New York vs North Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and North Carolina #23 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 107.9), has a 5.4-point lower tax burden, and has a 10% lower violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 6.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 52% lower in North Carolina ($1,749 vs. $3,615 in New York).
- Residential electricity price is 47% lower in North Carolina (14.02¢/kWh vs. 26.39¢/kWh in New York).
- Total tax burden is 40% lower in North Carolina (8.18% vs. 13.56% in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4.2 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | -4.2 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +13.6 pts (+14%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +13.6 pts+14% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$34,668 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$34,668 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$191,941 (+57%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | +$191,941+57% | $368,697 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +5.38 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +5.38 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +38 (+12%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | +38+12% | 328 | NC |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,862 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$11,862+16% | $80,903 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +3.6 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -111,105 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -111,105 | -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 New York or North Carolina better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 54.9 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #29. New York leads 6 of 11 categories, North Carolina leads 4, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +3.1 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 43.2#29 · C+ | +3.1 pts | NY |
| Safety12% of scoregap -0.1 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 63.1#33 · C+ | -0.1 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +33.1 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 46.6#32 · C+ | +33.1 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap -4 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 60.6#26 · B | -4 pts | NC |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -36.6 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 73.8#21 · B | -36.6 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -27 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 71.5#6 · A | -27 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap -51.6 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 65.6#3 · A+ | -51.6 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.4 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 48.2#28 · C+ | +4.4 pts | NY |
| Livability7% of scoregap +14.9 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 34.5#21 · B | +14.9 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +16.7 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 13.5#37 · C | +16.7 pts | NY |
| Environment4% of scoregap +23.8 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 34.6#35 · C | +23.8 pts | NY |
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 New York cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $34,668 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +13.6 pts (+14%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +13.6 pts+14% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.7 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +10.7 pts+11% | 100 | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +12.37¢ (+88%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +12.37¢+88% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.16 (+7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | +$1.16+7% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,062 (+51%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$7,062+51% | $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 | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$12,513 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | -$12,513 | NC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$16,514 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | -$16,514 | NC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$34,668 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$34,668 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$14,660 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | -$14,660 | 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 | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$17,841 | $40,598 | $22,757 | +$17,841 | NC |
| ChildcareGap +$14,124 | $41,956 | $27,832 | +$14,124 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap +$653 | $5,179 | $4,526 | +$653 | NC |
| GroceriesGap +$1,205 | $12,085 | $10,880 | +$1,205 | NC |
| TransportationGap -$31 | $9,963 | $9,994 | -$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$877 | $8,448 | $7,571 | +$877 | NC |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or North Carolina?
North Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +5.38 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +5.38 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.53 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +10.53 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.91 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.91 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.54 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +1.54 pts | 6.66% | NC |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in New York or North Carolina?
Homes cost 57% more in New York: a typical home value of $526,714 in New York vs $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $87,803 in North Carolina; the median household earns $85,820 and $73,958.
| Measure | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$191,941 (+57%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | +$191,941+57% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | +5.6 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,866 (+107%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$1,866+107% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$52,906 (+60%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$52,906+60% | $100,006 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.6x (+36%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | +1.6x+36% | 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.
| NY | NC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $1,722 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +23.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | New York | Charlotte |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in New York or North Carolina?
New York pays more: median household income $85,820 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$11,862 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$11,862+16% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$42,413 (+71%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$42,413+71% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -1.31 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -1.31 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 | NY | NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is New York safer than North Carolina?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 1,780 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +38 (+12%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | +38+12% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -205 (-12%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -205-12% | 1,535 | NY |
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.
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or North Carolina?
North Carolina scores higher for education (#26 of 50 vs #30), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 86.4%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #32); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 75.9 in North Carolina.
| Measure | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +3.6 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | -5 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.6 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-12%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | -5 pts-12% | 38.8 | NY |
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).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- Chapel Hill, NCeducation score 93
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: New York #30, North Carolina #26. Health: New York #3, North Carolina #32.
Are more people moving from New York to North Carolina, or from North Carolina to New York?
13,811 households moved from New York to North Carolina and 6,906 moved from North Carolina to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 6,905 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $76,363; movers to New York reported $63,235. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 17,978 people (±3,464) moving from New York to North Carolina and 10,076 (±2,104) the other way, a net gain of about 7,902 people for North Carolina beyond the margin of error.
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 | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +21,489 (+13%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | +21,489+13% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +132,594 (+101%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +132,594+101% | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -111,105 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -111,105 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.1 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -7.1 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$14,040 (+18%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | +$14,040+18% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$31,695 (+43%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$31,695+43% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -14.5 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -14.5 | 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, New York or North Carolina?
New York is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; North Carolina is the better fit for 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 | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +1 places | #29score 62.6 | #28score 62.8 | +1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +4 places | #25score 62 | #21score 64.2 | +4 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap +27 places | #44score 41.4 | #17score 56.9 | +27 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +26 places | #40score 42.8 | #14score 63.1 | +26 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap +35 places | #44score 37.5 | #9score 71.1 | +35 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -13 places | #21score 50.9 | #34score 34.6 | -13 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#29 vs #28)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #25)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #40)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #34)
Which cities stand out in New York and North Carolina?
New York has 20 tracked cities and North Carolina has 22; the largest are New York and Charlotte. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Charlotte903,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Apexscore 74.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Apex53 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Rocky Mountcost index 88 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Apexmedian income $144,135 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Apex+6.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and North Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and North Carolina AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +17 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | +17 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -20.2 (-84%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | -20.2-84% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +5.8 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.5 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +7.5 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.4 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +23.4 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.6 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | -7 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$6,590 (+428%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$6,590+428% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.9 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -7.9 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, North Carolina AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
New York vs North Carolina: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New York is ahead on 14 of 51, North Carolina on 29, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | North CarolinaNC | GapNY−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +8,804,459 (+79%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | +8,804,459+79% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,862 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$11,862+16% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| Population growthGap -1.31 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -1.31 pts | +0.51% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$42,413 (+71%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$42,413+71% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +38 (+12%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | +38+12% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -205 (-12%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -205-12% | 1,535 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.3 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 239#19 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 213#32 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +3.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +3.6 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -5 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | -5 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.6 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$191,941 (+57%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | +$191,941+57% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap +5.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | +5.6 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,866 (+107%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$1,866+107% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$52,906 (+60%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$52,906+60% | $100,006 | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +13.6 pts (+14%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +13.6 pts+14% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.6x (+36%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | +1.6x+36% | 4.6x | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +12.37¢ (+88%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +12.37¢+88% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.16 (+7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | +$1.16+7% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.7 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +10.7 pts+11% | 100 | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,062 (+51%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$7,062+51% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +5.38 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +5.38 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +10.53 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +10.53 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.91 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.91 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.54 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +1.54 pts | 6.66% | NC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | -7 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$6,590 (+428%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$6,590+428% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.9 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -7.9 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-12%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | -5 pts-12% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +17 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | +17 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -20.2 (-84%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | -20.2-84% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +5.8 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | +5.8 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.5 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +7.5 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.4 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +23.4 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.6 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +21,489 (+13%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | +21,489+13% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +132,594 (+101%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +132,594+101% | 78,715 | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -111,105 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -111,105 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.1 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -7.1 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$14,040 (+18%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | +$14,040+18% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$31,695 (+43%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$31,695+43% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -14.5 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -14.5 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$34,668 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$34,668 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$12,513 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | -$12,513 | +$31,418 | NC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$14,660 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | -$14,660 | +$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 New York and North Carolina numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 4 of the 11 categories to New York's 6, with 1 even; New York is ahead on health and environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New York is ahead on 14 and North Carolina on 29.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $334,773 in North Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
North Carolina takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); North Carolina collects 8.18% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
New York pays more
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $73,958 in North Carolina, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 330 in North Carolina.
People move to North Carolina on net
17,978 people moved to North Carolina from New York in the latest Census release, against 10,076 going the other way.
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and North Carolina #28; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and North Carolina #21.
New York vs North Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is New York or North Carolina better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and North Carolina #23 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 107.9), has a 5.4-point lower tax burden, and has a 10% lower violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 6.
Is New York cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 94.3 vs 107.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$43,228 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New York, and -$8,560 in North Carolina. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $334,773 in North Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, New York or North Carolina?
North Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.18% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. New York's top income tax rate is 14.78%, its effective property tax rate 1.64% and its combined sales tax 8.54%; North Carolina's are 4.25%, 0.73% and 7%.
Is New York safer than North Carolina?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and North Carolina #30. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 1,780 in North Carolina. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Apex, NC.
Are homes more expensive in New York or North Carolina?
Homes are 57% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $87,803 in North Carolina, against median incomes of $85,820 and $73,958.
Do people earn more in New York or North Carolina?
New York pays more: median household income is $85,820 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 0, with 4 even.
Are more people moving from New York to North Carolina or from North Carolina to New York?
13,811 households moved from New York to North Carolina and 6,906 moved from North Carolina to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 6,905 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $76,363; movers to New York reported $63,235. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 17,978 people (±3,464) moving from New York to North Carolina and 10,076 (±2,104) the other way, a net gain of about 7,902 people for North Carolina beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, New York or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #25 for New York. New York has high across the board; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$37,308 in North Carolina.
Which is better for families, New York or North Carolina?
New York and North Carolina are close for families: #29 and #28 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $13,916 in North Carolina. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 86.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Is North Carolina better than New York?
Yes: North Carolina ranks higher than New York overall, #23 of 50 vs #29, with a composite score of 59.1 to 54.9. North Carolina leads 4 of 11 categories and New York leads 6, including health and environment. 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 New York vs North Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (13,811 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).