North Carolina vs Maryland: Which Is Better to Live In?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 105), has a 1.9-point lower tax burden, and has a 8% lower violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 31% lower in North Carolina ($13,916 vs. $20,124 in Maryland).
- Median household income is 39% higher in Maryland ($102,905 vs. $73,958 in North Carolina).
- Residential electricity price is 28% lower in North Carolina (14.02¢/kWh vs. 19.48¢/kWh in Maryland).
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +5.5 pts | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | +5.5 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10.7 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -10.7 pts-10% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$22,124 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$22,124 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$93,535 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$93,535-22% | $368,697 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.86 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.86 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -28 (-8%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -28-8% | 328 | NC |
| Median household incomeGap -$28,947 (-28%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$28,947-28% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +52,746 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +52,746 | -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 Maryland better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 53.6 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #31. North Carolina leads 6 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -22.1 | 15% | 43.2#29 · C+ | 65.3#6 · A | -22.1 pts | MD |
| Safety12% of scoregap +2.8 | 12% | 63.1#33 · C+ | 60.3#37 · C | +2.8 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -17 | 12% | 46.6#32 · C+ | 63.6#15 · B+ | -17 pts | MD |
| Education12% of scoregap +5.1 | 12% | 60.6#26 · B | 55.5#31 · C+ | +5.1 pts | NC |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +23.5 | 10% | 73.8#21 · B | 50.3#39 · C | +23.5 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +16.5 | 8% | 71.5#6 · A | 55.0#35 · C | +16.5 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap +35.8 | 7% | 65.6#3 · A+ | 29.8#37 · C | +35.8 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +7.3 | 7% | 48.2#28 · C+ | 40.9#45 · D | +7.3 pts | NC |
| Livability7% of scoregap +12.8 | 7% | 34.5#21 · B | 21.7#46 · D | +12.8 pts | NC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +1.7 | 6% | 13.5#37 · C | 11.8#40 · C | +1.7 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -11.5 | 4% | 34.6#35 · C | 46.1#19 · B | -11.5 pts | MD |
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 Maryland?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 105 in Maryland (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $22,124 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10.7 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -10.7 pts-10% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -5.9 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -5.9 pts-6% | 100 | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap -5.46¢ (-28%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -5.46¢-28% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.28 (+2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | +$0.28+2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.14 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.14-4% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,208 (-31%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$6,208-31% | $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 | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$5,914 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | +$5,914 | NC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$8,092 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | +$8,092 | NC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$22,124 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | +$22,124 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$7,197 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | +$7,197 | 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 | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$7,601 | $22,757 | $30,358 | -$7,601 | NC |
| ChildcareGap -$12,416 | $27,832 | $40,248 | -$12,416 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap -$514 | $4,526 | $5,040 | -$514 | NC |
| GroceriesGap -$665 | $10,880 | $11,545 | -$665 | NC |
| TransportationGap -$440 | $9,994 | $10,434 | -$440 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$488 | $7,571 | $8,059 | -$488 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Maryland?
North Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 10.04%. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.86 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.86 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.7 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.29 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | -0.29 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +1 pts | 6.66% | MD |
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 Maryland?
Homes cost 28% more in Maryland: a typical home value of $334,773 in North Carolina vs $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of income in North Carolina and $116,485 in Maryland; the median household earns $73,958 and $102,905.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$93,535 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$93,535-22% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap 0 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$199 (-10%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | -$199-10% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$28,682 (-25%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$28,682-25% | $100,006 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+7%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | +0.3x+7% | 4.6x | MD |
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 | MD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,722 | $2,204 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +13% |
| Five-year change | +23.2% | +13.5% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Charlotte | Baltimore |
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 Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 3.8% in North Carolina and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$28,947 (-28%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$28,947-28% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$8,743 (-13%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$8,743-13% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Population growthGap +1 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +1 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 | MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | $235,537$244,958 in Baltimore | NC |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | NC |
| Software Developers | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | NC |
| Civil Engineers | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | NC |
| Lawyers | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | NC |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | NC |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | NC |
| Registered Nurses | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | NC |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | NC |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | NC |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | NC |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | NC |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | NC |
| Construction Laborers | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | NC |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | NC |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | NC |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | NC |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | NC |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | $84,061$87,423 in Baltimore | Even |
| Electricians | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | 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 Maryland?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland (FBI). Property crime runs 1,780 and 1,820 per 100,000.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -28 (-8%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -28-8% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -40 (-2%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -40-2% | 1,535 | Even |
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
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, North Carolina or Maryland?
North Carolina scores higher for education (#26 of 50 vs #31), with high school graduation rates of 86.4% and 86.3%. Maryland scores higher for health (#15 vs #32); life expectancy is 75.9 years in North Carolina and 77.8 in Maryland.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.8 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 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
- Waldorf, MDeducation score 94
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, Maryland #31. Health: North Carolina #32, Maryland #15.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Maryland, or from Maryland to North Carolina?
3,519 households moved from North Carolina to Maryland and 5,264 moved from Maryland to North Carolina in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,745 households for North Carolina. Movers to Maryland reported an average income of $66,840; movers to North Carolina reported $83,045. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,410 people (±2,300) moving from North Carolina to Maryland and 8,874 (±2,299) 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 | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +87,470 (+105%) | 170,751#5 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +87,470+105% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +34,724 (+36%) | 131,633#42 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +34,724+36% | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +52,746 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +52,746 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.7 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +5.7 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$659 (-1%) | $80,162#21 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | -$659-1% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$13,963 (-16%) | $74,288#25 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | -$13,963-16% | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +9.5 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +9.5 | 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 Maryland?
North Carolina is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 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 | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -10 places | #28score 62.8 | #38score 56.3 | -10 places | NC |
| RetireesGap -15 places | #21score 64.2 | #36score 55.8 | -15 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap -23 places | #17score 56.9 | #40score 43.6 | -23 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -20 places | #14score 63.1 | #34score 49.1 | -20 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap -22 places | #9score 71.1 | #31score 52 | -22 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -2 places | #34score 34.6 | #36score 33.6 | -2 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNorth Carolina (#28 vs #38)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #36)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #40)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #34)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #31)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#34 vs #36)
Which cities stand out in North Carolina and Maryland?
North Carolina has 22 tracked cities and Maryland has 20; the largest are Charlotte and Baltimore. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Charlotte903,844 people | Baltimore573,243 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Apexscore 74.9 | Bethesdascore 76.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Apex53 violent per 100K | Rockville108 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Rocky Mountcost index 88 | Baltimorecost index 104.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate | Waldorf94% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Apexmedian income $144,135 | Potomacmedian income $236,675 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Apex+6.1% growth | Frederick+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do North Carolina and Maryland compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. North Carolina carries AAA credit rating and Maryland AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +24.0 · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +24.0 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +1.4 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -6.6 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -6.6 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap -4.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | MD |
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 | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.3 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +20 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +20 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,810 (-65%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$2,810-65% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4.6 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +4.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; North Carolina AAA, Maryland 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 Maryland: 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 26 of 51, Maryland on 11, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MarylandMD | GapNC−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,932,621 (+79%) · US 6.8 million | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | +4,932,621+79% | 6.8 million | NC |
| Median household incomeGap -$28,947 (-28%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$28,947-28% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +1 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +1 pts | +0.51% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap -$8,743 (-13%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$8,743-13% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -28 (-8%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -28-8% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -40 (-2%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -40-2% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.1 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 237 | 239#19 of 50 | 234#39 of 50 | +5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 213#32 of 50 | 216#20 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.8 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$93,535 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$93,535-22% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap 0 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$199 (-10%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | -$199-10% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$28,682 (-25%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$28,682-25% | $100,006 | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -10.7 pts (-10%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -10.7 pts-10% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+7%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | +0.3x+7% | 4.6x | MD |
| Residential electricity priceGap -5.46¢ (-28%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -5.46¢-28% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.28 (+2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | +$0.28+2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.14 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.14-4% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -5.9 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -5.9 pts-6% | 100 | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$6,208 (-31%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$6,208-31% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.86 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.86 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.7 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.29 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | -0.29 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +1 pts | 6.66% | MD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3.3 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +20 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +20 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,810 (-65%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$2,810-65% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +4.6 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +4.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +24.0 · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +24.0 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +1.4 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -6.6 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -6.6 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap -4.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | MD |
| Households moving inIRSGap +87,470 (+105%) · US 78,682 | 170,751#5 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +87,470+105% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +34,724 (+36%) · US 78,715 | 131,633#42 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +34,724+36% | 78,715 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +52,746 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +52,746 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.7 · US +0.4 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +5.7 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$659 (-1%) · US $77,690 | $80,162#21 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | -$659-1% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$13,963 (-16%) · US $77,024 | $74,288#25 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | -$13,963-16% | $77,024 | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +9.5 · US +1.1 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +9.5 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$22,124 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$22,124 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$5,914 · US +$31,418 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | +$5,914 | +$31,418 | NC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$7,197 · US +$35,970 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | +$7,197 | +$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 North Carolina and Maryland numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 6 of the 11 categories to Maryland's 3, with 2 even; Maryland is ahead on economy and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, North Carolina is ahead on 26 and Maryland on 11.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 105 in Maryland (US = 100). The typical home costs $334,773 in North Carolina and $428,308 in Maryland. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 a year after typical costs in North Carolina and -$30,684 in Maryland.
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); Maryland collects 10.04% (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Maryland pays more
Median household income is $73,958 in North Carolina and $102,905 in Maryland, with unemployment at 3.8% and 4%. Violent crime runs 330 per 100,000 residents in North Carolina and 358 in Maryland.
Moves between the two run about even
6,410 people moved from North Carolina to Maryland and 8,874 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Carolina fits families and retirees better
For families, North Carolina ranks #28 of 50 and Maryland #38; for retirees, North Carolina ranks #21 and Maryland #36.
North Carolina vs Maryland: frequently asked questions
Is North Carolina or Maryland better to live in?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 105), has a 1.9-point lower tax burden, and has a 8% lower violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is North Carolina cheaper than Maryland?
North Carolina is cheaper than Maryland: cost of living index 94.3 vs 105 (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 -$30,684 in Maryland. The typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $428,308 in Maryland.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Maryland?
North Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.18% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.04% in Maryland. North Carolina's top income tax rate is 4.25%, its effective property tax rate 0.73% and its combined sales tax 7%; Maryland's are 8.95%, 1.02% and 6%.
Is North Carolina safer than Maryland?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland, per the FBI. North Carolina ranks #30 of 50 for violent crime and Maryland #34. Property crime is 1,780 per 100,000 in North Carolina and 1,820 in Maryland. The safest tracked cities are Apex, NC, and Rockville, MD.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or Maryland?
Homes are 28% more expensive in Maryland: the typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of household income in North Carolina and $116,485 in Maryland, against median incomes of $73,958 and $102,905.
Do people earn more in North Carolina or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.8% in North Carolina and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0, with 2 even.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Maryland or from Maryland to North Carolina?
3,519 households moved from North Carolina to Maryland and 5,264 moved from Maryland to North Carolina in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,745 households for North Carolina. Movers to Maryland reported an average income of $66,840; movers to North Carolina reported $83,045. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,410 people (±2,300) moving from North Carolina to Maryland and 8,874 (±2,299) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, North Carolina or Maryland?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #36 for Maryland. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,308 left after typical costs in North Carolina and +$30,111 in Maryland.
Which is better for families, North Carolina or Maryland?
North Carolina is the better fit for families: #28 of 50 on the families index vs #38 for Maryland. Center-based infant care costs $13,916 a year in North Carolina and $20,124 in Maryland. High school graduation rates are 86.4% and 86.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 after typical costs in North Carolina and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Is Maryland better than North Carolina?
No: North Carolina ranks higher than Maryland overall, #23 of 50 vs #31, with a composite score of 59.1 to 53.6. North Carolina leads 6 of 11 categories and Maryland leads 3, including economy and health. 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 North Carolina vs Maryland.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (5,264 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).