North Carolina vs South Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 93.7); North Carolina collects a similar share of income in taxes. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 25% lower in South Carolina ($10,474 vs. $13,916 in North Carolina).
- Violent crime rate is 15% lower in North Carolina (330 vs. 388 in South Carolina).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 10% lower in South Carolina ($1,569 vs. $1,749 in North Carolina).
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +10.1 pts | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | 49.0#36 of 50 · C | +10.1 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$10,649 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$10,649 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$28,450 (+9%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$28,450+9% | $368,697 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -57 (-15%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -57-15% | 328 | NC |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,608 (+2%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$1,608+2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +9,904 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +9,904 | -33 | NC |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is North Carolina or South Carolina better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 49 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #36. North Carolina leads 8 of 11 categories, South Carolina leads 3, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +11.4 | 15% | 43.2#29 · C+ | 31.8#42 · C | +11.4 pts | NC |
| Safety12% of scoregap +3.1 | 12% | 63.1#33 · C+ | 60.0#38 · C | +3.1 pts | NC |
| Health12% of scoregap +5.3 | 12% | 46.6#32 · C+ | 41.3#38 · C | +5.3 pts | NC |
| Education12% of scoregap +10.5 | 12% | 60.6#26 · B | 50.1#38 · C | +10.5 pts | NC |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -4.6 | 10% | 73.8#21 · B | 78.4#16 · B+ | -4.6 pts | SC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +17.1 | 8% | 71.5#6 · A | 54.4#36 · C | +17.1 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap -5.4 | 7% | 65.6#3 · A+ | 71.0#2 · A+ | -5.4 pts | SC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +5.8 | 7% | 48.2#28 · C+ | 42.4#43 · D | +5.8 pts | NC |
| Livability7% of scoregap -7.3 | 7% | 34.5#21 · B | 41.8#14 · B+ | -7.3 pts | SC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +4.6 | 6% | 13.5#37 · C | 8.9#45 · D | +4.6 pts | NC |
| Environment4% of scoregap +13.5 | 4% | 34.6#35 · C | 21.1#49 · F | +13.5 pts | NC |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is North Carolina cheaper than South Carolina?
North Carolina and South Carolina cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 94.3 vs 93.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $10,649 more a year in South Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.94¢ (-6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | -0.94¢-6% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.49 (-3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | -$0.49-3% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.19 (+6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.19+6% | $3.32/gal | SC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,442 (+33%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$3,442+33% | $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 | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,449 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$34,233costs $40,767 | -$1,449 | SC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$2,544 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$27,172costs $47,828 | -$2,544 | SC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$10,649 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | +$2,089costs $72,911 | -$10,649 | SC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,152 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$39,460costs $35,539 | -$2,152 | 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 | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,546 | $22,757 | $20,211 | +$2,546 | SC |
| ChildcareGap +$6,884 | $27,832 | $20,948 | +$6,884 | SC |
| UtilitiesGap +$28 | $4,526 | $4,498 | +$28 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$34 | $10,880 | $10,846 | +$34 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$597 | $9,994 | $9,397 | +$597 | SC |
| State and local taxesGap +$560 | $7,571 | $7,011 | +$560 | SC |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or South Carolina?
North Carolina and South Carolina collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 8.15%. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.95 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -1.95 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.2 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.49 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | -0.49 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 North Carolina or South Carolina?
Homes cost 9% more in North Carolina: a typical home value of $334,773 in North Carolina vs $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of income in North Carolina and $79,086 in South Carolina; the median household earns $73,958 and $72,350.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$28,450 (+9%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$28,450+9% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.2% | SC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$180 (+11%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$180+11% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,717 (+11%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$8,717+11% | $100,006 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+7%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | +0.3x+7% | 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.
| NC | SC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,722 | $1,576 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +23.2% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cold |
| Largest metro | Charlotte | 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 North Carolina or South Carolina?
Median household income is about the same, $73,958 in North Carolina and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 3.8% and 4.5%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$1,608 (+2%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$1,608+2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,099 (+18%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$9,099+18% | $64,333 | NC |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.14 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -0.14 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | NC | SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | $219,138$203,798 in Charleston | NC |
| Lawyers | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | $149,808$139,321 in Charleston | NC |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | $54,468$50,655 in Charleston | NC |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | $102,995$95,785 in Charleston | NC |
| Registered Nurses | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | $81,647$75,932 in Charleston | NC |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | $68,961$64,134 in Columbia | NC |
| Software Developers | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | $135,418$125,939 in Charleston | NC |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | $54,377$50,571 in Columbia | NC |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | $75,855$70,545 in Charleston | NC |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | $78,411$72,922 in Charleston | NC |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | $104,417$97,108 in Charleston | NC |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | $46,813$43,536 in Charleston | NC |
| Construction Laborers | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | $41,473$38,570 in Charleston | NC |
| Civil Engineers | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | $98,238$91,361 in Charleston | NC |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | $64,958$60,411 in Columbia | NC |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | $62,687$58,299 in Charleston | NC |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | $55,191$51,328 in Charleston | NC |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | $32,490$30,216 in Columbia | NC |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | $56,283$52,343 in Charleston | NC |
| Electricians | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | $61,126$56,847 in Charleston | NC |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is North Carolina safer than South Carolina?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,780 and 1,676 per 100,000.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -57 (-15%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -57-15% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +104 (+6%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | +104+6% | 1,535 | SC |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
- Fort Mill, SC30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, North Carolina or South Carolina?
North Carolina scores higher for education (#26 of 50 vs #38), with high school graduation rates of 86.4% and 83.8%. North Carolina scores higher for health (#32 vs #38); life expectancy is 75.9 years in North Carolina and 75.1 in South Carolina.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.1 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-7%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -3 pts-7% | 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).
- Chapel Hill, NCeducation score 93
- 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: North Carolina #26, South Carolina #38. Health: North Carolina #32, South Carolina #38.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to South Carolina, or from South Carolina to North Carolina?
18,026 households moved from North Carolina to South Carolina and 15,305 moved from South Carolina to North Carolina in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,721 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $84,221; movers to North Carolina reported $65,426. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 33,151 people (±5,633) moving from North Carolina to South Carolina and 29,982 (±4,618) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +70,972 (+71%) | 170,751#5 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +70,972+71% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +61,068 (+87%) | 131,633#42 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +61,068+87% | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +9,904 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +9,904 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 | +3.5#3 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -1.7 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$8,314 (-9%) | $80,162#21 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$8,314-9% | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$7,720 (+12%) | $74,288#25 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$7,720+12% | NC |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.4 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -4.4 | 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, North Carolina or South Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -12 places | #28score 62.8 | #40score 55.8 | -12 places | NC |
| RetireesGap -19 places | #21score 64.2 | #40score 54 | -19 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap -17 places | #17score 56.9 | #34score 48.6 | -17 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -4 places | #14score 63.1 | #18score 58.8 | -4 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap -16 places | #9score 71.1 | #25score 58.4 | -16 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -13 places | #34score 34.6 | #47score 26.1 | -13 places | NC |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNorth Carolina (#28 vs #40)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #40)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #34)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #18)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #25)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNorth Carolina (#34 vs #47)
Which cities stand out in North Carolina and South Carolina?
North Carolina has 22 tracked cities and South Carolina has 20; the largest are Charlotte and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Charlotte903,844 people | Charleston154,338 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Apexscore 74.9 | Fort Millscore 71 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Apex53 violent per 100K | Fort Mill30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Rocky Mountcost index 88 | Florencecost index 86.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 | Greenvillewalkability 13.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 | Goose Creekcounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate | Fort Mill96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Apexmedian income $144,135 | Mount Pleasantmedian income $124,755 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Apex+6.1% growth | Greer+7.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do North Carolina and South Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. North Carolina carries AAA credit rating and South Carolina AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +5 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +5 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.2 (-39%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -15.2-39% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap +3.3 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.6 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | -0.6 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | NC |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +0.3 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 | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +3 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +35 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +35 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$580 (-27%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | -$580-27% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.8 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; North Carolina AAA, 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).
North Carolina 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. North Carolina is ahead on 20 of 51, South Carolina on 14, and 17 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | South CarolinaSC | GapNC−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,627,694 (+101%) · US 6.8 million | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | 5.6 million#23 of 50 | +5,627,694+101% | 6.8 million | NC |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,608 (+2%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$1,608+2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| Population growthGap -0.14 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -0.14 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,099 (+18%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$9,099+18% | $64,333 | NC |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -57 (-15%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -57-15% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +104 (+6%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | +104+6% | 1,535 | SC |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 239#19 of 50 | 238#27 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 213#32 of 50 | 215#24 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.1 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$28,450 (+9%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$28,450+9% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.2% | SC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$180 (+11%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$180+11% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,717 (+11%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$8,717+11% | $100,006 | SC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+7%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | +0.3x+7% | 4.6x | SC |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.94¢ (-6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | -0.94¢-6% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.49 (-3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | -$0.49-3% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.19 (+6%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.19+6% | $3.32/gal | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,442 (+33%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$3,442+33% | $15,633 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.95 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -1.95 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.2 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.49 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | -0.49 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +3 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +3 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +35 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +35 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$580 (-27%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | -$580-27% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.8 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-7%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -3 pts-7% | 38.8 | NC |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +5 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +5 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.2 (-39%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -15.2-39% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap +3.3 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.6 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | -0.6 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | NC |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.3 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +70,972 (+71%) · US 78,682 | 170,751#5 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +70,972+71% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +61,068 (+87%) · US 78,715 | 131,633#42 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +61,068+87% | 78,715 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +9,904 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +9,904 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 · US +0.4 | +3.5#3 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -1.7 | +0.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$8,314 (-9%) · US $77,690 | $80,162#21 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$8,314-9% | $77,690 | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$7,720 (+12%) · US $77,024 | $74,288#25 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$7,720+12% | $77,024 | NC |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.4 · US +1.1 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -4.4 | +1.1 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$10,649 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$10,649 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,449 · US +$31,418 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$34,233#19 of 50 | -$1,449 | +$31,418 | SC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,152 · US +$35,970 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$39,460#16 of 50 | -$2,152 | +$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 North Carolina and South Carolina numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 8 of the 11 categories to South Carolina's 3, with 0 even; South Carolina is ahead on livability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, North Carolina is ahead on 20 and South Carolina on 14.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 94.3 in North Carolina and 93.7 in South Carolina, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $334,773 and $306,323. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 a year after typical costs in North Carolina and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Tax burdens are close
North Carolina collects 8.18% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); South Carolina collects 8.15% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
North Carolina is safer
Median household income is $73,958 in North Carolina and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 3.8% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 330 per 100,000 residents in North Carolina and 388 in South Carolina.
Moves between the two run about even
33,151 people moved from North Carolina to South Carolina and 29,982 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Carolina fits families and retirees better
For families, North Carolina ranks #28 of 50 and South Carolina #40; for retirees, North Carolina ranks #21 and South Carolina #40.
North Carolina vs South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is North Carolina or South Carolina better to live in?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 93.7); North Carolina collects a similar share of income in taxes. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is North Carolina cheaper than South Carolina?
North Carolina and South Carolina cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 94.3 vs 93.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$8,560 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in North Carolina, and +$2,089 in South Carolina. The typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $306,323 in South Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or South Carolina?
North Carolina and South Carolina have similar tax burdens: 8.18% vs 8.15% of income in state and local taxes. North Carolina's top income tax rate is 4.25%, its effective property tax rate 0.73% and its combined sales tax 7%; South Carolina's are 6.2%, 0.53% and 7.49%.
Is North Carolina safer than South Carolina?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina, per the FBI. North Carolina ranks #30 of 50 for violent crime and South Carolina #38. Property crime is 1,780 per 100,000 in North Carolina and 1,676 in South Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Apex, NC, and Fort Mill, SC.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or South Carolina?
Homes are 9% more expensive in North Carolina: the typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of household income in North Carolina and $79,086 in South Carolina, against median incomes of $73,958 and $72,350.
Do people earn more in North Carolina or South Carolina?
North Carolina and South Carolina pay about the same: median household income is $73,958 vs $72,350, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.8% in North Carolina and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina'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 North Carolina to South Carolina or from South Carolina to North Carolina?
18,026 households moved from North Carolina to South Carolina and 15,305 moved from South Carolina to North Carolina in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,721 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $84,221; movers to North Carolina reported $65,426. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 33,151 people (±5,633) moving from North Carolina to South Carolina and 29,982 (±4,618) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, North Carolina or South Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #40 for South Carolina. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; 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 +$37,308 left after typical costs in North Carolina and +$39,460 in South Carolina.
Which is better for families, North Carolina or South Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for families: #28 of 50 on the families index vs #40 for South Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $13,916 a year in North Carolina and $10,474 in South Carolina. High school graduation rates are 86.4% and 83.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 after typical costs in North Carolina and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Is South Carolina better than North Carolina?
No: North Carolina ranks higher than South Carolina overall, #23 of 50 vs #36, with a composite score of 59.1 to 49. North Carolina leads 8 of 11 categories and South Carolina leads 3, including livability and growth. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside North Carolina vs South Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (18,026 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).