North Carolina vs Arizona: Which Is Better to Live In?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 100.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 13% lower violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical home value is 20% lower in North Carolina ($334,773 vs. $417,990 in Arizona).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 15% lower in North Carolina ($13,916 vs. $16,384 in Arizona).
- Property crime rate is 15% lower in Arizona (1,514 vs. 1,780 in North Carolina).
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +11.3 pts | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | +11.3 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.4 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -6.4 pts-6% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$11,013 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | +$11,013 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$83,217 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$83,217-20% | $368,697 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.04 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -48 (-13%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -48-13% | 328 | NC |
| Median household incomeGap -$7,528 (-9%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | -$7,528-9% | $80,903 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +9.1 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| Life expectancyGap -0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | -0.8 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +21,802 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +21,802 | -33 | NC |
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 North Carolina or Arizona better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 47.8 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #38. North Carolina leads 6 of 11 categories, Arizona leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +0.6 | 15% | 43.2#29 · C+ | 42.6#31 · C+ | +0.6 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -0.1 | 12% | 63.1#33 · C+ | 63.2#32 · C+ | -0.1 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -3.1 | 12% | 46.6#32 · C+ | 49.7#31 · C+ | -3.1 pts | AZ |
| Education12% of scoregap +28 | 12% | 60.6#26 · B | 32.6#47 · D | +28 pts | NC |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +13.5 | 10% | 73.8#21 · B | 60.3#35 · C | +13.5 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +12.1 | 8% | 71.5#6 · A | 59.4#25 · B | +12.1 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap +17.3 | 7% | 65.6#3 · A+ | 48.3#16 · B+ | +17.3 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -5.2 | 7% | 48.2#28 · C+ | 53.4#18 · B+ | -5.2 pts | AZ |
| Livability7% of scoregap +10.2 | 7% | 34.5#21 · B | 24.3#42 · C | +10.2 pts | NC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -24.2 | 6% | 13.5#37 · C | 37.7#16 · B+ | -24.2 pts | AZ |
| Environment4% of scoregap +8.7 | 4% | 34.6#35 · C | 25.9#44 · D | +8.7 pts | NC |
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 North Carolina cheaper than Arizona?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $11,013 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.4 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -6.4 pts-6% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.2 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +1.2 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.30¢ (-8%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | -1.30¢-8% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.16 (-12%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | -$2.16-12% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.62 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.62-16% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,468 (-15%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | -$2,468-15% | $15,633 | NC |
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 | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,027 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$3,027 | NC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$4,853 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$4,853 | NC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$11,013 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | +$11,013 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$3,881 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$3,881 | NC |
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 | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$4,947 | $22,757 | $27,704 | -$4,947 | NC |
| ChildcareGap -$4,936 | $27,832 | $32,768 | -$4,936 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap -$308 | $4,526 | $4,834 | -$308 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$135 | $10,880 | $10,745 | +$135 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$1,949 | $9,994 | $11,943 | -$1,949 | NC |
| State and local taxesGap +$992 | $7,571 | $6,579 | +$992 | AZ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Arizona?
North Carolina and Arizona collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 8.22%. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.04 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.75 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +1.75 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.17 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +0.17 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.52 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | -1.52 pts | 6.66% | NC |
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 North Carolina or Arizona?
Homes cost 25% more in Arizona: a typical home value of $334,773 in North Carolina vs $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of income in North Carolina and $104,042 in Arizona; the median household earns $73,958 and $81,486.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$83,217 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$83,217-20% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.1 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.2% | NC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$27 (+2%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$27+2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$16,239 (-16%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | -$16,239-16% | $100,006 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.6x (-12%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | -0.6x-12% | 4.6x | NC |
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.
| NC | AZ | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,722 | $2,151 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +28% |
| Five-year change | +23.2% | +9.1% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cold |
| Largest metro | Charlotte | Phoenix |
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 North Carolina or Arizona?
Arizona pays more: median household income $81,486 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 3.8% in North Carolina and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$7,528 (-9%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | -$7,528-9% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$791 (+1%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$791+1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.43 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.43 pts | +0.51% | Even |
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 | NC | AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | NC |
| Lawyers | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | NC |
| Software Developers | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | NC |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | NC |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | NC |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | NC |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | NC |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | NC |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | NC |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | NC |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | NC |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | NC |
| Civil Engineers | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | NC |
| Electricians | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | NC |
| Registered Nurses | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | NC |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | NC |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | NC |
| Construction Laborers | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | NC |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | NC |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | NC |
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 North Carolina safer than Arizona?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona (FBI). Property crime runs 1,780 and 1,514 per 100,000.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -48 (-13%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -48-13% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +266 (+18%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | +266+18% | 1,535 | AZ |
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.
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, North Carolina or Arizona?
North Carolina scores higher for education (#26 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 86.4% and 77.3%. Arizona scores higher for health (#31 vs #32); life expectancy is 75.9 years in North Carolina and 76.7 in Arizona.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | +6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +9.1 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| Life expectancyGap -0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | -0.8 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | NC |
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).
- Chapel Hill, NCeducation score 93
- Peoria, AZeducation score 95.1
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: North Carolina #26, Arizona #47. Health: North Carolina #32, Arizona #31.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Arizona, or from Arizona to North Carolina?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 9,435 people (±5,922) moving from North Carolina to Arizona and 5,516 (±1,760) 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 | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +49,076 (+40%) | 170,751#5 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | +49,076+40% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +27,274 (+26%) | 131,633#42 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +27,274+26% | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +21,802 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +21,802 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 | +3.5#3 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +1.2 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$7,335 (-8%) | $80,162#21 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | -$7,335-8% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$1,305 (-2%) | $74,288#25 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | -$1,305-2% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +3.5 | NC |
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, North Carolina or Arizona?
North Carolina is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Arizona is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -17 places | #28score 62.8 | #45score 47.8 | -17 places | NC |
| RetireesGap -16 places | #21score 64.2 | #37score 54.6 | -16 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap -18 places | #17score 56.9 | #35score 47.2 | -18 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -17 places | #14score 63.1 | #31score 51 | -17 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap -21 places | #9score 71.1 | #30score 52.2 | -21 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #34score 34.6 | #28score 42.7 | +6 places | AZ |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNorth Carolina (#28 vs #45)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #31)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #30)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsArizona (#28 vs #34)
Which cities stand out in North Carolina and Arizona?
North Carolina has 22 tracked cities and Arizona has 23; the largest are Charlotte and Phoenix. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Charlotte903,844 people | Phoenix1,642,323 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Apexscore 74.9 | Queen Creekscore 66.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Apex53 violent per 100K | Marana61 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Rocky Mountcost index 88 | Yumacost index 92.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate | Peoria95.1% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Apexmedian income $144,135 | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Apex+6.1% growth | Queen Creek+8.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do North Carolina and Arizona compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. North Carolina carries AAA credit rating and Arizona AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -3 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | -3 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -7.5 (-24%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -7.5-24% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap -29.3 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -29.3 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | -0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.7 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap +23 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | +23 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$650 (-30%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | -$650-30% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; North Carolina AAA, Arizona 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).
North Carolina vs Arizona: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. North Carolina is ahead on 26 of 51, Arizona on 10, and 15 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | ArizonaAZ | GapNC−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,574,150 (+47%) · US 6.8 million | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | +3,574,150+47% | 6.8 million | NC |
| Median household incomeGap -$7,528 (-9%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | -$7,528-9% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| Population growthGap +0.43 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | +0.43 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$791 (+1%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$791+1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -48 (-13%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -48-13% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +266 (+18%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | +266+18% | 1,535 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +9.1 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 237 | 239#19 of 50 | 232#45 of 50 | +7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | +6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 214 | 213#32 of 50 | 208#45 of 50 | +5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | -0.8 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$83,217 (-20%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | -$83,217-20% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.1 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.2% | NC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$27 (+2%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$27+2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$16,239 (-16%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | -$16,239-16% | $100,006 | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.4 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | -6.4 pts-6% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.6x (-12%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | -0.6x-12% | 4.6x | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.30¢ (-8%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | -1.30¢-8% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.16 (-12%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | -$2.16-12% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.62 (-16%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.62-16% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.2 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +1.2 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,468 (-15%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | -$2,468-15% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.04 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.75 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +1.75 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.17 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +0.17 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.52 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | -1.52 pts | 6.66% | NC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.7 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap +23 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | +23 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$650 (-30%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | -$650-30% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | NC |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -3 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | -3 pts | 29.34% | AZ |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -7.5 (-24%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -7.5-24% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap -29.3 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -29.3 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.7 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | -0.7 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +49,076 (+40%) · US 78,682 | 170,751#5 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | +49,076+40% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +27,274 (+26%) · US 78,715 | 131,633#42 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +27,274+26% | 78,715 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +21,802 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | +21,802 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.2 · US +0.4 | +3.5#3 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | +1.2 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$7,335 (-8%) · US $77,690 | $80,162#21 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | -$7,335-8% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$1,305 (-2%) · US $77,024 | $74,288#25 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | -$1,305-2% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 · US +1.1 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | +3.5 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$11,013 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | +$11,013 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,027 · US +$31,418 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$3,027 | +$31,418 | NC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$3,881 · US +$35,970 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$3,881 | +$35,970 | NC |
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 North Carolina and Arizona numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 6 of the 11 categories to Arizona's 3, with 2 even; Arizona is ahead on outdoor access and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, North Carolina is ahead on 26 and Arizona on 10.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). The typical home costs $334,773 in North Carolina and $417,990 in Arizona. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 a year after typical costs in North Carolina and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Tax burdens are close
North Carolina collects 8.18% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); Arizona collects 8.22% (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
Arizona pays more
Median household income is $73,958 in North Carolina and $81,486 in Arizona, with unemployment at 3.8% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 330 per 100,000 residents in North Carolina and 378 in Arizona.
Moves between the two run about even
9,435 people moved from North Carolina to Arizona and 5,516 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Carolina fits families and retirees better
For families, North Carolina ranks #28 of 50 and Arizona #45; for retirees, North Carolina ranks #21 and Arizona #37.
North Carolina vs Arizona: frequently asked questions
Is North Carolina or Arizona better to live in?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 100.7), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 13% lower violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is North Carolina cheaper than Arizona?
North Carolina is cheaper than Arizona: cost of living index 94.3 vs 100.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$8,560 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in North Carolina, and -$19,573 in Arizona. The typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $417,990 in Arizona.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Arizona?
North Carolina and Arizona have similar tax burdens: 8.18% vs 8.22% of income in state and local taxes. North Carolina's top income tax rate is 4.25%, its effective property tax rate 0.73% and its combined sales tax 7%; Arizona's are 2.5%, 0.56% and 8.52%.
Is North Carolina safer than Arizona?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 378 in Arizona, per the FBI. North Carolina ranks #30 of 50 for violent crime and Arizona #36. Property crime is 1,780 per 100,000 in North Carolina and 1,514 in Arizona. The safest tracked cities are Apex, NC, and Marana, AZ.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or Arizona?
Homes are 25% more expensive in Arizona: the typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of household income in North Carolina and $104,042 in Arizona, against median incomes of $73,958 and $81,486.
Do people earn more in North Carolina or Arizona?
Arizona pays more: median household income is $81,486 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.8% in North Carolina and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Arizona or from Arizona to North Carolina?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 9,435 people (±5,922) moving from North Carolina to Arizona and 5,516 (±1,760) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, North Carolina or Arizona?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,308 left after typical costs in North Carolina and +$33,427 in Arizona.
Which is better for families, North Carolina or Arizona?
North Carolina is the better fit for families: #28 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $13,916 a year in North Carolina and $16,384 in Arizona. High school graduation rates are 86.4% and 77.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 after typical costs in North Carolina and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Is Arizona better than North Carolina?
No: North Carolina ranks higher than Arizona overall, #23 of 50 vs #38, with a composite score of 59.1 to 47.8. North Carolina leads 6 of 11 categories and Arizona leads 3, including outdoor access and transportation. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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