A comprehensive side-by-side comparison of taxes, cost of living, housing, income, and insurance costs between Alaska and Washington.
State 1
AK
State 2
WA
No Income Tax States
Both Alaska and Washington have no state income tax. Residents keep more of their earnings, though other taxes and costs may differ.
| Category | Alaska | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Income Tax Rate | No Income Tax | No Income Tax |
| Property Tax Rate | 1.04% | 0.87%Better |
| Property Tax (on Median Home) | $3,536/yrBetter | $5,003/yr |
| Sales Tax Rate | No Sales TaxBetter | 6.50% |
| Cost of Living Index | 127 | 115Better |
| Median Home Price | $340,000Better | $575,000 |
| Median Household Income | $77,800 | $84,200Better |
| Avg. Auto Insurance | $1,480/yrBetter | $1,650/yr |
| Avg. Home Insurance | $1,200/yrBetter | $1,300/yr |
Index relative to national average (100)
Alaska
$340,000
Property Tax: $3,536/yr
Washington
$575,000
Property Tax: $5,003/yr
Alaska homes are 40.9% cheaper than Washington homes.
Alaska
$77,800
Washington
$84,200
Washington households earn $6,400 more per year on average.
| Type | Alaska | Washington | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Insurance | $1,480/yr | $1,650/yr | $170/yr |
| Home Insurance | $1,200/yr | $1,300/yr | $100/yr |
| Total Insurance | $2,680/yr | $2,950/yr | $270/yr |
Weighted score combining income tax, property tax, sales tax, cost of living, housing, insurance, and income. A lower score indicates better overall financial affordability.
Alaska
-27.1
More Affordable
Washington
15.9
Alaska offers lower sales tax, more affordable housing compared to Washington. Meanwhile, Washington offers lower property tax, lower cost of living, higher median income. Overall, Alaska edges ahead in our weighted financial comparison.
Alaska Advantages
Washington Advantages