freedomrankings.comState vs State
On the default equal-weight blend, Washington is more free than California overall, scoring 52 to 44 out of 100 and winning 6 of the ten freedom categories outright. The widest gap is in Economic Freedom, where Washington leads by 2.9 points.
The sharpest contrast is Economic Freedom, where Washington leads 3.5 to 0.6 out of 10 — a 2.9-point gap. They also part ways on Property Rights (Washington +1.5) and 2nd Amendment (Washington +1.4). Where they’re most alike is Education Choice (1.5 vs 1.5).
Bottom line: California’s strongest case is Drug Policy (9.5/10), while Washington’s is Drug Policy (9.5/10) — so the freer choice depends on which of those you weight most.
California leads in 2 categories · Washington leads in 6 · 2 tied
Washington ranks higher overall, scoring 52/100 versus 44/100 across the ten freedom categories. Washington wins 6 of the ten categories outright. Which state is "freer" for you depends on which of those freedoms you weight most.
Washington scores higher on economic freedom (3.5/10 vs 0.6/10), the category that folds in tax burden, regulation, and business climate.
Washington scores higher on Second Amendment freedom (2.0/10 vs 0.6/10), reflecting carry laws, permitting, and firearm restrictions.
California and Washington tie on education choice (1.5/10 each).