Colorado vs Wisconsin: Which Is Better to Live In?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Wisconsin #11 as of the latest release. Wisconsin is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.1 vs 103.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 43% lower violent crime rate. Wisconsin scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 5.
- Property crime rate is 53% lower in Wisconsin (1,017 vs. 2,144 in Colorado).
- Violent crime rate is 43% lower in Wisconsin (240 vs. 422 in Colorado).
- Typical home value is 36% lower in Wisconsin ($339,699 vs. $532,748 in Colorado).
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -5.9 pts | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | 70.6#11 of 50 · B+ | -5.9 pts | — | WI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | +9 pts+10% | 100 | WI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$14,333 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$20,997#32 of 50 | -$14,333 | -$11,758 | WI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$193,049 (+57%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | +$193,049+57% | $368,697 | WI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.42 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | +0.42 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +181 (+75%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +181+75% | 328 | WI |
| Median household incomeGap +$19,625 (+25%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | +$19,625+25% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap -8 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | -8 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| Life expectancyGap +0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | +0.4 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +10,825 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | +10,825 | -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 Wisconsin better to live in?
Wisconsin scores higher overall: 70.6 to 64.7 out of 100, #11 of 50 against #18. Colorado leads 5 of 11 categories, Wisconsin leads 5, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +5.5 | 15% | 60.3#9 · A | 54.8#13 · B+ | +5.5 pts | CO |
| Safety12% of scoregap -31.2 | 12% | 50.4#46 · D | 81.6#8 · A | -31.2 pts | WI |
| Health12% of scoregap +14.9 | 12% | 75.4#7 · A | 60.5#18 · B+ | +14.9 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap -11.2 | 12% | 65.3#18 · B+ | 76.5#4 · A+ | -11.2 pts | WI |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -16.7 | 10% | 53.1#38 · C | 69.8#25 · B | -16.7 pts | WI |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -3.2 | 8% | 60.4#22 · B | 63.6#18 · B+ | -3.2 pts | WI |
| Growth7% of scoregap -9 | 7% | 31.0#33 · C+ | 40.0#26 · B | -9 pts | WI |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +9.1 | 7% | 61.4#3 · A+ | 52.3#22 · B | +9.1 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap -1.7 | 7% | 34.2#24 · B | 35.9#18 · B+ | -1.7 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +20.6 | 6% | 44.5#9 · A | 23.9#25 · B | +20.6 pts | CO |
| Environment4% of scoregap +5.3 | 4% | 45.9#20 · B | 40.6#26 · B | +5.3 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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is cheaper: cost of living index 94.1 vs 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $14,333 more a year in Wisconsin after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | +9 pts+10% | 100 | WI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 94.3#8 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | WI |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.31¢ (-13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 18.16¢/kWh#36 of 50 | -2.31¢-13% | 17.84¢/kWh | CO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.43 (+4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $10.74/Mcf#8 of 50 | +$0.43+4% | $15.83/Mcf | WI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.15 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.28/gal#30 of 50 | -$0.15-5% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,374 (+13%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $18,604#36 of 50 | +$2,374+13% | $15,633 | WI |
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 | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$5,485 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$30,650costs $44,350 | -$5,485 | WI |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$7,505 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$22,095costs $52,904 | -$7,505 | WI |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$14,333 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | -$20,997costs $95,997 | -$14,333 | WI |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$6,669 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$35,155costs $39,845 | -$6,669 | WI |
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 | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$8,923 | $34,937 | $26,014 | +$8,923 | WI |
| ChildcareGap +$4,748 | $41,956 | $37,208 | +$4,748 | WI |
| UtilitiesGap +$432 | $4,949 | $4,517 | +$432 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$496 | $11,117 | $10,621 | +$496 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$472 | $9,837 | $10,309 | -$472 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$207 | $7,535 | $7,328 | +$207 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Wisconsin?
Colorado and Wisconsin collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.73% vs 8.31%. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Wisconsin has high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.42 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | +0.42 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.25 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 7.65%#40 of 50 | -3.25 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -1.1 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 1.59%#43 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.17 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 5.72%#9 of 50 | +2.17 pts | 6.66% | WI |
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 Wisconsin?
Homes cost 57% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $532,748 in Colorado vs $339,699 in Wisconsin. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of income in Colorado and $95,433 in Wisconsin; the median household earns $97,113 and $77,488.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$193,049 (+57%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | +$193,049+57% | $368,697 | WI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -6.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +5.1%#5 of 50 | -6.5 pts | +1.2% | WI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$359 (+23%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,563#19 of 50 | +$359+23% | $1,948 | WI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$43,325 (+45%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $95,433#25 of 50 | +$43,325+45% | $100,006 | WI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.1x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 4.4x#25 of 50 | +1.1x+25% | 4.6x | WI |
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 | WI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,741 | $1,748 |
| Income needed vs. median | +43% | +23% |
| Five-year change | +6.8% | +31.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Denver | Milwaukee |
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 Wisconsin?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $77,488, with unemployment at 4% in Colorado and 3.2% in Wisconsin. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Wisconsin's in 5.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$19,625 (+25%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | +$19,625+25% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 3.2%#8 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | WI |
| GDP per capitaGap +$15,209 (+25%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $59,815#30 of 50 | +$15,209+25% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.6%#32 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Population growthGap +0.14 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.26%#36 of 50 | +0.14 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 | WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | $235,570$219,080 in Madison | CO |
| Lawyers | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | $159,830$148,642 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Software Developers | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | $143,200$133,176 in Milwaukee | CO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | $72,169$67,117 in Madison | CO |
| Civil Engineers | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | $105,622$98,228 in Madison | WI |
| Electricians | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | $66,432$61,782 in Milwaukee | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | $44,939$41,793 in Madison | CO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | $71,514$66,508 in Madison | WI |
| Registered Nurses | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | $93,505$86,960 in Milwaukee | CO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | $59,692$55,514 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | $80,384$74,757 in Madison | CO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | $112,575$104,695 in Madison | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | $61,763$57,440 in Madison | WI |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | $57,405$53,387 in Milwaukee | CO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | $88,282$82,102 in Madison | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | $52,176$48,524 in Milwaukee | CO |
| General & Operations Managers | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | $108,261$100,683 in Madison | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | $60,992$56,723 in Madison | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | $70,619$65,676 in Madison | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | $36,595$34,033 in Milwaukee | 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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is safer: 240 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 2,144 and 1,017 per 100,000.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +181 (+75%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +181+75% | 328 | WI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1,127 (+111%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,017#5 of 50 | +1,127+111% | 1,535 | WI |
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
- New Berlin, WI47 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Colorado or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin scores higher for education (#4 of 50 vs #18), with high school graduation rates of 82.3% and 90.3%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #18); life expectancy is 78.5 years in Colorado and 78.1 in Wisconsin.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 283#2 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 260#13 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -8 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | -8 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| Life expectancyGap +0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | +0.4 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -12.4 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 37.4%#41 of 50 | -12.4 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.6 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 5.3%#10 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 7.6% | WI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+14%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 37#16 of 50 | +5 pts+14% | 38.8 | WI |
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
- Brookfield, WIeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Colorado #18, Wisconsin #4. Health: Colorado #7, Wisconsin #18.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Wisconsin, or from Wisconsin to Colorado?
1,771 households moved from Colorado to Wisconsin and 2,103 moved from Wisconsin to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 332 households for Colorado. Movers to Wisconsin reported an average income of $76,264; movers to Colorado reported $76,448. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,372 people (±792) moving from Colorado to Wisconsin and 2,273 (±995) 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 | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +64,715 (+114%) | 121,390#11 of 50 | 56,675#24 of 50 | +64,715+114% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +53,890 (+96%) | 110,049#39 of 50 | 56,159#26 of 50 | +53,890+96% | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +10,825 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | +10,825 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.8 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +0.1#25 of 50 | +1.8 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$10,159 (+14%) | $82,532#16 of 50 | $72,373#32 of 50 | +$10,159+14% | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,154 (+14%) | $84,540#13 of 50 | $74,386#24 of 50 | +$10,154+14% | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.2 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +1.2#23 of 50 | -3.2 | WI |
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 Wisconsin?
Colorado is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; Wisconsin is the better fit for families, 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 | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +18 places | #22score 66.1 | #4score 81.6 | +18 places | WI |
| RetireesGap +3 places | #16score 67 | #13score 72.5 | +3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +11 places | #23score 53.8 | #12score 59.9 | +11 places | WI |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +8 places | #20score 56.7 | #12score 63.5 | +8 places | WI |
| Small BusinessGap +9 places | #20score 59.8 | #11score 68.2 | +9 places | WI |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -7 places | #15score 55.8 | #22score 50.4 | -7 places | CO |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWisconsin (#4 vs #22)
- RetireesEven (#16 vs #13)
- Remote WorkersWisconsin (#12 vs #23)
- Young ProfessionalsWisconsin (#12 vs #20)
- Small BusinessWisconsin (#11 vs #20)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsColorado (#15 vs #22)
Which cities stand out in Colorado and Wisconsin?
Colorado has 20 tracked cities and Wisconsin has 20; the largest are Denver and Milwaukee. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Denver718,877 people | Milwaukee566,973 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Broomfieldscore 68.1 | Brookfieldscore 71.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K | New Berlin47 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pueblocost index 91.8 | Fond du Laccost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 | West Alliswalkability 14.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 | Wausaucounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Pueblo93% graduation rate | Brookfield98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 | Brookfieldmedian income $129,548 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Junction+1.8% growth | Menomonee Falls+1.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Colorado and Wisconsin compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Colorado carries AA+ credit rating and Wisconsin AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +26 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 13%#31 of 50 | +26 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -7.5 (-30%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 25.4#23 of 50 | -7.5-30% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +30.4 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 5.8%#32 of 50 | +30.4 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 22.7 min#10 of 50 | +3 min | 25.2 min | WI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 1.4%#20 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +8.1 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 11.8%#27 of 50 | +8.1 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 92.3%#32 of 50 | +2.6 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 | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 90#30 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 8.2%#36 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap -33 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 100%#2 of 50 | -33 pts | 74.3% | WI |
| State debt per capitaGap +$260 (+9%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $2,860#25 of 50 | +$260+9% | $3,506 | WI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +5.8%#16 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +4.66% | WI |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Colorado AA+, Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin: 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 20 of 51, Wisconsin on 24, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WisconsinWI | GapCO−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +39,774 (+1%) · US 6.8 million | 6 million#20 of 50 | 6 million#21 of 50 | +39,774+1% | 6.8 million | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$19,625 (+25%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | +$19,625+25% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 3.2%#8 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | WI |
| Population growthGap +0.14 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.26%#36 of 50 | +0.14 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$15,209 (+25%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $59,815#30 of 50 | +$15,209+25% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.6%#32 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +181 (+75%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +181+75% | 328 | WI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1,127 (+111%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,017#5 of 50 | +1,127+111% | 1,535 | WI |
| High school graduation rateGap -8 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | -8 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 237 | 239#18 of 50 | 239#14 of 50 | -0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 283#2 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 221#5 of 50 | 215#22 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 260#13 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | +0.4 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -12.4 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 37.4%#41 of 50 | -12.4 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.6 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 5.3%#10 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 7.6% | WI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$193,049 (+57%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | +$193,049+57% | $368,697 | WI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -6.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +5.1%#5 of 50 | -6.5 pts | +1.2% | WI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$359 (+23%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,563#19 of 50 | +$359+23% | $1,948 | WI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$43,325 (+45%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $95,433#25 of 50 | +$43,325+45% | $100,006 | WI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | +9 pts+10% | 100 | WI |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.1x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 4.4x#25 of 50 | +1.1x+25% | 4.6x | WI |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.31¢ (-13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 18.16¢/kWh#36 of 50 | -2.31¢-13% | 17.84¢/kWh | CO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.43 (+4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $10.74/Mcf#8 of 50 | +$0.43+4% | $15.83/Mcf | WI |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.15 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.28/gal#30 of 50 | -$0.15-5% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.4 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 94.3#8 of 50 | +4.4 pts+5% | 100 | WI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,374 (+13%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $18,604#36 of 50 | +$2,374+13% | $15,633 | WI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.42 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | +0.42 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.25 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 7.65%#40 of 50 | -3.25 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -1.1 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 1.59%#43 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.17 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 5.72%#9 of 50 | +2.17 pts | 6.66% | WI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 90#30 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 8.2%#36 of 50 | +5 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap -33 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 100%#2 of 50 | -33 pts | 74.3% | WI |
| State debt per capitaGap +$260 (+9%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $2,860#25 of 50 | +$260+9% | $3,506 | WI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +5.8%#16 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +4.66% | WI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+14%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 37#16 of 50 | +5 pts+14% | 38.8 | WI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +26 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 13%#31 of 50 | +26 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -7.5 (-30%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 25.4#23 of 50 | -7.5-30% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +30.4 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 5.8%#32 of 50 | +30.4 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 22.7 min#10 of 50 | +3 min | 25.2 min | WI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 1.4%#20 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +8.1 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 11.8%#27 of 50 | +8.1 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 92.3%#32 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +64,715 (+114%) · US 78,682 | 121,390#11 of 50 | 56,675#24 of 50 | +64,715+114% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +53,890 (+96%) · US 78,715 | 110,049#39 of 50 | 56,159#26 of 50 | +53,890+96% | 78,715 | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +10,825 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | +10,825 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.8 · US +0.4 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +0.1#25 of 50 | +1.8 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$10,159 (+14%) · US $77,690 | $82,532#16 of 50 | $72,373#32 of 50 | +$10,159+14% | $77,690 | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,154 (+14%) · US $77,024 | $84,540#13 of 50 | $74,386#24 of 50 | +$10,154+14% | $77,024 | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.2 · US +1.1 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +1.2#23 of 50 | -3.2 | +1.1 | WI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$14,333 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$20,997#32 of 50 | -$14,333 | -$11,758 | WI |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$5,485 · US +$31,418 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$30,650#26 of 50 | -$5,485 | +$31,418 | WI |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$6,669 · US +$35,970 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$35,155#26 of 50 | -$6,669 | +$35,970 | WI |
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 Wisconsin numbers say when read together.
Wisconsin ranks higher overall
Wisconsin leads 5 of the 11 categories to Colorado's 5, with 1 even; Colorado is ahead on outdoor access and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Colorado is ahead on 20 and Wisconsin on 24.
Wisconsin is cheaper day to day
Wisconsin's cost of living index is 94.1 against 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). The typical home costs $532,748 in Colorado and $339,699 in Wisconsin. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 a year after typical costs in Colorado and -$20,997 in Wisconsin.
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); Wisconsin collects 8.31% (high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax).
Colorado pays more
Median household income is $97,113 in Colorado and $77,488 in Wisconsin, with unemployment at 4% and 3.2%. Violent crime runs 422 per 100,000 residents in Colorado and 240 in Wisconsin.
Moves between the two run about even
2,372 people moved from Colorado to Wisconsin and 2,273 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Wisconsin is the better fit for families
For families, Colorado ranks #22 of 50 and Wisconsin #4; for retirees, Colorado ranks #16 and Wisconsin #13.
Colorado vs Wisconsin: frequently asked questions
Is Colorado or Wisconsin better to live in?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Wisconsin #11 as of the latest release. Wisconsin is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.1 vs 103.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 43% lower violent crime rate. Wisconsin scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Colorado cheaper than Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is cheaper than Colorado: cost of living index 94.1 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 -$20,997 in Wisconsin. The typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $339,699 in Wisconsin.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Wisconsin?
Colorado and Wisconsin have similar tax burdens: 8.73% vs 8.31% 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%; Wisconsin's are 7.65%, 1.59% and 5.72%.
Is Colorado safer than Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is safer: 240 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado, per the FBI. Colorado ranks #43 of 50 for violent crime and Wisconsin #18. Property crime is 2,144 per 100,000 in Colorado and 1,017 in Wisconsin. The safest tracked cities are Castle Rock, CO, and New Berlin, WI.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or Wisconsin?
Homes are 57% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $339,699 in Wisconsin. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of household income in Colorado and $95,433 in Wisconsin, against median incomes of $97,113 and $77,488.
Do people earn more in Colorado or Wisconsin?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $77,488 in Wisconsin, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Colorado and 3.2% in Wisconsin. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Wisconsin's in 5, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Wisconsin or from Wisconsin to Colorado?
1,771 households moved from Colorado to Wisconsin and 2,103 moved from Wisconsin to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 332 households for Colorado. Movers to Wisconsin reported an average income of $76,264; movers to Colorado reported $76,448. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,372 people (±792) moving from Colorado to Wisconsin and 2,273 (±995) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Colorado or Wisconsin?
Colorado and Wisconsin are close for retirees: #16 and #13 of 50 on the retiree index. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Wisconsin has high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$28,486 left after typical costs in Colorado and +$35,155 in Wisconsin.
Which is better for families, Colorado or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is the better fit for families: #4 of 50 on the families index vs #22 for Colorado. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in Colorado and $18,604 in Wisconsin. High school graduation rates are 82.3% and 90.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 after typical costs in Colorado and -$20,997 in Wisconsin.
Is Wisconsin better than Colorado?
Yes: Wisconsin ranks higher than Colorado overall, #11 of 50 vs #18, with a composite score of 70.6 to 64.7. Wisconsin leads 5 of 11 categories and Colorado leads 5, including outdoor access and health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Colorado vs Wisconsin.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,103 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).