Georgia vs South Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 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 96.3), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 23% higher violent crime rate. Georgia scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 23% lower in Georgia (297 vs. 388 in South Carolina).
- Property crime rate is 16% lower in Georgia (1,409 vs. 1,676 in South Carolina).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 15% lower in South Carolina ($1,569 vs. $1,853 in Georgia).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +6.4 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 49.0#36 of 50 · C | +6.4 pts | — | GA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$4,889 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$4,889 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$24,494 (+8%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$24,494+8% | $368,697 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.32 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +0.32 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -91 (-23%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -91-23% | 328 | GA |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,641 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$7,641+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -14,543 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -14,543 | -33 | SC |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Georgia or South Carolina better to live in?
Georgia scores higher overall: 55.4 to 49 out of 100, #26 of 50 against #36. Georgia leads 5 of 11 categories, South Carolina leads 4, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +22.3 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 31.8#42 · C | +22.3 pts | GA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +11.2 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 60.0#38 · C | +11.2 pts | GA |
| Health12% of scoregap -1.8 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 41.3#38 · C | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +3 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 50.1#38 · C | +3 pts | GA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -5.3 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 78.4#16 · B+ | -5.3 pts | SC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +15.3 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 54.4#36 · C | +15.3 pts | GA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -19.5 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 71.0#2 · A+ | -19.5 pts | SC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -3.7 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 42.4#43 · D | -3.7 pts | SC |
| Livability7% of scoregap -13.7 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 41.8#14 · B+ | -13.7 pts | SC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -1.3 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 8.9#45 · D | -1.3 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +11 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 21.1#49 · F | +11 pts | GA |
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 South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 93.7 vs 96.3 in Georgia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $4,889 more a year in South Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | SC |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.23¢ (-2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | -0.23¢-2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.51 (+21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | +$3.51+21% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.04 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | -$0.04-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$592 (+6%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$592+6% | $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 | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,048 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$34,233costs $40,767 | -$2,048 | SC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$2,922 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$27,172costs $47,828 | -$2,922 | SC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$4,889 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | +$2,089costs $72,911 | -$4,889 | SC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,675 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$39,460costs $35,539 | -$2,675 | 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 | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,608 | $22,819 | $20,211 | +$2,608 | SC |
| ChildcareGap +$1,184 | $22,132 | $20,948 | +$1,184 | SC |
| UtilitiesGap +$124 | $4,622 | $4,498 | +$124 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$293 | $11,139 | $10,846 | +$293 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$126 | $9,271 | $9,397 | -$126 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$806 | $7,817 | $7,011 | +$806 | SC |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or South Carolina?
Georgia and South Carolina collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.47% vs 8.15%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.32 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +0.32 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.81 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -0.81 pts | 5.46% | GA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.3 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap 0 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | 0 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 South Carolina?
Homes cost 8% more in Georgia: a typical home value of $330,817 in Georgia vs $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $79,086 in South Carolina; the median household earns $79,991 and $72,350.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$24,494 (+8%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$24,494+8% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | SC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$284 (+18%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$284+18% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$11,409 (+14%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$11,409+14% | $100,006 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-2%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | -0.1x-2% | 4.6x | Even |
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 | SC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $1,576 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cold |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | 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 Georgia or South Carolina?
Georgia pays more: median household income $79,991 vs $72,350, with unemployment at 3.4% in Georgia and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$7,641 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$7,641+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,154 (+26%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$13,154+26% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Population growthGap -0.58 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -0.58 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 | GA | SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $219,138$203,798 in Charleston | GA |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $81,647$75,932 in Charleston | GA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $54,468$50,655 in Charleston | GA |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $98,238$91,361 in Charleston | GA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $78,411$72,922 in Charleston | GA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $68,961$64,134 in Columbia | GA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $102,995$95,785 in Charleston | GA |
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $149,808$139,321 in Charleston | GA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $64,958$60,411 in Columbia | GA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $54,377$50,571 in Columbia | GA |
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $135,418$125,939 in Charleston | GA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $62,687$58,299 in Charleston | GA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $55,191$51,328 in Charleston | GA |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $104,417$97,108 in Charleston | GA |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $61,126$56,847 in Charleston | GA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $75,855$70,545 in Charleston | GA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $41,473$38,570 in Charleston | GA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $46,813$43,536 in Charleston | GA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $56,283$52,343 in Charleston | GA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $32,490$30,216 in Columbia | GA |
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 South Carolina?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,676 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -91 (-23%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -91-23% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -267 (-16%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -267-16% | 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
- Fort Mill, SC30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or South Carolina?
Georgia scores higher for education (#34 of 50 vs #38), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 83.8%. They are close on health (#40 and #38); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 75.1 in South Carolina.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +6 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.8 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 34.03% | SC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | +3 pts | 7.6% | SC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+2%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | +1 pts+2% | 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).
- Valdosta, GAeducation score 92.3
- 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: Georgia #34, South Carolina #38. Health: Georgia #40, South Carolina #38.
Are more people moving from Georgia to South Carolina, or from South Carolina to Georgia?
9,309 households moved from Georgia to South Carolina and 8,328 moved from South Carolina to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 981 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $80,867; movers to Georgia reported $60,693. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 16,024 people (±3,513) moving from Georgia to South Carolina and 16,878 (±4,012) 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 | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +48,465 (+49%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +48,465+49% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +63,008 (+89%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +63,008+89% | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -14,543 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -14,543 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.9 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -3.9 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$18,307 (-21%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$18,307-21% | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,720 (+9%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$5,720+9% | GA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -9.6 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -9.6 | 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, Georgia or South Carolina?
Georgia is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 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 | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -7 places | #33score 60.1 | #40score 55.8 | -7 places | GA |
| RetireesGap -13 places | #27score 60.4 | #40score 54 | -13 places | GA |
| Remote WorkersGap -14 places | #20score 54.6 | #34score 48.6 | -14 places | GA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -1 places | #17score 58.9 | #18score 58.8 | -1 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -12 places | #13score 66.7 | #25score 58.4 | -12 places | GA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -7 places | #40score 29.7 | #47score 26.1 | -7 places | GA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesGeorgia (#33 vs #40)
- RetireesGeorgia (#27 vs #40)
- Remote WorkersGeorgia (#20 vs #34)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#17 vs #18)
- Small BusinessGeorgia (#13 vs #25)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsGeorgia (#40 vs #47)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and South Carolina?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and South Carolina has 20; the largest are Atlanta and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Charleston154,338 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Fort Millscore 71 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Fort Mill30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Florencecost index 86.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Greenvillewalkability 13.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Goose Creekcounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Fort Mill96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | Mount Pleasantmedian income $124,755 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Greer+7.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and South Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and South Carolina AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | GA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -25.8 (-66%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -25.8-66% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap +0.1 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.1 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +3.1 min | 25.2 min | SC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.9 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 2.29% | GA |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 92.67% | GA |
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 | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +8.6 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +8.6 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +17 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +17 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$430 (-20%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | -$430-20% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +1 pts | +4.66% | GA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia 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).
Georgia 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. Georgia is ahead on 19 of 51, South Carolina on 19, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | South CarolinaSC | GapGA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,732,474 (+103%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 5.6 million#23 of 50 | +5,732,474+103% | 6.8 million | GA |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,641 (+11%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$7,641+11% | $80,903 | GA |
| Unemployment rateGap -1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| Population growthGap -0.58 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -0.58 pts | +0.51% | SC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$13,154 (+26%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$13,154+26% | $64,333 | GA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -91 (-23%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -91-23% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -267 (-16%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -267-16% | 1,535 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 238#27 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 215#24 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +6 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | GA |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.8 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 34.03% | SC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | +3 pts | 7.6% | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$24,494 (+8%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$24,494+8% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | SC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$284 (+18%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$284+18% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$11,409 (+14%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$11,409+14% | $100,006 | SC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-2%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | -0.1x-2% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.23¢ (-2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | -0.23¢-2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.51 (+21%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | +$3.51+21% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.04 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | -$0.04-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | SC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$592 (+6%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$592+6% | $15,633 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.32 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +0.32 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.81 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -0.81 pts | 5.46% | GA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.3 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap 0 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | 0 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | GA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +8.6 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +8.6 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +17 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +17 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$430 (-20%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | -$430-20% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +1 pts | +4.66% | GA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+2%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | +1 pts+2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | GA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -25.8 (-66%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -25.8-66% | 29.6 | GA |
| Public land shareGap +0.1 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.1 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +3.1 min | 25.2 min | SC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.9 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 2.29% | GA |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 12.28% | GA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 92.67% | GA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +48,465 (+49%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +48,465+49% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +63,008 (+89%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +63,008+89% | 78,715 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -14,543 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -14,543 | -33 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.9 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -3.9 | +0.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$18,307 (-21%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$18,307-21% | $77,690 | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,720 (+9%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$5,720+9% | $77,024 | GA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -9.6 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -9.6 | +1.1 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$4,889 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$4,889 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,048 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$34,233#19 of 50 | -$2,048 | +$31,418 | SC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,675 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$39,460#16 of 50 | -$2,675 | +$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 Georgia and South Carolina numbers say when read together.
Georgia ranks higher overall
Georgia leads 5 of the 11 categories to South Carolina's 4, with 2 even; South Carolina is ahead on growth and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Georgia is ahead on 19 and South Carolina on 19.
South Carolina is cheaper day to day
South Carolina's cost of living index is 93.7 against 96.3 in Georgia (US = 100). The typical home costs $330,817 in Georgia and $306,323 in South Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and +$2,089 in South 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); South Carolina collects 8.15% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Georgia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,991 in Georgia and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 388 in South Carolina.
Moves between the two run about even
16,024 people moved from Georgia to South Carolina and 16,878 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Georgia fits families and retirees better
For families, Georgia ranks #33 of 50 and South Carolina #40; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and South Carolina #40.
Georgia vs South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or South Carolina better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 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 96.3), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 23% higher violent crime rate. Georgia scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Georgia cheaper than South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper than Georgia: cost of living index 93.7 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 +$2,089 in South Carolina. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $306,323 in South Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or South Carolina?
Georgia and South Carolina have similar tax burdens: 8.47% vs 8.15% 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%; South Carolina's are 6.2%, 0.53% and 7.49%.
Is Georgia safer than South Carolina?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and South Carolina #38. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,676 in South Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Fort Mill, SC.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or South Carolina?
Homes are 8% more expensive in Georgia: the typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $79,086 in South Carolina, against median incomes of $79,991 and $72,350.
Do people earn more in Georgia or South Carolina?
Georgia pays more: median household income is $79,991 vs $72,350 in South Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
Are more people moving from Georgia to South Carolina or from South Carolina to Georgia?
9,309 households moved from Georgia to South Carolina and 8,328 moved from South Carolina to Georgia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 981 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $80,867; movers to Georgia reported $60,693. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 16,024 people (±3,513) moving from Georgia to South Carolina and 16,878 (±4,012) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or South Carolina?
Georgia is the better fit for retirees: #27 of 50 on the retiree index vs #40 for South Carolina. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; 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 +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$39,460 in South Carolina.
Which is better for families, Georgia or South Carolina?
Georgia is the better fit for families: #33 of 50 on the families index vs #40 for South Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $10,474 in South Carolina. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 83.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Is South Carolina better than Georgia?
No: Georgia ranks higher than South Carolina overall, #26 of 50 vs #36, with a composite score of 55.4 to 49. Georgia leads 5 of 11 categories and South Carolina leads 4, including growth and livability. 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 South Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (9,309 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).