Washington vs Idaho: Which Is Better to Live In?
Washington ranks #20 of 50 overall and Idaho #4 as of the latest release. Idaho is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 95.5 vs 107), has a 1.1-point lower tax burden, and has a 23% lower violent crime rate. Idaho scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
- Property crime rate is 69% lower in Idaho (605 vs. 1,975 in Washington).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 53% lower in Idaho ($10,887 vs. $23,136 in Washington).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 24% lower in Idaho ($118,073 vs. $155,542 in Washington).
| Measure | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -16.6 pts | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | 78.4#4 of 50 · A+ | -16.6 pts | — | ID |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +11.5 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 95.5#23 of 50 | +11.5 pts+12% | 100 | ID |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$36,002 · US -$11,758 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$36,002 | -$11,758 | ID |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$113,135 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $478,744#39 of 50 | +$113,135+24% | $368,697 | ID |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.07 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 7.54%#10 of 50 | +1.07 pts | 8.74% | ID |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +67 (+31%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 217#11 of 50 | +67+31% | 328 | ID |
| Median household incomeGap +$18,223 (+22%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $81,166#21 of 50 | +$18,223+22% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 79.9%#47 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | WA |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,028 · US -33 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +4,028 | -33 | WA |
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 Washington or Idaho better to live in?
Idaho scores higher overall: 78.4 to 61.8 out of 100, #4 of 50 against #20. Washington leads 2 of 11 categories, Idaho leads 6, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +1.4 | 15% | 52.3#16 · B+ | 50.9#19 · B | +1.4 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -22.7 | 12% | 63.9#30 · C+ | 86.6#5 · A+ | -22.7 pts | ID |
| Health12% of scoregap +6.3 | 12% | 68.2#13 · B+ | 61.9#16 · B+ | +6.3 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap +2.2 | 12% | 57.4#29 · C+ | 55.2#32 · C+ | +2.2 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -33 | 10% | 39.1#46 · D | 72.1#24 · B | -33 pts | ID |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -6.7 | 8% | 64.3#17 · B+ | 71.0#9 · A | -6.7 pts | ID |
| Growth7% of scoregap -31.8 | 7% | 40.8#24 · B | 72.6#1 · A+ | -31.8 pts | ID |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +2.8 | 7% | 58.6#8 · A | 55.8#10 · A | +2.8 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -5.7 | 7% | 33.9#25 · B | 39.6#15 · B+ | -5.7 pts | ID |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -14.8 | 6% | 35.4#19 · B | 50.2#6 · A | -14.8 pts | ID |
| Environment4% of scoregap +3.1 | 4% | 73.1#3 · A+ | 70.0#4 · A+ | +3.1 pts | WA |
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 Washington cheaper than Idaho?
Idaho is cheaper: cost of living index 95.5 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $36,002 more a year in Idaho after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +11.5 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 95.5#23 of 50 | +11.5 pts+12% | 100 | ID |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 104.4#44 of 50 | 96.3#21 of 50 | +8.1 pts+8% | 100 | ID |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.29¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | +1.29¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.93 (+129%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | +$9.93+129% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.72 (+21%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | +$0.72+21% | $3.32/gal | ID |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$12,249 (+113%) · US $15,633 | $23,136#47 of 50 | $10,887#7 of 50 | +$12,249+113% | $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 | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$4,505 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$26,637costs $48,363 | -$4,505 | ID |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,700 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$17,119costs $57,881 | -$8,700 | ID |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$36,002 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | -$11,891costs $86,891 | -$36,002 | ID |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,147 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$30,814costs $44,187 | -$7,147 | ID |
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 | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$9,393 | $41,123 | $31,730 | +$9,393 | ID |
| ChildcareGap +$24,498 | $46,272 | $21,774 | +$24,498 | ID |
| UtilitiesGap +$552 | $5,136 | $4,584 | +$552 | ID |
| GroceriesGap +$913 | $11,759 | $10,846 | +$913 | ID |
| TransportationGap +$2,262 | $12,791 | $10,529 | +$2,262 | ID |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,616 | $5,812 | $7,428 | -$1,616 | WA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Washington or Idaho?
Idaho collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.54% vs 8.61%. Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Idaho has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.07 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 7.54%#10 of 50 | +1.07 pts | 8.74% | ID |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.7 pts · US 5.46% | none#4 of 50 | 5.7%#27 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.32 pts · US 1.02% | 0.88%#27 of 50 | 0.56%#10 of 50 | +0.32 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.48 pts · US 6.66% | 9.51%#48 of 50 | 6.03%#14 of 50 | +3.48 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 Washington or Idaho?
Homes cost 24% more in Washington: a typical home value of $591,879 in Washington vs $478,744 in Idaho. Buying the typical home takes about $155,542 of income in Washington and $118,073 in Idaho; the median household earns $99,389 and $81,166.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$113,135 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $478,744#39 of 50 | +$113,135+24% | $368,697 | ID |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.3 pts · US +1.2% | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +2%#27 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +1.2% | ID |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$359 (+19%) · US $1,948 | $2,278#41 of 50 | $1,919#33 of 50 | +$359+19% | $1,948 | ID |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$37,469 (+32%) · US $100,006 | $155,542#46 of 50 | $118,073#37 of 50 | +$37,469+32% | $100,006 | ID |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+2%) · US 4.6x | 6x#44 of 50 | 5.9x#43 of 50 | +0.1x+2% | 4.6x | Even |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| WA | ID | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,045 | $2,463 |
| Income needed vs. median | +57% | +46% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +6.2% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Seattle | 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 Washington or Idaho?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $81,166, with unemployment at 4.7% in Washington and 3.7% in Idaho. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Washington's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Idaho's in 0.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$18,223 (+22%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $81,166#21 of 50 | +$18,223+22% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.7%#43 of 50 | 3.7%#18 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | ID |
| GDP per capitaGap +$39,223 (+77%) · US $64,333 | $89,989#3 of 50 | $50,766#46 of 50 | +$39,223+77% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#5 of 50 | +3%#8 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.52 pts · US +0.51% | +0.92%#7 of 50 | +1.44%#2 of 50 | -0.52 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 | WA | ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | $135,305$123,128 in Boise City | WA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | $211,918$192,845 in Boise City | WA |
| Registered Nurses | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | $83,721$76,186 in Boise City | WA |
| Civil Engineers | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | $97,456$88,685 in Boise City | WA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | $65,962$60,025 in Boise City | WA |
| Lawyers | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | $145,444$132,354 in Boise City | WA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | $77,057$70,122 in Boise City | WA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | $100,132$91,120 in Boise City | WA |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | $100,669$91,609 in Boise City | WA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | $45,982$41,844 in Boise City | WA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | $74,170$67,495 in Boise City | WA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | $61,521$55,984 in Boise City | WA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | $53,174$48,388 in Boise City | WA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | $56,668$51,568 in Boise City | WA |
| Electricians | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | $62,723$57,078 in Boise City | WA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | $63,548$57,829 in Boise City | WA |
| Construction Laborers | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | $42,880$39,021 in Boise City | WA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | $32,795$29,843 in Boise City | WA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | $54,186$49,309 in Boise City | WA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | $57,605$52,421 in Boise City | WA |
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 Washington safer than Idaho?
Idaho is safer: 217 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 284 in Washington (FBI). Property crime runs 1,975 and 605 per 100,000.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +67 (+31%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 217#11 of 50 | +67+31% | 328 | ID |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1,370 (+226%) · US 1,535 | 1,975#46 of 50 | 605#1 of 50 | +1,370+226% | 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.
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
- Moscow, ID37 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Washington or Idaho?
Washington and Idaho are close on education (#29 and #32 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 83.6% and 79.9%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #16); life expectancy is 78.4 years in Washington and 78.4 in Idaho.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 274#25 of 50 | 278#14 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 259#17 of 50 | 261#9 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 79.9%#47 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | WA |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.2 pts · US 34.03% | 31.5%#13 of 50 | 32.7%#18 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 6.5%#19 of 50 | 9.2%#38 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -6 pts (-18%) · US 38.8 | 28#4 of 50 | 34#6 of 50 | -6 pts-18% | 38.8 | WA |
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).
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
- 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: Washington #29, Idaho #32. Health: Washington #13, Idaho #16.
Are more people moving from Washington to Idaho, or from Idaho to Washington?
6,151 households moved from Washington to Idaho and 5,146 moved from Idaho to Washington in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,005 households for Idaho. Movers to Idaho reported an average income of $85,287; movers to Washington reported $61,517. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 17,837 people (±3,554) moving from Washington to Idaho and 7,927 (±1,960) the other way, a net gain of about 9,910 people for Idaho beyond the margin of error.
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 | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +86,353 (+241%) | 122,184#9 of 50 | 35,831#34 of 50 | +86,353+241% | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +82,325 (+274%) | 112,345#40 of 50 | 30,020#14 of 50 | +82,325+274% | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,028 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +4,028 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +2.9#5 of 50 | -1.7 | ID |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,642 (+11%) | $89,890#8 of 50 | $81,248#19 of 50 | +$8,642+11% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$36,061 (+56%) | $100,122#7 of 50 | $64,061#43 of 50 | +$36,061+56% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.7 | +1.2#24 of 50 | +9.9#2 of 50 | -8.7 | 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, Washington 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 | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +25 places | #32score 61 | #7score 80.6 | +25 places | ID |
| RetireesGap +15 places | #17score 66.7 | #2score 84.8 | +15 places | ID |
| Remote WorkersGap +16 places | #19score 54.8 | #3score 80.2 | +16 places | ID |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +25 places | #27score 53.3 | #2score 77.2 | +25 places | ID |
| Small BusinessGap +21 places | #23score 58.8 | #2score 80.2 | +21 places | ID |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +9 places | #13score 57.4 | #4score 78.6 | +9 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 #32)
- RetireesIdaho (#2 vs #17)
- Remote WorkersIdaho (#3 vs #19)
- Young ProfessionalsIdaho (#2 vs #27)
- Small BusinessIdaho (#2 vs #23)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIdaho (#4 vs #13)
Which cities stand out in Washington and Idaho?
Washington has 26 tracked cities and Idaho has 20; the largest are Seattle and Boise. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | WashingtonWA | IdahoID |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Seattle754,195 people | Boise237,242 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Redmondscore 71.1 | Meridianscore 64.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Kirkland67 violent per 100K | Moscow37 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yakimacost index 95.5 | Pocatellocost index 88.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 | Boisewalkability 13.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pascocounty median AQI 23 | Idaho Fallscounty median AQI 22 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate | Coeur d'Alene92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 | Eaglemedian income $122,894 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kirkland+3% growth | Star+14.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Washington and Idaho compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Washington carries AA+ credit rating and Idaho AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 74%#4 of 50 | 70%#5 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +19.8 (+91%) · US 29.6 | 41.5#41 of 50 | 21.7#18 of 50 | +19.8+91% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap -34 pts · US 17.16% | 28.5%#12 of 50 | 62.5%#3 of 50 | -34 pts | 17.16% | ID |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | +5 min | 25.2 min | ID |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.7 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#7 of 50 | 0.5%#39 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.7 pts · US 12.28% | 16.4%#3 of 50 | 12.7%#23 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#3 of 50 | 92.8%#25 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 92.67% | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#25 of 50 | 95#18 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -5 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#27 of 50 | 14.8%#9 of 50 | -5 pts | 12.39% | ID |
| Pension funded ratioGap -9 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#12 of 50 | 91%#6 of 50 | -9 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,070 (+131%) · US $3,506 | $3,650#36 of 50 | $1,580#4 of 50 | +$2,070+131% | $3,506 | ID |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +7.5%#8 of 50 | -4.7 pts | +4.66% | ID |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Washington 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).
Washington vs Idaho: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Washington is ahead on 14 of 51, Idaho on 28, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | WashingtonWA | IdahoID | GapWA−ID | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,971,287 (+294%) · US 6.8 million | 8 million#13 of 50 | 2 million#37 of 50 | +5,971,287+294% | 6.8 million | WA |
| Median household incomeGap +$18,223 (+22%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $81,166#21 of 50 | +$18,223+22% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.7%#43 of 50 | 3.7%#18 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | ID |
| Population growthGap -0.52 pts · US +0.51% | +0.92%#7 of 50 | +1.44%#2 of 50 | -0.52 pts | +0.51% | ID |
| GDP per capitaGap +$39,223 (+77%) · US $64,333 | $89,989#3 of 50 | $50,766#46 of 50 | +$39,223+77% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#5 of 50 | +3%#8 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +67 (+31%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 217#11 of 50 | +67+31% | 328 | ID |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1,370 (+226%) · US 1,535 | 1,975#46 of 50 | 605#1 of 50 | +1,370+226% | 1,535 | ID |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 79.9%#47 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | WA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 238#26 of 50 | 238#21 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 273 | 274#25 of 50 | 278#14 of 50 | -4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap 0 · US 214 | 216#19 of 50 | 216#18 of 50 | 0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 259#17 of 50 | 261#9 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.2 pts · US 34.03% | 31.5%#13 of 50 | 32.7%#18 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 6.5%#19 of 50 | 9.2%#38 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$113,135 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $478,744#39 of 50 | +$113,135+24% | $368,697 | ID |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.3 pts · US +1.2% | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +2%#27 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +1.2% | ID |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$359 (+19%) · US $1,948 | $2,278#41 of 50 | $1,919#33 of 50 | +$359+19% | $1,948 | ID |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$37,469 (+32%) · US $100,006 | $155,542#46 of 50 | $118,073#37 of 50 | +$37,469+32% | $100,006 | ID |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +11.5 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 95.5#23 of 50 | +11.5 pts+12% | 100 | ID |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+2%) · US 4.6x | 6x#44 of 50 | 5.9x#43 of 50 | +0.1x+2% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.29¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | +1.29¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.93 (+129%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | +$9.93+129% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.72 (+21%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | +$0.72+21% | $3.32/gal | ID |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.1 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 104.4#44 of 50 | 96.3#21 of 50 | +8.1 pts+8% | 100 | ID |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$12,249 (+113%) · US $15,633 | $23,136#47 of 50 | $10,887#7 of 50 | +$12,249+113% | $15,633 | ID |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.07 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 7.54%#10 of 50 | +1.07 pts | 8.74% | ID |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.7 pts · US 5.46% | none#4 of 50 | 5.7%#27 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.32 pts · US 1.02% | 0.88%#27 of 50 | 0.56%#10 of 50 | +0.32 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +3.48 pts · US 6.66% | 9.51%#48 of 50 | 6.03%#14 of 50 | +3.48 pts | 6.66% | ID |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#25 of 50 | 95#18 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -5 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#27 of 50 | 14.8%#9 of 50 | -5 pts | 12.39% | ID |
| Pension funded ratioGap -9 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#12 of 50 | 91%#6 of 50 | -9 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,070 (+131%) · US $3,506 | $3,650#36 of 50 | $1,580#4 of 50 | +$2,070+131% | $3,506 | ID |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +7.5%#8 of 50 | -4.7 pts | +4.66% | ID |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -6 pts (-18%) · US 38.8 | 28#4 of 50 | 34#6 of 50 | -6 pts-18% | 38.8 | WA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 74%#4 of 50 | 70%#5 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +19.8 (+91%) · US 29.6 | 41.5#41 of 50 | 21.7#18 of 50 | +19.8+91% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap -34 pts · US 17.16% | 28.5%#12 of 50 | 62.5%#3 of 50 | -34 pts | 17.16% | ID |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | +5 min | 25.2 min | ID |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.7 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#7 of 50 | 0.5%#39 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.7 pts · US 12.28% | 16.4%#3 of 50 | 12.7%#23 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#3 of 50 | 92.8%#25 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +86,353 (+241%) · US 78,682 | 122,184#9 of 50 | 35,831#34 of 50 | +86,353+241% | 78,682 | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +82,325 (+274%) · US 78,715 | 112,345#40 of 50 | 30,020#14 of 50 | +82,325+274% | 78,715 | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +4,028 · US -33 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +4,028 | -33 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 · US +0.4 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +2.9#5 of 50 | -1.7 | +0.4 | ID |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,642 (+11%) · US $77,690 | $89,890#8 of 50 | $81,248#19 of 50 | +$8,642+11% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$36,061 (+56%) · US $77,024 | $100,122#7 of 50 | $64,061#43 of 50 | +$36,061+56% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.7 · US +1.1 | +1.2#24 of 50 | +9.9#2 of 50 | -8.7 | +1.1 | ID |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$36,002 · US -$11,758 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$36,002 | -$11,758 | ID |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$4,505 · US +$31,418 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$26,637#37 of 50 | -$4,505 | +$31,418 | ID |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,147 · US +$35,970 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$30,814#36 of 50 | -$7,147 | +$35,970 | ID |
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 Washington and Idaho numbers say when read together.
Idaho ranks higher overall
Idaho leads 6 of the 11 categories to Washington's 2, with 3 even; Washington is ahead on health and environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Washington is ahead on 14 and Idaho on 28.
Idaho is cheaper day to day
Idaho's cost of living index is 95.5 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $591,879 in Washington and $478,744 in Idaho. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$47,893 a year after typical costs in Washington and -$11,891 in Idaho.
Idaho takes a smaller share in taxes
Washington collects 8.61% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Idaho collects 7.54% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more
Median household income is $99,389 in Washington and $81,166 in Idaho, with unemployment at 4.7% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 284 per 100,000 residents in Washington and 217 in Idaho.
People move to Idaho on net
17,837 people moved to Idaho from Washington in the latest Census release, against 7,927 going the other way.
Idaho fits families and retirees better
For families, Washington ranks #32 of 50 and Idaho #7; for retirees, Washington ranks #17 and Idaho #2.
Washington vs Idaho: frequently asked questions
Is Washington or Idaho better to live in?
Washington ranks #20 of 50 overall and Idaho #4 as of the latest release. Idaho is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 95.5 vs 107), has a 1.1-point lower tax burden, and has a 23% lower violent crime rate. Idaho scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Washington cheaper than Idaho?
Idaho is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 95.5 vs 107 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$47,893 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Washington, and -$11,891 in Idaho. The typical home value is $591,879 in Washington and $478,744 in Idaho.
Which has lower taxes, Washington or Idaho?
Idaho has the lower tax burden: 7.54% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.61% in Washington. Washington's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.88% and its combined sales tax 9.51%; Idaho's are 5.7%, 0.56% and 6.03%.
Is Washington safer than Idaho?
Idaho is safer: 217 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 284 in Washington, per the FBI. Washington ranks #25 of 50 for violent crime and Idaho #11. Property crime is 1,975 per 100,000 in Washington and 605 in Idaho. The safest tracked cities are Kirkland, WA, and Moscow, ID.
Are homes more expensive in Washington or Idaho?
Homes are 24% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $591,879 in Washington and $478,744 in Idaho. Buying the typical home takes about $155,542 of household income in Washington and $118,073 in Idaho, against median incomes of $99,389 and $81,166.
Do people earn more in Washington or Idaho?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $81,166 in Idaho, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.7% in Washington and 3.7% in Idaho. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Washington's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Idaho's in 0.
Are more people moving from Washington to Idaho or from Idaho to Washington?
6,151 households moved from Washington to Idaho and 5,146 moved from Idaho to Washington in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,005 households for Idaho. Movers to Idaho reported an average income of $85,287; movers to Washington reported $61,517. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 17,837 people (±3,554) moving from Washington to Idaho and 7,927 (±1,960) the other way, a net gain of about 9,910 people for Idaho beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Washington or Idaho?
Idaho is the better fit for retirees: #2 of 50 on the retiree index vs #17 for Washington. Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Idaho has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$23,667 left after typical costs in Washington and +$30,814 in Idaho.
Which is better for families, Washington or Idaho?
Idaho is the better fit for families: #7 of 50 on the families index vs #32 for Washington. Center-based infant care costs $23,136 a year in Washington and $10,887 in Idaho. High school graduation rates are 83.6% and 79.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$47,893 after typical costs in Washington and -$11,891 in Idaho.
Is Idaho better than Washington?
Yes: Idaho ranks higher than Washington overall, #4 of 50 vs #20, with a composite score of 78.4 to 61.8. Idaho leads 6 of 11 categories and Washington leads 2, including health and environment. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Washington vs Idaho.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (6,151 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).