Georgia vs North Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 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 96.3), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 10% higher violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
- Property crime rate is 21% lower in Georgia (1,409 vs. 1,780 in North Carolina).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 20% lower in Georgia ($11,066 vs. $13,916 in North Carolina).
- Violent crime rate is 10% lower in Georgia (297 vs. 330 in North Carolina).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -3.7 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | -3.7 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +2 pts+2% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$5,760 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | +$5,760 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$3,956 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$3,956-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.29 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -33 (-10%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -33-10% | 328 | GA |
| Median household incomeGap +$6,033 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$6,033+8% | $80,903 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.3 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -24,447 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -24,447 | -33 | NC |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Georgia or North Carolina better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 55.4 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #26. Georgia leads 2 of 11 categories, North Carolina leads 6, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +10.9 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 43.2#29 · C+ | +10.9 pts | GA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +8.1 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 63.1#33 · C+ | +8.1 pts | GA |
| Health12% of scoregap -7.1 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 46.6#32 · C+ | -7.1 pts | NC |
| Education12% of scoregap -7.5 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 60.6#26 · B | -7.5 pts | NC |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -0.7 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 73.8#21 · B | -0.7 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -1.8 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 71.5#6 · A | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap -14.1 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 65.6#3 · A+ | -14.1 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -9.5 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 48.2#28 · C+ | -9.5 pts | NC |
| Livability7% of scoregap -6.4 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 34.5#21 · B | -6.4 pts | NC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -5.9 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 13.5#37 · C | -5.9 pts | NC |
| Environment4% of scoregap -2.5 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 34.6#35 · C | -2.5 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 Georgia cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 96.3 in Georgia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,760 more a year in Georgia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +2 pts+2% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.3 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +2.3 pts+2% | 100 | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.71¢ (+5%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +0.71¢+5% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.00 (+24%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | +$4.00+24% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.23 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | -$0.23-7% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,850 (-20%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | -$2,850-20% | $15,633 | GA |
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 | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$599 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | -$599 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$378 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | -$378 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$5,760 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | +$5,760 | GA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$523 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | -$523 | 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 | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$62 | $22,819 | $22,757 | +$62 | Even |
| ChildcareGap -$5,700 | $22,132 | $27,832 | -$5,700 | GA |
| UtilitiesGap +$96 | $4,622 | $4,526 | +$96 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$259 | $11,139 | $10,880 | +$259 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$723 | $9,271 | $9,994 | -$723 | GA |
| State and local taxesGap +$246 | $7,817 | $7,571 | +$246 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or North Carolina?
Georgia and North Carolina collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.47% vs 8.18%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.29 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.14 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +1.14 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.1 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.49 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +0.49 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 Georgia or North Carolina?
Typical home values are about the same: $330,817 in Georgia and $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $87,803 in North Carolina; the median household earns $79,991 and $73,958.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$3,956 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$3,956-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.2% | NC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$104 (+6%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$104+6% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$2,692 (+3%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$2,692+3% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-9%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | -0.4x-9% | 4.6x | GA |
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.
| GA | NC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $1,722 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +23.2% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cold |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | 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 Georgia or North Carolina?
Georgia pays more: median household income $79,991 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 3.4% in Georgia and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 3 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 5.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$6,033 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$6,033+8% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,055 (+7%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$4,055+7% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.44 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -0.44 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 | GA | NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | NC |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | GA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | NC |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | NC |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | GA |
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | NC |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | GA |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | NC |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | Even |
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | Even |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Georgia safer than North Carolina?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,780 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -33 (-10%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -33-10% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -371 (-21%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -371-21% | 1,535 | GA |
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.
- Johns Creek, GA40 violent per 100K
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or North Carolina?
North Carolina scores higher for education (#26 of 50 vs #34), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 86.4%. North Carolina scores higher for health (#32 vs #40); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 75.9 in North Carolina.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.3 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.9 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 34.03% | NC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 7.6% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+10%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | +4 pts+10% | 38.8 | NC |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Valdosta, GAeducation score 92.3
- 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: Georgia #34, North Carolina #26. Health: Georgia #40, North Carolina #32.
Are more people moving from Georgia to North Carolina, or from North Carolina to Georgia?
9,082 households moved from Georgia to North Carolina and 8,487 moved from North Carolina to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 595 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $71,750; movers to Georgia reported $69,546. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 19,031 people (±4,094) moving from Georgia to North Carolina and 15,283 (±2,967) 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 | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -22,507 (-13%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | -22,507-13% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +1,940 (+1%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +1,940+1% | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -24,447 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -24,447 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.2 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -2.2 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,993 (-12%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | -$9,993-12% | NC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$2,000 (-3%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | -$2,000-3% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.2 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -5.2 | 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, Georgia or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for families, retirees, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +5 places | #33score 60.1 | #28score 62.8 | +5 places | NC |
| RetireesGap +6 places | #27score 60.4 | #21score 64.2 | +6 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap +3 places | #20score 54.6 | #17score 56.9 | +3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +3 places | #17score 58.9 | #14score 63.1 | +3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +4 places | #13score 66.7 | #9score 71.1 | +4 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #40score 29.7 | #34score 34.6 | +6 places | NC |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNorth Carolina (#28 vs #33)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #27)
- Remote WorkersEven (#20 vs #17)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#17 vs #14)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #13)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNorth Carolina (#34 vs #40)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and North Carolina?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and North Carolina has 22; the largest are Atlanta and Charlotte. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Charlotte903,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Apexscore 74.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Apex53 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Rocky Mountcost index 88 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | Apexmedian income $144,135 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Apex+6.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and North Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and North Carolina AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -10.6 (-44%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | -10.6-44% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap -3.2 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +3.7 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.5 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.6 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | +5.6 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -18 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -18 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$150 (+10%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$150+10% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.8 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -0.8 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia 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).
Georgia 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. Georgia is ahead on 10 of 51, North Carolina on 22, and 19 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | North CarolinaNC | GapGA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +104,780 (+1%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | +104,780+1% | 6.8 million | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$6,033 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$6,033+8% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.44 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -0.44 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,055 (+7%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$4,055+7% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -33 (-10%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -33-10% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -371 (-21%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -371-21% | 1,535 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.3 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 239#19 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 213#32 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.9 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 34.03% | NC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3.4 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 7.6% | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$3,956 (-1%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$3,956-1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.2% | NC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$104 (+6%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$104+6% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$2,692 (+3%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$2,692+3% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +2 pts+2% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-9%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | -0.4x-9% | 4.6x | GA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.71¢ (+5%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +0.71¢+5% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.00 (+24%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | +$4.00+24% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.23 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | -$0.23-7% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.3 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +2.3 pts+2% | 100 | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,850 (-20%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | -$2,850-20% | $15,633 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.29 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.14 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +1.14 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.1 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.49 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.6 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | +5.6 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -18 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -18 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$150 (+10%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$150+10% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.8 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -0.8 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+10%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | +4 pts+10% | 38.8 | NC |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -10.6 (-44%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | -10.6-44% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap -3.2 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +3.7 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.5 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap -22,507 (-13%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | -22,507-13% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +1,940 (+1%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +1,940+1% | 78,715 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -24,447 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -24,447 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.2 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -2.2 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,993 (-12%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | -$9,993-12% | $77,690 | NC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$2,000 (-3%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | -$2,000-3% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.2 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -5.2 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$5,760 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | +$5,760 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$599 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | -$599 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$523 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | -$523 | +$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 Georgia and North Carolina numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 6 of the 11 categories to Georgia's 2, with 3 even; Georgia is ahead on economy and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Georgia is ahead on 10 and North Carolina on 22.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 96.3 in Georgia (US = 100). The typical home costs $330,817 in Georgia and $334,773 in North Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Tax burdens are close
Georgia collects 8.47% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); North Carolina collects 8.18% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Georgia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,991 in Georgia and $73,958 in North Carolina, with unemployment at 3.4% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 330 in North Carolina.
Moves between the two run about even
19,031 people moved from Georgia to North Carolina and 15,283 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Carolina fits families and retirees better
For families, Georgia ranks #33 of 50 and North Carolina #28; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and North Carolina #21.
Georgia vs North Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or North Carolina better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 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 96.3), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 10% higher violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Georgia cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper than Georgia: cost of living index 94.3 vs 96.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$2,800 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Georgia, and -$8,560 in North Carolina. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $334,773 in North Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or North Carolina?
Georgia and North Carolina have similar tax burdens: 8.47% vs 8.18% of income in state and local taxes. Georgia's top income tax rate is 5.39%, its effective property tax rate 0.83% and its combined sales tax 7.49%; North Carolina's are 4.25%, 0.73% and 7%.
Is Georgia safer than North Carolina?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and North Carolina #30. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,780 in North Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Apex, NC.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or North Carolina?
Typical home values are about the same: $330,817 in Georgia and $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $87,803 in North Carolina, against median incomes of $79,991 and $73,958.
Do people earn more in Georgia or North Carolina?
Georgia pays more: median household income is $79,991 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 3 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 5, with 12 even.
Are more people moving from Georgia to North Carolina or from North Carolina to Georgia?
9,082 households moved from Georgia to North Carolina and 8,487 moved from North Carolina to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 595 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $71,750; movers to Georgia reported $69,546. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 19,031 people (±4,094) moving from Georgia to North Carolina and 15,283 (±2,967) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #27 for Georgia. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$37,308 in North Carolina.
Which is better for families, Georgia or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for families: #28 of 50 on the families index vs #33 for Georgia. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $13,916 in North Carolina. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 86.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Is North Carolina better than Georgia?
Yes: North Carolina ranks higher than Georgia overall, #23 of 50 vs #26, with a composite score of 59.1 to 55.4. North Carolina leads 6 of 11 categories and Georgia leads 2, including economy and safety. 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 Georgia vs North Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (9,082 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).