Pennsylvania vs North Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 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 97.6), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 31% higher violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 6.
- Violent crime rate is 31% lower in Pennsylvania (227 vs. 330 in North Carolina).
- Residential electricity price is 27% lower in North Carolina (14.02¢/kWh vs. 19.30¢/kWh in Pennsylvania).
- Property crime rate is 26% lower in Pennsylvania (1,324 vs. 1,780 in North Carolina).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -2.2 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | -2.2 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +3.3 pts+3% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,065 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$3,065 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$44,372 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$44,372-13% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.4 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -104 (-31%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -104-31% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,587 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$3,587+5% | $80,903 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -51,213 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -51,213 | -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 Pennsylvania or North Carolina better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 56.9 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #25. Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories, North Carolina leads 4, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -4 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 43.2#29 · C+ | -4 pts | NC |
| Safety12% of scoregap +15 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 63.1#33 · C+ | +15 pts | PA |
| Health12% of scoregap +13 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 46.6#32 · C+ | +13 pts | PA |
| Education12% of scoregap +4.8 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 60.6#26 · B | +4.8 pts | PA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -7.1 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 73.8#21 · B | -7.1 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -25.9 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 71.5#6 · A | -25.9 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap -38.8 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 65.6#3 · A+ | -38.8 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +7.7 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 48.2#28 · C+ | +7.7 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -0.1 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 34.5#21 · B | -0.1 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +6.3 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 13.5#37 · C | +6.3 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +3.4 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 34.6#35 · C | +3.4 pts | PA |
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 Pennsylvania cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $3,065 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +3.3 pts+3% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +5.28¢ (+38%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +5.28¢+38% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.38 (-8%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | -$1.38-8% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.22 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | +$0.22+7% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,386 (+10%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$1,386+10% | $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 | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$418 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$418 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$247 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | -$247 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$3,065 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$3,065 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$179 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | -$179 | Even |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$1,041 | $21,716 | $22,757 | -$1,041 | PA |
| ChildcareGap +$2,772 | $30,604 | $27,832 | +$2,772 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap +$159 | $4,685 | $4,526 | +$159 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$315 | $11,195 | $10,880 | +$315 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$692 | $10,686 | $9,994 | +$692 | NC |
| State and local taxesGap +$168 | $7,739 | $7,571 | +$168 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or North Carolina?
Pennsylvania and North Carolina collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 8.18%. Pennsylvania 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.4 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.61 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +2.61 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.68 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.68 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.66 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | -0.66 pts | 6.66% | PA |
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 Pennsylvania or North Carolina?
Homes cost 15% more in North Carolina: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $87,803 in North Carolina; the median household earns $77,545 and $73,958.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$44,372 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$44,372-13% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.4 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | +2.4 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$162 (+9%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$162+9% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$4,909 (-6%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | -$4,909-6% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-18%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | -0.8x-18% | 4.6x | PA |
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.
| PA | NC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $1,722 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +23.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | 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 Pennsylvania or North Carolina?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income $77,545 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 6 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 6.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$3,587 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$3,587+5% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,171 (+9%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$5,171+9% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | -0.8 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Population growthGap -1.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -1.22 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 | PA | NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | NC |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | PA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | PA |
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | PA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | NC |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | PA |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | PA |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | NC |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | NC |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | NC |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | NC |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | PA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $48,329$45,429 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 Pennsylvania safer than North Carolina?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,780 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -104 (-31%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -104-31% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -456 (-26%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -456-26% | 1,535 | PA |
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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or North Carolina?
Pennsylvania scores higher for education (#15 of 50 vs #26), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 86.4%. Pennsylvania scores higher for health (#21 vs #32); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 75.9 in North Carolina.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | +0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.8 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- 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: Pennsylvania #15, North Carolina #26. Health: Pennsylvania #21, North Carolina #32.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to North Carolina, or from North Carolina to Pennsylvania?
7,061 households moved from Pennsylvania to North Carolina and 4,327 moved from North Carolina to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,734 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $80,277; movers to Pennsylvania reported $65,310. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 13,261 people (±3,306) moving from Pennsylvania to North Carolina and 7,838 (±2,108) the other way, a net gain of about 5,423 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -47,126 (-28%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | -47,126-28% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +4,087 (+3%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +4,087+3% | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -51,213 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -51,213 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -4.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,796 (-5%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | -$3,796-5% | NC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,354 (+15%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$11,354+15% | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.8 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -7.8 | 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, Pennsylvania or North Carolina?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts; North Carolina is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -9 places | #19score 71.8 | #28score 62.8 | -9 places | PA |
| RetireesGap +5 places | #26score 61.5 | #21score 64.2 | +5 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap +21 places | #38score 46 | #17score 56.9 | +21 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +19 places | #33score 49.4 | #14score 63.1 | +19 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap +29 places | #38score 46.1 | #9score 71.1 | +29 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -7 places | #27score 43.3 | #34score 34.6 | -7 places | PA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesPennsylvania (#19 vs #28)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #26)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #33)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #34)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and North Carolina?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and North Carolina has 22; the largest are Philadelphia and Charlotte. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Charlotte903,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Apexscore 74.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Apex53 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Rocky Mountcost index 88 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Apexmedian income $144,135 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Apex+6.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and North Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and North Carolina AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -7 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | -7 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -10.6 (-44%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | -10.6-44% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -3.7 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.4 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +1.4 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.4 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.6 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | -1.1 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -6.3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap -33 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -33 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,580 (+168%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$2,580+168% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.9 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -3.9 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania 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).
Pennsylvania 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. Pennsylvania is ahead on 16 of 51, North Carolina on 26, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | North CarolinaNC | GapPA−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,861,464 (+17%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | +1,861,464+17% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$3,587 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$3,587+5% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| Population growthGap -1.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -1.22 pts | +0.51% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,171 (+9%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$5,171+9% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | -0.8 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -104 (-31%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | -104-31% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -456 (-26%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | -456-26% | 1,535 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 239#19 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | +0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 213#32 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | +4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.8 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$44,372 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$44,372-13% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.4 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | +2.4 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$162 (+9%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | +$162+9% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$4,909 (-6%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | -$4,909-6% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +3.3 pts+3% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-18%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | -0.8x-18% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +5.28¢ (+38%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +5.28¢+38% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.38 (-8%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | -$1.38-8% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.22 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | +$0.22+7% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,386 (+10%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | +$1,386+10% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.4 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +2.61 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | +2.61 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.68 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.68 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.66 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | -0.66 pts | 6.66% | PA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -6.3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap -33 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -33 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,580 (+168%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$2,580+168% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.9 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -3.9 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -7 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | -7 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -10.6 (-44%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | -10.6-44% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -3.7 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.4 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +1.4 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.4 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.6 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 92.67% | NC |
| Households moving inIRSGap -47,126 (-28%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | -47,126-28% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +4,087 (+3%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +4,087+3% | 78,715 | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -51,213 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -51,213 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.4 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -4.4 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,796 (-5%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | -$3,796-5% | $77,690 | NC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,354 (+15%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$11,354+15% | $77,024 | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -7.8 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -7.8 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,065 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$3,065 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$418 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$418 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$179 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | -$179 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Pennsylvania and North Carolina numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 4 of the 11 categories to Pennsylvania's 6, with 1 even; Pennsylvania is ahead on safety and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 16 and North Carolina on 26.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $334,773 in North Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Tax burdens are close
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% 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).
Pennsylvania pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $73,958 in North Carolina, with unemployment at 4.3% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 330 in North Carolina.
People move to North Carolina on net
13,261 people moved to North Carolina from Pennsylvania in the latest Census release, against 7,838 going the other way.
Pennsylvania for families, North Carolina for retirees
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and North Carolina #28; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and North Carolina #21.
Pennsylvania vs North Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or North Carolina better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 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 97.6), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 31% higher violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 6.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper than Pennsylvania: cost of living index 94.3 vs 97.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$8,560 in North Carolina. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $334,773 in North Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or North Carolina?
Pennsylvania and North Carolina have similar tax burdens: 8.58% vs 8.18% of income in state and local taxes. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; North Carolina's are 4.25%, 0.73% and 7%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than North Carolina?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and North Carolina #30. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,780 in North Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Apex, NC.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or North Carolina?
Homes are 15% more expensive in North Carolina: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $87,803 in North Carolina, against median incomes of $77,545 and $73,958.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or North Carolina?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income is $77,545 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 6 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 6, with 8 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to North Carolina or from North Carolina to Pennsylvania?
7,061 households moved from Pennsylvania to North Carolina and 4,327 moved from North Carolina to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,734 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $80,277; movers to Pennsylvania reported $65,310. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 13,261 people (±3,306) moving from Pennsylvania to North Carolina and 7,838 (±2,108) the other way, a net gain of about 5,423 people for North Carolina beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #26 for Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania 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 +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$37,308 in North Carolina.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or North Carolina?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families: #19 of 50 on the families index vs #28 for North Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $13,916 in North Carolina. High school graduation rates are 87% and 86.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Is North Carolina better than Pennsylvania?
Yes: North Carolina ranks higher than Pennsylvania overall, #23 of 50 vs #25, with a composite score of 59.1 to 56.9. North Carolina leads 4 of 11 categories and Pennsylvania leads 6, including safety and health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Pennsylvania vs North Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (7,061 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).