo and Honolulu have the strongest school metrics.
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