Free comparison
Moving from California to North Dakota
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. Tech, beaches, mountains, and the country's highest housing costs. vs. Energy boom, lowest unemployment, harshest winters.
California
Capital: Sacramento
Median household income $91,905 · winter low 45°F · 258 sunny days
Tech, beaches, mountains, and the country's highest housing costs.
North Dakota
Capital: Bismarck
Median household income $73,959 · winter low 0°F · 211 sunny days
Energy boom, lowest unemployment, harshest winters.
North Dakota has an overall price level 89.0 (US avg = 100). Housing dominates the difference.
Sources: NOAA Climate Normals · USGS (live) state-level
Summer high 84°F · Winter low 0°F · 211 sunny days/yr.
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Schools, healthcare, taxes, transportation, lifestyle, crime, family fit, move logistics, and a 90-day move timeline.
See the full comparisonFrequently asked
Is it cheaper to live in North Dakota than California?
North Dakota's overall price level is roughly 92.4 (US avg = 100), vs about 113 for California, based on BEA Regional Price Parities. Housing is the dominant driver of the difference. Run a comparison for the full, current breakdown.
What's the income tax difference?
California tops out at 13.3% income tax. North Dakota tops out at 2.5%.
How long do I have to register my vehicle in North Dakota?
Most North Dakota residents must register a vehicle within 30-60 days of moving. Check the piomover report for state-specific deadlines.