A Canadian guide to the political map

Red, blue or somewhere in between?

Freedom, taxes, laws, schools, business rules and culture can change at the state line. Compare the tradeoffs without the campaign noise.

Politics belongs in the decision

Choose the life, not just the weather.

America is fifty different governments and thousands of different communities. State colour is only a starting point, but ignoring it can hide the rules and values that shape daily life.

Republican-led

Red states

Many put more weight on lower taxes, lighter regulation, gun rights and traditional social policy. That may suit entrepreneurs and families who want more room from government. No red state is identical, and county and city rules still matter.

Competitive or divided

Purple states

Power is split, closely contested or different across branches of government. The practical answer may depend as much on the governor, legislature, county and city as the colour on a national map.

Democratic-led

Blue states

Many put more weight on public services, labour and environmental regulation, gun control and progressive social policy. They may also hold major cities, universities, capital and industry clusters that matter to your work.

Source and definitions

The National Conference of State Legislatures tracks current legislative and state-government control. See the current NCSL composition.

What to compare

Politics becomes practical fast.

Income, sales and property taxes
Business licensing and regulation
Housing and land-use rules
Gun laws and personal protection
Schools and family policy
Employment and labour rules
Healthcare and insurance
City, suburb and rural culture

Find the states that fit your life.

State Match includes politics, taxes, work, property, family and everyday life. See your result before we ask you for anything.

Take the State Match
General information only. State laws and political control change. Verify current legal, tax and regulatory facts with qualified professionals before acting. American Ambassador is independent and is not affiliated with the U.S. or Canadian government.