Colorado vs Oregon: Which Is Better to Live In?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Oregon #35 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.1 vs 103.4); Colorado collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 26% higher violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Violent crime rate is 26% lower in Oregon (311 vs. 422 in Colorado).
- Median household income is 14% higher in Colorado ($97,113 vs. $85,220 in Oregon).
- Typical home value is 7% lower in Oregon ($496,113 vs. $532,748 in Colorado).
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +13.8 pts | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | 50.9#35 of 50 · C | +13.8 pts | — | CO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 103.4#41 of 50 | -0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$6,506 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$41,836#44 of 50 | +$6,506 | -$11,758 | CO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$36,635 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $496,113#40 of 50 | +$36,635+7% | $368,697 | OR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 9.06%#31 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +111 (+36%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 311#29 of 50 | +111+36% | 328 | OR |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,893 (+14%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $85,220#16 of 50 | +$11,893+14% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap +1 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 81.3%#44 of 50 | +1 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 77.7#21 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,386 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -45#27 of 50 | +11,386 | -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 Oregon better to live in?
Colorado scores higher overall: 64.7 to 50.9 out of 100, #18 of 50 against #35. Colorado leads 6 of 11 categories, Oregon leads 5, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +27.4 | 15% | 60.3#9 · A | 32.9#40 · C | +27.4 pts | CO |
| Safety12% of scoregap -9.2 | 12% | 50.4#46 · D | 59.6#39 · C | -9.2 pts | OR |
| Health12% of scoregap +11.6 | 12% | 75.4#7 · A | 63.8#14 · B+ | +11.6 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap +29.7 | 12% | 65.3#18 · B+ | 35.6#46 · D | +29.7 pts | CO |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +8 | 10% | 53.1#38 · C | 45.1#44 · D | +8 pts | CO |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +5 | 8% | 60.4#22 · B | 55.4#34 · C+ | +5 pts | CO |
| Growth7% of scoregap +7.8 | 7% | 31.0#33 · C+ | 23.2#42 · C | +7.8 pts | CO |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -4.9 | 7% | 61.4#3 · A+ | 66.3#1 · A+ | -4.9 pts | OR |
| Livability7% of scoregap -13.8 | 7% | 34.2#24 · B | 48.0#8 · A | -13.8 pts | OR |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -8.9 | 6% | 44.5#9 · A | 53.4#5 · A+ | -8.9 pts | OR |
| Environment4% of scoregap -18.3 | 4% | 45.9#20 · B | 64.2#5 · A+ | -18.3 pts | OR |
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 Oregon?
Colorado and Oregon cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 103.1 vs 103.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $6,506 more a year in Colorado after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 103.4#41 of 50 | -0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.6 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 105.3#45 of 50 | -6.6 pts-6% | 100 | CO |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.48¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 15.37¢/kWh#26 of 50 | +0.48¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | OR |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.54 (-33%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $16.71/Mcf#31 of 50 | -$5.54-33% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.93 (-23%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $4.06/gal#46 of 50 | -$0.93-23% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$796 (-4%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $21,774#45 of 50 | -$796-4% | $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 | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$4,213 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$20,952costs $54,048 | +$4,213 | CO |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$4,932 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$9,658costs $65,342 | +$4,932 | CO |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$6,506 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | -$41,836costs $116,836 | +$6,506 | CO |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$4,376 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$24,110costs $50,891 | +$4,376 | 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 | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$567 | $34,937 | $34,370 | +$567 | Even |
| ChildcareGap -$1,592 | $41,956 | $43,548 | -$1,592 | CO |
| UtilitiesGap -$14 | $4,949 | $4,963 | -$14 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$743 | $11,117 | $11,860 | -$743 | CO |
| TransportationGap -$2,923 | $9,837 | $12,760 | -$2,923 | CO |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,800 | $7,535 | $9,335 | -$1,800 | CO |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Oregon?
Colorado and Oregon collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.73% vs 9.06%. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Oregon has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 9.06%#31 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -10.29 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 14.69%#49 of 50 | -10.29 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.37 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 0.86%#26 of 50 | -0.37 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +7.89 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 0%#4 of 50 | +7.89 pts | 6.66% | OR |
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 Oregon?
Homes cost 7% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $532,748 in Colorado vs $496,113 in Oregon. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of income in Colorado and $130,378 in Oregon; the median household earns $97,113 and $85,220.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$36,635 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $496,113#40 of 50 | +$36,635+7% | $368,697 | OR |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | -0.1%#42 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +1.2% | OR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$104 (+6%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,818#29 of 50 | +$104+6% | $1,948 | OR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,380 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $130,378#40 of 50 | +$8,380+6% | $100,006 | OR |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-5%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 5.8x#42 of 50 | -0.3x-5% | 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 | OR | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,741 | $2,552 |
| Income needed vs. median | +43% | +53% |
| Five-year change | +6.8% | +7.7% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Denver | Portland |
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 Oregon?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $85,220, with unemployment at 4% in Colorado and 5.2% in Oregon. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Oregon's in 0.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$11,893 (+14%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $85,220#16 of 50 | +$11,893+14% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 5.2%#47 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 3.95% | CO |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,214 (+21%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $61,810#26 of 50 | +$13,214+21% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.5%#37 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Population growthGap +0.21 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.19%#39 of 50 | +0.21 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | CO | OR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | $226,980$238,329 in Portland | CO |
| Software Developers | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | $137,573$144,452 in Portland | CO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | $106,930$112,276 in Portland | CO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | $75,439$79,211 in Portland | CO |
| Electricians | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | $62,375$65,494 in Portland | CO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | $72,428$76,049 in Portland | CO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | $48,073$50,477 in Portland | CO |
| Lawyers | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | $146,126$153,432 in Portland | CO |
| Civil Engineers | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | $96,128$100,934 in Portland | CO |
| Registered Nurses | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | $92,574$97,203 in Portland | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | $44,438$46,660 in Portland | CO |
| General & Operations Managers | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | $105,400$110,670 in Portland | CO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | $56,221$59,032 in Portland | CO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | $68,165$71,573 in Portland | CO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | $56,549$59,376 in Portland | CO |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | $34,098$35,803 in Portland | CO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | $55,405$58,175 in Portland | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | $61,091$64,146 in Portland | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | $67,819$71,210 in Portland | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | $86,245$90,557 in Portland | 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 Colorado safer than Oregon?
Oregon is safer: 311 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 2,144 and 2,118 per 100,000.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +111 (+36%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 311#29 of 50 | +111+36% | 328 | OR |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +26 (+1%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 2,118#48 of 50 | +26+1% | 1,535 | Even |
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
- Lake Oswego, OR55 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Colorado or Oregon?
Colorado scores higher for education (#18 of 50 vs #46), with high school graduation rates of 82.3% and 81.3%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #14); life expectancy is 78.5 years in Colorado and 77.7 in Oregon.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 268#40 of 50 | +10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 255#36 of 50 | +10 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 81.3%#44 of 50 | +1 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 77.7#21 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -8.5 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 33.5%#22 of 50 | -8.5 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 5.2%#9 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 7.6% | OR |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +10 pts (+31%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 32#5 of 50 | +10 pts+31% | 38.8 | OR |
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
- Lake Oswego, OReducation score 96
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, Oregon #46. Health: Colorado #7, Oregon #14.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Oregon, or from Oregon to Colorado?
2,296 households moved from Colorado to Oregon and 2,061 moved from Oregon to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 235 households for Oregon. Movers to Oregon reported an average income of $73,926; movers to Colorado reported $79,744. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,157 people (±1,606) moving from Colorado to Oregon and 2,363 (±1,213) the other way, a net gain of about 2,794 people for Oregon 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 | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +57,004 (+89%) | 121,390#11 of 50 | 64,386#23 of 50 | +57,004+89% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +45,618 (+71%) | 110,049#39 of 50 | 64,431#29 of 50 | +45,618+71% | OR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,386 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -45#27 of 50 | +11,386 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.9 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -0.0#27 of 50 | +1.9 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,750 (+10%) | $82,532#16 of 50 | $74,782#29 of 50 | +$7,750+10% | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,416 (+3%) | $84,540#13 of 50 | $82,124#14 of 50 | +$2,416+3% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +0.5#30 of 50 | -2.5 | OR |
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 Oregon?
Colorado is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Oregon is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -20 places | #22score 66.1 | #42score 53.3 | -20 places | CO |
| RetireesGap -4 places | #16score 67 | #20score 64.3 | -4 places | CO |
| Remote WorkersGap -5 places | #23score 53.8 | #28score 50.9 | -5 places | CO |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -19 places | #20score 56.7 | #39score 43.5 | -19 places | CO |
| Small BusinessGap -22 places | #20score 59.8 | #42score 40.2 | -22 places | CO |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #15score 55.8 | #9score 63.4 | +6 places | OR |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesColorado (#22 vs #42)
- RetireesColorado (#16 vs #20)
- Remote WorkersColorado (#23 vs #28)
- Young ProfessionalsColorado (#20 vs #39)
- Small BusinessColorado (#20 vs #42)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsOregon (#9 vs #15)
Which cities stand out in Colorado and Oregon?
Colorado has 20 tracked cities and Oregon has 20; the largest are Denver and Portland. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ColoradoCO | OregonOR |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Denver718,877 people | Portland641,165 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Broomfieldscore 68.1 | Bethanyscore 75.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K | Lake Oswego55 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pueblocost index 91.8 | Grants Passcost index 97.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 | Portlandwalkability 15.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 | Bendcounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Pueblo93% graduation rate | Lake Oswego96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 | Bethanymedian income $167,735 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Junction+1.8% growth | Redmond+2.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Colorado and Oregon compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Colorado carries AA+ credit rating and Oregon AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -28 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 67%#7 of 50 | -28 pts | 29.34% | OR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -22.5 (-56%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 40.4#39 of 50 | -22.5-56% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -16.4 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 52.6%#5 of 50 | -16.4 pts | 17.16% | OR |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 23.2 min#15 of 50 | +2.5 min | 25.2 min | OR |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 2.4%#13 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 2.29% | OR |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.8 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 17.1%#2 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 93.7%#14 of 50 | +1.2 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 | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 90#33 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 7.2%#41 of 50 | +6 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap -18 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 85%#11 of 50 | -18 pts | 74.3% | OR |
| State debt per capitaGap -$400 (-11%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $3,520#35 of 50 | -$400-11% | $3,506 | CO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +3.2%#37 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Colorado AA+, Oregon 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 Oregon: 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 26 of 51, Oregon on 15, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OregonOR | GapCO−OR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,738,975 (+41%) · US 6.8 million | 6 million#20 of 50 | 4.3 million#27 of 50 | +1,738,975+41% | 6.8 million | CO |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,893 (+14%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $85,220#16 of 50 | +$11,893+14% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 5.2%#47 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 3.95% | CO |
| Population growthGap +0.21 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.19%#39 of 50 | +0.21 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,214 (+21%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $61,810#26 of 50 | +$13,214+21% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.5%#37 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +111 (+36%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 311#29 of 50 | +111+36% | 328 | OR |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +26 (+1%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 2,118#48 of 50 | +26+1% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 81.3%#44 of 50 | +1 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +10 · US 237 | 239#18 of 50 | 229#48 of 50 | +10 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 268#40 of 50 | +10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +14 · US 214 | 221#5 of 50 | 207#47 of 50 | +14 | 214 | CO |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 255#36 of 50 | +10 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 77.7#21 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -8.5 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 33.5%#22 of 50 | -8.5 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 5.2%#9 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 7.6% | OR |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$36,635 (+7%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $496,113#40 of 50 | +$36,635+7% | $368,697 | OR |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | -0.1%#42 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +1.2% | OR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$104 (+6%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,818#29 of 50 | +$104+6% | $1,948 | OR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,380 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $130,378#40 of 50 | +$8,380+6% | $100,006 | OR |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 103.4#41 of 50 | -0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-5%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 5.8x#42 of 50 | -0.3x-5% | 4.6x | CO |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.48¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 15.37¢/kWh#26 of 50 | +0.48¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | OR |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.54 (-33%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $16.71/Mcf#31 of 50 | -$5.54-33% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.93 (-23%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $4.06/gal#46 of 50 | -$0.93-23% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.6 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 105.3#45 of 50 | -6.6 pts-6% | 100 | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$796 (-4%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $21,774#45 of 50 | -$796-4% | $15,633 | CO |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 9.06%#31 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -10.29 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 14.69%#49 of 50 | -10.29 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.37 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 0.86%#26 of 50 | -0.37 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +7.89 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 0%#4 of 50 | +7.89 pts | 6.66% | OR |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 90#33 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 7.2%#41 of 50 | +6 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap -18 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 85%#11 of 50 | -18 pts | 74.3% | OR |
| State debt per capitaGap -$400 (-11%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $3,520#35 of 50 | -$400-11% | $3,506 | CO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +3.2%#37 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +10 pts (+31%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 32#5 of 50 | +10 pts+31% | 38.8 | OR |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -28 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 67%#7 of 50 | -28 pts | 29.34% | OR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -22.5 (-56%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 40.4#39 of 50 | -22.5-56% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -16.4 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 52.6%#5 of 50 | -16.4 pts | 17.16% | OR |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 23.2 min#15 of 50 | +2.5 min | 25.2 min | OR |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 2.4%#13 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 2.29% | OR |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.8 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 17.1%#2 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 93.7%#14 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +57,004 (+89%) · US 78,682 | 121,390#11 of 50 | 64,386#23 of 50 | +57,004+89% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +45,618 (+71%) · US 78,715 | 110,049#39 of 50 | 64,431#29 of 50 | +45,618+71% | 78,715 | OR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,386 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -45#27 of 50 | +11,386 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.9 · US +0.4 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -0.0#27 of 50 | +1.9 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,750 (+10%) · US $77,690 | $82,532#16 of 50 | $74,782#29 of 50 | +$7,750+10% | $77,690 | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,416 (+3%) · US $77,024 | $84,540#13 of 50 | $82,124#14 of 50 | +$2,416+3% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 · US +1.1 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +0.5#30 of 50 | -2.5 | +1.1 | OR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$6,506 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$41,836#44 of 50 | +$6,506 | -$11,758 | CO |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$4,213 · US +$31,418 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$20,952#45 of 50 | +$4,213 | +$31,418 | CO |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$4,376 · US +$35,970 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$24,110#44 of 50 | +$4,376 | +$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 Oregon numbers say when read together.
Colorado ranks higher overall
Colorado leads 6 of the 11 categories to Oregon's 5, with 0 even; Oregon is ahead on environment and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Colorado is ahead on 26 and Oregon on 15.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 103.1 in Colorado and 103.4 in Oregon, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $532,748 and $496,113. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 a year after typical costs in Colorado and -$41,836 in Oregon.
Tax burdens are close
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); Oregon collects 9.06% (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Colorado pays more
Median household income is $97,113 in Colorado and $85,220 in Oregon, with unemployment at 4% and 5.2%. Violent crime runs 422 per 100,000 residents in Colorado and 311 in Oregon.
People move to Oregon on net
5,157 people moved to Oregon from Colorado in the latest Census release, against 2,363 going the other way.
Colorado fits families and retirees better
For families, Colorado ranks #22 of 50 and Oregon #42; for retirees, Colorado ranks #16 and Oregon #20.
Colorado vs Oregon: frequently asked questions
Is Colorado or Oregon better to live in?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Oregon #35 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.1 vs 103.4); Colorado collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 26% higher violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Colorado cheaper than Oregon?
Colorado and Oregon cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 103.1 vs 103.4 (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 -$41,836 in Oregon. The typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $496,113 in Oregon.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Oregon?
Colorado and Oregon have similar tax burdens: 8.73% vs 9.06% of income in state and local taxes. Colorado's top income tax rate is 4.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.49% and its combined sales tax 7.89%; Oregon's are 14.69%, 0.86% and 0%.
Is Colorado safer than Oregon?
Oregon is safer: 311 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado, per the FBI. Colorado ranks #43 of 50 for violent crime and Oregon #29. Property crime is 2,144 per 100,000 in Colorado and 2,118 in Oregon. The safest tracked cities are Castle Rock, CO, and Lake Oswego, OR.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or Oregon?
Homes are 7% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $496,113 in Oregon. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of household income in Colorado and $130,378 in Oregon, against median incomes of $97,113 and $85,220.
Do people earn more in Colorado or Oregon?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $85,220 in Oregon, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Colorado and 5.2% in Oregon. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Oregon's in 0, with 4 even.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Oregon or from Oregon to Colorado?
2,296 households moved from Colorado to Oregon and 2,061 moved from Oregon to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 235 households for Oregon. Movers to Oregon reported an average income of $73,926; movers to Colorado reported $79,744. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,157 people (±1,606) moving from Colorado to Oregon and 2,363 (±1,213) the other way, a net gain of about 2,794 people for Oregon beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Colorado or Oregon?
Colorado is the better fit for retirees: #16 of 50 on the retiree index vs #20 for Oregon. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Oregon has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$28,486 left after typical costs in Colorado and +$24,110 in Oregon.
Which is better for families, Colorado or Oregon?
Colorado is the better fit for families: #22 of 50 on the families index vs #42 for Oregon. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in Colorado and $21,774 in Oregon. High school graduation rates are 82.3% and 81.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 after typical costs in Colorado and -$41,836 in Oregon.
Is Oregon better than Colorado?
No: Colorado ranks higher than Oregon overall, #18 of 50 vs #35, with a composite score of 64.7 to 50.9. Colorado leads 6 of 11 categories and Oregon leads 5, including environment and livability. 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 Colorado vs Oregon.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,296 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).