Florida vs North Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. North Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89 vs 103.4), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 7% lower violent crime rate. North Dakota scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 0.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 59% lower in North Dakota ($1,100 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 27% lower in North Dakota ($79,542 vs. $108,280 in Florida).
- Residential electricity price is 23% lower in North Dakota (11.81¢/kWh vs. 15.24¢/kWh in Florida).
| Measure | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -15.6 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 75.5#5 of 50 · A+ | -15.6 pts | — | ND |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.4 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +14.4 pts+16% | 100 | ND |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$9,364 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | -$9,364 | -$11,758 | ND |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$83,177 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$83,177+28% | $368,697 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.12 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | -0.12 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +19 (+7%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +19+7% | 328 | ND |
| Median household incomeGap -$136 (0%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | -$1360% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +55,395 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +55,395 | -33 | FL |
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 Florida or North Dakota better to live in?
North Dakota scores higher overall: 75.5 to 59.9 out of 100, #5 of 50 against #21. Florida leads 0 of 11 categories, North Dakota leads 8, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -18.7 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 63.7#8 · A | -18.7 pts | ND |
| Safety12% of scoregap +2.9 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 70.2#27 · C+ | +2.9 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +1.7 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 58.8#23 · B | +1.7 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.2 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 65.3#17 · B+ | -4.2 pts | ND |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -21.6 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 83.5#9 · A | -21.6 pts | ND |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +0.4 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 69.8#11 · B+ | +0.4 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap -6.8 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 51.7#8 · A | -6.8 pts | ND |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -11 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 54.6#14 · B+ | -11 pts | ND |
| Livability7% of scoregap -15.2 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 42.1#13 · B+ | -15.2 pts | ND |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -11.3 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 39.1#14 · B+ | -11.3 pts | ND |
| Environment4% of scoregap -4.5 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 38.5#27 · C+ | -4.5 pts | ND |
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 Florida cheaper than North Dakota?
North Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 89 vs 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $9,364 more a year in North Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.4 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +14.4 pts+16% | 100 | ND |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | +2.4 pts+3% | 100 | ND |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.43¢ (+29%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +3.43¢+29% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$15.98 (+168%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | +$15.98+168% | $15.83/Mcf | ND |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.23 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | -$0.23-7% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,949 (+16%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | +$1,949+16% | $15,633 | ND |
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 | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,087 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$36,471costs $38,529 | -$3,087 | ND |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,295 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$28,354costs $46,646 | -$4,295 | ND |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$9,364 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$1,122costs $76,122 | -$9,364 | ND |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,904 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$40,903costs $34,097 | -$3,904 | ND |
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 | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$5,232 | $25,862 | $20,630 | +$5,232 | ND |
| ChildcareGap +$3,898 | $28,460 | $24,562 | +$3,898 | ND |
| UtilitiesGap +$691 | $4,963 | $4,272 | +$691 | ND |
| GroceriesGap +$270 | $11,049 | $10,779 | +$270 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$723 | $9,680 | $10,403 | -$723 | FL |
| State and local taxesGap -$4 | $5,472 | $5,476 | -$4 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or North Dakota?
Florida and North Dakota collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 6.61%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.12 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | -0.12 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -2.5 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.17 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | -0.17 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.11 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | -0.11 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 Florida or North Dakota?
Homes cost 28% more in Florida: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $79,542 in North Dakota; the median household earns $77,735 and $77,871.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$83,177 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$83,177+28% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -6.7 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -6.7 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,566 (+142%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$1,566+142% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$28,738 (+36%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$28,738+36% | $100,006 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1x (+26%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +1x+26% | 4.6x | ND |
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.
| FL | ND | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $1,504 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +19% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Hot |
| Largest metro | Miami | Fargo |
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 Florida or North Dakota?
Median household income is about the same, $77,735 in Florida and $77,871 in North Dakota, with unemployment at 3.9% and 2.6%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 10 after adjusting for local costs and North Dakota's in 3.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$136 (0%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | -$1360% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 3.95% | ND |
| GDP per capitaGap -$13,159 (-18%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | -$13,159-18% | $64,333 | ND |
| Real GDP growthGap +4.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +4.5 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.1 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | +0.1 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 | FL | ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $97,121$86,438 in Fargo | FL |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $141,894$126,286 in Fargo | FL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $52,555$46,774 in Fargo | FL |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $121,375$108,024 in Fargo | FL |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $81,213$72,280 in Fargo | FL |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $98,070$87,282 in Fargo | FL |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $43,729$38,919 in Fargo | FL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $209,320$186,295 in Fargo | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $30,856$27,462 in Fargo | FL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $69,862$62,177 in Fargo | ND |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $64,757$57,634 in Fargo | FL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $79,062$70,365 in Fargo | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $90,154$80,237 in Fargo | Even |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $58,621$52,173 in Fargo | FL |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $42,722$38,023 in Fargo | ND |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $53,196$47,344 in Fargo | ND |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $72,022$64,100 in Fargo | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $55,304$49,221 in Fargo | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $53,440$47,562 in Fargo | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $64,392$57,309 in Fargo | 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 Florida safer than North Dakota?
North Dakota is safer: 257 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,698 per 100,000. Florida and North Dakota show the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags their latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +19 (+7%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +19+7% | 328 | ND |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -296 (-17%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | -296-17% | 1,535 | FL |
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.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- Lincoln, ND44 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or North Dakota?
North Dakota scores higher for education (#17 of 50 vs #23), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 85.1%. They are close on health (#19 and #23); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 77.9 in North Dakota.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | -13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.2 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | -7.2 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.8 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | +4.8 pts | 7.6% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | ND |
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).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- Beulah, NDeducation score 95
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Florida #23, North Dakota #17. Health: Florida #19, North Dakota #23.
Are more people moving from Florida to North Dakota, or from North Dakota to Florida?
518 households moved from Florida to North Dakota and 596 moved from North Dakota to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 78 households for Florida. Movers to North Dakota reported an average income of $50,977; movers to Florida reported $88,112. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,497 people (±1,576) moving from Florida to North Dakota and 901 (±496) 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 | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +340,331 (+2,470%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +340,331+2,470% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +284,936 (+2,061%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +284,936+2,061% | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +55,395 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +55,395 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.5 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | +2.5 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$67,943 (+124%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$67,943+124% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,330 (+17%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | +$11,330+17% | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.4 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | +0.4 | FL |
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, Florida or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +19 places | #24score 65.4 | #5score 81.1 | +19 places | ND |
| RetireesGap +14 places | #18score 66.2 | #4score 79.1 | +14 places | ND |
| Remote WorkersGap +22 places | #27score 51.6 | #5score 73.2 | +22 places | ND |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +21 places | #24score 53.9 | #3score 75.9 | +21 places | ND |
| Small BusinessGap +16 places | #19score 62.4 | #3score 79.1 | +16 places | ND |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +15 places | #26score 44.3 | #11score 59.9 | +15 places | ND |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNorth Dakota (#5 vs #24)
- RetireesNorth Dakota (#4 vs #18)
- Remote WorkersNorth Dakota (#5 vs #27)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Dakota (#3 vs #24)
- Small BusinessNorth Dakota (#3 vs #19)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNorth Dakota (#11 vs #26)
Which cities stand out in Florida and North Dakota?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and North Dakota has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Fargo. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | North DakotaND |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Fargo131,627 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | West Fargoscore 69.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Lincoln44 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Grand Forkscost index 86.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | West Fargowalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Minotcounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Beulah95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Horacemedian income $138,578 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Horace+12.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and North Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and North Dakota AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -31 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | -31 pts | 29.34% | ND |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -30.2 (-57%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | -30.2-57% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +22.4 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +22.4 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +11.4 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +11.4 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +8.4 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +8.4 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 92.67% | FL |
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 | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -6.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -6.9 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +12 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +12 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$230 (-11%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | -$230-11% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | ND |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, North Dakota 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).
Florida vs North Dakota: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Florida is ahead on 19 of 51, North Dakota on 22, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | North DakotaND | GapFL−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +22,663,160 (+2,835%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 799,358#47 of 50 | +22,663,160+2,835% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$136 (0%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | -$1360% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 3.95% | ND |
| Population growthGap +0.1 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$13,159 (-18%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | -$13,159-18% | $64,333 | ND |
| Real GDP growthGap +4.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +4.5 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +19 (+7%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +19+7% | 328 | ND |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -296 (-17%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | -296-17% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 241#6 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | -13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 216#21 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.2 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | -7.2 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.8 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | +4.8 pts | 7.6% | ND |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$83,177 (+28%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$83,177+28% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -6.7 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -6.7 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,566 (+142%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$1,566+142% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$28,738 (+36%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$28,738+36% | $100,006 | ND |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.4 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +14.4 pts+16% | 100 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1x (+26%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +1x+26% | 4.6x | ND |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.43¢ (+29%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +3.43¢+29% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$15.98 (+168%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | +$15.98+168% | $15.83/Mcf | ND |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.23 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | -$0.23-7% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | +2.4 pts+3% | 100 | ND |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,949 (+16%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | +$1,949+16% | $15,633 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.12 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | -0.12 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -2.5 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.17 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | -0.17 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.11 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | -0.11 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -6.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -6.9 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +12 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +12 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$230 (-11%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | -$230-11% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | ND |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -31 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | -31 pts | 29.34% | ND |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -30.2 (-57%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | -30.2-57% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +22.4 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +22.4 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +11.4 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +11.4 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +8.4 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +8.4 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +340,331 (+2,470%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +340,331+2,470% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +284,936 (+2,061%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +284,936+2,061% | 78,715 | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +55,395 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +55,395 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.5 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | +2.5 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$67,943 (+124%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$67,943+124% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,330 (+17%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | +$11,330+17% | $77,024 | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.4 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | +0.4 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$9,364 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | -$9,364 | -$11,758 | ND |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,087 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$36,471#9 of 50 | -$3,087 | +$31,418 | ND |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,904 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$40,903#10 of 50 | -$3,904 | +$35,970 | ND |
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 Florida and North Dakota numbers say when read together.
North Dakota ranks higher overall
North Dakota leads 8 of the 11 categories to Florida's 0, with 3 even. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 19 and North Dakota on 22.
North Dakota is cheaper day to day
North Dakota's cost of living index is 89 against 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $292,293 in North Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
Tax burdens are close
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); North Dakota collects 6.61% (low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
North Dakota is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $77,871 in North Dakota, with unemployment at 3.9% and 2.6%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 257 in North Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
1,497 people moved from Florida to North Dakota and 901 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and North Dakota #5; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and North Dakota #4.
Florida vs North Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or North Dakota better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. North Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89 vs 103.4), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 7% lower violent crime rate. North Dakota scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 0.
Is Florida cheaper than North Dakota?
North Dakota is cheaper than Florida: cost of living index 89 vs 103.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and -$1,122 in North Dakota. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $292,293 in North Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or North Dakota?
Florida and North Dakota have similar tax burdens: 6.49% vs 6.61% of income in state and local taxes. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; North Dakota's are 2.5%, 0.99% and 7.09%.
Is Florida safer than North Dakota?
North Dakota is safer: 257 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and North Dakota #22. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,698 in North Dakota. Florida and North Dakota show the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags their latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Pembroke Pines, FL, and Lincoln, ND.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or North Dakota?
Homes are 28% more expensive in Florida: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $79,542 in North Dakota, against median incomes of $77,735 and $77,871.
Do people earn more in Florida or North Dakota?
Florida and North Dakota pay about the same: median household income is $77,735 vs $77,871, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 2.6% in North Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 10 after adjusting for local costs and North Dakota's in 3, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to North Dakota or from North Dakota to Florida?
518 households moved from Florida to North Dakota and 596 moved from North Dakota to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 78 households for Florida. Movers to North Dakota reported an average income of $50,977; movers to Florida reported $88,112. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,497 people (±1,576) moving from Florida to North Dakota and 901 (±496) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #4 of 50 on the retiree index vs #18 for Florida. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$40,903 in North Dakota.
Which is better for families, Florida or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for families: #5 of 50 on the families index vs #24 for Florida. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $12,281 in North Dakota. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 85.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
Is North Dakota better than Florida?
Yes: North Dakota ranks higher than Florida overall, #5 of 50 vs #21, with a composite score of 75.5 to 59.9. North Dakota leads 8 of 11 categories and Florida leads 0. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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