Colorado vs Utah: Which Is Better to Live In?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Utah #6 as of the latest release. Utah is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 98.9 vs 103.1), carries a 0.7-point higher tax burden, and has a 44% lower violent crime rate. Utah scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 44% lower in Utah (236 vs. 422 in Colorado).
- Property crime rate is 34% lower in Utah (1,416 vs. 2,144 in Colorado).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 31% lower in Utah ($14,533 vs. $20,978 in Colorado).
| Measure | ColoradoCO | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -10.7 pts | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | 75.4#6 of 50 · A | -10.7 pts | — | UT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.2 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 98.9#31 of 50 | +4.2 pts+4% | 100 | UT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$11,152 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$24,178#36 of 50 | -$11,152 | -$11,758 | UT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$1,834 (0%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $534,582#45 of 50 | -$1,8340% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.73 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 9.46%#37 of 50 | -0.73 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +186 (+79%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 236#17 of 50 | +186+79% | 328 | UT |
| Median household incomeGap +$455 (0%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $96,658#9 of 50 | +$4550% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -5.9 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 88.2%#13 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| Life expectancyGap -0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 79.0#9 of 50 | -0.5 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,177 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +8,177 | -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 Utah better to live in?
Utah scores higher overall: 75.4 to 64.7 out of 100, #6 of 50 against #18. Colorado leads 4 of 11 categories, Utah leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ColoradoCO | UtahUT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -5.3 | 15% | 60.3#9 · A | 65.6#5 · A+ | -5.3 pts | UT |
| Safety12% of scoregap -25.6 | 12% | 50.4#46 · D | 76.0#20 · B | -25.6 pts | UT |
| Health12% of scoregap +6.2 | 12% | 75.4#7 · A | 69.2#12 · B+ | +6.2 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap -11.5 | 12% | 65.3#18 · B+ | 76.8#3 · A+ | -11.5 pts | UT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -10.1 | 10% | 53.1#38 · C | 63.2#28 · C+ | -10.1 pts | UT |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -11 | 8% | 60.4#22 · B | 71.4#7 · A | -11 pts | UT |
| Growth7% of scoregap -19 | 7% | 31.0#33 · C+ | 50.0#11 · B+ | -19 pts | UT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1.7 | 7% | 61.4#3 · A+ | 59.7#4 · A+ | +1.7 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +14.5 | 7% | 34.2#24 · B | 19.7#48 · D | +14.5 pts | CO |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +6.2 | 6% | 44.5#9 · A | 38.3#15 · B+ | +6.2 pts | CO |
| Environment4% of scoregap +17.4 | 4% | 45.9#20 · B | 28.5#42 · C | +17.4 pts | CO |
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 Utah?
Utah is cheaper: cost of living index 98.9 vs 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $11,152 more a year in Utah after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.2 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 98.9#31 of 50 | +4.2 pts+4% | 100 | UT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.3 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 96.4#25 of 50 | +2.3 pts+2% | 100 | UT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.78¢ (+21%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 13.07¢/kWh#7 of 50 | +2.78¢+21% | 17.84¢/kWh | UT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.98 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $10.19/Mcf#6 of 50 | +$0.98+10% | $15.83/Mcf | UT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.20 (-6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.33/gal#34 of 50 | -$0.20-6% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,445 (+44%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $14,533#23 of 50 | +$6,445+44% | $15,633 | UT |
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 | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,071 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$24,094costs $50,906 | +$1,071 | CO |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$1,860 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$12,730costs $62,270 | +$1,860 | CO |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$11,152 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | -$24,178costs $99,178 | -$11,152 | UT |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,692 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$26,794costs $48,205 | +$1,692 | 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 | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$441 | $34,937 | $35,378 | -$441 | Even |
| ChildcareGap +$12,890 | $41,956 | $29,066 | +$12,890 | UT |
| UtilitiesGap +$202 | $4,949 | $4,747 | +$202 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$259 | $11,117 | $10,858 | +$259 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$629 | $9,837 | $10,466 | -$629 | CO |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,128 | $7,535 | $8,663 | -$1,128 | CO |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Utah?
Colorado collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.73% vs 9.46%. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Utah has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.73 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 9.46%#37 of 50 | -0.73 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.15 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 4.55%#19 of 50 | -0.15 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 0.55%#6 of 50 | -0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.47 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 7.42%#31 of 50 | +0.47 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Utah?
Typical home values are about the same: $532,748 in Colorado and $534,582 in Utah. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of income in Colorado and $133,317 in Utah; the median household earns $97,113 and $96,658.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$1,834 (0%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $534,582#45 of 50 | -$1,8340% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.9 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +1.5%#32 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +1.2% | UT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$281 (+17%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,641#22 of 50 | +$281+17% | $1,948 | UT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,441 (+4%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $133,317#42 of 50 | +$5,441+4% | $100,006 | UT |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 5.5x#39 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
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 | UT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,741 | $2,750 |
| Income needed vs. median | +43% | +38% |
| Five-year change | +6.8% | +13.8% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Denver | Salt Lake City |
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 Utah?
Median household income is about the same, $97,113 in Colorado and $96,658 in Utah, with unemployment at 4% and 3.6%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 17 after adjusting for local costs and Utah's in 0.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$455 (0%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $96,658#9 of 50 | +$4550% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 3.6%#17 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,580 (+20%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $62,444#23 of 50 | +$12,580+20% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +3.5%#3 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.91% | UT |
| Population growthGap -0.63 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +1.03%#5 of 50 | -0.63 pts | +0.51% | UT |
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 | UT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | $223,527$212,351 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | $69,647$66,165 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Software Developers | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | $141,301$134,236 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Registered Nurses | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | $88,476$84,052 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Electricians | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | $63,815$60,624 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Civil Engineers | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | $95,153$90,395 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | $77,691$73,806 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | $48,860$46,417 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| General & Operations Managers | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | $104,626$99,395 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | $55,009$52,259 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | $110,967$105,419 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | $58,598$55,668 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | $68,495$65,070 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Lawyers | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | $154,705$146,970 in Salt Lake City | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | $57,287$54,423 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | $46,431$44,109 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | $34,208$32,498 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | $54,477$51,753 in Salt Lake City | CO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | $68,679$65,245 in Salt Lake City | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | $85,746$81,459 in Salt Lake City | 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 Utah?
Utah is safer: 236 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 2,144 and 1,416 per 100,000.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +186 (+79%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 236#17 of 50 | +186+79% | 328 | UT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +728 (+51%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,416#23 of 50 | +728+51% | 1,535 | UT |
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
- Riverton, UT62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Colorado or Utah?
Utah scores higher for education (#3 of 50 vs #18), with high school graduation rates of 82.3% and 88.2%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #12); life expectancy is 78.5 years in Colorado and 79.0 in Utah.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 282#4 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 261#8 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -5.9 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 88.2%#13 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| Life expectancyGap -0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 79.0#9 of 50 | -0.5 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Adults with obesityGap -6 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 31%#9 of 50 | -6 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 8.3%#33 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 44#45 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | CO |
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
- Layton, UTeducation score 94.2
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, Utah #3. Health: Colorado #7, Utah #12.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Utah, or from Utah to Colorado?
2,489 households moved from Colorado to Utah and 2,240 moved from Utah to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 249 households for Utah. Movers to Utah reported an average income of $82,491; movers to Colorado reported $70,037. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,224 people (±1,404) moving from Colorado to Utah and 5,387 (±1,847) 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 | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +75,527 (+165%) | 121,390#11 of 50 | 45,863#29 of 50 | +75,527+165% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +67,350 (+158%) | 110,049#39 of 50 | 42,699#20 of 50 | +67,350+158% | UT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,177 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +8,177 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.0 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +0.9#20 of 50 | +1.0 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,403 (+3%) | $82,532#16 of 50 | $80,129#22 of 50 | +$2,403+3% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$9,653 (+13%) | $84,540#13 of 50 | $74,887#22 of 50 | +$9,653+13% | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.9 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +0.9#27 of 50 | -2.9 | UT |
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 Utah?
Utah 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 | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +11 places | #22score 66.1 | #11score 78.9 | +11 places | UT |
| RetireesGap +4 places | #16score 67 | #12score 72.7 | +4 places | UT |
| Remote WorkersGap +12 places | #23score 53.8 | #11score 60.5 | +12 places | UT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +13 places | #20score 56.7 | #7score 68.8 | +13 places | UT |
| Small BusinessGap +15 places | #20score 59.8 | #5score 78.2 | +15 places | UT |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -2 places | #15score 55.8 | #17score 55.1 | -2 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesUtah (#11 vs #22)
- RetireesUtah (#12 vs #16)
- Remote WorkersUtah (#11 vs #23)
- Young ProfessionalsUtah (#7 vs #20)
- Small BusinessUtah (#5 vs #20)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#15 vs #17)
Which cities stand out in Colorado and Utah?
Colorado has 20 tracked cities and Utah has 20; the largest are Denver and Salt Lake City. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ColoradoCO | UtahUT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Denver718,877 people | Salt Lake City208,007 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Broomfieldscore 68.1 | South Jordanscore 67.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K | Riverton62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pueblocost index 91.8 | Logancost index 95.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 | Murraywalkability 14.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 | St. Georgecounty median AQI 44 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Pueblo93% graduation rate | Layton94.2% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 | South Jordanmedian income $134,047 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Junction+1.8% growth | Eagle Mountain+8.5% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Colorado and Utah compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Colorado carries AA+ credit rating and Utah AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ColoradoCO | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +24 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 15%#27 of 50 | +24 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -10.4 (-37%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 28.3#27 of 50 | -10.4-37% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -28.7 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 64.9%#2 of 50 | -28.7 pts | 17.16% | UT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 23.2 min#14 of 50 | +2.5 min | 25.2 min | UT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 1.9%#16 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.2 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 15.7%#8 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 94.1%#11 of 50 | +0.8 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 | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 100#3 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | UT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.3 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 14.5%#11 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 12.39% | UT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -25 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 92%#5 of 50 | -25 pts | 74.3% | UT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$940 (+43%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $2,180#12 of 50 | +$940+43% | $3,506 | UT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +7.2%#9 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +4.66% | UT |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Colorado AA+, Utah 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).
Colorado vs Utah: 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 14 of 51, Utah on 23, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ColoradoCO | UtahUT | GapCO−UT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,473,657 (+70%) · US 6.8 million | 6 million#20 of 50 | 3.5 million#30 of 50 | +2,473,657+70% | 6.8 million | CO |
| Median household incomeGap +$455 (0%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $96,658#9 of 50 | +$4550% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 3.6%#17 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.63 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +1.03%#5 of 50 | -0.63 pts | +0.51% | UT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$12,580 (+20%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $62,444#23 of 50 | +$12,580+20% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +3.5%#3 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.91% | UT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +186 (+79%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 236#17 of 50 | +186+79% | 328 | UT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +728 (+51%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,416#23 of 50 | +728+51% | 1,535 | UT |
| High school graduation rateGap -5.9 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 88.2%#13 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 239#18 of 50 | 242#5 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 282#4 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 221#5 of 50 | 219#7 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 261#8 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 79.0#9 of 50 | -0.5 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Adults with obesityGap -6 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 31%#9 of 50 | -6 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 8.3%#33 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$1,834 (0%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $534,582#45 of 50 | -$1,8340% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.9 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +1.5%#32 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +1.2% | UT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$281 (+17%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,641#22 of 50 | +$281+17% | $1,948 | UT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,441 (+4%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $133,317#42 of 50 | +$5,441+4% | $100,006 | UT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.2 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 98.9#31 of 50 | +4.2 pts+4% | 100 | UT |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 5.5x#39 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.78¢ (+21%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 13.07¢/kWh#7 of 50 | +2.78¢+21% | 17.84¢/kWh | UT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.98 (+10%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $10.19/Mcf#6 of 50 | +$0.98+10% | $15.83/Mcf | UT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.20 (-6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.33/gal#34 of 50 | -$0.20-6% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.3 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 96.4#25 of 50 | +2.3 pts+2% | 100 | UT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,445 (+44%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $14,533#23 of 50 | +$6,445+44% | $15,633 | UT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.73 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 9.46%#37 of 50 | -0.73 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.15 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 4.55%#19 of 50 | -0.15 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 0.55%#6 of 50 | -0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.47 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 7.42%#31 of 50 | +0.47 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 100#3 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | UT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.3 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 14.5%#11 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 12.39% | UT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -25 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 92%#5 of 50 | -25 pts | 74.3% | UT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$940 (+43%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $2,180#12 of 50 | +$940+43% | $3,506 | UT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.7 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +7.2%#9 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +4.66% | UT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -2 pts (-5%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 44#45 of 50 | -2 pts-5% | 38.8 | CO |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +24 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 15%#27 of 50 | +24 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -10.4 (-37%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 28.3#27 of 50 | -10.4-37% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -28.7 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 64.9%#2 of 50 | -28.7 pts | 17.16% | UT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 23.2 min#14 of 50 | +2.5 min | 25.2 min | UT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 1.9%#16 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.2 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 15.7%#8 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 94.1%#11 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +75,527 (+165%) · US 78,682 | 121,390#11 of 50 | 45,863#29 of 50 | +75,527+165% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +67,350 (+158%) · US 78,715 | 110,049#39 of 50 | 42,699#20 of 50 | +67,350+158% | 78,715 | UT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,177 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +8,177 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.0 · US +0.4 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +0.9#20 of 50 | +1.0 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,403 (+3%) · US $77,690 | $82,532#16 of 50 | $80,129#22 of 50 | +$2,403+3% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$9,653 (+13%) · US $77,024 | $84,540#13 of 50 | $74,887#22 of 50 | +$9,653+13% | $77,024 | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.9 · US +1.1 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +0.9#27 of 50 | -2.9 | +1.1 | UT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$11,152 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$24,178#36 of 50 | -$11,152 | -$11,758 | UT |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,071 · US +$31,418 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$24,094#42 of 50 | +$1,071 | +$31,418 | CO |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,692 · US +$35,970 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$26,794#41 of 50 | +$1,692 | +$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 Utah numbers say when read together.
Utah ranks higher overall
Utah leads 6 of the 11 categories to Colorado's 4, with 1 even; Colorado is ahead on environment and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Colorado is ahead on 14 and Utah on 23.
Utah is cheaper day to day
Utah's cost of living index is 98.9 against 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). The typical home costs $532,748 in Colorado and $534,582 in Utah. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 a year after typical costs in Colorado and -$24,178 in Utah.
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); Utah collects 9.46% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Utah is safer
Median household income is $97,113 in Colorado and $96,658 in Utah, with unemployment at 4% and 3.6%. Violent crime runs 422 per 100,000 residents in Colorado and 236 in Utah.
Moves between the two run about even
5,224 people moved from Colorado to Utah and 5,387 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Utah fits families and retirees better
For families, Colorado ranks #22 of 50 and Utah #11; for retirees, Colorado ranks #16 and Utah #12.
Colorado vs Utah: frequently asked questions
Is Colorado or Utah better to live in?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Utah #6 as of the latest release. Utah is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 98.9 vs 103.1), carries a 0.7-point higher tax burden, and has a 44% lower violent crime rate. Utah scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Colorado cheaper than Utah?
Utah is cheaper than Colorado: cost of living index 98.9 vs 103.1 (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 -$24,178 in Utah. The typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $534,582 in Utah.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Utah?
Colorado has the lower tax burden: 8.73% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.46% in Utah. Colorado's top income tax rate is 4.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.49% and its combined sales tax 7.89%; Utah's are 4.55%, 0.55% and 7.42%.
Is Colorado safer than Utah?
Utah is safer: 236 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado, per the FBI. Colorado ranks #43 of 50 for violent crime and Utah #17. Property crime is 2,144 per 100,000 in Colorado and 1,416 in Utah. The safest tracked cities are Castle Rock, CO, and Riverton, UT.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or Utah?
Typical home values are about the same: $532,748 in Colorado and $534,582 in Utah. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of household income in Colorado and $133,317 in Utah, against median incomes of $97,113 and $96,658.
Do people earn more in Colorado or Utah?
Colorado and Utah pay about the same: median household income is $97,113 vs $96,658, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Colorado and 3.6% in Utah. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 17 after adjusting for local costs and Utah's in 0, with 3 even.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Utah or from Utah to Colorado?
2,489 households moved from Colorado to Utah and 2,240 moved from Utah to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 249 households for Utah. Movers to Utah reported an average income of $82,491; movers to Colorado reported $70,037. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,224 people (±1,404) moving from Colorado to Utah and 5,387 (±1,847) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Colorado or Utah?
Utah is the better fit for retirees: #12 of 50 on the retiree index vs #16 for Colorado. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Utah has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$28,486 left after typical costs in Colorado and +$26,794 in Utah.
Which is better for families, Colorado or Utah?
Utah is the better fit for families: #11 of 50 on the families index vs #22 for Colorado. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in Colorado and $14,533 in Utah. High school graduation rates are 82.3% and 88.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 after typical costs in Colorado and -$24,178 in Utah.
Is Utah better than Colorado?
Yes: Utah ranks higher than Colorado overall, #6 of 50 vs #18, with a composite score of 75.4 to 64.7. Utah leads 6 of 11 categories and Colorado leads 4, 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 Utah.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,489 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).