California vs North Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and North Carolina #23 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 110.7), has a 2.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 24% lower violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
- Residential electricity price is 57% lower in North Carolina (14.02¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
- Typical home value is 56% lower in North Carolina ($334,773 vs. $764,158 in California).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 41% lower in North Carolina ($1,749 vs. $2,941 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -18.9 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | -18.9 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16.4 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +16.4 pts+17% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$51,437 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$51,437 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$429,385 (+128%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | +$429,385+128% | $368,697 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.82 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +2.82 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +102 (+31%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | +102+31% | 328 | NC |
| Median household incomeGap +$26,191 (+35%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$26,191+35% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +3.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +3.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -139,515 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -139,515 | -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 California or North Carolina better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 40.2 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #47. California leads 2 of 11 categories, North Carolina leads 6, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -1.7 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 43.2#29 · C+ | -1.7 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -8.4 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 63.1#33 · C+ | -8.4 pts | NC |
| Health12% of scoregap +31 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 46.6#32 · C+ | +31 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap -8.9 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 60.6#26 · B | -8.9 pts | NC |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -59.5 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 73.8#21 · B | -59.5 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -24 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 71.5#6 · A | -24 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap -59.5 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 65.6#3 · A+ | -59.5 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -2.2 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 48.2#28 · C+ | -2.2 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -2.8 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 34.5#21 · B | -2.8 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +27.3 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 13.5#37 · C | +27.3 pts | CA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -9.9 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 34.6#35 · C | -9.9 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 California cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $51,437 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16.4 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +16.4 pts+17% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +9.5 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +9.5 pts+10% | 100 | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +18.52¢ (+132%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +18.52¢+132% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.59 (+34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | +$5.59+34% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.24 (+39%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | +$1.24+39% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,155 (+66%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$9,155+66% | $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 | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$20,655 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | -$20,655 | NC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$26,932 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | -$26,932 | NC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$51,437 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$51,437 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$23,032 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | -$23,032 | 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 | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$29,037 | $51,794 | $22,757 | +$29,037 | NC |
| ChildcareGap +$18,310 | $46,142 | $27,832 | +$18,310 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap +$788 | $5,314 | $4,526 | +$788 | NC |
| GroceriesGap +$1,070 | $11,950 | $10,880 | +$1,070 | NC |
| TransportationGap +$3,897 | $13,891 | $9,994 | +$3,897 | NC |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,665 | $5,906 | $7,571 | -$1,665 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or North Carolina?
North Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.82 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +2.82 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.15 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +10.15 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.02 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.99 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +1.99 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 California or North Carolina?
Homes cost 128% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $87,803 in North Carolina; the median household earns $100,149 and $73,958.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$429,385 (+128%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | +$429,385+128% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.4 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,192 (+68%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$1,192+68% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$109,459 (+125%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$109,459+125% | $100,006 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.1x (+69%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | +3.1x+69% | 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.
| CA | NC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $1,722 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +23.2% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Cold |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Charlotte |
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 California or North Carolina?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$26,191 (+35%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$26,191+35% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.7 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$28,756 (+48%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$28,756+48% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -1.34 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -1.34 pts | +0.51% | NC |
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 | CA | NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | CA |
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | 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 California safer than North Carolina?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,780 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +102 (+31%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | +102+31% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +12 (+1%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | +12+1% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- Yorba Linda, CA47 violent per 100K
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or North Carolina?
North Carolina scores higher for education (#26 of 50 vs #37), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 86.4%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #32); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 75.9 in North Carolina.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +3.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +3.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.4 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | -5.4 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+17%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | +7 pts+17% | 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).
- San Ramon, CAeducation score 98
- Chapel Hill, NCeducation score 93
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: California #37, North Carolina #26. Health: California #5, North Carolina #32.
Are more people moving from California to North Carolina, or from North Carolina to California?
9,978 households moved from California to North Carolina and 6,470 moved from North Carolina to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 3,508 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $97,377; movers to California reported $80,848. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 18,428 people (±4,002) moving from California to North Carolina and 8,873 (±2,194) the other way, a net gain of about 9,555 people for North Carolina beyond the margin of error.
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 | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +82,112 (+48%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | +82,112+48% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +221,627 (+168%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +221,627+168% | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -139,515 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -139,515 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.1 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -6.1 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$15,361 (+19%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | +$15,361+19% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$27,832 (+37%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$27,832+37% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -13.4 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -13.4 | 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, California or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +20 places | #48score 43.1 | #28score 62.8 | +20 places | NC |
| RetireesGap +28 places | #49score 43.4 | #21score 64.2 | +28 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap +33 places | #50score 19.5 | #17score 56.9 | +33 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +36 places | #50score 24.3 | #14score 63.1 | +36 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap +41 places | #50score 26.8 | #9score 71.1 | +41 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -3 places | #31score 36.7 | #34score 34.6 | -3 places | Even |
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 #48)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #50)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#31 vs #34)
Which cities stand out in California and North Carolina?
California has 188 tracked cities and North Carolina has 22; the largest are Los Angeles and Charlotte. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Charlotte903,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Apexscore 74.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Apex53 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Rocky Mountcost index 88 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Apexmedian income $144,135 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Apex+6.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and North Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and North Carolina AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +39 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | +39 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +32.3 (+135%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | +32.3+135% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap +36.5 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | +36.5 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +4 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.5 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.3 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 92.67% | CA |
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 | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap -23 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -23 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,640 (+171%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$2,640+171% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -9.6 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -9.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, North Carolina AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
California vs North Carolina: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. California is ahead on 12 of 51, North Carolina on 31, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | North CarolinaNC | GapCA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +28,157,341 (+251%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | +28,157,341+251% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$26,191 (+35%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$26,191+35% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.7 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| Population growthGap -1.34 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -1.34 pts | +0.51% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$28,756 (+48%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$28,756+48% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +102 (+31%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | +102+31% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +12 (+1%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | +12+1% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 239#19 of 50 | -6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 213#32 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +3.4 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.4 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | -5.4 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$429,385 (+128%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | +$429,385+128% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.4 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,192 (+68%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$1,192+68% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$109,459 (+125%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$109,459+125% | $100,006 | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +16.4 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +16.4 pts+17% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.1x (+69%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | +3.1x+69% | 4.6x | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +18.52¢ (+132%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +18.52¢+132% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.59 (+34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | +$5.59+34% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.24 (+39%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | +$1.24+39% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +9.5 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +9.5 pts+10% | 100 | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,155 (+66%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$9,155+66% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.82 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +2.82 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.15 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +10.15 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.02 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.99 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +1.99 pts | 6.66% | NC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap -23 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -23 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,640 (+171%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$2,640+171% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -9.6 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -9.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+17%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | +7 pts+17% | 38.8 | NC |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +39 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | +39 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +32.3 (+135%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | +32.3+135% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap +36.5 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | +36.5 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +4 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.5 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.3 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +82,112 (+48%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | +82,112+48% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +221,627 (+168%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +221,627+168% | 78,715 | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -139,515 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -139,515 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.1 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -6.1 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$15,361 (+19%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | +$15,361+19% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$27,832 (+37%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$27,832+37% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -13.4 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -13.4 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$51,437 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$51,437 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$20,655 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | -$20,655 | +$31,418 | NC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$23,032 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | -$23,032 | +$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 California and North Carolina numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 6 of the 11 categories to California's 2, with 3 even; California is ahead on health and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 12 and North Carolina on 31.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $334,773 in North Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
North Carolina takes a smaller share in taxes
California collects 11% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); North Carolina collects 8.18% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
California pays more
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $73,958 in North Carolina, with unemployment at 5.5% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 330 in North Carolina.
People move to North Carolina on net
18,428 people moved to North Carolina from California in the latest Census release, against 8,873 going the other way.
North Carolina fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and North Carolina #28; for retirees, California ranks #49 and North Carolina #21.
California vs North Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is California or North Carolina better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and North Carolina #23 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 110.7), has a 2.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 24% lower violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
Is California cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper than California: cost of living index 94.3 vs 110.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$59,997 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in California, and -$8,560 in North Carolina. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $334,773 in North Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, California or North Carolina?
North Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.18% of income in state and local taxes vs 11% in California. California's top income tax rate is 14.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.71% and its combined sales tax 8.99%; North Carolina's are 4.25%, 0.73% and 7%.
Is California safer than North Carolina?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and North Carolina #30. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,780 in North Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Apex, NC.
Are homes more expensive in California or North Carolina?
Homes are 128% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $87,803 in North Carolina, against median incomes of $100,149 and $73,958.
Do people earn more in California or North Carolina?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from California to North Carolina or from North Carolina to California?
9,978 households moved from California to North Carolina and 6,470 moved from North Carolina to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 3,508 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $97,377; movers to California reported $80,848. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 18,428 people (±4,002) moving from California to North Carolina and 8,873 (±2,194) the other way, a net gain of about 9,555 people for North Carolina beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, California or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #49 for California. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$37,308 in North Carolina.
Which is better for families, California or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for families: #28 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $13,916 in North Carolina. High school graduation rates are 87% and 86.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Is North Carolina better than California?
Yes: North Carolina ranks higher than California overall, #23 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 59.1 to 40.2. North Carolina leads 6 of 11 categories and California leads 2, including health and outdoor access. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside California vs North Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (9,978 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).