Utah vs North Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Utah ranks #6 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. North Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89 vs 98.9), has a 2.9-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 0.1 points apart, too close to call: Utah leads 4 of 11 categories, North Dakota leads 3.
- Typical home value is 45% lower in North Dakota ($292,293 vs. $534,582 in Utah).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 33% lower in North Dakota ($1,100 vs. $1,641 in Utah).
- Total tax burden is 30% lower in North Dakota (6.61% vs. 9.46% in Utah).
| Measure | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -0.1 pts | 75.4#6 of 50 · A | 75.5#5 of 50 · A+ | -0.1 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.9 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +9.9 pts+11% | 100 | ND |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$23,056 · US -$11,758 | -$24,178#36 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | -$23,056 | -$11,758 | ND |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$242,289 (+83%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$242,289+83% | $368,697 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.85 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +2.85 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -21 (-8%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | -21-8% | 328 | UT |
| Median household incomeGap +$18,787 (+24%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | +$18,787+24% | $80,903 | UT |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,210 · US -33 | +3,164#17 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +3,210 | -33 | UT |
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 North Dakota better to live in?
Utah scores 75.4 and North Dakota scores 75.5 out of 100, a 0.1-point gap this site treats as even. Utah leads 4 of 11 categories, North Dakota leads 3, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | UtahUT | North DakotaND | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +1.9 | 15% | 65.6#5 · A+ | 63.7#8 · A | +1.9 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +5.8 | 12% | 76.0#20 · B | 70.2#27 · C+ | +5.8 pts | UT |
| Health12% of scoregap +10.4 | 12% | 69.2#12 · B+ | 58.8#23 · B | +10.4 pts | UT |
| Education12% of scoregap +11.5 | 12% | 76.8#3 · A+ | 65.3#17 · B+ | +11.5 pts | UT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -20.3 | 10% | 63.2#28 · C+ | 83.5#9 · A | -20.3 pts | ND |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +1.6 | 8% | 71.4#7 · A | 69.8#11 · B+ | +1.6 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap -1.7 | 7% | 50.0#11 · B+ | 51.7#8 · A | -1.7 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +5.1 | 7% | 59.7#4 · A+ | 54.6#14 · B+ | +5.1 pts | UT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -22.4 | 7% | 19.7#48 · D | 42.1#13 · B+ | -22.4 pts | ND |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -0.8 | 6% | 38.3#15 · B+ | 39.1#14 · B+ | -0.8 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -10 | 4% | 28.5#42 · C | 38.5#27 · C+ | -10 pts | ND |
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 89 vs 98.9 in Utah (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $23,056 more a year in North Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.9 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +9.9 pts+11% | 100 | ND |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.4#25 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.26¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.07¢/kWh#7 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +1.26¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.69 (+7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.19/Mcf#6 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | +$0.69+7% | $15.83/Mcf | ND |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#34 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,252 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $14,533#23 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | +$2,252+18% | $15,633 | ND |
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 | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$12,377 | +$24,094costs $50,906 | +$36,471costs $38,529 | -$12,377 | ND |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$15,624 | +$12,730costs $62,270 | +$28,354costs $46,646 | -$15,624 | ND |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$23,056 | -$24,178costs $99,178 | -$1,122costs $76,122 | -$23,056 | ND |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$14,109 | +$26,794costs $48,205 | +$40,903costs $34,097 | -$14,109 | ND |
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 | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$14,748 | $35,378 | $20,630 | +$14,748 | ND |
| ChildcareGap +$4,504 | $29,066 | $24,562 | +$4,504 | ND |
| UtilitiesGap +$475 | $4,747 | $4,272 | +$475 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$79 | $10,858 | $10,779 | +$79 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$63 | $10,466 | $10,403 | +$63 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$3,187 | $8,663 | $5,476 | +$3,187 | ND |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Utah or North Dakota?
North Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.61% vs 9.46%. Utah has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.85 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +2.85 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.05 pts · US 5.46% | 4.55%#19 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | +2.05 pts | 5.46% | ND |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.44 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#6 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | -0.44 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.33 pts · US 6.66% | 7.42%#31 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | +0.33 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 North Dakota?
Homes cost 83% more in Utah: a typical home value of $534,582 in Utah vs $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $133,317 of income in Utah and $79,542 in North Dakota; the median household earns $96,658 and $77,871.
| Measure | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$242,289 (+83%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$242,289+83% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.7 pts · US +1.2% | +1.5%#32 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$541 (+49%) · US $1,948 | $1,641#22 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$541+49% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$53,775 (+68%) · US $100,006 | $133,317#42 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$53,775+68% | $100,006 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.7x (+45%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#39 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +1.7x+45% | 4.6x | ND |
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 | ND | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,750 | $1,504 |
| Income needed vs. median | +38% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +13.8% | +19% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Hot |
| Largest metro | Salt Lake City | Fargo |
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 North Dakota?
Utah pays more: median household income $96,658 vs $77,871, with unemployment at 3.6% in Utah and 2.6% in North Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Utah's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 17 after adjusting for local costs and North Dakota's in 0.
| Measure | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$18,787 (+24%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | +$18,787+24% | $80,903 | UT |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.6%#17 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | ND |
| GDP per capitaGap -$11,370 (-15%) · US $64,333 | $62,444#23 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | -$11,370-15% | $64,333 | ND |
| Real GDP growthGap +4.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#3 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +4.5 pts | +1.91% | UT |
| Population growthGap +0.28 pts · US +0.51% | +1.03%#5 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | +0.28 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 | ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $141,301$134,236 in Salt Lake City | $121,375$108,024 in Fargo | UT |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $223,527$212,351 in Salt Lake City | $209,320$186,295 in Fargo | UT |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $110,967$105,419 in Salt Lake City | $97,121$86,438 in Fargo | UT |
| Lawyers | $154,705$146,970 in Salt Lake City | $141,894$126,286 in Fargo | UT |
| Registered Nurses | $88,476$84,052 in Salt Lake City | $81,213$72,280 in Fargo | UT |
| Accountants & Auditors | $85,746$81,459 in Salt Lake City | $79,062$70,365 in Fargo | UT |
| General & Operations Managers | $104,626$99,395 in Salt Lake City | $98,070$87,282 in Fargo | UT |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,598$55,668 in Salt Lake City | $52,555$46,774 in Fargo | UT |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $77,691$73,806 in Salt Lake City | $72,022$64,100 in Fargo | UT |
| Electricians | $63,815$60,624 in Salt Lake City | $58,621$52,173 in Fargo | UT |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,860$46,417 in Salt Lake City | $43,729$38,919 in Fargo | UT |
| Civil Engineers | $95,153$90,395 in Salt Lake City | $90,154$80,237 in Fargo | UT |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,679$65,245 in Salt Lake City | $64,392$57,309 in Fargo | UT |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,287$54,423 in Salt Lake City | $53,440$47,562 in Fargo | UT |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $68,495$65,070 in Salt Lake City | $64,757$57,634 in Fargo | UT |
| Construction Laborers | $46,431$44,109 in Salt Lake City | $42,722$38,023 in Fargo | UT |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,208$32,498 in Salt Lake City | $30,856$27,462 in Fargo | UT |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,477$51,753 in Salt Lake City | $53,196$47,344 in Fargo | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,009$52,259 in Salt Lake City | $55,304$49,221 in Fargo | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $69,647$66,165 in Salt Lake City | $69,862$62,177 in Fargo | 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 North Dakota?
Utah is safer: 236 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 257 in North Dakota (FBI). Property crime runs 1,416 and 1,698 per 100,000. North Dakota shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -21 (-8%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | -21-8% | 328 | UT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -283 (-17%) · US 1,535 | 1,416#23 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | -283-17% | 1,535 | UT |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. North Dakota uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Riverton, UT62 violent per 100K
- Lincoln, ND44 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Utah or North Dakota?
Utah scores higher for education (#3 of 50 vs #17), with high school graduation rates of 88.2% and 85.1%. Utah scores higher for health (#12 vs #23); life expectancy is 79.0 years in Utah and 77.9 in North Dakota.
| Measure | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 282#4 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 261#8 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.8 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#9 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | -5.8 pts | 34.03% | UT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.2 pts · US 7.6% | 8.3%#33 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 7.6% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+16%) · US 38.8 | 44#45 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | +6 pts+16% | 38.8 | ND |
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
- Beulah, NDeducation score 95
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, North Dakota #17. Health: Utah #12, North Dakota #23.
Are more people moving from Utah to North Dakota, or from North Dakota to Utah?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 1,301 people (±1,197) moving from Utah to North Dakota and 0 (±0) the other way, a net gain of about 1,301 people for North Dakota 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 | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +32,082 (+233%) | 45,863#29 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +32,082+233% | UT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +28,872 (+209%) | 42,699#20 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +28,872+209% | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,210 | +3,164#17 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +3,210 | UT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.0 | +0.9#20 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | +1.0 | UT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$25,533 (+47%) | $80,129#22 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$25,533+47% | UT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,083 (+16%) | $74,887#22 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | +$10,083+16% | UT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.3 | +0.9#27 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | +0.3 | UT |
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +6 places | #11score 78.9 | #5score 81.1 | +6 places | ND |
| RetireesGap +8 places | #12score 72.7 | #4score 79.1 | +8 places | ND |
| Remote WorkersGap +6 places | #11score 60.5 | #5score 73.2 | +6 places | ND |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +4 places | #7score 68.8 | #3score 75.9 | +4 places | ND |
| Small BusinessGap +2 places | #5score 78.2 | #3score 79.1 | +2 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #17score 55.1 | #11score 59.9 | +6 places | ND |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNorth Dakota (#5 vs #11)
- RetireesNorth Dakota (#4 vs #12)
- Remote WorkersNorth Dakota (#5 vs #11)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Dakota (#3 vs #7)
- Small BusinessEven (#5 vs #3)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNorth Dakota (#11 vs #17)
Which cities stand out in Utah and North Dakota?
Utah has 20 tracked cities and North Dakota has 20; the largest are Salt Lake City and Fargo. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | UtahUT | North DakotaND |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Salt Lake City208,007 people | Fargo131,627 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | South Jordanscore 67.3 | West Fargoscore 69.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Riverton62 violent per 100K | Lincoln44 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Logancost index 95.9 | Grand Forkscost index 86.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Murraywalkability 14.7 of 20 | West Fargowalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | St. Georgecounty median AQI 44 | Minotcounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Layton94.2% graduation rate | Beulah95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | South Jordanmedian income $134,047 | Horacemedian income $138,578 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Eagle Mountain+8.5% growth | Horace+12.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Utah and North Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Utah carries AAA credit rating and North Dakota AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -26 pts · US 29.34% | 15%#27 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | -26 pts | 29.34% | ND |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -24.4 (-46%) · US 29.6 | 28.3#27 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | -24.4-46% | 29.6 | UT |
| Public land shareGap +61 pts · US 17.16% | 64.9%#2 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +61 pts | 17.16% | UT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.7 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#14 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +5.7 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.9%#16 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 2.29% | UT |
| Workers working from homeGap +8.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.7%#8 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +8.6 pts | 12.28% | UT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.1%#11 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 92.67% | UT |
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 | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#3 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | UT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.1 pts · US 12.39% | 14.5%#11 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +22 pts · US 74.3% | 92%#5 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +22 pts | 74.3% | UT |
| State debt per capitaGap -$10 (0%) · US $3,506 | $2,180#12 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | -$100% | $3,506 | Even |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +7.2%#9 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +4.66% | ND |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Utah AAA, North Dakota 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 North Dakota: 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 19 of 51, North Dakota on 22, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | UtahUT | North DakotaND | GapUT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,739,546 (+343%) · US 6.8 million | 3.5 million#30 of 50 | 799,358#47 of 50 | +2,739,546+343% | 6.8 million | UT |
| Median household incomeGap +$18,787 (+24%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | +$18,787+24% | $80,903 | UT |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.6%#17 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | ND |
| Population growthGap +0.28 pts · US +0.51% | +1.03%#5 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | +0.28 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$11,370 (-15%) · US $64,333 | $62,444#23 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | -$11,370-15% | $64,333 | ND |
| Real GDP growthGap +4.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#3 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +4.5 pts | +1.91% | UT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -21 (-8%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | -21-8% | 328 | UT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -283 (-17%) · US 1,535 | 1,416#23 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | -283-17% | 1,535 | UT |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.1 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 237 | 242#5 of 50 | 241#6 of 50 | +0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 282#4 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 214 | 219#7 of 50 | 216#21 of 50 | +4 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 261#8 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.8 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#9 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | -5.8 pts | 34.03% | UT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.2 pts · US 7.6% | 8.3%#33 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 7.6% | ND |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$242,289 (+83%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$242,289+83% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.7 pts · US +1.2% | +1.5%#32 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -3.7 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$541 (+49%) · US $1,948 | $1,641#22 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$541+49% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$53,775 (+68%) · US $100,006 | $133,317#42 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$53,775+68% | $100,006 | ND |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.9 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +9.9 pts+11% | 100 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.7x (+45%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#39 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +1.7x+45% | 4.6x | ND |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.26¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.07¢/kWh#7 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +1.26¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.69 (+7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.19/Mcf#6 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | +$0.69+7% | $15.83/Mcf | ND |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#34 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.7 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.4#25 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | +0.7 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,252 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $14,533#23 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | +$2,252+18% | $15,633 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.85 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +2.85 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.05 pts · US 5.46% | 4.55%#19 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | +2.05 pts | 5.46% | ND |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.44 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#6 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | -0.44 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.33 pts · US 6.66% | 7.42%#31 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | +0.33 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#3 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | UT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.1 pts · US 12.39% | 14.5%#11 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +22 pts · US 74.3% | 92%#5 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +22 pts | 74.3% | UT |
| State debt per capitaGap -$10 (0%) · US $3,506 | $2,180#12 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | -$100% | $3,506 | Even |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +7.2%#9 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +4.66% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+16%) · US 38.8 | 44#45 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | +6 pts+16% | 38.8 | ND |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -26 pts · US 29.34% | 15%#27 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | -26 pts | 29.34% | ND |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -24.4 (-46%) · US 29.6 | 28.3#27 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | -24.4-46% | 29.6 | UT |
| Public land shareGap +61 pts · US 17.16% | 64.9%#2 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +61 pts | 17.16% | UT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.7 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#14 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +5.7 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.9%#16 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 2.29% | UT |
| Workers working from homeGap +8.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.7%#8 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +8.6 pts | 12.28% | UT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.1%#11 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 92.67% | UT |
| Households moving inIRSGap +32,082 (+233%) · US 78,682 | 45,863#29 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +32,082+233% | 78,682 | UT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +28,872 (+209%) · US 78,715 | 42,699#20 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +28,872+209% | 78,715 | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,210 · US -33 | +3,164#17 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +3,210 | -33 | UT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.0 · US +0.4 | +0.9#20 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | +1.0 | +0.4 | UT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$25,533 (+47%) · US $77,690 | $80,129#22 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$25,533+47% | $77,690 | UT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,083 (+16%) · US $77,024 | $74,887#22 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | +$10,083+16% | $77,024 | UT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.3 · US +1.1 | +0.9#27 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | +0.3 | +1.1 | UT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$23,056 · US -$11,758 | -$24,178#36 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | -$23,056 | -$11,758 | ND |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$12,377 · US +$31,418 | +$24,094#42 of 50 | +$36,471#9 of 50 | -$12,377 | +$31,418 | ND |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$14,109 · US +$35,970 | +$26,794#41 of 50 | +$40,903#10 of 50 | -$14,109 | +$35,970 | ND |
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 North Dakota numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Utah (75.4, #6) and North Dakota (75.5, #5) are within 2 composite points. Utah leads 4 categories, North Dakota leads 3, and 4 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
North Dakota is cheaper day to day
North Dakota's cost of living index is 89 against 98.9 in Utah (US = 100). The typical home costs $534,582 in Utah and $292,293 in North Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,178 a year after typical costs in Utah and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
North Dakota 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); North Dakota collects 6.61% (low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Utah pays more and is safer
Median household income is $96,658 in Utah and $77,871 in North Dakota, with unemployment at 3.6% and 2.6%. Violent crime runs 236 per 100,000 residents in Utah and 257 in North Dakota.
People move to North Dakota on net
1,301 people moved to North Dakota from Utah in the latest Census release, against 0 going the other way.
North Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, Utah ranks #11 of 50 and North Dakota #5; for retirees, Utah ranks #12 and North Dakota #4.
Utah vs North Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Utah or North Dakota better to live in?
Utah ranks #6 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. North Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89 vs 98.9), has a 2.9-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 0.1 points apart, too close to call: Utah leads 4 of 11 categories, North Dakota leads 3.
Is Utah cheaper than North Dakota?
North Dakota is cheaper than Utah: cost of living index 89 vs 98.9 (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 -$1,122 in North Dakota. The typical home value is $534,582 in Utah and $292,293 in North Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Utah or North Dakota?
North Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.61% 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%; North Dakota's are 2.5%, 0.99% and 7.09%.
Is Utah safer than North Dakota?
Utah is safer: 236 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 257 in North Dakota, per the FBI. Utah ranks #17 of 50 for violent crime and North Dakota #22. Property crime is 1,416 per 100,000 in Utah and 1,698 in North Dakota. North Dakota shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Riverton, UT, and Lincoln, ND.
Are homes more expensive in Utah or North Dakota?
Homes are 83% more expensive in Utah: the typical home value is $534,582 in Utah and $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $133,317 of household income in Utah and $79,542 in North Dakota, against median incomes of $96,658 and $77,871.
Do people earn more in Utah or North Dakota?
Utah pays more: median household income is $96,658 vs $77,871 in North Dakota, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.6% in Utah and 2.6% in North Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Utah's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 17 after adjusting for local costs and North Dakota's in 0, with 3 even.
Are more people moving from Utah to North Dakota or from North Dakota to Utah?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 1,301 people (±1,197) moving from Utah to North Dakota and 0 (±0) the other way, a net gain of about 1,301 people for North Dakota beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Utah or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #4 of 50 on the retiree index vs #12 for Utah. Utah has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$26,794 left after typical costs in Utah and +$40,903 in North Dakota.
Which is better for families, Utah or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for families: #5 of 50 on the families index vs #11 for Utah. Center-based infant care costs $14,533 a year in Utah and $12,281 in North Dakota. High school graduation rates are 88.2% and 85.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,178 after typical costs in Utah and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
Which has better schools, Utah or North Dakota?
Utah scores higher for education: #3 of 50 vs #17 for North Dakota. Eighth graders average 282 in NAEP math in Utah and 280 in North Dakota. High school graduation rates are 88.2% in Utah and 85.1% in North Dakota, and the education category scores are 76.8 and 65.3 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Layton and Beulah have the strongest school metrics.
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