Nevada vs Hawaii: Which Is Better to Live In?
Nevada ranks #40 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Nevada is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 110), has no income tax, and has a 46% higher violent crime rate. Hawaii scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 5.
- Residential electricity price is 68% lower in Nevada (13.15¢/kWh vs. 40.59¢/kWh in Hawaii).
- Typical home value is 47% lower in Nevada ($442,027 vs. $833,340 in Hawaii).
- Violent crime rate is 46% lower in Hawaii (205 vs. 379 in Nevada).
| Measure | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -19 pts | 45.8#40 of 50 · C | 64.8#17 of 50 · B+ | -19 pts | — | HI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -10 pts-9% | 100 | NV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$49,701 · US -$11,758 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$49,701 | -$11,758 | NV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$391,313 (-47%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$391,313-47% | $368,697 | NV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.3 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 8.74% | NV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +174 (+85%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +174+85% | 328 | HI |
| Median household incomeGap -$19,611 (-19%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$19,611-19% | $80,903 | HI |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.3 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| Life expectancyGap -3.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -3.6 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,574 · US -33 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +11,574 | -33 | NV |
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 Nevada or Hawaii better to live in?
Hawaii scores higher overall: 64.8 to 45.8 out of 100, #17 of 50 against #40. Nevada leads 5 of 11 categories, Hawaii leads 5, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -58.3 | 15% | 28.0#46 · D | 86.3#1 · A+ | -58.3 pts | HI |
| Safety12% of scoregap -19.8 | 12% | 55.9#42 · C | 75.7#21 · B | -19.8 pts | HI |
| Health12% of scoregap -43.7 | 12% | 44.9#34 · C+ | 88.6#2 · A+ | -43.7 pts | HI |
| Education12% of scoregap -18.8 | 12% | 40.3#45 · D | 59.1#28 · C+ | -18.8 pts | HI |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +57.3 | 10% | 61.7#33 · C+ | 4.4#50 · F | +57.3 pts | NV |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +21.1 | 8% | 57.6#28 · C+ | 36.5#48 · D | +21.1 pts | NV |
| Growth7% of scoregap +16.6 | 7% | 41.9#23 · B | 25.3#40 · C | +16.6 pts | NV |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -2 | 7% | 52.4#21 · B | 54.4#16 · B+ | -2 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +11.2 | 7% | 45.7#11 · B+ | 34.5#20 · B | +11.2 pts | NV |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +3 | 6% | 39.3#13 · B+ | 36.3#18 · B+ | +3 pts | NV |
| Environment4% of scoregap -15.4 | 4% | 41.5#24 · B | 56.9#8 · A | -15.4 pts | HI |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Nevada cheaper than Hawaii?
Nevada is cheaper: cost of living index 100 vs 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $49,701 more a year in Nevada after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -10 pts-9% | 100 | NV |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -15.3 pts (-14%) · US 100 | 96.3#24 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -15.3 pts-14% | 100 | NV |
| Residential electricity priceGap -27.44¢ (-68%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -27.44¢-68% | 17.84¢/kWh | NV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$39.24 (-75%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$39.24-75% | $15.83/Mcf | NV |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.77 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$0.77-16% | $3.32/gal | NV |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$9,463 (-38%) · US $15,633 | $15,633#28 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$9,463-38% | $15,633 | NV |
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 | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$20,472 | +$30,194costs $44,806 | +$9,722costs $65,279 | +$20,472 | NV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$25,157 | +$19,388costs $55,612 | -$5,769costs $80,769 | +$25,157 | NV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$49,701 | -$19,034costs $94,034 | -$68,735costs $143,735 | +$49,701 | NV |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$22,188 | +$33,290costs $41,710 | +$11,102costs $63,899 | +$22,188 | NV |
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 | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$23,784 | $29,032 | $52,816 | -$23,784 | NV |
| ChildcareGap -$18,926 | $31,266 | $50,192 | -$18,926 | NV |
| UtilitiesGap -$480 | $4,800 | $5,280 | -$480 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$1,724 | $10,846 | $12,570 | -$1,724 | NV |
| TransportationGap -$2,420 | $12,446 | $14,866 | -$2,420 | NV |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,367 | $5,644 | $8,011 | -$2,367 | NV |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Nevada or Hawaii?
Nevada collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.62% vs 13.92%. Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.3 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 8.74% | NV |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -11 pts · US 5.46% | none#8 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -11 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.23 pts · US 1.02% | 0.5%#4 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.23 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.74 pts · US 6.66% | 8.24%#38 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | +3.74 pts | 6.66% | HI |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Nevada or Hawaii?
Homes cost 89% more in Hawaii: a typical home value of $442,027 in Nevada vs $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $110,080 of income in Nevada and $202,402 in Hawaii; the median household earns $81,134 and $100,745.
| Measure | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$391,313 (-47%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$391,313-47% | $368,697 | NV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.9 pts · US +1.2% | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +1.2% | HI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,278 (-42%) · US $1,948 | $1,742#26 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$1,278-42% | $1,948 | NV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$92,322 (-46%) · US $100,006 | $110,080#33 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$92,322-46% | $100,006 | NV |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.9x (-35%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#38 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -2.9x-35% | 4.6x | NV |
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.
| NV | HI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,274 | $4,288 |
| Income needed vs. median | +36% | +101% |
| Five-year change | +15.6% | +16.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Las Vegas | Urban Honolulu |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Nevada or Hawaii?
Hawaii pays more: median household income $100,745 vs $81,134, with unemployment at 5.3% in Nevada and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nevada's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 9.
| Measure | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$19,611 (-19%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$19,611-19% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.9 pts · US 3.95% | 5.3%#49 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| GDP per capitaGap -$3,316 (-5%) · US $64,333 | $58,723#34 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | -$3,316-5% | $64,333 | HI |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.6 pts · US +1.91% | +5%#1 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +3.6 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Population growthGap +1.03 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#11 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +1.03 pts | +0.51% | NV |
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 | NV | HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | $81,389$78,947 in Las Vegas | $100,764$109,833 in Honolulu | HI |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $209,938$203,640 in Las Vegas | $222,456$242,477 in Honolulu | HI |
| Lawyers | $137,613$133,485 in Las Vegas | $147,403$160,669 in Honolulu | HI |
| General & Operations Managers | $96,681$93,781 in Las Vegas | $103,999$113,359 in Honolulu | HI |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $97,329$94,409 in Las Vegas | $104,027$113,389 in Honolulu | HI |
| Electricians | $59,447$57,664 in Las Vegas | $63,566$69,287 in Honolulu | HI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,171$59,336 in Las Vegas | $65,250$71,123 in Honolulu | HI |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $76,196$73,910 in Las Vegas | $72,942$79,507 in Honolulu | NV |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,427$33,394 in Las Vegas | $37,595$40,979 in Honolulu | HI |
| Software Developers | $133,486$129,481 in Las Vegas | $130,870$142,648 in Honolulu | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $78,524$76,168 in Las Vegas | $80,939$88,223 in Honolulu | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $97,688$94,757 in Las Vegas | $95,783$104,403 in Honolulu | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $43,246$41,949 in Las Vegas | $44,856$48,893 in Honolulu | HI |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,097$52,474 in Las Vegas | $52,646$57,384 in Honolulu | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $52,365$50,794 in Las Vegas | $53,672$58,503 in Honolulu | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,077$43,725 in Las Vegas | $45,961$50,097 in Honolulu | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $69,961$67,862 in Las Vegas | $70,704$77,067 in Honolulu | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,200$61,304 in Las Vegas | $63,497$69,212 in Honolulu | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $52,057$50,495 in Las Vegas | $51,849$56,515 in Honolulu | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $57,052$55,340 in Las Vegas | $57,100$62,239 in Honolulu | 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 Nevada safer than Hawaii?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 379 in Nevada (FBI). Property crime runs 1,996 and 1,604 per 100,000.
| Measure | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +174 (+85%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +174+85% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +392 (+24%) · US 1,535 | 1,996#47 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | +392+24% | 1,535 | HI |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Mesquite, NV119 violent per 100K
- No city crime data
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Nevada or Hawaii?
Hawaii scores higher for education (#28 of 50 vs #45), with high school graduation rates of 81.7% and 86%. Hawaii scores higher for health (#2 vs #34); life expectancy is 76.4 years in Nevada and 80.0 in Hawaii.
| Measure | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 265#44 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 253#42 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.3 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| Life expectancyGap -3.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -3.6 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap +7.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#26 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +7.9 pts · US 7.6% | 11.4%#47 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +7.9 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +17 pts (+71%) · US 38.8 | 41#33 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +17 pts+71% | 38.8 | HI |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Fernley, NVeducation score 87
- Honolulu, HIeducation score 86
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Nevada #45, Hawaii #28. Health: Nevada #34, Hawaii #2.
Are more people moving from Nevada to Hawaii, or from Hawaii to Nevada?
873 households moved from Nevada to Hawaii and 1,863 moved from Hawaii to Nevada in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 990 households for Nevada. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $63,394; movers to Nevada reported $67,408. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,355 people (±782) moving from Nevada to Hawaii and 2,501 (±1,347) 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 | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +41,756 (+167%) | 66,782#22 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +41,756+167% | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap +30,182 (+109%) | 57,805#27 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +30,182+109% | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,574 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +11,574 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.5 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +4.5 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$9,172 (+12%) | $87,255#12 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | +$9,172+12% | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,763 (+5%) | $74,626#23 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$3,763+5% | NV |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +10.8 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +10.8 | NV |
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, Nevada or Hawaii?
Nevada is the better fit for retirees and remote workers; Hawaii is the better fit for families, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts; 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 | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +16 places | #43score 50.2 | #27score 63 | +16 places | HI |
| RetireesGap -4 places | #35score 56.2 | #39score 54.4 | -4 places | NV |
| Remote WorkersGap -14 places | #31score 49 | #45score 40.3 | -14 places | NV |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +12 places | #37score 45.7 | #25score 53.7 | +12 places | HI |
| Small BusinessGap +3 places | #37score 46.4 | #34score 48.7 | +3 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +10 places | #24score 45.4 | #14score 56.7 | +10 places | HI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesHawaii (#27 vs #43)
- RetireesNevada (#35 vs #39)
- Remote WorkersNevada (#31 vs #45)
- Young ProfessionalsHawaii (#25 vs #37)
- Small BusinessEven (#37 vs #34)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsHawaii (#14 vs #24)
Which cities stand out in Nevada and Hawaii?
Nevada has 20 tracked cities and Hawaii has 20; the largest are Las Vegas and Honolulu. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Las Vegas660,400 people | Honolulu345,482 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Summerlin Southscore 61.3 | East Honoluluscore 68.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Mesquite119 violent per 100K | — |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pahrumpcost index 94.8 | Hilocost index 106.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Spring Valleywalkability 13.7 of 20 | Mililani Maukawalkability 14.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pahrumpcounty median AQI 26 | Kahuluicounty median AQI 21 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Fernley87% graduation rate | Honolulu86% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Spanish Springsmedian income $127,658 | East Honolulumedian income $159,518 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Fernley+2.7% growth | Honolulu-0.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Nevada and Hawaii compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Nevada carries AA credit rating and Hawaii AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 32%#20 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | NV |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.3 (-52%) · US 29.6 | 25.7#24 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -28.3-52% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap +69.8 pts · US 17.16% | 84.9%#1 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | +69.8 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | -1 min | 25.2 min | NV |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.8 pts · US 2.29% | 2.5%#12 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.4 pts · US 12.28% | 11.3%#32 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 12.28% | NV |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.1 pts · US 92.67% | 95.1%#2 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 92.67% | NV |
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 | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#36 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | HI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.6 pts · US 12.39% | 7.4%#40 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 12.39% | NV |
| Pension funded ratioGap +17 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#24 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +17 pts | 74.3% | NV |
| State debt per capitaGap -$4,170 (-63%) · US $3,506 | $2,410#18 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$4,170-63% | $3,506 | NV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +4.66% | NV |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Nevada AA, Hawaii AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Nevada vs Hawaii: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Nevada is ahead on 32 of 51, Hawaii on 14, and 5 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | NevadaNV | HawaiiHI | GapNV−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,849,368 (+129%) · US 6.8 million | 3.3 million#31 of 50 | 1.4 million#40 of 50 | +1,849,368+129% | 6.8 million | NV |
| Median household incomeGap -$19,611 (-19%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$19,611-19% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.9 pts · US 3.95% | 5.3%#49 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| Population growthGap +1.03 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#11 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +1.03 pts | +0.51% | NV |
| GDP per capitaGap -$3,316 (-5%) · US $64,333 | $58,723#34 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | -$3,316-5% | $64,333 | HI |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.6 pts · US +1.91% | +5%#1 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +3.6 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +174 (+85%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +174+85% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +392 (+24%) · US 1,535 | 1,996#47 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | +392+24% | 1,535 | HI |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.3 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 237 | 233#41 of 50 | 239#15 of 50 | -6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 265#44 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 213#35 of 50 | 216#16 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 253#42 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -3.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -3.6 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap +7.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#26 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +7.9 pts · US 7.6% | 11.4%#47 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +7.9 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$391,313 (-47%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$391,313-47% | $368,697 | NV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.9 pts · US +1.2% | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | -2.9 pts | +1.2% | HI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,278 (-42%) · US $1,948 | $1,742#26 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$1,278-42% | $1,948 | NV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$92,322 (-46%) · US $100,006 | $110,080#33 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$92,322-46% | $100,006 | NV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10 pts (-9%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -10 pts-9% | 100 | NV |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.9x (-35%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#38 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -2.9x-35% | 4.6x | NV |
| Residential electricity priceGap -27.44¢ (-68%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -27.44¢-68% | 17.84¢/kWh | NV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$39.24 (-75%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$39.24-75% | $15.83/Mcf | NV |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.77 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$0.77-16% | $3.32/gal | NV |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -15.3 pts (-14%) · US 100 | 96.3#24 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -15.3 pts-14% | 100 | NV |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$9,463 (-38%) · US $15,633 | $15,633#28 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$9,463-38% | $15,633 | NV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.3 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 8.74% | NV |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -11 pts · US 5.46% | none#8 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -11 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.23 pts · US 1.02% | 0.5%#4 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.23 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.74 pts · US 6.66% | 8.24%#38 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | +3.74 pts | 6.66% | HI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#36 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | HI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.6 pts · US 12.39% | 7.4%#40 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 12.39% | NV |
| Pension funded ratioGap +17 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#24 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +17 pts | 74.3% | NV |
| State debt per capitaGap -$4,170 (-63%) · US $3,506 | $2,410#18 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$4,170-63% | $3,506 | NV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +4.66% | NV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +17 pts (+71%) · US 38.8 | 41#33 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +17 pts+71% | 38.8 | HI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 32%#20 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | NV |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.3 (-52%) · US 29.6 | 25.7#24 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -28.3-52% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap +69.8 pts · US 17.16% | 84.9%#1 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | +69.8 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | -1 min | 25.2 min | NV |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.8 pts · US 2.29% | 2.5%#12 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.4 pts · US 12.28% | 11.3%#32 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 12.28% | NV |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.1 pts · US 92.67% | 95.1%#2 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 92.67% | NV |
| Households moving inIRSGap +41,756 (+167%) · US 78,682 | 66,782#22 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +41,756+167% | 78,682 | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap +30,182 (+109%) · US 78,715 | 57,805#27 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +30,182+109% | 78,715 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,574 · US -33 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +11,574 | -33 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.5 · US +0.4 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +4.5 | +0.4 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$9,172 (+12%) · US $77,690 | $87,255#12 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | +$9,172+12% | $77,690 | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,763 (+5%) · US $77,024 | $74,626#23 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$3,763+5% | $77,024 | NV |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +10.8 · US +1.1 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +10.8 | +1.1 | NV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$49,701 · US -$11,758 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$49,701 | -$11,758 | NV |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$20,472 · US +$31,418 | +$30,194#28 of 50 | +$9,722#50 of 50 | +$20,472 | +$31,418 | NV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$22,188 · US +$35,970 | +$33,290#30 of 50 | +$11,102#50 of 50 | +$22,188 | +$35,970 | NV |
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 Nevada and Hawaii numbers say when read together.
Hawaii ranks higher overall
Hawaii leads 5 of the 11 categories to Nevada's 5, with 1 even; Nevada is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Nevada is ahead on 32 and Hawaii on 14.
Nevada is cheaper day to day
Nevada's cost of living index is 100 against 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). The typical home costs $442,027 in Nevada and $833,340 in Hawaii. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,034 a year after typical costs in Nevada and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Nevada takes a smaller share in taxes
Nevada collects 8.62% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); Hawaii collects 13.92% (high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Hawaii pays more and is safer
Median household income is $81,134 in Nevada and $100,745 in Hawaii, with unemployment at 5.3% and 2.4%. Violent crime runs 379 per 100,000 residents in Nevada and 205 in Hawaii.
Moves between the two run about even
1,355 people moved from Nevada to Hawaii and 2,501 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Hawaii for families, Nevada for retirees
For families, Nevada ranks #43 of 50 and Hawaii #27; for retirees, Nevada ranks #35 and Hawaii #39.
Nevada vs Hawaii: frequently asked questions
Is Nevada or Hawaii better to live in?
Nevada ranks #40 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Nevada is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 110), has no income tax, and has a 46% higher violent crime rate. Hawaii scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Nevada cheaper than Hawaii?
Nevada is cheaper than Hawaii: cost of living index 100 vs 110 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$19,034 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Nevada, and -$68,735 in Hawaii. The typical home value is $442,027 in Nevada and $833,340 in Hawaii.
Which has lower taxes, Nevada or Hawaii?
Nevada has the lower tax burden: 8.62% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.92% in Hawaii. Nevada's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.5% and its combined sales tax 8.24%; Hawaii's are 11%, 0.27% and 4.5%.
Is Nevada safer than Hawaii?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 379 in Nevada, per the FBI. Nevada ranks #37 of 50 for violent crime and Hawaii #7. Property crime is 1,996 per 100,000 in Nevada and 1,604 in Hawaii.
Are homes more expensive in Nevada or Hawaii?
Homes are 89% more expensive in Hawaii: the typical home value is $442,027 in Nevada and $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $110,080 of household income in Nevada and $202,402 in Hawaii, against median incomes of $81,134 and $100,745.
Do people earn more in Nevada or Hawaii?
Hawaii pays more: median household income is $100,745 vs $81,134 in Nevada, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.3% in Nevada and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nevada's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 9, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Nevada to Hawaii or from Hawaii to Nevada?
873 households moved from Nevada to Hawaii and 1,863 moved from Hawaii to Nevada in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 990 households for Nevada. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $63,394; movers to Nevada reported $67,408. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,355 people (±782) moving from Nevada to Hawaii and 2,501 (±1,347) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Nevada or Hawaii?
Nevada is the better fit for retirees: #35 of 50 on the retiree index vs #39 for Hawaii. Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$33,290 left after typical costs in Nevada and +$11,102 in Hawaii.
Which is better for families, Nevada or Hawaii?
Hawaii is the better fit for families: #27 of 50 on the families index vs #43 for Nevada. Center-based infant care costs $15,633 a year in Nevada and $25,096 in Hawaii. High school graduation rates are 81.7% and 86%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,034 after typical costs in Nevada and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Is Hawaii better than Nevada?
Yes: Hawaii ranks higher than Nevada overall, #17 of 50 vs #40, with a composite score of 64.8 to 45.8. Hawaii leads 5 of 11 categories and Nevada leads 5, including affordability and fiscal health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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