Nevada vs Idaho: Which Is Better to Live In?
Nevada ranks #40 of 50 overall and Idaho #4 as of the latest release. Idaho is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 95.5 vs 100), has a 1.1-point lower tax burden, and has a 43% lower violent crime rate. Idaho scores higher overall, leading 10 of 11 categories to 1.
- Property crime rate is 70% lower in Idaho (605 vs. 1,996 in Nevada).
- Violent crime rate is 43% lower in Idaho (217 vs. 379 in Nevada).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 30% lower in Idaho ($10,887 vs. $15,633 in Nevada).
| Measure | NevadaNV | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -32.6 pts | 45.8#40 of 50 · C | 78.4#4 of 50 · A+ | -32.6 pts | — | ID |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.5 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 95.5#23 of 50 | +4.5 pts+5% | 100 | ID |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$7,143 · US -$11,758 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$7,143 | -$11,758 | ID |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$36,717 (-8%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $478,744#39 of 50 | -$36,717-8% | $368,697 | NV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.08 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 7.54%#10 of 50 | +1.08 pts | 8.74% | ID |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +162 (+75%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 217#11 of 50 | +162+75% | 328 | ID |
| Median household incomeGap -$32 (0%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $81,166#21 of 50 | -$320% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 79.9%#47 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| Life expectancyGap -2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 78.4#12 of 50 | -2.0 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,166 · US -33 | +8,977#10 of 50 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +3,166 | -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 Idaho better to live in?
Idaho scores higher overall: 78.4 to 45.8 out of 100, #4 of 50 against #40. Nevada leads 1 of 11 categories, Idaho leads 10, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | NevadaNV | IdahoID | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -22.9 | 15% | 28.0#46 · D | 50.9#19 · B | -22.9 pts | ID |
| Safety12% of scoregap -30.7 | 12% | 55.9#42 · C | 86.6#5 · A+ | -30.7 pts | ID |
| Health12% of scoregap -17 | 12% | 44.9#34 · C+ | 61.9#16 · B+ | -17 pts | ID |
| Education12% of scoregap -14.9 | 12% | 40.3#45 · D | 55.2#32 · C+ | -14.9 pts | ID |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -10.4 | 10% | 61.7#33 · C+ | 72.1#24 · B | -10.4 pts | ID |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -13.4 | 8% | 57.6#28 · C+ | 71.0#9 · A | -13.4 pts | ID |
| Growth7% of scoregap -30.7 | 7% | 41.9#23 · B | 72.6#1 · A+ | -30.7 pts | ID |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -3.4 | 7% | 52.4#21 · B | 55.8#10 · A | -3.4 pts | ID |
| Livability7% of scoregap +6.1 | 7% | 45.7#11 · B+ | 39.6#15 · B+ | +6.1 pts | NV |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -10.9 | 6% | 39.3#13 · B+ | 50.2#6 · A | -10.9 pts | ID |
| Environment4% of scoregap -28.5 | 4% | 41.5#24 · B | 70.0#4 · A+ | -28.5 pts | ID |
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 Idaho?
Idaho is cheaper: cost of living index 95.5 vs 100 in Nevada (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $7,143 more a year in Idaho after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | NevadaNV | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.5 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 95.5#23 of 50 | +4.5 pts+5% | 100 | ID |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap 0 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#24 of 50 | 96.3#21 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.33¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | +1.33¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.45 (+71%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | +$5.45+71% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.61 (+18%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | +$0.61+18% | $3.32/gal | ID |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,746 (+44%) · US $15,633 | $15,633#28 of 50 | $10,887#7 of 50 | +$4,746+44% | $15,633 | ID |
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 | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,557 | +$30,194costs $44,806 | +$26,637costs $48,363 | +$3,557 | NV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,269 | +$19,388costs $55,612 | +$17,119costs $57,881 | +$2,269 | NV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$7,143 | -$19,034costs $94,034 | -$11,891costs $86,891 | -$7,143 | ID |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,476 | +$33,290costs $41,710 | +$30,814costs $44,187 | +$2,476 | 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 | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$2,698 | $29,032 | $31,730 | -$2,698 | NV |
| ChildcareGap +$9,492 | $31,266 | $21,774 | +$9,492 | ID |
| UtilitiesGap +$216 | $4,800 | $4,584 | +$216 | Even |
| GroceriesGap $0 | $10,846 | $10,846 | $0 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$1,917 | $12,446 | $10,529 | +$1,917 | ID |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,784 | $5,644 | $7,428 | -$1,784 | NV |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Nevada or Idaho?
Idaho collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.54% vs 8.62%. Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Idaho has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | NevadaNV | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.08 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 7.54%#10 of 50 | +1.08 pts | 8.74% | ID |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.7 pts · US 5.46% | none#8 of 50 | 5.7%#27 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.5%#4 of 50 | 0.56%#10 of 50 | -0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.21 pts · US 6.66% | 8.24%#38 of 50 | 6.03%#14 of 50 | +2.21 pts | 6.66% | ID |
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 Idaho?
Homes cost 8% more in Idaho: a typical home value of $442,027 in Nevada vs $478,744 in Idaho. Buying the typical home takes about $110,080 of income in Nevada and $118,073 in Idaho; the median household earns $81,134 and $81,166.
| Measure | NevadaNV | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$36,717 (-8%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $478,744#39 of 50 | -$36,717-8% | $368,697 | NV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +2%#27 of 50 | -3.8 pts | +1.2% | ID |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$177 (-9%) · US $1,948 | $1,742#26 of 50 | $1,919#33 of 50 | -$177-9% | $1,948 | NV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$7,993 (-7%) · US $100,006 | $110,080#33 of 50 | $118,073#37 of 50 | -$7,993-7% | $100,006 | NV |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-8%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#38 of 50 | 5.9x#43 of 50 | -0.5x-8% | 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 | ID | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,274 | $2,463 |
| Income needed vs. median | +36% | +46% |
| Five-year change | +15.6% | +6.2% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Las Vegas | Boise City |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Nevada or Idaho?
Median household income is about the same, $81,134 in Nevada and $81,166 in Idaho, with unemployment at 5.3% and 3.7%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nevada's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Idaho's in 6.
| Measure | NevadaNV | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$32 (0%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $81,166#21 of 50 | -$320% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.6 pts · US 3.95% | 5.3%#49 of 50 | 3.7%#18 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 3.95% | ID |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,957 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $58,723#34 of 50 | $50,766#46 of 50 | +$7,957+16% | $64,333 | NV |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +5%#1 of 50 | +3%#8 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Population growthGap -0.56 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#11 of 50 | +1.44%#2 of 50 | -0.56 pts | +0.51% | ID |
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 | ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $137,613$133,485 in Las Vegas | $145,444$132,354 in Boise City | ID |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $69,961$67,862 in Las Vegas | $65,962$60,025 in Boise City | NV |
| General & Operations Managers | $96,681$93,781 in Las Vegas | $100,669$91,609 in Boise City | ID |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,097$52,474 in Las Vegas | $57,605$52,421 in Boise City | ID |
| Electricians | $59,447$57,664 in Las Vegas | $62,723$57,078 in Boise City | ID |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $97,329$94,409 in Las Vegas | $100,132$91,120 in Boise City | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,171$59,336 in Las Vegas | $63,548$57,829 in Boise City | ID |
| Registered Nurses | $81,389$78,947 in Las Vegas | $83,721$76,186 in Boise City | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $52,057$50,495 in Las Vegas | $54,186$49,309 in Boise City | ID |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $76,196$73,910 in Las Vegas | $74,170$67,495 in Boise City | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $209,938$203,640 in Las Vegas | $211,918$192,845 in Boise City | Even |
| Software Developers | $133,486$129,481 in Las Vegas | $135,305$123,128 in Boise City | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,200$61,304 in Las Vegas | $61,521$55,984 in Boise City | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,427$33,394 in Las Vegas | $32,795$29,843 in Boise City | NV |
| Accountants & Auditors | $78,524$76,168 in Las Vegas | $77,057$70,122 in Boise City | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,077$43,725 in Las Vegas | $45,982$41,844 in Boise City | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $52,365$50,794 in Las Vegas | $53,174$48,388 in Boise City | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $57,052$55,340 in Las Vegas | $56,668$51,568 in Boise City | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $43,246$41,949 in Las Vegas | $42,880$39,021 in Boise City | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $97,688$94,757 in Las Vegas | $97,456$88,685 in Boise City | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Nevada safer than Idaho?
Idaho is safer: 217 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 379 in Nevada (FBI). Property crime runs 1,996 and 605 per 100,000.
| Measure | NevadaNV | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +162 (+75%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 217#11 of 50 | +162+75% | 328 | ID |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1,391 (+230%) · US 1,535 | 1,996#47 of 50 | 605#1 of 50 | +1,391+230% | 1,535 | ID |
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
- Moscow, ID37 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Nevada or Idaho?
Idaho scores higher for education (#32 of 50 vs #45), with high school graduation rates of 81.7% and 79.9%. Idaho scores higher for health (#16 vs #34); life expectancy is 76.4 years in Nevada and 78.4 in Idaho.
| Measure | NevadaNV | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 273 | 265#44 of 50 | 278#14 of 50 | -13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 253#42 of 50 | 261#9 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 79.9%#47 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| Life expectancyGap -2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 78.4#12 of 50 | -2.0 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#26 of 50 | 32.7%#18 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 34.03% | ID |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.2 pts · US 7.6% | 11.4%#47 of 50 | 9.2%#38 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 7.6% | ID |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+21%) · US 38.8 | 41#33 of 50 | 34#6 of 50 | +7 pts+21% | 38.8 | ID |
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
- Coeur d'Alene, IDeducation score 92
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, Idaho #32. Health: Nevada #34, Idaho #16.
Are more people moving from Nevada to Idaho, or from Idaho to Nevada?
1,291 households moved from Nevada to Idaho and 939 moved from Idaho to Nevada in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 352 households for Idaho. Movers to Idaho reported an average income of $76,271; movers to Nevada reported $58,632. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,270 people (±1,674) moving from Nevada to Idaho and 2,150 (±766) 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 | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +30,951 (+86%) | 66,782#22 of 50 | 35,831#34 of 50 | +30,951+86% | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap +27,785 (+93%) | 57,805#27 of 50 | 30,020#14 of 50 | +27,785+93% | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,166 | +8,977#10 of 50 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +3,166 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 | +2.7#7 of 50 | +2.9#5 of 50 | -0.2 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,007 (+7%) | $87,255#12 of 50 | $81,248#19 of 50 | +$6,007+7% | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,565 (+16%) | $74,626#23 of 50 | $64,061#43 of 50 | +$10,565+16% | NV |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.3 | +4.6#10 of 50 | +9.9#2 of 50 | -5.3 | ID |
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 Idaho?
Idaho 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 | NevadaNV | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +36 places | #43score 50.2 | #7score 80.6 | +36 places | ID |
| RetireesGap +33 places | #35score 56.2 | #2score 84.8 | +33 places | ID |
| Remote WorkersGap +28 places | #31score 49 | #3score 80.2 | +28 places | ID |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +35 places | #37score 45.7 | #2score 77.2 | +35 places | ID |
| Small BusinessGap +35 places | #37score 46.4 | #2score 80.2 | +35 places | ID |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +20 places | #24score 45.4 | #4score 78.6 | +20 places | ID |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIdaho (#7 vs #43)
- RetireesIdaho (#2 vs #35)
- Remote WorkersIdaho (#3 vs #31)
- Young ProfessionalsIdaho (#2 vs #37)
- Small BusinessIdaho (#2 vs #37)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIdaho (#4 vs #24)
Which cities stand out in Nevada and Idaho?
Nevada has 20 tracked cities and Idaho has 20; the largest are Las Vegas and Boise. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | NevadaNV | IdahoID |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Las Vegas660,400 people | Boise237,242 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Summerlin Southscore 61.3 | Meridianscore 64.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Mesquite119 violent per 100K | Moscow37 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pahrumpcost index 94.8 | Pocatellocost index 88.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Spring Valleywalkability 13.7 of 20 | Boisewalkability 13.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pahrumpcounty median AQI 26 | Idaho Fallscounty median AQI 22 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Fernley87% graduation rate | Coeur d'Alene92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Spanish Springsmedian income $127,658 | Eaglemedian income $122,894 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Fernley+2.7% growth | Star+14.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Nevada and Idaho compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Nevada carries AA credit rating and Idaho AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | NevadaNV | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -38 pts · US 29.34% | 32%#20 of 50 | 70%#5 of 50 | -38 pts | 29.34% | ID |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +4.0 (+18%) · US 29.6 | 25.7#24 of 50 | 21.7#18 of 50 | +4.0+18% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap +22.4 pts · US 17.16% | 84.9%#1 of 50 | 62.5%#3 of 50 | +22.4 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | +3.5 min | 25.2 min | ID |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2 pts · US 2.29% | 2.5%#12 of 50 | 0.5%#39 of 50 | +2 pts | 2.29% | NV |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.4 pts · US 12.28% | 11.3%#32 of 50 | 12.7%#23 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 12.28% | ID |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.3 pts · US 92.67% | 95.1%#2 of 50 | 92.8%#25 of 50 | +2.3 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 | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#36 of 50 | 95#18 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | ID |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7.4 pts · US 12.39% | 7.4%#40 of 50 | 14.8%#9 of 50 | -7.4 pts | 12.39% | ID |
| Pension funded ratioGap -15 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#24 of 50 | 91%#6 of 50 | -15 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap +$830 (+53%) · US $3,506 | $2,410#18 of 50 | $1,580#4 of 50 | +$830+53% | $3,506 | ID |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +7.5%#8 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | ID |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Nevada AA, Idaho 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 Idaho: 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 16 of 51, Idaho on 27, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | NevadaNV | IdahoID | GapNV−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,252,455 (+62%) · US 6.8 million | 3.3 million#31 of 50 | 2 million#37 of 50 | +1,252,455+62% | 6.8 million | NV |
| Median household incomeGap -$32 (0%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $81,166#21 of 50 | -$320% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.6 pts · US 3.95% | 5.3%#49 of 50 | 3.7%#18 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 3.95% | ID |
| Population growthGap -0.56 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#11 of 50 | +1.44%#2 of 50 | -0.56 pts | +0.51% | ID |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,957 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $58,723#34 of 50 | $50,766#46 of 50 | +$7,957+16% | $64,333 | NV |
| Real GDP growthGap +2 pts · US +1.91% | +5%#1 of 50 | +3%#8 of 50 | +2 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +162 (+75%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 217#11 of 50 | +162+75% | 328 | ID |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1,391 (+230%) · US 1,535 | 1,996#47 of 50 | 605#1 of 50 | +1,391+230% | 1,535 | ID |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.8 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 79.9%#47 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 233#41 of 50 | 238#21 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 273 | 265#44 of 50 | 278#14 of 50 | -13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 213#35 of 50 | 216#18 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 253#42 of 50 | 261#9 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 78.4#12 of 50 | -2.0 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#26 of 50 | 32.7%#18 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 34.03% | ID |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.2 pts · US 7.6% | 11.4%#47 of 50 | 9.2%#38 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 7.6% | ID |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$36,717 (-8%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $478,744#39 of 50 | -$36,717-8% | $368,697 | NV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +2%#27 of 50 | -3.8 pts | +1.2% | ID |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$177 (-9%) · US $1,948 | $1,742#26 of 50 | $1,919#33 of 50 | -$177-9% | $1,948 | NV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$7,993 (-7%) · US $100,006 | $110,080#33 of 50 | $118,073#37 of 50 | -$7,993-7% | $100,006 | NV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.5 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 95.5#23 of 50 | +4.5 pts+5% | 100 | ID |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-8%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#38 of 50 | 5.9x#43 of 50 | -0.5x-8% | 4.6x | NV |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.33¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | +1.33¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.45 (+71%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | +$5.45+71% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.61 (+18%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | +$0.61+18% | $3.32/gal | ID |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap 0 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#24 of 50 | 96.3#21 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,746 (+44%) · US $15,633 | $15,633#28 of 50 | $10,887#7 of 50 | +$4,746+44% | $15,633 | ID |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.08 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 7.54%#10 of 50 | +1.08 pts | 8.74% | ID |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.7 pts · US 5.46% | none#8 of 50 | 5.7%#27 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.06 pts · US 1.02% | 0.5%#4 of 50 | 0.56%#10 of 50 | -0.06 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.21 pts · US 6.66% | 8.24%#38 of 50 | 6.03%#14 of 50 | +2.21 pts | 6.66% | ID |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#36 of 50 | 95#18 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | ID |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7.4 pts · US 12.39% | 7.4%#40 of 50 | 14.8%#9 of 50 | -7.4 pts | 12.39% | ID |
| Pension funded ratioGap -15 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#24 of 50 | 91%#6 of 50 | -15 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap +$830 (+53%) · US $3,506 | $2,410#18 of 50 | $1,580#4 of 50 | +$830+53% | $3,506 | ID |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +7.5%#8 of 50 | -4 pts | +4.66% | ID |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+21%) · US 38.8 | 41#33 of 50 | 34#6 of 50 | +7 pts+21% | 38.8 | ID |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -38 pts · US 29.34% | 32%#20 of 50 | 70%#5 of 50 | -38 pts | 29.34% | ID |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +4.0 (+18%) · US 29.6 | 25.7#24 of 50 | 21.7#18 of 50 | +4.0+18% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap +22.4 pts · US 17.16% | 84.9%#1 of 50 | 62.5%#3 of 50 | +22.4 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | +3.5 min | 25.2 min | ID |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2 pts · US 2.29% | 2.5%#12 of 50 | 0.5%#39 of 50 | +2 pts | 2.29% | NV |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.4 pts · US 12.28% | 11.3%#32 of 50 | 12.7%#23 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 12.28% | ID |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.3 pts · US 92.67% | 95.1%#2 of 50 | 92.8%#25 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 92.67% | NV |
| Households moving inIRSGap +30,951 (+86%) · US 78,682 | 66,782#22 of 50 | 35,831#34 of 50 | +30,951+86% | 78,682 | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap +27,785 (+93%) · US 78,715 | 57,805#27 of 50 | 30,020#14 of 50 | +27,785+93% | 78,715 | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,166 · US -33 | +8,977#10 of 50 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +3,166 | -33 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 · US +0.4 | +2.7#7 of 50 | +2.9#5 of 50 | -0.2 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,007 (+7%) · US $77,690 | $87,255#12 of 50 | $81,248#19 of 50 | +$6,007+7% | $77,690 | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,565 (+16%) · US $77,024 | $74,626#23 of 50 | $64,061#43 of 50 | +$10,565+16% | $77,024 | NV |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.3 · US +1.1 | +4.6#10 of 50 | +9.9#2 of 50 | -5.3 | +1.1 | ID |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$7,143 · US -$11,758 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$7,143 | -$11,758 | ID |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,557 · US +$31,418 | +$30,194#28 of 50 | +$26,637#37 of 50 | +$3,557 | +$31,418 | NV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,476 · US +$35,970 | +$33,290#30 of 50 | +$30,814#36 of 50 | +$2,476 | +$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 Idaho numbers say when read together.
Idaho ranks higher overall
Idaho leads 10 of the 11 categories to Nevada's 1, with 0 even; Nevada is ahead on livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Nevada is ahead on 16 and Idaho on 27.
Idaho is cheaper day to day
Idaho's cost of living index is 95.5 against 100 in Nevada (US = 100). The typical home costs $442,027 in Nevada and $478,744 in Idaho. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,034 a year after typical costs in Nevada and -$11,891 in Idaho.
Idaho 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); Idaho collects 7.54% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Idaho is safer
Median household income is $81,134 in Nevada and $81,166 in Idaho, with unemployment at 5.3% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 379 per 100,000 residents in Nevada and 217 in Idaho.
Moves between the two run about even
3,270 people moved from Nevada to Idaho and 2,150 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Idaho fits families and retirees better
For families, Nevada ranks #43 of 50 and Idaho #7; for retirees, Nevada ranks #35 and Idaho #2.
Nevada vs Idaho: frequently asked questions
Is Nevada or Idaho better to live in?
Nevada ranks #40 of 50 overall and Idaho #4 as of the latest release. Idaho is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 95.5 vs 100), has a 1.1-point lower tax burden, and has a 43% lower violent crime rate. Idaho scores higher overall, leading 10 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Nevada cheaper than Idaho?
Idaho is cheaper than Nevada: cost of living index 95.5 vs 100 (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 -$11,891 in Idaho. The typical home value is $442,027 in Nevada and $478,744 in Idaho.
Which has lower taxes, Nevada or Idaho?
Idaho has the lower tax burden: 7.54% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.62% in Nevada. Nevada's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.5% and its combined sales tax 8.24%; Idaho's are 5.7%, 0.56% and 6.03%.
Is Nevada safer than Idaho?
Idaho is safer: 217 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 379 in Nevada, per the FBI. Nevada ranks #37 of 50 for violent crime and Idaho #11. Property crime is 1,996 per 100,000 in Nevada and 605 in Idaho. The safest tracked cities are Mesquite, NV, and Moscow, ID.
Are homes more expensive in Nevada or Idaho?
Homes are 8% more expensive in Idaho: the typical home value is $442,027 in Nevada and $478,744 in Idaho. Buying the typical home takes about $110,080 of household income in Nevada and $118,073 in Idaho, against median incomes of $81,134 and $81,166.
Do people earn more in Nevada or Idaho?
Nevada and Idaho pay about the same: median household income is $81,134 vs $81,166, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.3% in Nevada and 3.7% in Idaho. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nevada's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Idaho's in 6, with 12 even.
Are more people moving from Nevada to Idaho or from Idaho to Nevada?
1,291 households moved from Nevada to Idaho and 939 moved from Idaho to Nevada in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 352 households for Idaho. Movers to Idaho reported an average income of $76,271; movers to Nevada reported $58,632. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,270 people (±1,674) moving from Nevada to Idaho and 2,150 (±766) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Nevada or Idaho?
Idaho is the better fit for retirees: #2 of 50 on the retiree index vs #35 for Nevada. Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; Idaho has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$33,290 left after typical costs in Nevada and +$30,814 in Idaho.
Which is better for families, Nevada or Idaho?
Idaho is the better fit for families: #7 of 50 on the families index vs #43 for Nevada. Center-based infant care costs $15,633 a year in Nevada and $10,887 in Idaho. High school graduation rates are 81.7% and 79.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,034 after typical costs in Nevada and -$11,891 in Idaho.
Is Idaho better than Nevada?
Yes: Idaho ranks higher than Nevada overall, #4 of 50 vs #40, with a composite score of 78.4 to 45.8. Idaho leads 10 of 11 categories and Nevada leads 1, including livability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.