Florida vs South Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 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 103.4), carries a 1.7-point higher tax burden, and has a 29% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 41% lower in South Carolina ($1,569 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
- Violent crime rate is 29% lower in Florida (275 vs. 388 in South Carolina).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 27% lower in South Carolina ($79,086 vs. $108,280 in Florida).
| Measure | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +10.9 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 49.0#36 of 50 · C | +10.9 pts | — | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.7 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +9.7 pts+10% | 100 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$12,575 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$12,575 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$69,147 (+23%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$69,147+23% | $368,697 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.66 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | -1.66 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -112 (-29%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -112-29% | 328 | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,385 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$5,385+7% | $80,903 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap +2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +2.8 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +26,135 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +26,135 | -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 South Carolina better to live in?
Florida scores higher overall: 59.9 to 49 out of 100, #21 of 50 against #36. Florida leads 7 of 11 categories, South Carolina leads 3, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +13.2 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 31.8#42 · C | +13.2 pts | FL |
| Safety12% of scoregap +13.1 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 60.0#38 · C | +13.1 pts | FL |
| Health12% of scoregap +19.2 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 41.3#38 · C | +19.2 pts | FL |
| Education12% of scoregap +11 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 50.1#38 · C | +11 pts | FL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -16.5 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 78.4#16 · B+ | -16.5 pts | SC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +15.8 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 54.4#36 · C | +15.8 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap -26.1 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 71.0#2 · A+ | -26.1 pts | SC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1.2 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 42.4#43 · D | +1.2 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -14.9 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 41.8#14 · B+ | -14.9 pts | SC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +18.9 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 8.9#45 · D | +18.9 pts | FL |
| Environment4% of scoregap +12.9 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 21.1#49 · F | +12.9 pts | FL |
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 South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 93.7 vs 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $12,575 more a year in South Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.7 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +9.7 pts+10% | 100 | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.8 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +1.8 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.28¢ (+2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +0.28¢+2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.57 (+51%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | +$8.57+51% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,756 (+36%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$3,756+36% | $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 | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$849 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$34,233costs $40,767 | -$849 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$3,113 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$27,172costs $47,828 | -$3,113 | SC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$12,575 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | +$2,089costs $72,911 | -$12,575 | SC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,461 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$39,460costs $35,539 | -$2,461 | 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 | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$5,651 | $25,862 | $20,211 | +$5,651 | SC |
| ChildcareGap +$7,512 | $28,460 | $20,948 | +$7,512 | SC |
| UtilitiesGap +$465 | $4,963 | $4,498 | +$465 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$203 | $11,049 | $10,846 | +$203 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$283 | $9,680 | $9,397 | +$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,539 | $5,472 | $7,011 | -$1,539 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or South Carolina?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 8.15%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.66 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | -1.66 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.2 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.29 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.51 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 6.66% | FL |
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 South Carolina?
Homes cost 23% more in Florida: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $79,086 in South Carolina; the median household earns $77,735 and $72,350.
| Measure | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$69,147 (+23%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$69,147+23% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -2.5 pts | +1.2% | SC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,097 (+70%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$1,097+70% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$29,194 (+37%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$29,194+37% | $100,006 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+14%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | +0.6x+14% | 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.
| FL | SC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $1,576 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | Miami | 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 Florida or South Carolina?
Florida pays more: median household income $77,735 vs $72,350, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 6 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 5.
| Measure | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,385 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$5,385+7% | $80,903 | FL |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap +$10,140 (+20%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$10,140+20% | $64,333 | FL |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap -0.61 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -0.61 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 | FL | SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $135,418$125,939 in Charleston | SC |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $98,238$91,361 in Charleston | SC |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $219,138$203,798 in Charleston | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $56,283$52,343 in Charleston | SC |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $102,995$95,785 in Charleston | FL |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $81,647$75,932 in Charleston | FL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $54,468$50,655 in Charleston | FL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $78,411$72,922 in Charleston | FL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $68,961$64,134 in Columbia | SC |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $75,855$70,545 in Charleston | SC |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $32,490$30,216 in Columbia | FL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $64,958$60,411 in Columbia | FL |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $149,808$139,321 in Charleston | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $62,687$58,299 in Charleston | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $104,417$97,108 in Charleston | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $55,191$51,328 in Charleston | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $46,813$43,536 in Charleston | Even |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $61,126$56,847 in Charleston | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $41,473$38,570 in Charleston | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $54,377$50,571 in Columbia | 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 Florida safer than South Carolina?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,676 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 | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -112 (-29%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -112-29% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -274 (-16%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -274-16% | 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
- Fort Mill, SC30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or South Carolina?
Florida scores higher for education (#23 of 50 vs #38), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 83.8%. Florida scores higher for health (#19 vs #38); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 75.1 in South Carolina.
| Measure | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap +2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +2.8 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | -5 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.9 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 7.6% | SC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-7%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -3 pts-7% | 38.8 | FL |
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
- 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: Florida #23, South Carolina #38. Health: Florida #19, South Carolina #38.
Are more people moving from Florida to South Carolina, or from South Carolina to Florida?
9,651 households moved from Florida to South Carolina and 7,188 moved from South Carolina to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,463 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $73,112; movers to Florida reported $76,901. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 17,992 people (±3,862) moving from Florida to South Carolina and 9,304 (±2,219) the other way, a net gain of about 8,688 people for South 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 | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +254,333 (+255%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +254,333+255% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +228,198 (+323%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +228,198+323% | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +26,135 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +26,135 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.8 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -2.8 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$34,063 (+38%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | +$34,063+38% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$9,566 (+14%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$9,566+14% | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.0 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -11.0 | 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, Florida or South Carolina?
Florida is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; South Carolina is the better fit for young professionals. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -16 places | #24score 65.4 | #40score 55.8 | -16 places | FL |
| RetireesGap -22 places | #18score 66.2 | #40score 54 | -22 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap -7 places | #27score 51.6 | #34score 48.6 | -7 places | FL |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +6 places | #24score 53.9 | #18score 58.8 | +6 places | SC |
| Small BusinessGap -6 places | #19score 62.4 | #25score 58.4 | -6 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -21 places | #26score 44.3 | #47score 26.1 | -21 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 #40)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #40)
- Remote WorkersFlorida (#27 vs #34)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Carolina (#18 vs #24)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #25)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsFlorida (#26 vs #47)
Which cities stand out in Florida and South Carolina?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and South Carolina has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Charleston154,338 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Fort Millscore 71 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Fort Mill30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Florencecost index 86.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Greenvillewalkability 13.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Goose Creekcounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Fort Mill96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Mount Pleasantmedian income $124,755 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Greer+7.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and South Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and South Carolina AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | FL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.7 (-43%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -16.7-43% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +20.3 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +20.3 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | SC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +1.4 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 | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +22 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +22 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$160 (-8%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | -$160-8% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.2 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, 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).
Florida 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. Florida is ahead on 26 of 51, South Carolina on 15, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | South CarolinaSC | GapFL−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +17,892,244 (+321%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 5.6 million#23 of 50 | +17,892,244+321% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,385 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$5,385+7% | $80,903 | FL |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| Population growthGap -0.61 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -0.61 pts | +0.51% | SC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$10,140 (+20%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$10,140+20% | $64,333 | FL |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -112 (-29%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -112-29% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -274 (-16%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -274-16% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 238#27 of 50 | +6 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 215#24 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +2.8 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | -5 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.9 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 7.6% | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$69,147 (+23%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$69,147+23% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -2.5 pts | +1.2% | SC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,097 (+70%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$1,097+70% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$29,194 (+37%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$29,194+37% | $100,006 | SC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +9.7 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +9.7 pts+10% | 100 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+14%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | +0.6x+14% | 4.6x | SC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.28¢ (+2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +0.28¢+2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.57 (+51%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | +$8.57+51% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.8 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +1.8 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,756 (+36%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$3,756+36% | $15,633 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.66 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | -1.66 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.2 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.29 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.51 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | -0.51 pts | 6.66% | FL |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +22 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +22 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$160 (-8%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | -$160-8% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.2 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-7%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -3 pts-7% | 38.8 | FL |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +2 pts | 29.34% | FL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.7 (-43%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -16.7-43% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +20.3 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +20.3 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | SC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | FL |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.4 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +254,333 (+255%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +254,333+255% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +228,198 (+323%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +228,198+323% | 78,715 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +26,135 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +26,135 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.8 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -2.8 | +0.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$34,063 (+38%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | +$34,063+38% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$9,566 (+14%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$9,566+14% | $77,024 | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.0 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -11.0 | +1.1 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$12,575 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$12,575 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$849 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$34,233#19 of 50 | -$849 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,461 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$39,460#16 of 50 | -$2,461 | +$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 Florida and South Carolina numbers say when read together.
Florida ranks higher overall
Florida leads 7 of the 11 categories to South Carolina's 3, with 1 even; South Carolina is ahead on growth and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 26 and South Carolina on 15.
South Carolina is cheaper day to day
South Carolina's cost of living index is 93.7 against 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $306,323 in South Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and +$2,089 in South 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); South Carolina collects 8.15% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Florida pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 3.9% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 388 in South Carolina.
People move to South Carolina on net
17,992 people moved to South Carolina from Florida in the latest Census release, against 9,304 going the other way.
Florida fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and South Carolina #40; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and South Carolina #40.
Florida vs South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or South Carolina better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 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 103.4), carries a 1.7-point higher tax burden, and has a 29% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Florida cheaper than South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper than Florida: cost of living index 93.7 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 +$2,089 in South Carolina. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $306,323 in South Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or South Carolina?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.15% in South Carolina. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; South Carolina's are 6.2%, 0.53% and 7.49%.
Is Florida safer than South Carolina?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and South Carolina #38. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,676 in South 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 Fort Mill, SC.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or South Carolina?
Homes are 23% more expensive in Florida: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $79,086 in South Carolina, against median incomes of $77,735 and $72,350.
Do people earn more in Florida or South Carolina?
Florida pays more: median household income is $77,735 vs $72,350 in South Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 6 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 5, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to South Carolina or from South Carolina to Florida?
9,651 households moved from Florida to South Carolina and 7,188 moved from South Carolina to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,463 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $73,112; movers to Florida reported $76,901. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 17,992 people (±3,862) moving from Florida to South Carolina and 9,304 (±2,219) the other way, a net gain of about 8,688 people for South Carolina beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or South Carolina?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #40 for South Carolina. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes 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 +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$39,460 in South Carolina.
Which is better for families, Florida or South Carolina?
Florida is the better fit for families: #24 of 50 on the families index vs #40 for South Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $10,474 in South Carolina. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 83.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Is South Carolina better than Florida?
No: Florida ranks higher than South Carolina overall, #21 of 50 vs #36, with a composite score of 59.9 to 49. Florida leads 7 of 11 categories and South Carolina leads 3, including growth and affordability. 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 Florida vs South Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (9,651 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).