Florida vs North Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 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 103.4), carries a 1.7-point higher tax burden. Overall they are 0.8 points apart, too close to call: Florida leads 3 of 11 categories, North Carolina leads 4.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 34% lower in North Carolina ($1,749 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
- Property crime rate is 21% lower in Florida (1,402 vs. 1,780 in North Carolina).
- Total tax burden is 21% lower in Florida (6.49% vs. 8.18% in North Carolina).
| Measure | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +0.8 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | +0.8 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.1 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +9.1 pts+10% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,926 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$1,926 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$40,697 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | +$40,697+12% | $368,697 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.69 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | -1.69 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -55 (-17%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -55-17% | 328 | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,777 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$3,777+5% | $80,903 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +16,231 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +16,231 | -33 | FL |
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 Florida or North Carolina better to live in?
Florida scores 59.9 and North Carolina scores 59.1 out of 100, a 0.8-point gap this site treats as even. Florida leads 3 of 11 categories, North Carolina leads 4, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +1.8 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 43.2#29 · C+ | +1.8 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +10 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 63.1#33 · C+ | +10 pts | FL |
| Health12% of scoregap +13.9 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 46.6#32 · C+ | +13.9 pts | FL |
| Education12% of scoregap +0.5 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 60.6#26 · B | +0.5 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -11.9 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 73.8#21 · B | -11.9 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -1.3 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 71.5#6 · A | -1.3 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap -20.7 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 65.6#3 · A+ | -20.7 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -4.6 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 48.2#28 · C+ | -4.6 pts | NC |
| Livability7% of scoregap -7.6 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 34.5#21 · B | -7.6 pts | NC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +14.3 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 13.5#37 · C | +14.3 pts | FL |
| Environment4% of scoregap -0.6 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 34.6#35 · C | -0.6 pts | Even |
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 Florida cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $1,926 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.1 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +9.1 pts+10% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.22¢ (+9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +1.22¢+9% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.06 (+55%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | +$9.06+55% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.10 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | -$0.10-3% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$314 (+2%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$314+2% | $15,633 | Even |
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 | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$600 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$600 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$569 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | -$569 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$1,926 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$1,926 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$309 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | -$309 | Even |
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 | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$3,105 | $25,862 | $22,757 | +$3,105 | NC |
| ChildcareGap +$628 | $28,460 | $27,832 | +$628 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap +$437 | $4,963 | $4,526 | +$437 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$169 | $11,049 | $10,880 | +$169 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$314 | $9,680 | $9,994 | -$314 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,099 | $5,472 | $7,571 | -$2,099 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or North Carolina?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 8.18%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.69 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | -1.69 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.25 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | -4.25 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.02 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Florida or North Carolina?
Homes cost 12% more in Florida: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $87,803 in North Carolina; the median household earns $77,735 and $73,958.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$40,697 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | +$40,697+12% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | NC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$917 (+52%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$917+52% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$20,477 (+23%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$20,477+23% | $100,006 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+7%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | +0.3x+7% | 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.
| FL | NC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $1,722 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +23.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | Miami | 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 Florida or North Carolina?
Florida pays more: median household income $77,735 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 20.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$3,777 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$3,777+5% | $80,903 | FL |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,041 (+2%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$1,041+2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap -0.47 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -0.47 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 | FL | NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | NC |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | NC |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | NC |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | NC |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | NC |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | NC |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | NC |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | NC |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | NC |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | NC |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | NC |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | NC |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | NC |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | NC |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | NC |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | NC |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | NC |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | NC |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | NC |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | 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 Florida safer than North Carolina?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,780 per 100,000. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -55 (-17%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -55-17% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -378 (-21%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -378-21% | 1,535 | FL |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or North Carolina?
Florida and North Carolina are close on education (#23 and #26 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 86.4%. Florida scores higher for health (#19 vs #32); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 75.9 in North Carolina.
| Measure | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 7.6% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
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).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- 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: Florida #23, North Carolina #26. Health: Florida #19, North Carolina #32.
Are more people moving from Florida to North Carolina, or from North Carolina to Florida?
20,553 households moved from Florida to North Carolina and 14,530 moved from North Carolina to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 6,023 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $77,338; movers to Florida reported $96,279. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 33,591 people (±4,724) moving from Florida to North Carolina and 25,865 (±5,677) the other way, a net gain of about 7,726 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 | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +183,361 (+107%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | +183,361+107% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +167,130 (+127%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +167,130+127% | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +16,231 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +16,231 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.1 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -1.1 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$42,377 (+53%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | +$42,377+53% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,846 (+2%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$1,846+2% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.6 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -6.6 | 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, Florida or North Carolina?
Florida is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; North Carolina is the better fit for 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 | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -4 places | #24score 65.4 | #28score 62.8 | -4 places | FL |
| RetireesGap -3 places | #18score 66.2 | #21score 64.2 | -3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +10 places | #27score 51.6 | #17score 56.9 | +10 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +10 places | #24score 53.9 | #14score 63.1 | +10 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap +10 places | #19score 62.4 | #9score 71.1 | +10 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -8 places | #26score 44.3 | #34score 34.6 | -8 places | FL |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesFlorida (#24 vs #28)
- RetireesEven (#18 vs #21)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #27)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #24)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #19)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsFlorida (#26 vs #34)
Which cities stand out in Florida and North Carolina?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and North Carolina has 22; the largest are Jacksonville and Charlotte. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Charlotte903,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Apexscore 74.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Apex53 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Rocky Mountcost index 88 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Apexmedian income $144,135 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Apex+6.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and North Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and North Carolina AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -3 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | -3 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -1.5 (-6%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | -1.5-6% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +17 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | +17 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.2 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +3.2 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 92.67% | FL |
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 | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$420 (+27%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$420+27% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, 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).
Florida 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. Florida is ahead on 17 of 51, North Carolina on 17, and 17 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | North CarolinaNC | GapFL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +12,264,550 (+110%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | +12,264,550+110% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,777 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$3,777+5% | $80,903 | FL |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.47 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -0.47 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$1,041 (+2%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$1,041+2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -55 (-17%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -55-17% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -378 (-21%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -378-21% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 239#19 of 50 | +5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 213#32 of 50 | +5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.9 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 7.6% | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$40,697 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | +$40,697+12% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | NC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$917 (+52%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$917+52% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$20,477 (+23%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$20,477+23% | $100,006 | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.1 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +9.1 pts+10% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+7%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | +0.3x+7% | 4.6x | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.22¢ (+9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +1.22¢+9% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.06 (+55%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | +$9.06+55% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.10 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | -$0.10-3% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$314 (+2%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$314+2% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.69 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | -1.69 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.25 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | -4.25 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.02 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$420 (+27%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$420+27% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -3 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | -3 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -1.5 (-6%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | -1.5-6% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +17 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | +17 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.2 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +3.2 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +183,361 (+107%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | +183,361+107% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +167,130 (+127%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +167,130+127% | 78,715 | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +16,231 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +16,231 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.1 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -1.1 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$42,377 (+53%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | +$42,377+53% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,846 (+2%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$1,846+2% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.6 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -6.6 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$1,926 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$1,926 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$600 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$600 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$309 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | -$309 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Florida and North Carolina numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Florida (59.9, #21) and North Carolina (59.1, #23) are within 2 composite points. Florida leads 3 categories, North Carolina leads 4, and 4 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $334,773 in North Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Florida takes a smaller share in taxes
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); North Carolina collects 8.18% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Florida pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $73,958 in North Carolina, with unemployment at 3.9% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 330 in North Carolina.
People move to North Carolina on net
33,591 people moved to North Carolina from Florida in the latest Census release, against 25,865 going the other way.
Florida is the better fit for families
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and North Carolina #28; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and North Carolina #21.
Florida vs North Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or North Carolina better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 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 103.4), carries a 1.7-point higher tax burden. Overall they are 0.8 points apart, too close to call: Florida leads 3 of 11 categories, North Carolina leads 4.
Is Florida cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper than Florida: cost of living index 94.3 vs 103.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and -$8,560 in North Carolina. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $334,773 in North Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or North Carolina?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.18% in North Carolina. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; North Carolina's are 4.25%, 0.73% and 7%.
Is Florida safer than North Carolina?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and North Carolina #30. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,780 in North Carolina. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Pembroke Pines, FL, and Apex, NC.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or North Carolina?
Homes are 12% more expensive in Florida: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $87,803 in North Carolina, against median incomes of $77,735 and $73,958.
Do people earn more in Florida or North Carolina?
Florida pays more: median household income is $77,735 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 20.
Are more people moving from Florida to North Carolina or from North Carolina to Florida?
20,553 households moved from Florida to North Carolina and 14,530 moved from North Carolina to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 6,023 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $77,338; movers to Florida reported $96,279. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 33,591 people (±4,724) moving from Florida to North Carolina and 25,865 (±5,677) the other way, a net gain of about 7,726 people for North Carolina beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or North Carolina?
Florida and North Carolina are close for retirees: #18 and #21 of 50 on the retiree index. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes 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 +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$37,308 in North Carolina.
Which is better for families, Florida or North Carolina?
Florida is the better fit for families: #24 of 50 on the families index vs #28 for North Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $13,916 in North Carolina. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 86.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Which has better schools, Florida or North Carolina?
Florida and North Carolina are close on education: #23 and #26 of 50 in the education category. Eighth graders average 267 in NAEP math in Florida and 276 in North Carolina. High school graduation rates are 87.3% in Florida and 86.4% in North Carolina, and the education category scores are 61.1 and 60.6 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Sanford and Chapel Hill have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Florida vs North Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (20,553 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).