North Carolina vs Massachusetts: Which Is Better to Live In?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 105.8), has a 1.4-point lower tax burden, and has a 8% higher violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Residential electricity price is 54% lower in North Carolina (14.02¢/kWh vs. 30.48¢/kWh in Massachusetts).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 50% lower in North Carolina ($87,803 vs. $177,190 in Massachusetts).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 49% lower in North Carolina ($13,916 vs. $27,067 in Massachusetts).
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -10.9 pts | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | 70.0#13 of 50 · B+ | -10.9 pts | — | MA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -11.5 pts (-11%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -11.5 pts-11% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$53,661 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$53,661 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$327,123 (-49%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$327,123-49% | $368,697 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.39 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -1.39 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +28 (+9%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | +28+9% | 328 | MA |
| Median household incomeGap -$30,870 (-29%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$30,870-29% | $80,903 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -3.9 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +54,496 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +54,496 | -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 Massachusetts better to live in?
Massachusetts scores higher overall: 70 to 59.1 out of 100, #13 of 50 against #23. North Carolina leads 3 of 11 categories, Massachusetts leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -16.6 | 15% | 43.2#29 · C+ | 59.8#10 · A | -16.6 pts | MA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -13.3 | 12% | 63.1#33 · C+ | 76.4#19 · B | -13.3 pts | MA |
| Health12% of scoregap -42 | 12% | 46.6#32 · C+ | 88.6#1 · A+ | -42 pts | MA |
| Education12% of scoregap -31.4 | 12% | 60.6#26 · B | 92.0#1 · A+ | -31.4 pts | MA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +44.5 | 10% | 73.8#21 · B | 29.3#48 · D | +44.5 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +21.4 | 8% | 71.5#6 · A | 50.1#39 · C | +21.4 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap +46.2 | 7% | 65.6#3 · A+ | 19.4#47 · D | +46.2 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -3.5 | 7% | 48.2#28 · C+ | 51.7#24 · B | -3.5 pts | MA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.2 | 7% | 34.5#21 · B | 34.3#23 · B | +0.2 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -18.5 | 6% | 13.5#37 · C | 32.0#20 · B | -18.5 pts | MA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -19.8 | 4% | 34.6#35 · C | 54.4#9 · A | -19.8 pts | MA |
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 Massachusetts?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $53,661 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -11.5 pts (-11%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -11.5 pts-11% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | -2.2 pts-2% | 100 | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap -16.46¢ (-54%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -16.46¢-54% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$8.64 (-34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$8.64-34% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.15 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.15-5% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$13,151 (-49%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$13,151-49% | $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 | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$16,554 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$16,230costs $58,771 | +$16,554 | NC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$22,165 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$2,463costs $72,537 | +$22,165 | NC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$53,661 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$62,221costs $137,222 | +$53,661 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$19,529 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$17,779costs $57,221 | +$19,529 | 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 | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$25,018 | $22,757 | $47,775 | -$25,018 | NC |
| ChildcareGap -$26,302 | $27,832 | $54,134 | -$26,302 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap -$552 | $4,526 | $5,078 | -$552 | NC |
| GroceriesGap -$248 | $10,880 | $11,128 | -$248 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$472 | $9,994 | $10,466 | -$472 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,070 | $7,571 | $8,641 | -$1,070 | NC |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Massachusetts?
North Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 9.57%. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.39 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -1.39 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.75 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | -4.75 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.42 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | -0.42 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.75 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +0.75 pts | 6.66% | MA |
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 Massachusetts?
Homes cost 98% more in Massachusetts: a typical home value of $334,773 in North Carolina vs $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of income in North Carolina and $177,190 in Massachusetts; the median household earns $73,958 and $104,828.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$327,123 (-49%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$327,123-49% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.3 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,325 (-43%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$1,325-43% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$89,387 (-50%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$89,387-50% | $100,006 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.8x (-29%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -1.8x-29% | 4.6x | NC |
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 | MA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,722 | $3,405 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +69% |
| Five-year change | +23.2% | +25.3% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Charlotte | Boston |
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income $104,828 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 3.8% in North Carolina and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 7.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$30,870 (-29%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$30,870-29% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap -$39,660 (-40%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$39,660-40% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +1.1 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +1.1 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 | MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | $178,718$193,015 in Boston | MA |
| Lawyers | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | $193,357$208,826 in Boston | MA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | $93,051$100,495 in Boston | MA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | $259,917$280,710 in Boston | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | $95,550$103,194 in Boston | MA |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | $115,418$124,651 in Boston | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | $109,994$118,793 in Boston | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | $56,938$61,493 in Boston | NC |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | $62,234$67,213 in Boston | MA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | $45,899$49,571 in Boston | NC |
| Electricians | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | $66,790$72,133 in Boston | MA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | $86,406$93,319 in Boston | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | $60,876$65,746 in Boston | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | $69,999$75,599 in Boston | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | $38,407$41,480 in Boston | MA |
| Civil Engineers | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | $106,307$114,812 in Boston | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | $55,455$59,891 in Boston | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | $77,076$83,242 in Boston | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | $63,980$69,098 in Boston | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | $70,856$76,524 in Boston | 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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is safer: 303 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,780 and 1,031 per 100,000.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +28 (+9%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | +28+9% | 328 | MA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +749 (+73%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +749+73% | 1,535 | MA |
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
- Newton, MA56 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, North Carolina or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts scores higher for education (#1 of 50 vs #26), with high school graduation rates of 86.4% and 90.1%. Massachusetts scores higher for health (#1 vs #32); life expectancy is 75.9 years in North Carolina and 79.8 in Massachusetts.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -13 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| Life expectancyGap -3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -3.9 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap +7.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +7.5 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.8 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+11%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +4 pts+11% | 38.8 | MA |
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
- Newton, MAeducation score 96
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: North Carolina #26, Massachusetts #1. Health: North Carolina #32, Massachusetts #1.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Massachusetts, or from Massachusetts to North Carolina?
3,483 households moved from Massachusetts to North Carolina in the latest IRS release (average income $99,828); the flow from North Carolina to Massachusetts is too small to appear among Massachusetts's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,643 people (±1,493) moving from North Carolina to Massachusetts and 5,343 (±1,842) 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 | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +87,455 (+105%) | 170,751#5 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +87,455+105% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +32,959 (+33%) | 131,633#42 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +32,959+33% | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +54,496 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +54,496 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.6 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +5.6 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,728 (-11%) | $80,162#21 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | -$9,728-11% | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$42,321 (-36%) | $74,288#25 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$42,321-36% | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +12.3 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +12.3 | 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 Massachusetts?
North Carolina is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Massachusetts is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +19 places | #28score 62.8 | #9score 79.8 | +19 places | MA |
| RetireesGap +2 places | #21score 64.2 | #19score 65.5 | +2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -25 places | #17score 56.9 | #42score 42.9 | -25 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -21 places | #14score 63.1 | #35score 48.4 | -21 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap -20 places | #9score 71.1 | #29score 52.7 | -20 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +18 places | #34score 34.6 | #16score 55.3 | +18 places | MA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMassachusetts (#9 vs #28)
- RetireesEven (#21 vs #19)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #42)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #35)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #29)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMassachusetts (#16 vs #34)
Which cities stand out in North Carolina and Massachusetts?
North Carolina has 22 tracked cities and Massachusetts has 25; the largest are Charlotte and Boston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Charlotte903,844 people | Boston666,442 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Apexscore 74.9 | Brooklinescore 79.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Apex53 violent per 100K | Newton56 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Rocky Mountcost index 88 | Springfieldcost index 96.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 | Cambridgewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 | Bostoncounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate | Newton96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Apexmedian income $144,135 | Newtonmedian income $190,304 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Apex+6.1% growth | Worcester+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do North Carolina and Massachusetts compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. North Carolina carries AAA credit rating and Massachusetts AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -11 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | -11 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +20.4 (+567%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +20.4+567% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap +1.6 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -4.9 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | -4.9 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap -7 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | -7 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | MA |
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 | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +32 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | +32 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$8,140 (-84%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$8,140-84% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +5.2 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +5.2 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; North Carolina AAA, Massachusetts AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
North Carolina vs Massachusetts: 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 27 of 51, Massachusetts on 19, and 5 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | MassachusettsMA | GapNC−MA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,043,884 (+57%) · US 6.8 million | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | 7.2 million#16 of 50 | +4,043,884+57% | 6.8 million | NC |
| Median household incomeGap -$30,870 (-29%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $104,828#1 of 50 | -$30,870-29% | $80,903 | MA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 4.5%#37 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| Population growthGap +1.1 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.22%#38 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +0.51% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap -$39,660 (-40%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $99,274#2 of 50 | -$39,660-40% | $64,333 | MA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2.4%#14 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +28 (+9%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 303#27 of 50 | +28+9% | 328 | MA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +749 (+73%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,031#6 of 50 | +749+73% | 1,535 | MA |
| High school graduation rateGap -3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 90.1%#4 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 85.62% | MA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -8 · US 237 | 239#19 of 50 | 247#1 of 50 | -8 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 284#1 of 50 | -8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -11 · US 214 | 213#32 of 50 | 225#1 of 50 | -11 | 214 | MA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 268#1 of 50 | -13 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -3.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 79.8#2 of 50 | -3.9 yrs | 76.9 | MA |
| Adults with obesityGap +7.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 27%#2 of 50 | +7.5 pts | 34.03% | MA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.8 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 2.8%#1 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 7.6% | MA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$327,123 (-49%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $661,896#48 of 50 | -$327,123-49% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.3 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +2.3%#23 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +1.2% | MA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,325 (-43%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $3,074#49 of 50 | -$1,325-43% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$89,387 (-50%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $177,190#48 of 50 | -$89,387-50% | $100,006 | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -11.5 pts (-11%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 105.8#45 of 50 | -11.5 pts-11% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.8x (-29%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 6.3x#48 of 50 | -1.8x-29% | 4.6x | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap -16.46¢ (-54%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 30.48¢/kWh#48 of 50 | -16.46¢-54% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$8.64 (-34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $25.06/Mcf#48 of 50 | -$8.64-34% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.15 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.33/gal#36 of 50 | -$0.15-5% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 98.8#37 of 50 | -2.2 pts-2% | 100 | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$13,151 (-49%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $27,067#49 of 50 | -$13,151-49% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.39 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 9.57%#38 of 50 | -1.39 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.75 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 9%#44 of 50 | -4.75 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.42 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 1.15%#33 of 50 | -0.42 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.75 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 6.25%#16 of 50 | +0.75 pts | 6.66% | MA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 95#22 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 12.8%#17 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.39% | MA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +32 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 63%#41 of 50 | +32 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$8,140 (-84%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $9,680#49 of 50 | -$8,140-84% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +5.2 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +1.2%#46 of 50 | +5.2 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+11%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 37#17 of 50 | +4 pts+11% | 38.8 | MA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -11 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 24%#23 of 50 | -11 pts | 29.34% | MA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +20.4 (+567%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 3.6#3 of 50 | +20.4+567% | 29.6 | MA |
| Public land shareGap +1.6 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 7.7%#25 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -4.9 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 30.6 min#47 of 50 | -4.9 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap -7 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 7.8%#3 of 50 | -7 pts | 2.29% | MA |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 14.8%#13 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 94.4%#7 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | MA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +87,455 (+105%) · US 78,682 | 170,751#5 of 50 | 83,296#17 of 50 | +87,455+105% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +32,959 (+33%) · US 78,715 | 131,633#42 of 50 | 98,674#36 of 50 | +32,959+33% | 78,715 | MA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +54,496 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -15,378#46 of 50 | +54,496 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.6 · US +0.4 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -2.1#45 of 50 | +5.6 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,728 (-11%) · US $77,690 | $80,162#21 of 50 | $89,890#7 of 50 | -$9,728-11% | $77,690 | MA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$42,321 (-36%) · US $77,024 | $74,288#25 of 50 | $116,609#1 of 50 | -$42,321-36% | $77,024 | MA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +12.3 · US +1.1 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -4.7#46 of 50 | +12.3 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$53,661 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$62,221#49 of 50 | +$53,661 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$16,554 · US +$31,418 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$16,230#48 of 50 | +$16,554 | +$31,418 | NC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$19,529 · US +$35,970 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$17,779#48 of 50 | +$19,529 | +$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 Massachusetts numbers say when read together.
Massachusetts ranks higher overall
Massachusetts leads 7 of the 11 categories to North Carolina's 3, with 1 even; North Carolina is ahead on growth and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, North Carolina is ahead on 27 and Massachusetts on 19.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 105.8 in Massachusetts (US = 100). The typical home costs $334,773 in North Carolina and $661,896 in Massachusetts. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 a year after typical costs in North Carolina and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
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); Massachusetts collects 9.57% (high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Massachusetts pays more and is safer
Median household income is $73,958 in North Carolina and $104,828 in Massachusetts, with unemployment at 3.8% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 330 per 100,000 residents in North Carolina and 303 in Massachusetts.
Moves between the two run about even
3,643 people moved from North Carolina to Massachusetts and 5,343 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Massachusetts is the better fit for families
For families, North Carolina ranks #28 of 50 and Massachusetts #9; for retirees, North Carolina ranks #21 and Massachusetts #19.
North Carolina vs Massachusetts: frequently asked questions
Is North Carolina or Massachusetts better to live in?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Massachusetts #13 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 105.8), has a 1.4-point lower tax burden, and has a 8% higher violent crime rate. Massachusetts scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is North Carolina cheaper than Massachusetts?
North Carolina is cheaper than Massachusetts: cost of living index 94.3 vs 105.8 (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 -$62,221 in Massachusetts. The typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $661,896 in Massachusetts.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Massachusetts?
North Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.18% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.57% in Massachusetts. North Carolina's top income tax rate is 4.25%, its effective property tax rate 0.73% and its combined sales tax 7%; Massachusetts's are 9%, 1.15% and 6.25%.
Is North Carolina safer than Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is safer: 303 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina, per the FBI. North Carolina ranks #30 of 50 for violent crime and Massachusetts #27. Property crime is 1,780 per 100,000 in North Carolina and 1,031 in Massachusetts. The safest tracked cities are Apex, NC, and Newton, MA.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or Massachusetts?
Homes are 98% more expensive in Massachusetts: the typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $661,896 in Massachusetts. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of household income in North Carolina and $177,190 in Massachusetts, against median incomes of $73,958 and $104,828.
Do people earn more in North Carolina or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pays more: median household income is $104,828 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.8% in North Carolina and 4.5% in Massachusetts. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Massachusetts's in 7, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Massachusetts or from Massachusetts to North Carolina?
3,483 households moved from Massachusetts to North Carolina in the latest IRS release (average income $99,828); the flow from North Carolina to Massachusetts is too small to appear among Massachusetts's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,643 people (±1,493) moving from North Carolina to Massachusetts and 5,343 (±1,842) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, North Carolina or Massachusetts?
North Carolina and Massachusetts are close for retirees: #21 and #19 of 50 on the retiree index. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Massachusetts has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,308 left after typical costs in North Carolina and +$17,779 in Massachusetts.
Which is better for families, North Carolina or Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is the better fit for families: #9 of 50 on the families index vs #28 for North Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $13,916 a year in North Carolina and $27,067 in Massachusetts. High school graduation rates are 86.4% and 90.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 after typical costs in North Carolina and -$62,221 in Massachusetts.
Is Massachusetts better than North Carolina?
Yes: Massachusetts ranks higher than North Carolina overall, #13 of 50 vs #23, with a composite score of 70 to 59.1. Massachusetts leads 7 of 11 categories and North Carolina leads 3, including growth and affordability. 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 Massachusetts.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (3,483 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).