Utah vs Nevada: Which Is Better to Live In?
Utah ranks #6 of 50 overall and Nevada #40 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 98.9 vs 100); Utah carries a 0.8-point higher tax burden and has a 38% lower violent crime rate. Utah scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 38% lower in Utah (236 vs. 379 in Nevada).
- Property crime rate is 29% lower in Utah (1,416 vs. 1,996 in Nevada).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 17% lower in Nevada ($110,080 vs. $133,317 in Utah).
| Measure | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +29.6 pts | 75.4#6 of 50 · A | 45.8#40 of 50 · C | +29.6 pts | — | UT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.1 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 100#34 of 50 | -1.1 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,144 · US -$11,758 | -$24,178#36 of 50 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$5,144 | -$11,758 | NV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$92,555 (+21%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $442,027#36 of 50 | +$92,555+21% | $368,697 | NV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.84 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 8.62%#24 of 50 | +0.84 pts | 8.74% | NV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -144 (-38%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 379#37 of 50 | -144-38% | 328 | UT |
| Median household incomeGap +$15,524 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $81,134#22 of 50 | +$15,524+19% | $80,903 | UT |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.5 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 81.7%#43 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 76.4#34 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,813 · US -33 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -5,813 | -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 Utah or Nevada better to live in?
Utah scores higher overall: 75.4 to 45.8 out of 100, #6 of 50 against #40. Utah leads 7 of 11 categories, Nevada leads 2, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | UtahUT | NevadaNV | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +37.6 | 15% | 65.6#5 · A+ | 28.0#46 · D | +37.6 pts | UT |
| Safety12% of scoregap +20.1 | 12% | 76.0#20 · B | 55.9#42 · C | +20.1 pts | UT |
| Health12% of scoregap +24.3 | 12% | 69.2#12 · B+ | 44.9#34 · C+ | +24.3 pts | UT |
| Education12% of scoregap +36.5 | 12% | 76.8#3 · A+ | 40.3#45 · D | +36.5 pts | UT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +1.5 | 10% | 63.2#28 · C+ | 61.7#33 · C+ | +1.5 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +13.8 | 8% | 71.4#7 · A | 57.6#28 · C+ | +13.8 pts | UT |
| Growth7% of scoregap +8.1 | 7% | 50.0#11 · B+ | 41.9#23 · B | +8.1 pts | UT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +7.3 | 7% | 59.7#4 · A+ | 52.4#21 · B | +7.3 pts | UT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -26 | 7% | 19.7#48 · D | 45.7#11 · B+ | -26 pts | NV |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -1 | 6% | 38.3#15 · B+ | 39.3#13 · B+ | -1 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -13 | 4% | 28.5#42 · C | 41.5#24 · B | -13 pts | NV |
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 Utah cheaper than Nevada?
Utah and Nevada cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 98.9 vs 100 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,144 more a year in Nevada after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.1 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 100#34 of 50 | -1.1 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.4#25 of 50 | 96.3#24 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.08¢ (-1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.07¢/kWh#7 of 50 | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | -0.08¢-1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.95 (-22%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.19/Mcf#6 of 50 | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | -$2.95-22% | $15.83/Mcf | UT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.63 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#34 of 50 | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | -$0.63-16% | $3.32/gal | UT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,100 (-7%) · US $15,633 | $14,533#23 of 50 | $15,633#28 of 50 | -$1,100-7% | $15,633 | UT |
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 | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$6,100 | +$24,094costs $50,906 | +$30,194costs $44,806 | -$6,100 | NV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$6,658 | +$12,730costs $62,270 | +$19,388costs $55,612 | -$6,658 | NV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$5,144 | -$24,178costs $99,178 | -$19,034costs $94,034 | -$5,144 | NV |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$6,496 | +$26,794costs $48,205 | +$33,290costs $41,710 | -$6,496 | 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 | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$6,346 | $35,378 | $29,032 | +$6,346 | NV |
| ChildcareGap -$2,200 | $29,066 | $31,266 | -$2,200 | UT |
| UtilitiesGap -$53 | $4,747 | $4,800 | -$53 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$12 | $10,858 | $10,846 | +$12 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$1,980 | $10,466 | $12,446 | -$1,980 | UT |
| State and local taxesGap +$3,019 | $8,663 | $5,644 | +$3,019 | NV |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Utah or Nevada?
Nevada collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.62% vs 9.46%. Utah has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.84 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 8.62%#24 of 50 | +0.84 pts | 8.74% | NV |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.55 pts · US 5.46% | 4.55%#19 of 50 | none#8 of 50 | +4.55 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#6 of 50 | 0.5%#4 of 50 | +0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.82 pts · US 6.66% | 7.42%#31 of 50 | 8.24%#38 of 50 | -0.82 pts | 6.66% | UT |
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 Utah or Nevada?
Homes cost 21% more in Utah: a typical home value of $534,582 in Utah vs $442,027 in Nevada. Buying the typical home takes about $133,317 of income in Utah and $110,080 in Nevada; the median household earns $96,658 and $81,134.
| Measure | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$92,555 (+21%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $442,027#36 of 50 | +$92,555+21% | $368,697 | NV |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.3 pts · US +1.2% | +1.5%#32 of 50 | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.2% | UT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$101 (-6%) · US $1,948 | $1,641#22 of 50 | $1,742#26 of 50 | -$101-6% | $1,948 | UT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$23,237 (+21%) · US $100,006 | $133,317#42 of 50 | $110,080#33 of 50 | +$23,237+21% | $100,006 | NV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+2%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#39 of 50 | 5.4x#38 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.
| UT | NV | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,750 | $2,274 |
| Income needed vs. median | +38% | +36% |
| Five-year change | +13.8% | +15.6% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Salt Lake City | 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 Utah or Nevada?
Utah pays more: median household income $96,658 vs $81,134, with unemployment at 3.6% in Utah and 5.3% in Nevada. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Utah's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Nevada's in 0.
| Measure | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$15,524 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $81,134#22 of 50 | +$15,524+19% | $80,903 | UT |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.6%#17 of 50 | 5.3%#49 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 3.95% | UT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,721 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $62,444#23 of 50 | $58,723#34 of 50 | +$3,721+6% | $64,333 | UT |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#3 of 50 | +5%#1 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Population growthGap +0.15 pts · US +0.51% | +1.03%#5 of 50 | +0.88%#11 of 50 | +0.15 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | UT | NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $154,705$146,970 in Salt Lake City | $137,613$133,485 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $110,967$105,419 in Salt Lake City | $97,329$94,409 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $223,527$212,351 in Salt Lake City | $209,938$203,640 in Las Vegas | UT |
| General & Operations Managers | $104,626$99,395 in Salt Lake City | $96,681$93,781 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Software Developers | $141,301$134,236 in Salt Lake City | $133,486$129,481 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $68,495$65,070 in Salt Lake City | $61,171$59,336 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Accountants & Auditors | $85,746$81,459 in Salt Lake City | $78,524$76,168 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Registered Nurses | $88,476$84,052 in Salt Lake City | $81,389$78,947 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,679$65,245 in Salt Lake City | $63,200$61,304 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,287$54,423 in Salt Lake City | $52,365$50,794 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Electricians | $63,815$60,624 in Salt Lake City | $59,447$57,664 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,860$46,417 in Salt Lake City | $45,077$43,725 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Construction Laborers | $46,431$44,109 in Salt Lake City | $43,246$41,949 in Las Vegas | UT |
| Civil Engineers | $95,153$90,395 in Salt Lake City | $97,688$94,757 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,477$51,753 in Salt Lake City | $52,057$50,495 in Las Vegas | UT |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,598$55,668 in Salt Lake City | $57,052$55,340 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $77,691$73,806 in Salt Lake City | $76,196$73,910 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,009$52,259 in Salt Lake City | $54,097$52,474 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $69,647$66,165 in Salt Lake City | $69,961$67,862 in Las Vegas | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,208$32,498 in Salt Lake City | $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 Utah safer than Nevada?
Utah is safer: 236 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 379 in Nevada (FBI). Property crime runs 1,416 and 1,996 per 100,000.
| Measure | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -144 (-38%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 379#37 of 50 | -144-38% | 328 | UT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -581 (-29%) · US 1,535 | 1,416#23 of 50 | 1,996#47 of 50 | -581-29% | 1,535 | UT |
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.
- Riverton, UT62 violent per 100K
- Mesquite, NV119 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Utah or Nevada?
Utah scores higher for education (#3 of 50 vs #45), with high school graduation rates of 88.2% and 81.7%. Utah scores higher for health (#12 vs #34); life expectancy is 79.0 years in Utah and 76.4 in Nevada.
| Measure | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +17 · US 273 | 282#4 of 50 | 265#44 of 50 | +17 | 273 | UT |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 257 | 261#8 of 50 | 253#42 of 50 | +8 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.5 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 81.7%#43 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 76.4#34 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.2 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#9 of 50 | 34.2%#26 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 34.03% | UT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.1 pts · US 7.6% | 8.3%#33 of 50 | 11.4%#47 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 7.6% | UT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+7%) · US 38.8 | 44#45 of 50 | 41#33 of 50 | +3 pts+7% | 38.8 | NV |
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).
- Layton, UTeducation score 94.2
- 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: Utah #3, Nevada #45. Health: Utah #12, Nevada #34.
Are more people moving from Utah to Nevada, or from Nevada to Utah?
2,473 households moved from Utah to Nevada and 2,790 moved from Nevada to Utah in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 317 households for Utah. Movers to Nevada reported an average income of $82,209; movers to Utah reported $68,351. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,440 people (±1,524) moving from Utah to Nevada and 3,563 (±1,136) 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 | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -20,919 (-31%) | 45,863#29 of 50 | 66,782#22 of 50 | -20,919-31% | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap -15,106 (-26%) | 42,699#20 of 50 | 57,805#27 of 50 | -15,106-26% | UT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,813 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -5,813 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.8 | +0.9#20 of 50 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -1.8 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$7,126 (-8%) | $80,129#22 of 50 | $87,255#12 of 50 | -$7,126-8% | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$261 (0%) | $74,887#22 of 50 | $74,626#23 of 50 | +$2610% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.7 | +0.9#27 of 50 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -3.7 | 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, Utah or Nevada?
Utah 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 | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -32 places | #11score 78.9 | #43score 50.2 | -32 places | UT |
| RetireesGap -23 places | #12score 72.7 | #35score 56.2 | -23 places | UT |
| Remote WorkersGap -20 places | #11score 60.5 | #31score 49 | -20 places | UT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -30 places | #7score 68.8 | #37score 45.7 | -30 places | UT |
| Small BusinessGap -32 places | #5score 78.2 | #37score 46.4 | -32 places | UT |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -7 places | #17score 55.1 | #24score 45.4 | -7 places | UT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesUtah (#11 vs #43)
- RetireesUtah (#12 vs #35)
- Remote WorkersUtah (#11 vs #31)
- Young ProfessionalsUtah (#7 vs #37)
- Small BusinessUtah (#5 vs #37)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsUtah (#17 vs #24)
Which cities stand out in Utah and Nevada?
Utah has 20 tracked cities and Nevada has 20; the largest are Salt Lake City and Las Vegas. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | UtahUT | NevadaNV |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Salt Lake City208,007 people | Las Vegas660,400 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | South Jordanscore 67.3 | Summerlin Southscore 61.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Riverton62 violent per 100K | Mesquite119 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Logancost index 95.9 | Pahrumpcost index 94.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Murraywalkability 14.7 of 20 | Spring Valleywalkability 13.7 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | St. Georgecounty median AQI 44 | Pahrumpcounty median AQI 26 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Layton94.2% graduation rate | Fernley87% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | South Jordanmedian income $134,047 | Spanish Springsmedian income $127,658 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Eagle Mountain+8.5% growth | Fernley+2.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Utah and Nevada compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Utah carries AAA credit rating and Nevada AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -17 pts · US 29.34% | 15%#27 of 50 | 32%#20 of 50 | -17 pts | 29.34% | NV |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +2.6 (+10%) · US 29.6 | 28.3#27 of 50 | 25.7#24 of 50 | +2.6+10% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap -20 pts · US 17.16% | 64.9%#2 of 50 | 84.9%#1 of 50 | -20 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#14 of 50 | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | -2.5 min | 25.2 min | UT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.9%#16 of 50 | 2.5%#12 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 2.29% | NV |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.4 pts · US 12.28% | 15.7%#8 of 50 | 11.3%#32 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 12.28% | UT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.1%#11 of 50 | 95.1%#2 of 50 | -1 pts | 92.67% | NV |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#3 of 50 | 90#36 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | UT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.1 pts · US 12.39% | 14.5%#11 of 50 | 7.4%#40 of 50 | +7.1 pts | 12.39% | UT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +16 pts · US 74.3% | 92%#5 of 50 | 76%#24 of 50 | +16 pts | 74.3% | UT |
| State debt per capitaGap -$230 (-10%) · US $3,506 | $2,180#12 of 50 | $2,410#18 of 50 | -$230-10% | $3,506 | UT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.7 pts · US +4.66% | +7.2%#9 of 50 | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +3.7 pts | +4.66% | UT |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Utah AAA, 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).
Utah vs Nevada: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Utah is ahead on 23 of 51, Nevada on 18, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | UtahUT | NevadaNV | GapUT−NV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +256,716 (+8%) · US 6.8 million | 3.5 million#30 of 50 | 3.3 million#31 of 50 | +256,716+8% | 6.8 million | UT |
| Median household incomeGap +$15,524 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $81,134#22 of 50 | +$15,524+19% | $80,903 | UT |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.6%#17 of 50 | 5.3%#49 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 3.95% | UT |
| Population growthGap +0.15 pts · US +0.51% | +1.03%#5 of 50 | +0.88%#11 of 50 | +0.15 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,721 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $62,444#23 of 50 | $58,723#34 of 50 | +$3,721+6% | $64,333 | UT |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#3 of 50 | +5%#1 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -144 (-38%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 379#37 of 50 | -144-38% | 328 | UT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -581 (-29%) · US 1,535 | 1,416#23 of 50 | 1,996#47 of 50 | -581-29% | 1,535 | UT |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.5 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 81.7%#43 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +8 · US 237 | 242#5 of 50 | 233#41 of 50 | +8 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +17 · US 273 | 282#4 of 50 | 265#44 of 50 | +17 | 273 | UT |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 219#7 of 50 | 213#35 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 257 | 261#8 of 50 | 253#42 of 50 | +8 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 76.4#34 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.2 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#9 of 50 | 34.2%#26 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 34.03% | UT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.1 pts · US 7.6% | 8.3%#33 of 50 | 11.4%#47 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 7.6% | UT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$92,555 (+21%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $442,027#36 of 50 | +$92,555+21% | $368,697 | NV |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.3 pts · US +1.2% | +1.5%#32 of 50 | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.2% | UT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$101 (-6%) · US $1,948 | $1,641#22 of 50 | $1,742#26 of 50 | -$101-6% | $1,948 | UT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$23,237 (+21%) · US $100,006 | $133,317#42 of 50 | $110,080#33 of 50 | +$23,237+21% | $100,006 | NV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.1 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 100#34 of 50 | -1.1 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+2%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#39 of 50 | 5.4x#38 of 50 | +0.1x+2% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.08¢ (-1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.07¢/kWh#7 of 50 | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | -0.08¢-1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.95 (-22%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.19/Mcf#6 of 50 | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | -$2.95-22% | $15.83/Mcf | UT |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.63 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#34 of 50 | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | -$0.63-16% | $3.32/gal | UT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.4#25 of 50 | 96.3#24 of 50 | +0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,100 (-7%) · US $15,633 | $14,533#23 of 50 | $15,633#28 of 50 | -$1,100-7% | $15,633 | UT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.84 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 8.62%#24 of 50 | +0.84 pts | 8.74% | NV |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.55 pts · US 5.46% | 4.55%#19 of 50 | none#8 of 50 | +4.55 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#6 of 50 | 0.5%#4 of 50 | +0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.82 pts · US 6.66% | 7.42%#31 of 50 | 8.24%#38 of 50 | -0.82 pts | 6.66% | UT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#3 of 50 | 90#36 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | UT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7.1 pts · US 12.39% | 14.5%#11 of 50 | 7.4%#40 of 50 | +7.1 pts | 12.39% | UT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +16 pts · US 74.3% | 92%#5 of 50 | 76%#24 of 50 | +16 pts | 74.3% | UT |
| State debt per capitaGap -$230 (-10%) · US $3,506 | $2,180#12 of 50 | $2,410#18 of 50 | -$230-10% | $3,506 | UT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.7 pts · US +4.66% | +7.2%#9 of 50 | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +3.7 pts | +4.66% | UT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+7%) · US 38.8 | 44#45 of 50 | 41#33 of 50 | +3 pts+7% | 38.8 | NV |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -17 pts · US 29.34% | 15%#27 of 50 | 32%#20 of 50 | -17 pts | 29.34% | NV |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +2.6 (+10%) · US 29.6 | 28.3#27 of 50 | 25.7#24 of 50 | +2.6+10% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap -20 pts · US 17.16% | 64.9%#2 of 50 | 84.9%#1 of 50 | -20 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#14 of 50 | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | -2.5 min | 25.2 min | UT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.9%#16 of 50 | 2.5%#12 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 2.29% | NV |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.4 pts · US 12.28% | 15.7%#8 of 50 | 11.3%#32 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 12.28% | UT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.1%#11 of 50 | 95.1%#2 of 50 | -1 pts | 92.67% | NV |
| Households moving inIRSGap -20,919 (-31%) · US 78,682 | 45,863#29 of 50 | 66,782#22 of 50 | -20,919-31% | 78,682 | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap -15,106 (-26%) · US 78,715 | 42,699#20 of 50 | 57,805#27 of 50 | -15,106-26% | 78,715 | UT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,813 · US -33 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -5,813 | -33 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.8 · US +0.4 | +0.9#20 of 50 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -1.8 | +0.4 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$7,126 (-8%) · US $77,690 | $80,129#22 of 50 | $87,255#12 of 50 | -$7,126-8% | $77,690 | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$261 (0%) · US $77,024 | $74,887#22 of 50 | $74,626#23 of 50 | +$2610% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.7 · US +1.1 | +0.9#27 of 50 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -3.7 | +1.1 | NV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,144 · US -$11,758 | -$24,178#36 of 50 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$5,144 | -$11,758 | NV |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$6,100 · US +$31,418 | +$24,094#42 of 50 | +$30,194#28 of 50 | -$6,100 | +$31,418 | NV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$6,496 · US +$35,970 | +$26,794#41 of 50 | +$33,290#30 of 50 | -$6,496 | +$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 Utah and Nevada numbers say when read together.
Utah ranks higher overall
Utah leads 7 of the 11 categories to Nevada's 2, with 2 even; Nevada is ahead on livability and environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Utah is ahead on 23 and Nevada on 18.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 98.9 in Utah and 100 in Nevada, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $534,582 and $442,027. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,178 a year after typical costs in Utah and -$19,034 in Nevada.
Nevada takes a smaller share in taxes
Utah collects 9.46% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Nevada collects 8.62% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Utah pays more and is safer
Median household income is $96,658 in Utah and $81,134 in Nevada, with unemployment at 3.6% and 5.3%. Violent crime runs 236 per 100,000 residents in Utah and 379 in Nevada.
Moves between the two run about even
3,440 people moved from Utah to Nevada and 3,563 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Utah fits families and retirees better
For families, Utah ranks #11 of 50 and Nevada #43; for retirees, Utah ranks #12 and Nevada #35.
Utah vs Nevada: frequently asked questions
Is Utah or Nevada better to live in?
Utah ranks #6 of 50 overall and Nevada #40 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 98.9 vs 100); Utah carries a 0.8-point higher tax burden and has a 38% lower violent crime rate. Utah scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Utah cheaper than Nevada?
Utah and Nevada cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 98.9 vs 100 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$24,178 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Utah, and -$19,034 in Nevada. The typical home value is $534,582 in Utah and $442,027 in Nevada.
Which has lower taxes, Utah or Nevada?
Nevada has the lower tax burden: 8.62% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.46% in Utah. Utah's top income tax rate is 4.55%, its effective property tax rate 0.55% and its combined sales tax 7.42%; Nevada's are zero, 0.5% and 8.24%.
Is Utah safer than Nevada?
Utah is safer: 236 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 379 in Nevada, per the FBI. Utah ranks #17 of 50 for violent crime and Nevada #37. Property crime is 1,416 per 100,000 in Utah and 1,996 in Nevada. The safest tracked cities are Riverton, UT, and Mesquite, NV.
Are homes more expensive in Utah or Nevada?
Homes are 21% more expensive in Utah: the typical home value is $534,582 in Utah and $442,027 in Nevada. Buying the typical home takes about $133,317 of household income in Utah and $110,080 in Nevada, against median incomes of $96,658 and $81,134.
Do people earn more in Utah or Nevada?
Utah pays more: median household income is $96,658 vs $81,134 in Nevada, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.6% in Utah and 5.3% in Nevada. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Utah's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and Nevada's in 0, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from Utah to Nevada or from Nevada to Utah?
2,473 households moved from Utah to Nevada and 2,790 moved from Nevada to Utah in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 317 households for Utah. Movers to Nevada reported an average income of $82,209; movers to Utah reported $68,351. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,440 people (±1,524) moving from Utah to Nevada and 3,563 (±1,136) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Utah or Nevada?
Utah is the better fit for retirees: #12 of 50 on the retiree index vs #35 for Nevada. Utah has low property tax, with income and sales taxes 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 +$26,794 left after typical costs in Utah and +$33,290 in Nevada.
Which is better for families, Utah or Nevada?
Utah is the better fit for families: #11 of 50 on the families index vs #43 for Nevada. Center-based infant care costs $14,533 a year in Utah and $15,633 in Nevada. High school graduation rates are 88.2% and 81.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,178 after typical costs in Utah and -$19,034 in Nevada.
Is Nevada better than Utah?
No: Utah ranks higher than Nevada overall, #6 of 50 vs #40, with a composite score of 75.4 to 45.8. Utah leads 7 of 11 categories and Nevada leads 2, including livability 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 Utah vs Nevada.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,790 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).