Illinois vs North Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Illinois ranks #39 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 100), has a 2-point lower tax burden, and has a 24% higher violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 29% lower in North Carolina ($13,916 vs. $19,601 in Illinois).
- Violent crime rate is 24% lower in Illinois (251 vs. 330 in North Carolina).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 21% lower in North Carolina ($1,749 vs. $2,210 in Illinois).
| Measure | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -11.5 pts | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | -11.5 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.7 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +5.7 pts+6% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$15,274 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$15,274 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$37,200 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$37,200-11% | $368,697 | IL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.04 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +2.04 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -79 (-24%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -79-24% | 328 | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$9,253 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$9,253+13% | $80,903 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -67,727 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -67,727 | -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 Illinois or North Carolina better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 47.6 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #39. Illinois leads 4 of 11 categories, North Carolina leads 7, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -3.4 | 15% | 39.8#37 · C | 43.2#29 · C+ | -3.4 pts | NC |
| Safety12% of scoregap +10.3 | 12% | 73.4#22 · B | 63.1#33 · C+ | +10.3 pts | IL |
| Health12% of scoregap +12.2 | 12% | 58.8#24 · B | 46.6#32 · C+ | +12.2 pts | IL |
| Education12% of scoregap +5.3 | 12% | 65.9#13 · B+ | 60.6#26 · B | +5.3 pts | IL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -12 | 10% | 61.8#32 · C+ | 73.8#21 · B | -12 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -49.6 | 8% | 21.9#50 · F | 71.5#6 · A | -49.6 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap -45.6 | 7% | 20.0#45 · D | 65.6#3 · A+ | -45.6 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +6 | 7% | 54.2#17 · B+ | 48.2#28 · C+ | +6 pts | IL |
| Livability7% of scoregap -3.1 | 7% | 31.4#28 · C+ | 34.5#21 · B | -3.1 pts | NC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -7.7 | 6% | 5.8#49 · F | 13.5#37 · C | -7.7 pts | NC |
| Environment4% of scoregap -3.6 | 4% | 31.0#39 · C | 34.6#35 · C | -3.6 pts | NC |
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 Illinois cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 100 in Illinois (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $15,274 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.7 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +5.7 pts+6% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +7.2 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +7.2 pts+7% | 100 | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.67¢ (+26%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +3.67¢+26% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.17 (-31%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | -$5.17-31% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap $0.00 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $0.000% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,685 (+41%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$5,685+41% | $15,633 | NC |
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 | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,443 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | -$2,443 | NC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$3,505 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | -$3,505 | NC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$15,274 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$15,274 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,292 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | -$3,292 | NC |
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 | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$1,578 | $24,335 | $22,757 | +$1,578 | NC |
| ChildcareGap +$11,370 | $39,202 | $27,832 | +$11,370 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap +$274 | $4,800 | $4,526 | +$274 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$811 | $11,691 | $10,880 | +$811 | NC |
| TransportationGap $0 | $9,994 | $9,994 | $0 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,241 | $8,812 | $7,571 | +$1,241 | NC |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or North Carolina?
North Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 10.22%. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.04 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +2.04 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.7 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.38 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +1.38 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.96 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +1.96 pts | 6.66% | NC |
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 Illinois or North Carolina?
Homes cost 13% more in North Carolina: a typical home value of $297,573 in Illinois vs $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of income in Illinois and $87,803 in North Carolina; the median household earns $83,211 and $73,958.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$37,200 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$37,200-11% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | +5.3 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$461 (+26%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$461+26% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,639 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$5,639+6% | $100,006 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | -0.9x-20% | 4.6x | IL |
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.
| IL | NC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,531 | $1,722 |
| Income needed vs. median | +12% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +29.1% | +23.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | Chicago | 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 Illinois or North Carolina?
Illinois pays more: median household income $83,211 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 4.6% in Illinois and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 2.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$9,253 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$9,253+13% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$14,539 (+24%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$14,539+24% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Population growthGap -1.19 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -1.19 pts | +0.51% | NC |
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 | IL | NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | IL |
| Electricians | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | IL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | IL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | IL |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | IL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | IL |
| Civil Engineers | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | IL |
| Registered Nurses | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | IL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | NC |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | IL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | IL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | IL |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | IL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | IL |
| Construction Laborers | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | NC |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | IL |
| Software Developers | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | $253,141$237,953 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 Illinois safer than North Carolina?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,508 and 1,780 per 100,000.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -79 (-24%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -79-24% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -272 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -272-15% | 1,535 | IL |
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.
- Orland Park, IL9 violent per 100K
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Illinois or North Carolina?
Illinois scores higher for education (#13 of 50 vs #26), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 86.4%. Illinois scores higher for health (#24 vs #32); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Illinois and 75.9 in North Carolina.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | IL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 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).
- No city school data
- 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: Illinois #13, North Carolina #26. Health: Illinois #24, North Carolina #32.
Are more people moving from Illinois to North Carolina, or from North Carolina to Illinois?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 4,375 people (±1,886) moving from Illinois to North Carolina and 4,493 (±1,498) 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 | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -53,454 (-31%) | 117,297#12 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | -53,454-31% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +14,273 (+11%) | 145,906#46 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +14,273+11% | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -67,727 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -67,727 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.7 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -5.7 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$1,342 (-2%) | $78,820#26 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | -$1,342-2% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$30,155 (+41%) | $104,443#5 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$30,155+41% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -10.7 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -10.7 | 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, Illinois or North Carolina?
Illinois is the better fit for families; North Carolina is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -5 places | #23score 66.1 | #28score 62.8 | -5 places | IL |
| RetireesGap +26 places | #47score 46.6 | #21score 64.2 | +26 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap +31 places | #48score 31.9 | #17score 56.9 | +31 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +28 places | #42score 41.6 | #14score 63.1 | +28 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap +39 places | #48score 30.3 | #9score 71.1 | +39 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +5 places | #39score 29.9 | #34score 34.6 | +5 places | NC |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIllinois (#23 vs #28)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #42)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNorth Carolina (#34 vs #39)
Which cities stand out in Illinois and North Carolina?
Illinois has 29 tracked cities and North Carolina has 22; the largest are Chicago and Charlotte. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Chicago2,711,226 people | Charlotte903,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Napervillescore 73.2 | Apexscore 74.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Orland Park9 violent per 100K | Apex53 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Decaturcost index 88.4 | Rocky Mountcost index 88 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Napervillemedian income $155,105 | Apexmedian income $144,135 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wheaton+1.3% growth | Apex+6.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Illinois and North Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Illinois carries BBB+ credit rating and North Carolina AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.2 (+30%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | +7.2+30% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap -6.9 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | -6.9 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.2 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +6.2 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.8 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | -0.3 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 | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -35 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | -35 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.9 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | -9.9 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap -50 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -50 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,210 (+338%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$5,210+338% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.5 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -8.5 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Illinois BBB+, 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).
Illinois 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. Illinois is ahead on 14 of 51, North Carolina on 29, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IllinoisIL | North CarolinaNC | GapIL−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,521,173 (+14%) · US 6.8 million | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | +1,521,173+14% | 6.8 million | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$9,253 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$9,253+13% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| Population growthGap -1.19 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -1.19 pts | +0.51% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$14,539 (+24%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$14,539+24% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -79 (-24%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -79-24% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -272 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -272-15% | 1,535 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.9 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 236#33 of 50 | 239#19 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 214#29 of 50 | 213#32 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | IL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$37,200 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$37,200-11% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | +5.3 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$461 (+26%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$461+26% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,639 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$5,639+6% | $100,006 | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.7 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +5.7 pts+6% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | -0.9x-20% | 4.6x | IL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.67¢ (+26%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +3.67¢+26% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.17 (-31%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | -$5.17-31% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap $0.00 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $0.000% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +7.2 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +7.2 pts+7% | 100 | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,685 (+41%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$5,685+41% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.04 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +2.04 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.7 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.38 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +1.38 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.96 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +1.96 pts | 6.66% | NC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -35 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | -35 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.9 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | -9.9 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap -50 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -50 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,210 (+338%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$5,210+338% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -8.5 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -8.5 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | NC |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.2 (+30%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | +7.2+30% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap -6.9 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | -6.9 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.2 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +6.2 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.8 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap -53,454 (-31%) · US 78,682 | 117,297#12 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | -53,454-31% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +14,273 (+11%) · US 78,715 | 145,906#46 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +14,273+11% | 78,715 | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -67,727 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -67,727 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.7 · US +0.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -5.7 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$1,342 (-2%) · US $77,690 | $78,820#26 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | -$1,342-2% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$30,155 (+41%) · US $77,024 | $104,443#5 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$30,155+41% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -10.7 · US +1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -10.7 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$15,274 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$15,274 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,443 · US +$31,418 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | -$2,443 | +$31,418 | NC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,292 · US +$35,970 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | -$3,292 | +$35,970 | NC |
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 Illinois and North Carolina numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 7 of the 11 categories to Illinois's 4, with 0 even; Illinois is ahead on health and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Illinois is ahead on 14 and North Carolina on 29.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 100 in Illinois (US = 100). The typical home costs $297,573 in Illinois and $334,773 in North Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 a year after typical costs in Illinois and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
North Carolina takes a smaller share in taxes
Illinois collects 10.22% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack); North Carolina collects 8.18% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Illinois pays more and is safer
Median household income is $83,211 in Illinois and $73,958 in North Carolina, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 330 in North Carolina.
Moves between the two run about even
4,375 people moved from Illinois to North Carolina and 4,493 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Illinois for families, North Carolina for retirees
For families, Illinois ranks #23 of 50 and North Carolina #28; for retirees, Illinois ranks #47 and North Carolina #21.
Illinois vs North Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois or North Carolina better to live in?
Illinois ranks #39 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 100), has a 2-point lower tax burden, and has a 24% higher violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Illinois cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper than Illinois: cost of living index 94.3 vs 100 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$23,834 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Illinois, and -$8,560 in North Carolina. The typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $334,773 in North Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or North Carolina?
North Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.18% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.22% in Illinois. Illinois's top income tax rate is 4.95%, its effective property tax rate 2.11% and its combined sales tax 8.96%; North Carolina's are 4.25%, 0.73% and 7%.
Is Illinois safer than North Carolina?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina, per the FBI. Illinois ranks #20 of 50 for violent crime and North Carolina #30. Property crime is 1,508 per 100,000 in Illinois and 1,780 in North Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Orland Park, IL, and Apex, NC.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or North Carolina?
Homes are 13% more expensive in North Carolina: the typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of household income in Illinois and $87,803 in North Carolina, against median incomes of $83,211 and $73,958.
Do people earn more in Illinois or North Carolina?
Illinois pays more: median household income is $83,211 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Illinois and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 14 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 2, with 4 even.
Are more people moving from Illinois to North Carolina or from North Carolina to Illinois?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 4,375 people (±1,886) moving from Illinois to North Carolina and 4,493 (±1,498) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Illinois or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #47 for Illinois. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$34,016 left after typical costs in Illinois and +$37,308 in North Carolina.
Which is better for families, Illinois or North Carolina?
Illinois is the better fit for families: #23 of 50 on the families index vs #28 for North Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $19,601 a year in Illinois and $13,916 in North Carolina. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 86.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 after typical costs in Illinois and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Is North Carolina better than Illinois?
Yes: North Carolina ranks higher than Illinois overall, #23 of 50 vs #39, with a composite score of 59.1 to 47.6. North Carolina leads 7 of 11 categories and Illinois leads 4, including health 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 Illinois vs North Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: most-searched matchup.