New York vs South Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. South Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.7 vs 107.9), has a 5.4-point lower tax burden. New York scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 57% lower in South Carolina ($1,569 vs. $3,615 in New York).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 50% lower in South Carolina ($10,474 vs. $20,978 in New York).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 44% lower in South Carolina ($79,086 vs. $140,709 in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +5.9 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 49.0#36 of 50 · C | +5.9 pts | — | NY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.2 pts (+15%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +14.2 pts+15% | 100 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$45,317 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$45,317 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$220,391 (+72%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$220,391+72% | $368,697 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +5.41 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +5.41 pts | 8.74% | SC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -19 (-5%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -19-5% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,470 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$13,470+19% | $80,903 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| Life expectancyGap +4.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +4.4 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -101,201 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -101,201 | -33 | SC |
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 South Carolina better to live in?
New York scores higher overall: 54.9 to 49 out of 100, #29 of 50 against #36. New York leads 8 of 11 categories, South Carolina leads 3, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +14.5 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 31.8#42 · C | +14.5 pts | NY |
| Safety12% of scoregap +3 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 60.0#38 · C | +3 pts | NY |
| Health12% of scoregap +38.4 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 41.3#38 · C | +38.4 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap +6.5 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 50.1#38 · C | +6.5 pts | NY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -41.2 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 78.4#16 · B+ | -41.2 pts | SC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -9.9 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 54.4#36 · C | -9.9 pts | SC |
| Growth7% of scoregap -57 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 71.0#2 · A+ | -57 pts | SC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +10.2 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 42.4#43 · D | +10.2 pts | NY |
| Livability7% of scoregap +7.6 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 41.8#14 · B+ | +7.6 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +21.3 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 8.9#45 · D | +21.3 pts | NY |
| Environment4% of scoregap +37.3 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 21.1#49 · F | +37.3 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 South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 93.7 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $45,317 more a year in South Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.2 pts (+15%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +14.2 pts+15% | 100 | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +11 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +11 pts+11% | 100 | SC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +11.43¢ (+76%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +11.43¢+76% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.67 (+4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | +$0.67+4% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.18 (+6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.18+6% | $3.32/gal | SC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,504 (+100%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$10,504+100% | $15,633 | SC |
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 | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$13,962 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$34,233costs $40,767 | -$13,962 | SC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$19,058 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$27,172costs $47,828 | -$19,058 | SC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$45,317 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | +$2,089costs $72,911 | -$45,317 | SC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$16,812 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$39,460costs $35,539 | -$16,812 | SC |
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 | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$20,387 | $40,598 | $20,211 | +$20,387 | SC |
| ChildcareGap +$21,008 | $41,956 | $20,948 | +$21,008 | SC |
| UtilitiesGap +$681 | $5,179 | $4,498 | +$681 | SC |
| GroceriesGap +$1,239 | $12,085 | $10,846 | +$1,239 | SC |
| TransportationGap +$566 | $9,963 | $9,397 | +$566 | SC |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,437 | $8,448 | $7,011 | +$1,437 | SC |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or South Carolina?
South Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.15% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +5.41 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +5.41 pts | 8.74% | SC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.58 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | +8.58 pts | 5.46% | SC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.11 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +1.11 pts | 1.02% | SC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.05 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | +1.05 pts | 6.66% | SC |
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 South Carolina?
Homes cost 72% more in New York: a typical home value of $526,714 in New York vs $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $79,086 in South Carolina; the median household earns $85,820 and $72,350.
| Measure | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$220,391 (+72%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$220,391+72% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | +4.6 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$2,046 (+130%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$2,046+130% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$61,623 (+78%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$61,623+78% | $100,006 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.9x (+45%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | +1.9x+45% | 4.6x | SC |
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 | SC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $1,576 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | New York | Greenville |
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 South Carolina?
New York pays more: median household income $85,820 vs $72,350, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$13,470 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$13,470+19% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$51,512 (+102%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$51,512+102% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -1.45 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -1.45 pts | +0.51% | SC |
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 | SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $149,808$139,321 in Charleston | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $135,418$125,939 in Charleston | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $219,138$203,798 in Charleston | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $61,126$56,847 in Charleston | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $75,855$70,545 in Charleston | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $81,647$75,932 in Charleston | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $102,995$95,785 in Charleston | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $32,490$30,216 in Columbia | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $104,417$97,108 in Charleston | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $62,687$58,299 in Charleston | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $78,411$72,922 in Charleston | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $98,238$91,361 in Charleston | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $54,468$50,655 in Charleston | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $54,377$50,571 in Columbia | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $64,958$60,411 in Columbia | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $55,191$51,328 in Charleston | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $56,283$52,343 in Charleston | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $68,961$64,134 in Columbia | NY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $46,813$43,536 in Charleston | NY |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $41,473$38,570 in Charleston | NY |
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 South Carolina?
Violent crime is about the same: 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 388 in South Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 1,676 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -19 (-5%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -19-5% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -101 (-6%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -101-6% | 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
- Fort Mill, SC30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or South Carolina?
New York scores higher for education (#30 of 50 vs #38), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 83.8%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #38); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 75.1 in South Carolina.
| Measure | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| Life expectancyGap +4.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +4.4 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.1 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | -4 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -8 pts (-18%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -8 pts-18% | 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
- Fort Mill, SCeducation 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: New York #30, South Carolina #38. Health: New York #3, South Carolina #38.
Are more people moving from New York to South Carolina, or from South Carolina to New York?
7,266 households moved from New York to South Carolina and 3,037 moved from South Carolina to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 4,229 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $94,399; movers to New York reported $56,508. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 18,324 people (±5,214) moving from New York to South Carolina and 5,749 (±1,738) the other way, a net gain of about 12,575 people for South 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 | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +92,461 (+93%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +92,461+93% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +193,662 (+274%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +193,662+274% | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -101,201 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -101,201 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.8 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -8.8 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,726 (+6%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | +$5,726+6% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$39,415 (+59%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$39,415+59% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -18.9 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -18.9 | SC |
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 South Carolina?
New York is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts; South Carolina is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -11 places | #29score 62.6 | #40score 55.8 | -11 places | NY |
| RetireesGap -15 places | #25score 62 | #40score 54 | -15 places | NY |
| Remote WorkersGap +10 places | #44score 41.4 | #34score 48.6 | +10 places | SC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +22 places | #40score 42.8 | #18score 58.8 | +22 places | SC |
| Small BusinessGap +19 places | #44score 37.5 | #25score 58.4 | +19 places | SC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -26 places | #21score 50.9 | #47score 26.1 | -26 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew York (#29 vs #40)
- RetireesNew York (#25 vs #40)
- Remote WorkersSouth Carolina (#34 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Carolina (#18 vs #40)
- Small BusinessSouth Carolina (#25 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #47)
Which cities stand out in New York and South Carolina?
New York has 20 tracked cities and South Carolina has 20; the largest are New York and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Charleston154,338 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Fort Millscore 71 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Fort Mill30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Florencecost index 86.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Greenvillewalkability 13.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Goose Creekcounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | Fort Mill96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Mount Pleasantmedian income $124,755 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Greer+7.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and South Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and South Carolina AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +22 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +22 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -35.4 (-90%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -35.4-90% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +9.1 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +9.1 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.9 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +6.9 min | 25.2 min | SC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.9 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +23.9 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 12.28% | SC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +0.2 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 | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | SC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | -4 pts | 12.39% | SC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +30 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +30 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$6,010 (+283%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | +$6,010+283% | $3,506 | SC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.1 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | -6.1 pts | +4.66% | SC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, South Carolina 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).
New York vs South 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 16 of 51, South Carolina on 27, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | South CarolinaSC | GapNY−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +14,432,153 (+259%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 5.6 million#23 of 50 | +14,432,153+259% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,470 (+19%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$13,470+19% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -1.45 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -1.45 pts | +0.51% | SC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$51,512 (+102%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$51,512+102% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -19 (-5%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -19-5% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -101 (-6%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -101-6% | 1,535 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 238#27 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 215#24 of 50 | -0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +4.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +4.4 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.1 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | -5.1 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | -4 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$220,391 (+72%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$220,391+72% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap +4.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | +4.6 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$2,046 (+130%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$2,046+130% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$61,623 (+78%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$61,623+78% | $100,006 | SC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.2 pts (+15%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +14.2 pts+15% | 100 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.9x (+45%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | +1.9x+45% | 4.6x | SC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +11.43¢ (+76%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +11.43¢+76% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.67 (+4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | +$0.67+4% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.18 (+6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.18+6% | $3.32/gal | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +11 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +11 pts+11% | 100 | SC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,504 (+100%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$10,504+100% | $15,633 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +5.41 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +5.41 pts | 8.74% | SC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.58 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | +8.58 pts | 5.46% | SC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.11 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +1.11 pts | 1.02% | SC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.05 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | +1.05 pts | 6.66% | SC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | SC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | -4 pts | 12.39% | SC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +30 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +30 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$6,010 (+283%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | +$6,010+283% | $3,506 | SC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.1 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | -6.1 pts | +4.66% | SC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -8 pts (-18%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -8 pts-18% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +22 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +22 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -35.4 (-90%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -35.4-90% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +9.1 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +9.1 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.9 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +6.9 min | 25.2 min | SC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.9 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +23.9 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 12.28% | SC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +92,461 (+93%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +92,461+93% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +193,662 (+274%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +193,662+274% | 78,715 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -101,201 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -101,201 | -33 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.8 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -8.8 | +0.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,726 (+6%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | +$5,726+6% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$39,415 (+59%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$39,415+59% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -18.9 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -18.9 | +1.1 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$45,317 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$45,317 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$13,962 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$34,233#19 of 50 | -$13,962 | +$31,418 | SC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$16,812 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$39,460#16 of 50 | -$16,812 | +$35,970 | SC |
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 South Carolina numbers say when read together.
New York ranks higher overall
New York leads 8 of the 11 categories to South Carolina's 3, with 0 even; South Carolina is ahead on growth and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New York is ahead on 16 and South Carolina on 27.
South Carolina is cheaper day to day
South Carolina's cost of living index is 93.7 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $306,323 in South Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
South Carolina takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); South Carolina collects 8.15% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
New York pays more
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 388 in South Carolina.
People move to South Carolina on net
18,324 people moved to South Carolina from New York in the latest Census release, against 5,749 going the other way.
New York fits families and retirees better
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and South Carolina #40; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and South Carolina #40.
New York vs South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is New York or South Carolina better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. South Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.7 vs 107.9), has a 5.4-point lower tax burden. New York scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is New York cheaper than South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 93.7 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 +$2,089 in South Carolina. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $306,323 in South Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, New York or South Carolina?
South Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.15% 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%; South Carolina's are 6.2%, 0.53% and 7.49%.
Is New York safer than South Carolina?
New York and South Carolina have similar violent crime rates: 368 vs 388 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and South Carolina #38. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 1,676 in South Carolina. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Fort Mill, SC.
Are homes more expensive in New York or South Carolina?
Homes are 72% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $79,086 in South Carolina, against median incomes of $85,820 and $72,350.
Do people earn more in New York or South Carolina?
New York pays more: median household income is $85,820 vs $72,350 in South Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
Are more people moving from New York to South Carolina or from South Carolina to New York?
7,266 households moved from New York to South Carolina and 3,037 moved from South Carolina to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 4,229 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $94,399; movers to New York reported $56,508. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 18,324 people (±5,214) moving from New York to South Carolina and 5,749 (±1,738) the other way, a net gain of about 12,575 people for South Carolina beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, New York or South Carolina?
New York is the better fit for retirees: #25 of 50 on the retiree index vs #40 for South Carolina. New York has high across the board; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$39,460 in South Carolina.
Which is better for families, New York or South Carolina?
New York is the better fit for families: #29 of 50 on the families index vs #40 for South Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $10,474 in South Carolina. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 83.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Is South Carolina better than New York?
No: New York ranks higher than South Carolina overall, #29 of 50 vs #36, with a composite score of 54.9 to 49. New York leads 8 of 11 categories and South 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 New York vs South Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (7,266 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).