Washington
Moderate tax burden · COL index 117
Wins 10 categories
California
High tax burden · COL index 142
Wins 2 categories
Washington has no state income tax. California's top rate is 13.3%. Cost of living in California (index 142) runs 21% higher than Washington (index 117). The median home in California costs $790K vs $570K in Washington.
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
10
Washington
2
California
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Is Washington a better place to live than California?
Washington state fares better than California according to data released in October 2023. CA has an unemployment rate of 9.3%, whereas it is 6.0% in Washington. WA's per capita GDP is 79,570$, which is higher than California's 79,315$. The cost of living is cheaper too.
Can you live comfortably on $70,000 a year in California?
Is $70k Enough to Live in Los Angeles? A $70,000 salary in Los Angeles is enough to get by, but you'll need to be strategic. LA is one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., and while $70K sounds solid, it often lands just under what's considered a "comfortable" income for solo renters.
Why are people moving from California to Washington?
Why are people moving from California to Washington State? Many people move from California to Washington State for lower taxes, a milder climate, access to nature, and a growing job market. Washington offers a balanced lifestyle with urban opportunities in cities like Seattle and plenty of outdoor recreation. 2.
What is the #1 expensive state to live in?