South Carolina vs Alabama: Which Is Better to Live In?
South Carolina ranks #36 of 50 overall and Alabama #37 as of the latest release. Alabama is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 93.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes. Overall they are 0.5 points apart, too close to call: South Carolina leads 4 of 11 categories, Alabama leads 4.
- Typical home value is 21% lower in Alabama ($241,613 vs. $306,323 in South Carolina).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 15% lower in Alabama ($8,859 vs. $10,474 in South Carolina).
- Property crime rate is 13% lower in Alabama (1,462 vs. 1,676 in South Carolina).
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +0.5 pts | 49.0#36 of 50 · C | 48.5#37 of 50 · C | +0.5 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.9 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 93.7#19 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +4.9 pts+6% | 100 | AL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$6,756 · US -$11,758 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | -$6,756 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$64,710 (+27%) · US $368,697 | $306,323#19 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$64,710+27% | $368,697 | AL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.16 pts · US 8.74% | 8.15%#15 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | +0.16 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +39 (+11%) · US 328 | 388#38 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | +39+11% | 328 | AL |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,691 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $72,350#38 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$5,691+9% | $80,903 | SC |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.4 pts · US 85.62% | 83.8%#34 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.1#41 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +23,012 · US -33 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +23,012 | -33 | SC |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is South Carolina or Alabama better to live in?
South Carolina scores 49 and Alabama scores 48.5 out of 100, a 0.5-point gap this site treats as even. South Carolina leads 4 of 11 categories, Alabama leads 4, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -18 | 15% | 31.8#42 · C | 49.8#21 · B | -18 pts | AL |
| Safety12% of scoregap -6.3 | 12% | 60.0#38 · C | 66.3#28 · C+ | -6.3 pts | AL |
| Health12% of scoregap +11.8 | 12% | 41.3#38 · C | 29.5#45 · D | +11.8 pts | SC |
| Education12% of scoregap +0.7 | 12% | 50.1#38 · C | 49.4#39 · C | +0.7 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -7.1 | 10% | 78.4#16 · B+ | 85.5#7 · A | -7.1 pts | AL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -2 | 8% | 54.4#36 · C | 56.4#31 · C+ | -2 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +17.4 | 7% | 71.0#2 · A+ | 53.6#7 · A | +17.4 pts | SC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +9.5 | 7% | 42.4#43 · D | 32.9#49 · F | +9.5 pts | SC |
| Livability7% of scoregap +19 | 7% | 41.8#14 · B+ | 22.8#45 · D | +19 pts | SC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +2.3 | 6% | 8.9#45 · D | 6.6#47 · D | +2.3 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -7.2 | 4% | 21.1#49 · F | 28.3#43 · D | -7.2 pts | AL |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is South Carolina cheaper than Alabama?
Alabama is cheaper: cost of living index 88.8 vs 93.7 in South Carolina (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $6,756 more a year in Alabama after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.9 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 93.7#19 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +4.9 pts+6% | 100 | AL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#23 of 50 | 96.4#26 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.14¢ (-7%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | -1.14¢-7% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.65 (-4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | -$0.65-4% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | AL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,615 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $10,474#6 of 50 | $8,859#3 of 50 | +$1,615+18% | $15,633 | AL |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,556 | +$34,233costs $40,767 | +$36,789costs $38,211 | -$2,556 | AL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$3,023 | +$27,172costs $47,828 | +$30,195costs $44,805 | -$3,023 | AL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$6,756 | +$2,089costs $72,911 | +$8,845costs $66,155 | -$6,756 | AL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,496 | +$39,460costs $35,539 | +$41,956costs $33,044 | -$2,496 | AL |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$4,608 | $20,211 | $15,603 | +$4,608 | AL |
| ChildcareGap +$3,230 | $20,948 | $17,718 | +$3,230 | AL |
| UtilitiesGap +$236 | $4,498 | $4,262 | +$236 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$12 | $10,846 | $10,858 | -$12 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$314 | $9,397 | $9,083 | +$314 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,620 | $7,011 | $8,631 | -$1,620 | SC |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, South Carolina or Alabama?
South Carolina and Alabama collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.15% vs 7.99%. South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.16 pts · US 8.74% | 8.15%#15 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | +0.16 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.05 pts · US 5.46% | 6.2%#34 of 50 | 4.15%#15 of 50 | +2.05 pts | 5.46% | AL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.14 pts · US 1.02% | 0.53%#5 of 50 | 0.39%#2 of 50 | +0.14 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.97 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#33 of 50 | 9.46%#46 of 50 | -1.97 pts | 6.66% | SC |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in South Carolina or Alabama?
Homes cost 27% more in South Carolina: a typical home value of $306,323 in South Carolina vs $241,613 in Alabama. Buying the typical home takes about $79,086 of income in South Carolina and $63,954 in Alabama; the median household earns $72,350 and $66,659.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$64,710 (+27%) · US $368,697 | $306,323#19 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$64,710+27% | $368,697 | AL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.9 pts · US +1.2% | +1%#37 of 50 | +1.9%#29 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.2% | AL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$136 (+9%) · US $1,948 | $1,569#20 of 50 | $1,433#11 of 50 | +$136+9% | $1,948 | AL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$15,132 (+24%) · US $100,006 | $79,086#14 of 50 | $63,954#5 of 50 | +$15,132+24% | $100,006 | AL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+17%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#23 of 50 | 3.6x#8 of 50 | +0.6x+17% | 4.6x | AL |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| SC | AL | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,576 | $1,243 |
| Income needed vs. median | +9% | -4% |
| Five-year change | +25% | +17.7% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Greenville | Birmingham |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in South Carolina or Alabama?
South Carolina pays more: median household income $72,350 vs $66,659, with unemployment at 4.5% in South Carolina and 2.9% in Alabama. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, South Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 6 after adjusting for local costs and Alabama's in 5.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,691 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $72,350#38 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$5,691+9% | $80,903 | SC |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#39 of 50 | 2.9%#5 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$572 (-1%) · US $64,333 | $50,515#47 of 50 | $51,087#44 of 50 | -$572-1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | SC |
| Population growthGap +0.88 pts · US +0.51% | +1.46%#1 of 50 | +0.58%#20 of 50 | +0.88 pts | +0.51% | SC |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | SC | AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $219,138$203,798 in Charleston | $239,510$215,559 in Birmingham | AL |
| General & Operations Managers | $104,417$97,108 in Charleston | $95,904$86,314 in Birmingham | SC |
| Lawyers | $149,808$139,321 in Charleston | $143,248$128,923 in Birmingham | SC |
| Registered Nurses | $81,647$75,932 in Charleston | $87,941$79,147 in Birmingham | AL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,855$70,545 in Charleston | $70,578$63,520 in Birmingham | SC |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,961$64,134 in Columbia | $65,068$58,561 in Birmingham | SC |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $64,958$60,411 in Columbia | $61,371$55,234 in Birmingham | SC |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,283$52,343 in Charleston | $52,873$47,586 in Birmingham | SC |
| Secondary School Teachers | $62,687$58,299 in Charleston | $64,834$58,351 in Birmingham | AL |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $46,813$43,536 in Charleston | $48,637$43,773 in Birmingham | AL |
| Mental Health Counselors | $55,191$51,328 in Charleston | $53,592$48,233 in Birmingham | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $98,238$91,361 in Charleston | $96,769$87,092 in Birmingham | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,490$30,216 in Columbia | $33,911$30,520 in Birmingham | AL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $102,995$95,785 in Charleston | $104,288$93,859 in Birmingham | Even |
| Electricians | $61,126$56,847 in Charleston | $62,286$56,057 in Birmingham | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,377$50,571 in Columbia | $55,494$49,945 in Birmingham | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $78,411$72,922 in Charleston | $79,326$71,393 in Birmingham | Even |
| Software Developers | $135,418$125,939 in Charleston | $134,596$121,136 in Birmingham | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $54,468$50,655 in Charleston | $55,134$49,621 in Birmingham | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $41,473$38,570 in Charleston | $41,163$37,047 in Birmingham | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is South Carolina safer than Alabama?
Alabama is safer: 348 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,676 and 1,462 per 100,000.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +39 (+11%) · US 328 | 388#38 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | +39+11% | 328 | AL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +214 (+15%) · US 1,535 | 1,676#36 of 50 | 1,462#27 of 50 | +214+15% | 1,535 | AL |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Fort Mill, SC30 violent per 100K
- Daphne, AL57 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, South Carolina or Alabama?
South Carolina and Alabama are close on education (#38 and #39 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 83.8% and 88.2%. South Carolina scores higher for health (#38 vs #45); life expectancy is 75.1 years in South Carolina and 73.8 in Alabama.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 273 | 268#39 of 50 | 262#48 of 50 | +6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 254#40 of 50 | 250#45 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.4 pts · US 85.62% | 83.8%#34 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.1#41 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | SC |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#30 of 50 | 38.9%#46 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 34.03% | SC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.8 pts · US 7.6% | 9%#37 of 50 | 8.2%#32 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 7.6% | AL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 44#46 of 50 | 42#37 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | AL |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Fort Mill, SCeducation score 96
- Florence, ALeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: South Carolina #38, Alabama #39. Health: South Carolina #38, Alabama #45.
Are more people moving from South Carolina to Alabama, or from Alabama to South Carolina?
1,189 households moved from Alabama to South Carolina in the latest IRS release (average income $75,290); the flow from South Carolina to Alabama is too small to appear among Alabama's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,775 people (±925) moving from South Carolina to Alabama and 2,317 (±1,297) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +44,410 (+80%) | 99,779#15 of 50 | 55,369#25 of 50 | +44,410+80% | SC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +21,398 (+44%) | 70,565#31 of 50 | 49,167#24 of 50 | +21,398+44% | AL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +23,012 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +23,012 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.0 | +5.2#1 of 50 | +1.2#19 of 50 | +4.0 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$22,009 (+33%) | $88,476#9 of 50 | $66,467#36 of 50 | +$22,009+33% | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,701 (+4%) | $66,568#37 of 50 | $63,867#45 of 50 | +$2,701+4% | SC |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.5 | +12.0#1 of 50 | +4.5#11 of 50 | +7.5 | SC |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, South Carolina or Alabama?
South Carolina is the better fit for retirees and young professionals; Alabama is the better fit for remote workers; 3 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +1 places | #40score 55.8 | #39score 56.2 | +1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -4 places | #40score 54 | #44score 51.9 | -4 places | SC |
| Remote WorkersGap +8 places | #34score 48.6 | #26score 52 | +8 places | AL |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -4 places | #18score 58.8 | #22score 55.2 | -4 places | SC |
| Small BusinessGap +1 places | #25score 58.4 | #24score 58.7 | +1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -1 places | #47score 26.1 | #48score 25.3 | -1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#40 vs #39)
- RetireesSouth Carolina (#40 vs #44)
- Remote WorkersAlabama (#26 vs #34)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Carolina (#18 vs #22)
- Small BusinessEven (#25 vs #24)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#47 vs #48)
Which cities stand out in South Carolina and Alabama?
South Carolina has 20 tracked cities and Alabama has 20; the largest are Charleston and Huntsville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Charleston154,338 people | Huntsville222,791 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Fort Millscore 71 | Madisonscore 72.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Fort Mill30 violent per 100K | Daphne57 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Florencecost index 86.8 | Enterprisecost index 83.2 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Greenvillewalkability 13.2 of 20 | Montgomerywalkability 12.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Goose Creekcounty median AQI 35 | Alabastercounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Fort Mill96% graduation rate | Florence98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Mount Pleasantmedian income $124,755 | Madisonmedian income $134,655 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Greer+7.3% growth | Madison+6.5% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do South Carolina and Alabama compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. South Carolina carries AA+ credit rating and Alabama AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 8%#43 of 50 | 9%#40 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | AL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +8.1 (+26%) · US 29.6 | 39.2#37 of 50 | 31.1#28 of 50 | +8.1+26% | 29.6 | AL |
| Public land shareGap +2.3 pts · US 17.16% | 6%#30 of 50 | 3.7%#40 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 17.16% | SC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.3 min · US 25.2 min | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | 26 min#27 of 50 | +0.3 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#46 of 50 | 0.4%#44 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4 pts · US 12.28% | 12.3%#25 of 50 | 8.3%#46 of 50 | +4 pts | 12.28% | SC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#23 of 50 | 91.6%#38 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | SC |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#28 of 50 | 90#34 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | SC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US 12.39% | 7.8%#38 of 50 | 9.8%#28 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.39% | AL |
| Pension funded ratioGap -12 pts · US 74.3% | 60%#43 of 50 | 72%#29 of 50 | -12 pts | 74.3% | AL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$336 (-14%) · US $3,506 | $2,120#11 of 50 | $2,456#19 of 50 | -$336-14% | $3,506 | SC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +5.2%#23 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +4.66% | AL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; South Carolina AA+, Alabama AA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
South Carolina vs Alabama: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. South Carolina is ahead on 18 of 51, Alabama on 23, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | South CarolinaSC | AlabamaAL | GapSC−AL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +377,186 (+7%) · US 6.8 million | 5.6 million#23 of 50 | 5.2 million#24 of 50 | +377,186+7% | 6.8 million | SC |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,691 (+9%) · US $80,903 | $72,350#38 of 50 | $66,659#44 of 50 | +$5,691+9% | $80,903 | SC |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.5%#39 of 50 | 2.9%#5 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| Population growthGap +0.88 pts · US +0.51% | +1.46%#1 of 50 | +0.58%#20 of 50 | +0.88 pts | +0.51% | SC |
| GDP per capitaGap -$572 (-1%) · US $64,333 | $50,515#47 of 50 | $51,087#44 of 50 | -$572-1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | SC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +39 (+11%) · US 328 | 388#38 of 50 | 348#33 of 50 | +39+11% | 328 | AL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +214 (+15%) · US 1,535 | 1,676#36 of 50 | 1,462#27 of 50 | +214+15% | 1,535 | AL |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.4 pts · US 85.62% | 83.8%#34 of 50 | 88.2%#14 of 50 | -4.4 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 238#27 of 50 | 236#31 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 273 | 268#39 of 50 | 262#48 of 50 | +6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 215#24 of 50 | 213#33 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 254#40 of 50 | 250#45 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.1#41 of 50 | 73.8#45 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | SC |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.6%#30 of 50 | 38.9%#46 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 34.03% | SC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.8 pts · US 7.6% | 9%#37 of 50 | 8.2%#32 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 7.6% | AL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$64,710 (+27%) · US $368,697 | $306,323#19 of 50 | $241,613#8 of 50 | +$64,710+27% | $368,697 | AL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.9 pts · US +1.2% | +1%#37 of 50 | +1.9%#29 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.2% | AL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$136 (+9%) · US $1,948 | $1,569#20 of 50 | $1,433#11 of 50 | +$136+9% | $1,948 | AL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$15,132 (+24%) · US $100,006 | $79,086#14 of 50 | $63,954#5 of 50 | +$15,132+24% | $100,006 | AL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.9 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 93.7#19 of 50 | 88.8#7 of 50 | +4.9 pts+6% | 100 | AL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+17%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#23 of 50 | 3.6x#8 of 50 | +0.6x+17% | 4.6x | AL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.14¢ (-7%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | -1.14¢-7% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.65 (-4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | -$0.65-4% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | AL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#23 of 50 | 96.4#26 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,615 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $10,474#6 of 50 | $8,859#3 of 50 | +$1,615+18% | $15,633 | AL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.16 pts · US 8.74% | 8.15%#15 of 50 | 7.99%#14 of 50 | +0.16 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.05 pts · US 5.46% | 6.2%#34 of 50 | 4.15%#15 of 50 | +2.05 pts | 5.46% | AL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.14 pts · US 1.02% | 0.53%#5 of 50 | 0.39%#2 of 50 | +0.14 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.97 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#33 of 50 | 9.46%#46 of 50 | -1.97 pts | 6.66% | SC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#28 of 50 | 90#34 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | SC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US 12.39% | 7.8%#38 of 50 | 9.8%#28 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.39% | AL |
| Pension funded ratioGap -12 pts · US 74.3% | 60%#43 of 50 | 72%#29 of 50 | -12 pts | 74.3% | AL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$336 (-14%) · US $3,506 | $2,120#11 of 50 | $2,456#19 of 50 | -$336-14% | $3,506 | SC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +5.2%#23 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +4.66% | AL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 44#46 of 50 | 42#37 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | AL |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 8%#43 of 50 | 9%#40 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | AL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +8.1 (+26%) · US 29.6 | 39.2#37 of 50 | 31.1#28 of 50 | +8.1+26% | 29.6 | AL |
| Public land shareGap +2.3 pts · US 17.16% | 6%#30 of 50 | 3.7%#40 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 17.16% | SC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.3 min · US 25.2 min | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | 26 min#27 of 50 | +0.3 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#46 of 50 | 0.4%#44 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4 pts · US 12.28% | 12.3%#25 of 50 | 8.3%#46 of 50 | +4 pts | 12.28% | SC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#23 of 50 | 91.6%#38 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | SC |
| Households moving inIRSGap +44,410 (+80%) · US 78,682 | 99,779#15 of 50 | 55,369#25 of 50 | +44,410+80% | 78,682 | SC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +21,398 (+44%) · US 78,715 | 70,565#31 of 50 | 49,167#24 of 50 | +21,398+44% | 78,715 | AL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +23,012 · US -33 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +23,012 | -33 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.0 · US +0.4 | +5.2#1 of 50 | +1.2#19 of 50 | +4.0 | +0.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$22,009 (+33%) · US $77,690 | $88,476#9 of 50 | $66,467#36 of 50 | +$22,009+33% | $77,690 | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,701 (+4%) · US $77,024 | $66,568#37 of 50 | $63,867#45 of 50 | +$2,701+4% | $77,024 | SC |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.5 · US +1.1 | +12.0#1 of 50 | +4.5#11 of 50 | +7.5 | +1.1 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$6,756 · US -$11,758 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | -$6,756 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,556 · US +$31,418 | +$34,233#19 of 50 | +$36,789#7 of 50 | -$2,556 | +$31,418 | AL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,496 · US +$35,970 | +$39,460#16 of 50 | +$41,956#6 of 50 | -$2,496 | +$35,970 | AL |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the South Carolina and Alabama numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
South Carolina (49, #36) and Alabama (48.5, #37) are within 2 composite points. South Carolina leads 4 categories, Alabama leads 4, and 3 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Alabama is cheaper day to day
Alabama's cost of living index is 88.8 against 93.7 in South Carolina (US = 100). The typical home costs $306,323 in South Carolina and $241,613 in Alabama. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$2,089 a year after typical costs in South Carolina and +$8,845 in Alabama.
Tax burdens are close
South Carolina collects 8.15% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Alabama collects 7.99% (low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack).
South Carolina pays more
Median household income is $72,350 in South Carolina and $66,659 in Alabama, with unemployment at 4.5% and 2.9%. Violent crime runs 388 per 100,000 residents in South Carolina and 348 in Alabama.
Moves between the two run about even
1,775 people moved from South Carolina to Alabama and 2,317 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
South Carolina is the better fit for retirees
For families, South Carolina ranks #40 of 50 and Alabama #39; for retirees, South Carolina ranks #40 and Alabama #44.
South Carolina vs Alabama: frequently asked questions
Is South Carolina or Alabama better to live in?
South Carolina ranks #36 of 50 overall and Alabama #37 as of the latest release. Alabama is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 93.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes. Overall they are 0.5 points apart, too close to call: South Carolina leads 4 of 11 categories, Alabama leads 4.
Is South Carolina cheaper than Alabama?
Alabama is cheaper than South Carolina: cost of living index 88.8 vs 93.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have +$2,089 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in South Carolina, and +$8,845 in Alabama. The typical home value is $306,323 in South Carolina and $241,613 in Alabama.
Which has lower taxes, South Carolina or Alabama?
South Carolina and Alabama have similar tax burdens: 8.15% vs 7.99% of income in state and local taxes. South Carolina's top income tax rate is 6.2%, its effective property tax rate 0.53% and its combined sales tax 7.49%; Alabama's are 4.15%, 0.39% and 9.46%.
Is South Carolina safer than Alabama?
Alabama is safer: 348 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina, per the FBI. South Carolina ranks #38 of 50 for violent crime and Alabama #33. Property crime is 1,676 per 100,000 in South Carolina and 1,462 in Alabama. The safest tracked cities are Fort Mill, SC, and Daphne, AL.
Are homes more expensive in South Carolina or Alabama?
Homes are 27% more expensive in South Carolina: the typical home value is $306,323 in South Carolina and $241,613 in Alabama. Buying the typical home takes about $79,086 of household income in South Carolina and $63,954 in Alabama, against median incomes of $72,350 and $66,659.
Do people earn more in South Carolina or Alabama?
South Carolina pays more: median household income is $72,350 vs $66,659 in Alabama, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.5% in South Carolina and 2.9% in Alabama. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, South Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 6 after adjusting for local costs and Alabama's in 5, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from South Carolina to Alabama or from Alabama to South Carolina?
1,189 households moved from Alabama to South Carolina in the latest IRS release (average income $75,290); the flow from South Carolina to Alabama is too small to appear among Alabama's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,775 people (±925) moving from South Carolina to Alabama and 2,317 (±1,297) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, South Carolina or Alabama?
South Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #40 of 50 on the retiree index vs #44 for Alabama. South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,460 left after typical costs in South Carolina and +$41,956 in Alabama.
Which is better for families, South Carolina or Alabama?
South Carolina and Alabama are close for families: #40 and #39 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $10,474 a year in South Carolina and $8,859 in Alabama. High school graduation rates are 83.8% and 88.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$2,089 after typical costs in South Carolina and +$8,845 in Alabama.
Which has better schools, South Carolina or Alabama?
South Carolina and Alabama are close on education: #38 and #39 of 50 in the education category. Eighth graders average 268 in NAEP math in South Carolina and 262 in Alabama. High school graduation rates are 83.8% in South Carolina and 88.2% in Alabama, and the education category scores are 50.1 and 49.4 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Fort Mill and Florence have the strongest school metrics.
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