Ohio vs North Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and North Carolina #23 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 94.3); Ohio carries a 1.2-point higher tax burden and has a 17% lower violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Typical home value is 26% lower in Ohio ($248,803 vs. $334,773 in North Carolina).
- Property crime rate is 20% lower in Ohio (1,429 vs. 1,780 in North Carolina).
- Residential electricity price is 17% lower in North Carolina (14.02¢/kWh vs. 16.96¢/kWh in Ohio).
| Measure | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -7 pts | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | -7 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.5 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | -1.5 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$5,242 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | +$5,242 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$85,970 (-26%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$85,970-26% | $368,697 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.18 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +1.18 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -55 (-17%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -55-17% | 328 | OH |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,746 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | -$1,746-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | -0.3 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -47,112 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -47,112 | -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 Ohio or North Carolina better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 52.1 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #33. Ohio leads 4 of 11 categories, North Carolina leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -12.9 | 15% | 30.3#44 · D | 43.2#29 · C+ | -12.9 pts | NC |
| Safety12% of scoregap +9.5 | 12% | 72.6#24 · B | 63.1#33 · C+ | +9.5 pts | OH |
| Health12% of scoregap -1.8 | 12% | 44.8#35 · C | 46.6#32 · C+ | -1.8 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +6.8 | 12% | 67.4#11 · B+ | 60.6#26 · B | +6.8 pts | OH |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +4.6 | 10% | 78.4#15 · B+ | 73.8#21 · B | +4.6 pts | OH |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -14.9 | 8% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 71.5#6 · A | -14.9 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap -34.6 | 7% | 31.0#34 · C+ | 65.6#3 · A+ | -34.6 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +3.9 | 7% | 52.1#23 · B | 48.2#28 · C+ | +3.9 pts | OH |
| Livability7% of scoregap -4.7 | 7% | 29.8#31 · C+ | 34.5#21 · B | -4.7 pts | NC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -3.5 | 6% | 10.0#42 · C | 13.5#37 · C | -3.5 pts | NC |
| Environment4% of scoregap +0.6 | 4% | 35.2#34 · C+ | 34.6#35 · C | +0.6 pts | Even |
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 Ohio cheaper than North Carolina?
Ohio and North Carolina cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 92.8 vs 94.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,242 more a year in Ohio after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.5 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | -1.5 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.9 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | -2.9 pts-3% | 100 | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.94¢ (+21%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +2.94¢+21% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.57 (-16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | -$2.57-16% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.07 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | +$0.07+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$20 (0%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$200% | $15,633 | Even |
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 | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,875 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$3,875 | OH |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$4,257 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$4,257 | OH |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$5,242 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | +$5,242 | OH |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$3,889 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$3,889 | OH |
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 | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$4,102 | $18,655 | $22,757 | -$4,102 | OH |
| ChildcareGap +$40 | $27,872 | $27,832 | +$40 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap -$72 | $4,454 | $4,526 | -$72 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$327 | $10,553 | $10,880 | -$327 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$220 | $10,214 | $9,994 | +$220 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,002 | $6,569 | $7,571 | -$1,002 | OH |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or North Carolina?
North Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 9.36%. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.18 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +1.18 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.75 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +1.75 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.7 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.29 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 6.66% | Even |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or North Carolina?
Homes cost 35% more in North Carolina: a typical home value of $248,803 in Ohio vs $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of income in Ohio and $87,803 in North Carolina; the median household earns $72,212 and $73,958.
| Measure | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$85,970 (-26%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$85,970-26% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.4 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | +3.4 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$227 (-13%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | -$227-13% | $1,948 | OH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$16,686 (-19%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | -$16,686-19% | $100,006 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.1x (-24%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | -1.1x-24% | 4.6x | OH |
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.
| OH | NC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,280 | $1,722 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +29.2% | +23.2% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Cincinnati | 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 Ohio or North Carolina?
Median household income is about the same, $72,212 in Ohio and $73,958 in North Carolina, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.8%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 12.
| Measure | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$1,746 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | -$1,746-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,115 (-2%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | -$1,115-2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | -1.4 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Population growthGap -0.98 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -0.98 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 | OH | NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | NC |
| Lawyers | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | NC |
| Civil Engineers | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | NC |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | NC |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | NC |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | NC |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | NC |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | NC |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | NC |
| Software Developers | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | NC |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | NC |
| Registered Nurses | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | NC |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | Even |
| Electricians | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | $36,951$34,734 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 Ohio safer than North Carolina?
Ohio is safer: 276 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,429 and 1,780 per 100,000.
| Measure | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -55 (-17%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -55-17% | 328 | OH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -351 (-20%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -351-20% | 1,535 | OH |
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.
- Lakewood, OH81 violent per 100K
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Ohio or North Carolina?
Ohio scores higher for education (#11 of 50 vs #26), with high school graduation rates of 86.2% and 86.4%. They are close on health (#35 and #32); life expectancy is 75.6 years in Ohio and 75.9 in North Carolina.
| Measure | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | -0.3 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.4 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 34.03% | NC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.9 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 7.6% | OH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | NC |
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).
- Dublin, OHeducation score 93.5
- 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: Ohio #11, North Carolina #26. Health: Ohio #35, North Carolina #32.
Are more people moving from Ohio to North Carolina, or from North Carolina to Ohio?
5,026 households moved from Ohio to North Carolina and 3,388 moved from North Carolina to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,638 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $77,810; movers to Ohio reported $61,583. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,401 people (±1,836) moving from Ohio to North Carolina and 6,467 (±1,716) 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 | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -78,067 (-46%) | 92,684#16 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | -78,067-46% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap -30,955 (-24%) | 100,678#37 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | -30,955-24% | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -47,112 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -47,112 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.2 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -4.2 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,925 (-16%) | $67,237#35 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | -$12,925-16% | NC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,820 (+5%) | $78,108#17 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$3,820+5% | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.6 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -6.6 | 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, Ohio or North Carolina?
Ohio is the better fit for families; 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 | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -7 places | #21score 67.5 | #28score 62.8 | -7 places | OH |
| RetireesGap +8 places | #29score 59.9 | #21score 64.2 | +8 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap +19 places | #36score 46.5 | #17score 56.9 | +19 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +22 places | #36score 46.4 | #14score 63.1 | +22 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap +24 places | #33score 49.7 | #9score 71.1 | +24 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +3 places | #37score 32.6 | #34score 34.6 | +3 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesOhio (#21 vs #28)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #29)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #36)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #36)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #33)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#37 vs #34)
Which cities stand out in Ohio and North Carolina?
Ohio has 20 tracked cities and North Carolina has 22; the largest are Columbus and Charlotte. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Columbus914,802 people | Charlotte903,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Dublinscore 71.5 | Apexscore 74.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lakewood81 violent per 100K | Apex53 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Youngstowncost index 87.4 | Rocky Mountcost index 88 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Loraincounty median AQI 39 | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Dublin93.5% graduation rate | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dublinmedian income $160,296 | Apexmedian income $144,135 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Columbus+0.8% growth | Apex+6.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Ohio and North Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Ohio carries AA+ credit rating and North Carolina AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -7 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | -7 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.7 (-65%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | -15.7-65% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -7.8 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | -7.8 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | -1.9 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | -1 pts | 92.67% | NC |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap -19 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -19 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,440 (+94%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$1,440+94% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.9 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -1.9 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Ohio 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).
Ohio 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. Ohio is ahead on 16 of 51, North Carolina on 23, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OhioOH | North CarolinaNC | GapOH−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +702,542 (+6%) · US 6.8 million | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | +702,542+6% | 6.8 million | OH |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,746 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | -$1,746-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| Population growthGap -0.98 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -0.98 pts | +0.51% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,115 (-2%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | -$1,115-2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | -1.4 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -55 (-17%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -55-17% | 328 | OH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -351 (-20%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -351-20% | 1,535 | OH |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 239#13 of 50 | 239#19 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 216#14 of 50 | 213#32 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | -0.3 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.4 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 34.03% | NC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.9 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 7.6% | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$85,970 (-26%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$85,970-26% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +3.4 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | +3.4 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$227 (-13%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | -$227-13% | $1,948 | OH |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$16,686 (-19%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | -$16,686-19% | $100,006 | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.5 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | -1.5 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.1x (-24%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | -1.1x-24% | 4.6x | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.94¢ (+21%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +2.94¢+21% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.57 (-16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | -$2.57-16% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.07 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | +$0.07+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.9 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | -2.9 pts-3% | 100 | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$20 (0%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$200% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.18 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +1.18 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.75 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +1.75 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.7 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.29 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +0.29 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | -2 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap -19 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -19 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,440 (+94%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$1,440+94% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.9 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -1.9 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | NC |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -7 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | -7 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.7 (-65%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | -15.7-65% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -7.8 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | -7.8 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | -1.9 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -3.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -3.5 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | -1 pts | 92.67% | NC |
| Households moving inIRSGap -78,067 (-46%) · US 78,682 | 92,684#16 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | -78,067-46% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap -30,955 (-24%) · US 78,715 | 100,678#37 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | -30,955-24% | 78,715 | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -47,112 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -47,112 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.2 · US +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -4.2 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,925 (-16%) · US $77,690 | $67,237#35 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | -$12,925-16% | $77,690 | NC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,820 (+5%) · US $77,024 | $78,108#17 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$3,820+5% | $77,024 | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.6 · US +1.1 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -6.6 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$5,242 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | +$5,242 | -$11,758 | OH |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,875 · US +$31,418 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$3,875 | +$31,418 | OH |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$3,889 · US +$35,970 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$3,889 | +$35,970 | OH |
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 Ohio and North Carolina numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 5 of the 11 categories to Ohio's 4, with 2 even; Ohio is ahead on safety and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Ohio is ahead on 16 and North Carolina on 23.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 92.8 in Ohio and 94.3 in North Carolina, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $248,803 and $334,773. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 a year after typical costs in Ohio and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
North Carolina takes a smaller share in taxes
Ohio collects 9.36% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); North Carolina collects 8.18% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Ohio is safer
Median household income is $72,212 in Ohio and $73,958 in North Carolina, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 330 in North Carolina.
Moves between the two run about even
6,401 people moved from Ohio to North Carolina and 6,467 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Ohio for families, North Carolina for retirees
For families, Ohio ranks #21 of 50 and North Carolina #28; for retirees, Ohio ranks #29 and North Carolina #21.
Ohio vs North Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio or North Carolina better to live in?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and North Carolina #23 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 94.3); Ohio carries a 1.2-point higher tax burden and has a 17% lower violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Ohio cheaper than North Carolina?
Ohio and North Carolina cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 92.8 vs 94.3 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$3,318 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Ohio, and -$8,560 in North Carolina. The typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $334,773 in North Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or North Carolina?
North Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.18% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.36% in Ohio. Ohio's top income tax rate is 6%, its effective property tax rate 1.43% and its combined sales tax 7.29%; North Carolina's are 4.25%, 0.73% and 7%.
Is Ohio safer than North Carolina?
Ohio is safer: 276 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina, per the FBI. Ohio ranks #24 of 50 for violent crime and North Carolina #30. Property crime is 1,429 per 100,000 in Ohio and 1,780 in North Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Lakewood, OH, and Apex, NC.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or North Carolina?
Homes are 35% more expensive in North Carolina: the typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of household income in Ohio and $87,803 in North Carolina, against median incomes of $72,212 and $73,958.
Do people earn more in Ohio or North Carolina?
Ohio and North Carolina pay about the same: median household income is $72,212 vs $73,958, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Ohio and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 12, with 8 even.
Are more people moving from Ohio to North Carolina or from North Carolina to Ohio?
5,026 households moved from Ohio to North Carolina and 3,388 moved from North Carolina to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,638 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $77,810; movers to Ohio reported $61,583. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,401 people (±1,836) moving from Ohio to North Carolina and 6,467 (±1,716) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Ohio or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #29 for Ohio. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,197 left after typical costs in Ohio and +$37,308 in North Carolina.
Which is better for families, Ohio or North Carolina?
Ohio is the better fit for families: #21 of 50 on the families index vs #28 for North Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $13,936 a year in Ohio and $13,916 in North Carolina. High school graduation rates are 86.2% and 86.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 after typical costs in Ohio and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Is North Carolina better than Ohio?
Yes: North Carolina ranks higher than Ohio overall, #23 of 50 vs #33, with a composite score of 59.1 to 52.1. North Carolina leads 5 of 11 categories and Ohio leads 4, including safety and education. 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 Ohio vs North Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (5,026 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).