Oregon vs Nevada: Which Is Better to Live In?
Oregon ranks #35 of 50 overall and Nevada #40 as of the latest release. Nevada is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 103.4), has no income tax, and has a 18% higher violent crime rate. Oregon scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 28% lower in Nevada ($15,633 vs. $21,774 in Oregon).
- Violent crime rate is 18% lower in Oregon (311 vs. 379 in Nevada).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 16% lower in Nevada ($110,080 vs. $130,378 in Oregon).
| Measure | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +5.1 pts | 50.9#35 of 50 · C | 45.8#40 of 50 · C | +5.1 pts | — | OR |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 103.4#41 of 50 | 100#34 of 50 | +3.4 pts+3% | 100 | NV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$22,802 · US -$11,758 | -$41,836#44 of 50 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$22,802 | -$11,758 | NV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$54,086 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $496,113#40 of 50 | $442,027#36 of 50 | +$54,086+12% | $368,697 | NV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.44 pts · US 8.74% | 9.06%#31 of 50 | 8.62%#24 of 50 | +0.44 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -68 (-18%) · US 328 | 311#29 of 50 | 379#37 of 50 | -68-18% | 328 | OR |
| Median household incomeGap +$4,086 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $85,220#16 of 50 | $81,134#22 of 50 | +$4,086+5% | $80,903 | OR |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 81.3%#44 of 50 | 81.7%#43 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.7#21 of 50 | 76.4#34 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | OR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,022 · US -33 | -45#27 of 50 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -9,022 | -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 Oregon or Nevada better to live in?
Oregon scores higher overall: 50.9 to 45.8 out of 100, #35 of 50 against #40. Oregon leads 6 of 11 categories, Nevada leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OregonOR | NevadaNV | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +4.9 | 15% | 32.9#40 · C | 28.0#46 · D | +4.9 pts | OR |
| Safety12% of scoregap +3.7 | 12% | 59.6#39 · C | 55.9#42 · C | +3.7 pts | OR |
| Health12% of scoregap +18.9 | 12% | 63.8#14 · B+ | 44.9#34 · C+ | +18.9 pts | OR |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.7 | 12% | 35.6#46 · D | 40.3#45 · D | -4.7 pts | NV |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -16.6 | 10% | 45.1#44 · D | 61.7#33 · C+ | -16.6 pts | NV |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -2.2 | 8% | 55.4#34 · C+ | 57.6#28 · C+ | -2.2 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap -18.7 | 7% | 23.2#42 · C | 41.9#23 · B | -18.7 pts | NV |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +13.9 | 7% | 66.3#1 · A+ | 52.4#21 · B | +13.9 pts | OR |
| Livability7% of scoregap +2.3 | 7% | 48.0#8 · A | 45.7#11 · B+ | +2.3 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +14.1 | 6% | 53.4#5 · A+ | 39.3#13 · B+ | +14.1 pts | OR |
| Environment4% of scoregap +22.7 | 4% | 64.2#5 · A+ | 41.5#24 · B | +22.7 pts | OR |
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 Oregon cheaper than Nevada?
Nevada is cheaper: cost of living index 100 vs 103.4 in Oregon (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $22,802 more a year in Nevada after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 103.4#41 of 50 | 100#34 of 50 | +3.4 pts+3% | 100 | NV |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +9 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 105.3#45 of 50 | 96.3#24 of 50 | +9 pts+9% | 100 | NV |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.22¢ (+17%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.37¢/kWh#26 of 50 | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | +2.22¢+17% | 17.84¢/kWh | NV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.57 (+27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.71/Mcf#31 of 50 | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | +$3.57+27% | $15.83/Mcf | NV |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.06/gal#46 of 50 | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,141 (+39%) · US $15,633 | $21,774#45 of 50 | $15,633#28 of 50 | +$6,141+39% | $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 | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$9,242 | +$20,952costs $54,048 | +$30,194costs $44,806 | -$9,242 | NV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$9,730 | +$9,658costs $65,342 | +$19,388costs $55,612 | -$9,730 | NV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$22,802 | -$41,836costs $116,836 | -$19,034costs $94,034 | -$22,802 | NV |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$9,180 | +$24,110costs $50,891 | +$33,290costs $41,710 | -$9,180 | 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 | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$5,338 | $34,370 | $29,032 | +$5,338 | NV |
| ChildcareGap +$12,282 | $43,548 | $31,266 | +$12,282 | NV |
| UtilitiesGap +$163 | $4,963 | $4,800 | +$163 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$1,014 | $11,860 | $10,846 | +$1,014 | NV |
| TransportationGap +$314 | $12,760 | $12,446 | +$314 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$3,691 | $9,335 | $5,644 | +$3,691 | NV |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Oregon or Nevada?
Oregon and Nevada collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 9.06% vs 8.62%. Oregon has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.44 pts · US 8.74% | 9.06%#31 of 50 | 8.62%#24 of 50 | +0.44 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +14.69 pts · US 5.46% | 14.69%#49 of 50 | none#8 of 50 | +14.69 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.36 pts · US 1.02% | 0.86%#26 of 50 | 0.5%#4 of 50 | +0.36 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -8.24 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#4 of 50 | 8.24%#38 of 50 | -8.24 pts | 6.66% | OR |
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 Oregon or Nevada?
Homes cost 12% more in Oregon: a typical home value of $496,113 in Oregon vs $442,027 in Nevada. Buying the typical home takes about $130,378 of income in Oregon and $110,080 in Nevada; the median household earns $85,220 and $81,134.
| Measure | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$54,086 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $496,113#40 of 50 | $442,027#36 of 50 | +$54,086+12% | $368,697 | NV |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.7 pts · US +1.2% | -0.1%#42 of 50 | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +1.2% | OR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$76 (+4%) · US $1,948 | $1,818#29 of 50 | $1,742#26 of 50 | +$76+4% | $1,948 | NV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$20,298 (+18%) · US $100,006 | $130,378#40 of 50 | $110,080#33 of 50 | +$20,298+18% | $100,006 | NV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+7%) · US 4.6x | 5.8x#42 of 50 | 5.4x#38 of 50 | +0.4x+7% | 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.
| OR | NV | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,552 | $2,274 |
| Income needed vs. median | +53% | +36% |
| Five-year change | +7.7% | +15.6% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Portland | Las Vegas |
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 Oregon or Nevada?
Oregon pays more: median household income $85,220 vs $81,134, with unemployment at 5.2% in Oregon and 5.3% in Nevada. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oregon's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 15 after adjusting for local costs and Nevada's in 0.
| Measure | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$4,086 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $85,220#16 of 50 | $81,134#22 of 50 | +$4,086+5% | $80,903 | OR |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#47 of 50 | 5.3%#49 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,087 (+5%) · US $64,333 | $61,810#26 of 50 | $58,723#34 of 50 | +$3,087+5% | $64,333 | OR |
| Real GDP growthGap -3.5 pts · US +1.91% | +1.5%#37 of 50 | +5%#1 of 50 | -3.5 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Population growthGap -0.69 pts · US +0.51% | +0.19%#39 of 50 | +0.88%#11 of 50 | -0.69 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 | OR | NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $226,980$238,329 in Portland | $209,938$203,640 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Registered Nurses | $92,574$97,203 in Portland | $81,389$78,947 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,930$112,276 in Portland | $97,329$94,409 in Las Vegas | OR |
| General & Operations Managers | $105,400$110,670 in Portland | $96,681$93,781 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Lawyers | $146,126$153,432 in Portland | $137,613$133,485 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,245$90,557 in Portland | $78,524$76,168 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $68,165$71,573 in Portland | $61,171$59,336 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,819$71,210 in Portland | $63,200$61,304 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Software Developers | $137,573$144,452 in Portland | $133,486$129,481 in Las Vegas | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,091$64,146 in Portland | $57,052$55,340 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,221$59,032 in Portland | $52,365$50,794 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $55,405$58,175 in Portland | $52,057$50,495 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,073$50,477 in Portland | $45,077$43,725 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Electricians | $62,375$65,494 in Portland | $59,447$57,664 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $72,428$76,049 in Portland | $69,961$67,862 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,549$59,376 in Portland | $54,097$52,474 in Las Vegas | OR |
| Civil Engineers | $96,128$100,934 in Portland | $97,688$94,757 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $44,438$46,660 in Portland | $43,246$41,949 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,439$79,211 in Portland | $76,196$73,910 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,098$35,803 in Portland | $34,427$33,394 in Las Vegas | 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 Oregon safer than Nevada?
Oregon is safer: 311 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 379 in Nevada (FBI). Property crime runs 2,118 and 1,996 per 100,000.
| Measure | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -68 (-18%) · US 328 | 311#29 of 50 | 379#37 of 50 | -68-18% | 328 | OR |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +122 (+6%) · US 1,535 | 2,118#48 of 50 | 1,996#47 of 50 | +122+6% | 1,535 | NV |
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.
- Lake Oswego, OR55 violent per 100K
- Mesquite, NV119 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Oregon or Nevada?
Nevada scores higher for education (#45 of 50 vs #46), with high school graduation rates of 81.3% and 81.7%. Oregon scores higher for health (#14 vs #34); life expectancy is 77.7 years in Oregon and 76.4 in Nevada.
| Measure | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 268#40 of 50 | 265#44 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 255#36 of 50 | 253#42 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 81.3%#44 of 50 | 81.7%#43 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.7#21 of 50 | 76.4#34 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | OR |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 33.5%#22 of 50 | 34.2%#26 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 34.03% | OR |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -6.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.2%#9 of 50 | 11.4%#47 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 7.6% | OR |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -9 pts (-22%) · US 38.8 | 32#5 of 50 | 41#33 of 50 | -9 pts-22% | 38.8 | OR |
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).
- Lake Oswego, OReducation score 96
- Fernley, NVeducation score 87
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: Oregon #46, Nevada #45. Health: Oregon #14, Nevada #34.
Are more people moving from Oregon to Nevada, or from Nevada to Oregon?
1,642 households moved from Oregon to Nevada and 1,698 moved from Nevada to Oregon in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 56 households for Oregon. Movers to Nevada reported an average income of $97,422; movers to Oregon reported $61,633. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,358 people (±1,167) moving from Oregon to Nevada and 2,569 (±1,394) 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 | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -2,396 (-4%) | 64,386#23 of 50 | 66,782#22 of 50 | -2,396-4% | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap +6,626 (+11%) | 64,431#29 of 50 | 57,805#27 of 50 | +6,626+11% | NV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,022 | -45#27 of 50 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -9,022 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.7 | -0.0#27 of 50 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -2.7 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,473 (-14%) | $74,782#29 of 50 | $87,255#12 of 50 | -$12,473-14% | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$7,498 (+10%) | $82,124#14 of 50 | $74,626#23 of 50 | +$7,498+10% | OR |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.1 | +0.5#30 of 50 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -4.1 | 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, Oregon or Nevada?
Oregon is the better fit for retirees and outdoor enthusiasts; Nevada is the better fit for small business; 3 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -1 places | #42score 53.3 | #43score 50.2 | -1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -15 places | #20score 64.3 | #35score 56.2 | -15 places | OR |
| Remote WorkersGap -3 places | #28score 50.9 | #31score 49 | -3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +2 places | #39score 43.5 | #37score 45.7 | +2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +5 places | #42score 40.2 | #37score 46.4 | +5 places | NV |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -15 places | #9score 63.4 | #24score 45.4 | -15 places | OR |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#42 vs #43)
- RetireesOregon (#20 vs #35)
- Remote WorkersEven (#28 vs #31)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#39 vs #37)
- Small BusinessNevada (#37 vs #42)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsOregon (#9 vs #24)
Which cities stand out in Oregon and Nevada?
Oregon has 20 tracked cities and Nevada has 20; the largest are Portland and Las Vegas. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OregonOR | NevadaNV |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Portland641,165 people | Las Vegas660,400 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethanyscore 75.7 | Summerlin Southscore 61.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lake Oswego55 violent per 100K | Mesquite119 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Grants Passcost index 97.8 | Pahrumpcost index 94.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Portlandwalkability 15.7 of 20 | Spring Valleywalkability 13.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Bendcounty median AQI 23 | Pahrumpcounty median AQI 26 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Lake Oswego96% graduation rate | Fernley87% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethanymedian income $167,735 | Spanish Springsmedian income $127,658 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Redmond+2.6% growth | Fernley+2.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Oregon and Nevada compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Oregon carries AA credit rating and Nevada AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +35 pts · US 29.34% | 67%#7 of 50 | 32%#20 of 50 | +35 pts | 29.34% | OR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +14.7 (+57%) · US 29.6 | 40.4#39 of 50 | 25.7#24 of 50 | +14.7+57% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap -32.3 pts · US 17.16% | 52.6%#5 of 50 | 84.9%#1 of 50 | -32.3 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#15 of 50 | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | -2.5 min | 25.2 min | OR |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 2.4%#13 of 50 | 2.5%#12 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.8 pts · US 12.28% | 17.1%#2 of 50 | 11.3%#32 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 12.28% | OR |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#14 of 50 | 95.1%#2 of 50 | -1.4 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 | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#33 of 50 | 90#36 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.2 pts · US 12.39% | 7.2%#41 of 50 | 7.4%#40 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap +9 pts · US 74.3% | 85%#11 of 50 | 76%#24 of 50 | +9 pts | 74.3% | OR |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,110 (+46%) · US $3,506 | $3,520#35 of 50 | $2,410#18 of 50 | +$1,110+46% | $3,506 | NV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.2%#37 of 50 | +3.5%#35 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Oregon AA, Nevada 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).
Oregon vs Nevada: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Oregon is ahead on 14 of 51, Nevada on 24, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OregonOR | NevadaNV | GapOR−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +991,398 (+30%) · US 6.8 million | 4.3 million#27 of 50 | 3.3 million#31 of 50 | +991,398+30% | 6.8 million | OR |
| Median household incomeGap +$4,086 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $85,220#16 of 50 | $81,134#22 of 50 | +$4,086+5% | $80,903 | OR |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#47 of 50 | 5.3%#49 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.69 pts · US +0.51% | +0.19%#39 of 50 | +0.88%#11 of 50 | -0.69 pts | +0.51% | NV |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,087 (+5%) · US $64,333 | $61,810#26 of 50 | $58,723#34 of 50 | +$3,087+5% | $64,333 | OR |
| Real GDP growthGap -3.5 pts · US +1.91% | +1.5%#37 of 50 | +5%#1 of 50 | -3.5 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -68 (-18%) · US 328 | 311#29 of 50 | 379#37 of 50 | -68-18% | 328 | OR |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +122 (+6%) · US 1,535 | 2,118#48 of 50 | 1,996#47 of 50 | +122+6% | 1,535 | NV |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 81.3%#44 of 50 | 81.7%#43 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 229#48 of 50 | 233#41 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 268#40 of 50 | 265#44 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 207#47 of 50 | 213#35 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 255#36 of 50 | 253#42 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.7#21 of 50 | 76.4#34 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | OR |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.7 pts · US 34.03% | 33.5%#22 of 50 | 34.2%#26 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 34.03% | OR |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -6.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.2%#9 of 50 | 11.4%#47 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 7.6% | OR |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$54,086 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $496,113#40 of 50 | $442,027#36 of 50 | +$54,086+12% | $368,697 | NV |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.7 pts · US +1.2% | -0.1%#42 of 50 | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +1.2% | OR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$76 (+4%) · US $1,948 | $1,818#29 of 50 | $1,742#26 of 50 | +$76+4% | $1,948 | NV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$20,298 (+18%) · US $100,006 | $130,378#40 of 50 | $110,080#33 of 50 | +$20,298+18% | $100,006 | NV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 103.4#41 of 50 | 100#34 of 50 | +3.4 pts+3% | 100 | NV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+7%) · US 4.6x | 5.8x#42 of 50 | 5.4x#38 of 50 | +0.4x+7% | 4.6x | NV |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.22¢ (+17%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.37¢/kWh#26 of 50 | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | +2.22¢+17% | 17.84¢/kWh | NV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.57 (+27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.71/Mcf#31 of 50 | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | +$3.57+27% | $15.83/Mcf | NV |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.06/gal#46 of 50 | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +9 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 105.3#45 of 50 | 96.3#24 of 50 | +9 pts+9% | 100 | NV |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,141 (+39%) · US $15,633 | $21,774#45 of 50 | $15,633#28 of 50 | +$6,141+39% | $15,633 | NV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.44 pts · US 8.74% | 9.06%#31 of 50 | 8.62%#24 of 50 | +0.44 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +14.69 pts · US 5.46% | 14.69%#49 of 50 | none#8 of 50 | +14.69 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.36 pts · US 1.02% | 0.86%#26 of 50 | 0.5%#4 of 50 | +0.36 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -8.24 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#4 of 50 | 8.24%#38 of 50 | -8.24 pts | 6.66% | OR |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#33 of 50 | 90#36 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.2 pts · US 12.39% | 7.2%#41 of 50 | 7.4%#40 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap +9 pts · US 74.3% | 85%#11 of 50 | 76%#24 of 50 | +9 pts | 74.3% | OR |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,110 (+46%) · US $3,506 | $3,520#35 of 50 | $2,410#18 of 50 | +$1,110+46% | $3,506 | NV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.2%#37 of 50 | +3.5%#35 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -9 pts (-22%) · US 38.8 | 32#5 of 50 | 41#33 of 50 | -9 pts-22% | 38.8 | OR |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +35 pts · US 29.34% | 67%#7 of 50 | 32%#20 of 50 | +35 pts | 29.34% | OR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +14.7 (+57%) · US 29.6 | 40.4#39 of 50 | 25.7#24 of 50 | +14.7+57% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap -32.3 pts · US 17.16% | 52.6%#5 of 50 | 84.9%#1 of 50 | -32.3 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#15 of 50 | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | -2.5 min | 25.2 min | OR |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 2.4%#13 of 50 | 2.5%#12 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.8 pts · US 12.28% | 17.1%#2 of 50 | 11.3%#32 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 12.28% | OR |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#14 of 50 | 95.1%#2 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 92.67% | NV |
| Households moving inIRSGap -2,396 (-4%) · US 78,682 | 64,386#23 of 50 | 66,782#22 of 50 | -2,396-4% | 78,682 | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap +6,626 (+11%) · US 78,715 | 64,431#29 of 50 | 57,805#27 of 50 | +6,626+11% | 78,715 | NV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,022 · US -33 | -45#27 of 50 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -9,022 | -33 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.7 · US +0.4 | -0.0#27 of 50 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -2.7 | +0.4 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,473 (-14%) · US $77,690 | $74,782#29 of 50 | $87,255#12 of 50 | -$12,473-14% | $77,690 | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$7,498 (+10%) · US $77,024 | $82,124#14 of 50 | $74,626#23 of 50 | +$7,498+10% | $77,024 | OR |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.1 · US +1.1 | +0.5#30 of 50 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -4.1 | +1.1 | NV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$22,802 · US -$11,758 | -$41,836#44 of 50 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$22,802 | -$11,758 | NV |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$9,242 · US +$31,418 | +$20,952#45 of 50 | +$30,194#28 of 50 | -$9,242 | +$31,418 | NV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$9,180 · US +$35,970 | +$24,110#44 of 50 | +$33,290#30 of 50 | -$9,180 | +$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 Oregon and Nevada numbers say when read together.
Oregon ranks higher overall
Oregon leads 6 of the 11 categories to Nevada's 3, with 2 even; Nevada is ahead on growth and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Oregon is ahead on 14 and Nevada on 24.
Nevada is cheaper day to day
Nevada's cost of living index is 100 against 103.4 in Oregon (US = 100). The typical home costs $496,113 in Oregon and $442,027 in Nevada. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$41,836 a year after typical costs in Oregon and -$19,034 in Nevada.
Tax burdens are close
Oregon collects 9.06% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Nevada collects 8.62% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Oregon pays more and is safer
Median household income is $85,220 in Oregon and $81,134 in Nevada, with unemployment at 5.2% and 5.3%. Violent crime runs 311 per 100,000 residents in Oregon and 379 in Nevada.
Moves between the two run about even
2,358 people moved from Oregon to Nevada and 2,569 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Oregon is the better fit for retirees
For families, Oregon ranks #42 of 50 and Nevada #43; for retirees, Oregon ranks #20 and Nevada #35.
Oregon vs Nevada: frequently asked questions
Is Oregon or Nevada better to live in?
Oregon ranks #35 of 50 overall and Nevada #40 as of the latest release. Nevada is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 103.4), has no income tax, and has a 18% higher violent crime rate. Oregon scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Oregon cheaper than Nevada?
Nevada is cheaper than Oregon: cost of living index 100 vs 103.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$41,836 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Oregon, and -$19,034 in Nevada. The typical home value is $496,113 in Oregon and $442,027 in Nevada.
Which has lower taxes, Oregon or Nevada?
Oregon and Nevada have similar tax burdens: 9.06% vs 8.62% of income in state and local taxes. Oregon's top income tax rate is 14.69%, its effective property tax rate 0.86% and its combined sales tax 0%; Nevada's are zero, 0.5% and 8.24%.
Is Oregon safer than Nevada?
Oregon is safer: 311 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 379 in Nevada, per the FBI. Oregon ranks #29 of 50 for violent crime and Nevada #37. Property crime is 2,118 per 100,000 in Oregon and 1,996 in Nevada. The safest tracked cities are Lake Oswego, OR, and Mesquite, NV.
Are homes more expensive in Oregon or Nevada?
Homes are 12% more expensive in Oregon: the typical home value is $496,113 in Oregon and $442,027 in Nevada. Buying the typical home takes about $130,378 of household income in Oregon and $110,080 in Nevada, against median incomes of $85,220 and $81,134.
Do people earn more in Oregon or Nevada?
Oregon pays more: median household income is $85,220 vs $81,134 in Nevada, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.2% in Oregon and 5.3% in Nevada. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oregon's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 15 after adjusting for local costs and Nevada's in 0, with 5 even.
Are more people moving from Oregon to Nevada or from Nevada to Oregon?
1,642 households moved from Oregon to Nevada and 1,698 moved from Nevada to Oregon in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 56 households for Oregon. Movers to Nevada reported an average income of $97,422; movers to Oregon reported $61,633. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,358 people (±1,167) moving from Oregon to Nevada and 2,569 (±1,394) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Oregon or Nevada?
Oregon is the better fit for retirees: #20 of 50 on the retiree index vs #35 for Nevada. Oregon has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$24,110 left after typical costs in Oregon and +$33,290 in Nevada.
Which is better for families, Oregon or Nevada?
Oregon and Nevada are close for families: #42 and #43 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $21,774 a year in Oregon and $15,633 in Nevada. High school graduation rates are 81.3% and 81.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$41,836 after typical costs in Oregon and -$19,034 in Nevada.
Is Nevada better than Oregon?
No: Oregon ranks higher than Nevada overall, #35 of 50 vs #40, with a composite score of 50.9 to 45.8. Oregon leads 6 of 11 categories and Nevada leads 3, including growth and affordability. 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.