Delaware
Low tax burden · COL index 102
Wins 11 categories
California
Moderate tax burden · COL index 142
Wins 3 categories
California's top income tax rate is 13.3% vs Delaware's 6.6%. Cost of living in California (index 142) runs 39% higher than Delaware (index 102). The median home in California costs $790K vs $350K in Delaware.
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
11
Delaware
3
California
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Is Delaware cheaper than California?
Delaware is 9.1% cheaper than California. Expenses including housing, transportation, restaurants, entertainment and sports, and groceries are lower in Delaware.
Is Delaware one of the best states to live in?
Delaware came in as the 18th best state on U.S. News & World Report's ranking of the best states overall for 2025. When examining Delaware's overall ranking, here is how the First State ranked: Crime & Corrections: 32. Economy: 21.
What are the pros and cons of living in Delaware?
Compare the Pros & Cons of Living in Delaware
Can I incorporate in Delaware if I live in California?
For various reasons, many founders decide to incorporate in Delaware even if their principle place of business will be California. This is legal and commonplace, but there are some legal and practical points that the founders will consider.