California vs South Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. South Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.7 vs 110.7), has a 2.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 10% lower violent crime rate. South Carolina scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 5.
- Typical home value is 60% lower in South Carolina ($306,323 vs. $764,158 in California).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 55% lower in South Carolina ($10,474 vs. $23,071 in California).
- Residential electricity price is 54% lower in South Carolina (14.96¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -8.8 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 49.0#36 of 50 · C | -8.8 pts | — | SC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +17 pts (+18%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +17 pts+18% | 100 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$62,086 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$62,086 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$457,835 (+149%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$457,835+149% | $368,697 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.85 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +2.85 pts | 8.74% | SC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +45 (+12%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | +45+12% | 328 | SC |
| Median household incomeGap +$27,799 (+38%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$27,799+38% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +4.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +4.2 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -129,611 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -129,611 | -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 California or South Carolina better to live in?
South Carolina scores higher overall: 49 to 40.2 out of 100, #36 of 50 against #47. California leads 5 of 11 categories, South Carolina leads 5, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +9.7 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 31.8#42 · C | +9.7 pts | CA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -5.3 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 60.0#38 · C | -5.3 pts | SC |
| Health12% of scoregap +36.3 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 41.3#38 · C | +36.3 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap +1.6 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 50.1#38 · C | +1.6 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -64.1 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 78.4#16 · B+ | -64.1 pts | SC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -6.9 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 54.4#36 · C | -6.9 pts | SC |
| Growth7% of scoregap -64.9 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 71.0#2 · A+ | -64.9 pts | SC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +3.6 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 42.4#43 · D | +3.6 pts | CA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -10.1 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 41.8#14 · B+ | -10.1 pts | SC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +31.9 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 8.9#45 · D | +31.9 pts | CA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +3.6 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 21.1#49 · F | +3.6 pts | CA |
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 South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 93.7 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $62,086 more a year in South Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +17 pts (+18%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +17 pts+18% | 100 | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +9.8 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +9.8 pts+10% | 100 | SC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +17.58¢ (+118%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +17.58¢+118% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.10 (+30%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | +$5.10+30% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.43 (+48%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$1.43+48% | $3.32/gal | SC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$12,597 (+120%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$12,597+120% | $15,633 | SC |
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 | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$22,104 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$34,233costs $40,767 | -$22,104 | SC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$29,476 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$27,172costs $47,828 | -$29,476 | SC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$62,086 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | +$2,089costs $72,911 | -$62,086 | SC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$25,184 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$39,460costs $35,539 | -$25,184 | SC |
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 | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$31,583 | $51,794 | $20,211 | +$31,583 | SC |
| ChildcareGap +$25,194 | $46,142 | $20,948 | +$25,194 | SC |
| UtilitiesGap +$816 | $5,314 | $4,498 | +$816 | SC |
| GroceriesGap +$1,104 | $11,950 | $10,846 | +$1,104 | SC |
| TransportationGap +$4,494 | $13,891 | $9,397 | +$4,494 | SC |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,105 | $5,906 | $7,011 | -$1,105 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or South Carolina?
South Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.15% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.85 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +2.85 pts | 8.74% | SC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.2 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 5.46% | SC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.18 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.18 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.5 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | +1.5 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 California or South Carolina?
Homes cost 149% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $79,086 in South Carolina; the median household earns $100,149 and $72,350.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$457,835 (+149%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$457,835+149% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.2% | SC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,372 (+87%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$1,372+87% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$118,176 (+149%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$118,176+149% | $100,006 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.4x (+81%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | +3.4x+81% | 4.6x | SC |
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 | SC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $1,576 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Cold |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | Greenville |
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 South Carolina?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $72,350, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$27,799 (+38%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$27,799+38% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | SC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$37,855 (+75%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$37,855+75% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -1.48 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -1.48 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 | CA | SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $135,418$125,939 in Charleston | CA |
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $149,808$139,321 in Charleston | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $219,138$203,798 in Charleston | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $81,647$75,932 in Charleston | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $75,855$70,545 in Charleston | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $61,126$56,847 in Charleston | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $102,995$95,785 in Charleston | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $98,238$91,361 in Charleston | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $68,961$64,134 in Columbia | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $32,490$30,216 in Columbia | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $104,417$97,108 in Charleston | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $78,411$72,922 in Charleston | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $62,687$58,299 in Charleston | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $64,958$60,411 in Columbia | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $54,377$50,571 in Columbia | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $54,468$50,655 in Charleston | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $46,813$43,536 in Charleston | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $56,283$52,343 in Charleston | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $41,473$38,570 in Charleston | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $55,191$51,328 in Charleston | CA |
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 South Carolina?
South Carolina is safer: 388 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 1,676 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +45 (+12%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | +45+12% | 328 | SC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +116 (+7%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | +116+7% | 1,535 | SC |
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
- Fort Mill, SC30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, California or South Carolina?
California and South Carolina are close on education (#37 and #38 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 83.8%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #38); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 75.1 in South Carolina.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +4.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +4.2 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | -5.5 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+9%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | +4 pts+9% | 38.8 | SC |
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
- Fort Mill, SCeducation score 96
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, South Carolina #38. Health: California #5, South Carolina #38.
Are more people moving from California to South Carolina, or from South Carolina to California?
4,179 households moved from California to South Carolina and 2,322 moved from South Carolina to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,857 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $91,551; movers to California reported $70,118. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,709 people (±2,524) moving from California to South Carolina and 6,955 (±1,938) 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 | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +153,084 (+153%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +153,084+153% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +282,695 (+401%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +282,695+401% | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -129,611 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -129,611 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.8 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -7.8 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,047 (+8%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | +$7,047+8% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$35,552 (+53%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$35,552+53% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -17.8 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -17.8 | 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, California or South Carolina?
California is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; South Carolina is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +8 places | #48score 43.1 | #40score 55.8 | +8 places | SC |
| RetireesGap +9 places | #49score 43.4 | #40score 54 | +9 places | SC |
| Remote WorkersGap +16 places | #50score 19.5 | #34score 48.6 | +16 places | SC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +32 places | #50score 24.3 | #18score 58.8 | +32 places | SC |
| Small BusinessGap +25 places | #50score 26.8 | #25score 58.4 | +25 places | SC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -16 places | #31score 36.7 | #47score 26.1 | -16 places | CA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesSouth Carolina (#40 vs #48)
- RetireesSouth Carolina (#40 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersSouth Carolina (#34 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Carolina (#18 vs #50)
- Small BusinessSouth Carolina (#25 vs #50)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsCalifornia (#31 vs #47)
Which cities stand out in California and South Carolina?
California has 188 tracked cities and South Carolina has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Charleston154,338 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Fort Millscore 71 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Fort Mill30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Florencecost index 86.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Greenvillewalkability 13.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Goose Creekcounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Fort Mill96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Mount Pleasantmedian income $124,755 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% growth | Greer+7.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do California and South Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and South Carolina AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +44 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +44 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +17.1 (+44%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | +17.1+44% | 29.6 | SC |
| Public land shareGap +39.8 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +39.8 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +3.4 min | 25.2 min | SC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +3 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.8 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.1 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +2.1 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 | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | SC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 12.39% | CA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +12 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +12 pts | 74.3% | CA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,060 (+97%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | +$2,060+97% | $3,506 | SC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.8 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | -7.8 pts | +4.66% | SC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California AA-, South Carolina 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).
California vs South 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 15 of 51, South Carolina on 30, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | South CarolinaSC | GapCA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +33,785,035 (+607%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 5.6 million#23 of 50 | +33,785,035+607% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$27,799 (+38%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$27,799+38% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | +1 pts | 3.95% | SC |
| Population growthGap -1.48 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -1.48 pts | +0.51% | SC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$37,855 (+75%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$37,855+75% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +45 (+12%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | +45+12% | 328 | SC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +116 (+7%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | +116+7% | 1,535 | SC |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 238#27 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 215#24 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +4.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +4.2 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | -5.5 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$457,835 (+149%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$457,835+149% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.2% | SC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,372 (+87%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$1,372+87% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$118,176 (+149%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$118,176+149% | $100,006 | SC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +17 pts (+18%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +17 pts+18% | 100 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +3.4x (+81%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | +3.4x+81% | 4.6x | SC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +17.58¢ (+118%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +17.58¢+118% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$5.10 (+30%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | +$5.10+30% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.43 (+48%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$1.43+48% | $3.32/gal | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +9.8 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +9.8 pts+10% | 100 | SC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$12,597 (+120%) · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$12,597+120% | $15,633 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.85 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +2.85 pts | 8.74% | SC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.2 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 5.46% | SC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.18 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.18 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.5 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 6.66% | SC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | SC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 12.39% | CA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +12 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +12 pts | 74.3% | CA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,060 (+97%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | +$2,060+97% | $3,506 | SC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.8 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | -7.8 pts | +4.66% | SC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+9%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | +4 pts+9% | 38.8 | SC |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +44 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +44 pts | 29.34% | CA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +17.1 (+44%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | +17.1+44% | 29.6 | SC |
| Public land shareGap +39.8 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +39.8 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.4 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +3.4 min | 25.2 min | SC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +3 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.8 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.1 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +153,084 (+153%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +153,084+153% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +282,695 (+401%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +282,695+401% | 78,715 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -129,611 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -129,611 | -33 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.8 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -7.8 | +0.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,047 (+8%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | +$7,047+8% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$35,552 (+53%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$35,552+53% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -17.8 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -17.8 | +1.1 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$62,086 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$62,086 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$22,104 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$34,233#19 of 50 | -$22,104 | +$31,418 | SC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$25,184 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$39,460#16 of 50 | -$25,184 | +$35,970 | SC |
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 South Carolina numbers say when read together.
South Carolina ranks higher overall
South Carolina leads 5 of the 11 categories to California's 5, with 1 even; California is ahead on health and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 15 and South Carolina on 30.
South Carolina is cheaper day to day
South Carolina's cost of living index is 93.7 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $306,323 in South Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
South 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); South Carolina collects 8.15% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
California pays more
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 5.5% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 388 in South Carolina.
Moves between the two run about even
8,709 people moved from California to South Carolina and 6,955 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
South Carolina fits families and retirees better
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and South Carolina #40; for retirees, California ranks #49 and South Carolina #40.
California vs South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is California or South Carolina better to live in?
California ranks #47 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. South Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.7 vs 110.7), has a 2.8-point lower tax burden, and has a 10% lower violent crime rate. South Carolina scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 5.
Is California cheaper than South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper than California: cost of living index 93.7 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 +$2,089 in South Carolina. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $306,323 in South Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, California or South Carolina?
South Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.15% 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%; South Carolina's are 6.2%, 0.53% and 7.49%.
Is California safer than South Carolina?
South Carolina is safer: 388 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 433 in California, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and South Carolina #38. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 1,676 in South Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Fort Mill, SC.
Are homes more expensive in California or South Carolina?
Homes are 149% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $79,086 in South Carolina, against median incomes of $100,149 and $72,350.
Do people earn more in California or South Carolina?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $72,350 in South Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to South Carolina or from South Carolina to California?
4,179 households moved from California to South Carolina and 2,322 moved from South Carolina to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,857 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $91,551; movers to California reported $70,118. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,709 people (±2,524) moving from California to South Carolina and 6,955 (±1,938) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, California or South Carolina?
South Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #40 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; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$39,460 in South Carolina.
Which is better for families, California or South Carolina?
South Carolina is the better fit for families: #40 of 50 on the families index vs #48 for California. Center-based infant care costs $23,071 a year in California and $10,474 in South Carolina. High school graduation rates are 87% and 83.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Is South Carolina better than California?
Yes: South Carolina ranks higher than California overall, #36 of 50 vs #47, with a composite score of 49 to 40.2. South Carolina leads 5 of 11 categories and California leads 5, 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 South Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (4,179 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).