North Carolina vs Indiana: Which Is Better to Live In?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 93.3); North Carolina has a 0.9-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 0.1 points apart, too close to call: North Carolina leads 6 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 3.
- Property crime rate is 41% lower in Indiana (1,052 vs. 1,780 in North Carolina).
- Violent crime rate is 23% lower in Indiana (254 vs. 330 in North Carolina).
- Typical home value is 22% lower in Indiana ($260,095 vs. $334,773 in North Carolina).
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -0.1 pts | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | 59.2#22 of 50 · B | -0.1 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$1,615 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | +$1,615 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$74,678 (+29%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$74,678+29% | $368,697 | IN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.91 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.91 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +76 (+30%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +76+30% | 328 | IN |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,999 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$1,999+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.3 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +40,386 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +40,386 | -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 North Carolina or Indiana better to live in?
North Carolina scores 59.1 and Indiana scores 59.2 out of 100, a 0.1-point gap this site treats as even. North Carolina leads 6 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +0.3 | 15% | 43.2#29 · C+ | 42.9#30 · C+ | +0.3 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -16.8 | 12% | 63.1#33 · C+ | 79.9#11 · B+ | -16.8 pts | IN |
| Health12% of scoregap +6.3 | 12% | 46.6#32 · C+ | 40.3#39 · C | +6.3 pts | NC |
| Education12% of scoregap -12.9 | 12% | 60.6#26 · B | 73.5#7 · A | -12.9 pts | IN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -1.9 | 10% | 73.8#21 · B | 75.7#19 · B | -1.9 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +6.2 | 8% | 71.5#6 · A | 65.3#16 · B+ | +6.2 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap +22.9 | 7% | 65.6#3 · A+ | 42.7#21 · B | +22.9 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +6.1 | 7% | 48.2#28 · C+ | 42.1#44 · D | +6.1 pts | NC |
| Livability7% of scoregap +4.5 | 7% | 34.5#21 · B | 30.0#30 · C+ | +4.5 pts | NC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +3.7 | 6% | 13.5#37 · C | 9.8#44 · D | +3.7 pts | NC |
| Environment4% of scoregap -3.8 | 4% | 34.6#35 · C | 38.4#28 · C+ | -3.8 pts | IN |
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 North Carolina cheaper than Indiana?
North Carolina and Indiana cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 94.3 vs 93.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $1,615 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +1.1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.21¢ (-14%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | -2.21¢-14% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.93 (+43%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$4.93+43% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.11 (+4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.11+4% | $3.32/gal | IN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,545 (-20%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$3,545-20% | $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 | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,665 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$36,449costs $38,552 | -$3,665 | IN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,307 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$28,935costs $46,065 | -$4,307 | IN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$1,615 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$10,175costs $85,175 | +$1,615 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,724 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$41,032costs $33,968 | -$3,724 | IN |
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 | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$4,972 | $22,757 | $17,785 | +$4,972 | IN |
| ChildcareGap -$7,090 | $27,832 | $34,922 | -$7,090 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap +$48 | $4,526 | $4,478 | +$48 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$124 | $10,880 | $10,756 | +$124 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$345 | $9,994 | $9,649 | +$345 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$14 | $7,571 | $7,585 | -$14 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Indiana?
North Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 9.09%. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.91 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.91 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.77 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | -0.77 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.04 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap 0 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 7%#26 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 North Carolina or Indiana?
Homes cost 29% more in North Carolina: a typical home value of $334,773 in North Carolina vs $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of income in North Carolina and $70,704 in Indiana; the median household earns $73,958 and $71,959.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$74,678 (+29%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$74,678+29% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | -3 pts | +1.2% | IN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$197 (+13%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$197+13% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$17,099 (+24%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$17,099+24% | $100,006 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +0.9x+25% | 4.6x | IN |
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.
| NC | IN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,722 | $1,338 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +23.2% | +28.9% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Charlotte | Indianapolis |
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 North Carolina or Indiana?
Median household income is about the same, $73,958 in North Carolina and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 3.8% and 3.7%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 1.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$1,999 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$1,999+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$396 (+1%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$396+1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Population growthGap +0.76 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | +0.76 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 | NC | IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | $233,118$214,469 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Lawyers | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | $144,667$133,094 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Software Developers | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | $133,348$122,680 in Indianapolis | NC |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | $102,621$94,411 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Civil Engineers | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | $95,698$88,042 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | $79,365$73,016 in Indianapolis | NC |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | $59,445$54,689 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | $54,926$50,532 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | $74,259$68,318 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | $80,465$74,028 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | $50,742$46,683 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | $67,846$62,418 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | $33,860$31,151 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | $109,830$101,044 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | $56,825$52,279 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | $59,879$55,089 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Construction Laborers | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | $45,954$42,278 in Indianapolis | NC |
| Electricians | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | $66,653$61,321 in Indianapolis | IN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | $70,046$64,442 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | $90,771$83,509 in Indianapolis | 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 North Carolina safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,780 and 1,052 per 100,000.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +76 (+30%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +76+30% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +728 (+69%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +728+69% | 1,535 | IN |
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.
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
- Carmel, IN51 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, North Carolina or Indiana?
Indiana scores higher for education (#7 of 50 vs #26), with high school graduation rates of 86.4% and 87.7%. North Carolina scores higher for health (#32 vs #39); life expectancy is 75.9 years in North Carolina and 75.4 in Indiana.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.3 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.9 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 34.03% | NC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 7.6% | IN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Chapel Hill, NCeducation score 93
- Fishers, INeducation score 98
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: North Carolina #26, Indiana #7. Health: North Carolina #32, Indiana #39.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Indiana, or from Indiana to North Carolina?
2,156 households moved from Indiana to North Carolina in the latest IRS release (average income $79,409); the flow from North Carolina to Indiana is too small to appear among Indiana's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,158 people (±1,339) moving from North Carolina to Indiana and 3,154 (±1,421) 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 | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +101,379 (+146%) | 170,751#5 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +101,379+146% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +60,993 (+86%) | 131,633#42 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +60,993+86% | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +40,386 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +40,386 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.7 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | +3.7 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$15,813 (+25%) | $80,162#21 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$15,813+25% | NC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$6,474 (+10%) | $74,288#25 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$6,474+10% | NC |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.8 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | +5.8 | 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, North Carolina or Indiana?
North Carolina is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Indiana is the better fit for families; 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 | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +10 places | #28score 62.8 | #18score 71.9 | +10 places | IN |
| RetireesGap -1 places | #21score 64.2 | #22score 62.8 | -1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -5 places | #17score 56.9 | #22score 53.9 | -5 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -9 places | #14score 63.1 | #23score 54.1 | -9 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap -9 places | #9score 71.1 | #18score 63 | -9 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +1 places | #34score 34.6 | #33score 34.9 | +1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIndiana (#18 vs #28)
- RetireesEven (#21 vs #22)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #22)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #23)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #18)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#34 vs #33)
Which cities stand out in North Carolina and Indiana?
North Carolina has 22 tracked cities and Indiana has 21; the largest are Charlotte and Indianapolis. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Charlotte903,844 people | Indianapolis885,860 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Apexscore 74.9 | Carmelscore 73.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Apex53 violent per 100K | Carmel51 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Rocky Mountcost index 88 | Terre Hautecost index 87.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 | Bloomingtonwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 | Bloomingtoncounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate | Fishers98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Apexmedian income $144,135 | Carmelmedian income $141,505 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Apex+6.1% growth | Westfield+5.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do North Carolina and Indiana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. North Carolina carries AAA credit rating and Indiana AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.1 (+42%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | +7.1+42% | 29.6 | IN |
| Public land shareGap +7.2 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.1 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +1.1 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.8 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 92.67% | NC |
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 | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$800 (-34%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | -$800-34% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; North Carolina AAA, Indiana 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).
North Carolina vs Indiana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. North Carolina is ahead on 20 of 51, Indiana on 17, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | IndianaIN | GapNC−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,224,635 (+61%) · US 6.8 million | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | 7 million#17 of 50 | +4,224,635+61% | 6.8 million | NC |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,999 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$1,999+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.76 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | +0.76 pts | +0.51% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$396 (+1%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$396+1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | +0.8 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +76 (+30%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | +76+30% | 328 | IN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +728 (+69%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +728+69% | 1,535 | IN |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.3 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 85.62% | IN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 239#19 of 50 | 240#9 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 214 | 213#32 of 50 | 220#6 of 50 | -7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.9 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 34.03% | NC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 7.6% | IN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$74,678 (+29%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$74,678+29% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | -3 pts | +1.2% | IN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$197 (+13%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$197+13% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$17,099 (+24%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$17,099+24% | $100,006 | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.9x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | +0.9x+25% | 4.6x | IN |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.21¢ (-14%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | -2.21¢-14% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.93 (+43%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | +$4.93+43% | $15.83/Mcf | IN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.11 (+4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.11+4% | $3.32/gal | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +1.1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,545 (-20%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | -$3,545-20% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.91 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | -0.91 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.77 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | -0.77 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.04 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap 0 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | 0 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$800 (-34%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | -$800-34% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | IN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.1 (+42%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | +7.1+42% | 29.6 | IN |
| Public land shareGap +7.2 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +7.2 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.1 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +1.1 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +5.8 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 92.67% | NC |
| Households moving inIRSGap +101,379 (+146%) · US 78,682 | 170,751#5 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +101,379+146% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +60,993 (+86%) · US 78,715 | 131,633#42 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +60,993+86% | 78,715 | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +40,386 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | +40,386 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.7 · US +0.4 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | +3.7 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$15,813 (+25%) · US $77,690 | $80,162#21 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$15,813+25% | $77,690 | NC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$6,474 (+10%) · US $77,024 | $74,288#25 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$6,474+10% | $77,024 | NC |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.8 · US +1.1 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | +5.8 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$1,615 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | +$1,615 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,665 · US +$31,418 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$36,449#10 of 50 | -$3,665 | +$31,418 | IN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,724 · US +$35,970 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$41,032#9 of 50 | -$3,724 | +$35,970 | IN |
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 North Carolina and Indiana numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
North Carolina (59.1, #23) and Indiana (59.2, #22) are within 2 composite points. North Carolina leads 6 categories, Indiana leads 3, and 2 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 94.3 in North Carolina and 93.3 in Indiana, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $334,773 and $260,095. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 a year after typical costs in North Carolina and -$10,175 in Indiana.
North Carolina takes a smaller share in taxes
North Carolina collects 8.18% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); Indiana collects 9.09% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Indiana is safer
Median household income is $73,958 in North Carolina and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 3.8% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 330 per 100,000 residents in North Carolina and 254 in Indiana.
Moves between the two run about even
2,158 people moved from North Carolina to Indiana and 3,154 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Indiana is the better fit for families
For families, North Carolina ranks #28 of 50 and Indiana #18; for retirees, North Carolina ranks #21 and Indiana #22.
North Carolina vs Indiana: frequently asked questions
Is North Carolina or Indiana better to live in?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 93.3); North Carolina has a 0.9-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 0.1 points apart, too close to call: North Carolina leads 6 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 3.
Is North Carolina cheaper than Indiana?
North Carolina and Indiana cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 94.3 vs 93.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$8,560 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in North Carolina, and -$10,175 in Indiana. The typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $260,095 in Indiana.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Indiana?
North Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.18% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.09% in Indiana. North Carolina's top income tax rate is 4.25%, its effective property tax rate 0.73% and its combined sales tax 7%; Indiana's are 5.02%, 0.77% and 7%.
Is North Carolina safer than Indiana?
Indiana is safer: 254 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina, per the FBI. North Carolina ranks #30 of 50 for violent crime and Indiana #21. Property crime is 1,780 per 100,000 in North Carolina and 1,052 in Indiana. The safest tracked cities are Apex, NC, and Carmel, IN.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or Indiana?
Homes are 29% more expensive in North Carolina: the typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of household income in North Carolina and $70,704 in Indiana, against median incomes of $73,958 and $71,959.
Do people earn more in North Carolina or Indiana?
North Carolina and Indiana pay about the same: median household income is $73,958 vs $71,959, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.8% in North Carolina and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 1, with 3 even.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Indiana or from Indiana to North Carolina?
2,156 households moved from Indiana to North Carolina in the latest IRS release (average income $79,409); the flow from North Carolina to Indiana is too small to appear among Indiana's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,158 people (±1,339) moving from North Carolina to Indiana and 3,154 (±1,421) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, North Carolina or Indiana?
North Carolina and Indiana are close for retirees: #21 and #22 of 50 on the retiree index. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,308 left after typical costs in North Carolina and +$41,032 in Indiana.
Which is better for families, North Carolina or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for families: #18 of 50 on the families index vs #28 for North Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $13,916 a year in North Carolina and $17,461 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 86.4% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 after typical costs in North Carolina and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Which has better schools, North Carolina or Indiana?
Indiana scores higher for education: #7 of 50 vs #26 for North Carolina. Eighth graders average 276 in NAEP math in North Carolina and 278 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 86.4% in North Carolina and 87.7% in Indiana, and the education category scores are 60.6 and 73.5 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Chapel Hill and Fishers have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside North Carolina vs Indiana.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,156 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).