North Carolina vs Tennessee: Which Is Better to Live In?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 94.3), has no income tax, and has a 33% higher violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 33% lower in North Carolina (330 vs. 492 in Tennessee).
- Total tax burden is 22% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 8.18% in North Carolina).
- Property crime rate is 8% lower in Tennessee (1,637 vs. 1,780 in North Carolina).
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +2 pts | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | +2 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +2.4 pts+3% | 100 | TN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$2,901 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$2,901 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$665 (0%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$6650% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.8 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -162 (-33%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -162-33% | 328 | NC |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,961 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$1,961+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -4 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +15,014 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +15,014 | -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 Tennessee better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 57.1 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #24. North Carolina leads 4 of 11 categories, Tennessee leads 4, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -2.6 | 15% | 43.2#29 · C+ | 45.8#26 · B | -2.6 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +10.9 | 12% | 63.1#33 · C+ | 52.2#45 · D | +10.9 pts | NC |
| Health12% of scoregap +17.9 | 12% | 46.6#32 · C+ | 28.7#46 · D | +17.9 pts | NC |
| Education12% of scoregap -11.1 | 12% | 60.6#26 · B | 71.7#8 · A | -11.1 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -4.1 | 10% | 73.8#21 · B | 77.9#17 · B+ | -4.1 pts | TN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -4.6 | 8% | 71.5#6 · A | 76.1#3 · A+ | -4.6 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap +8.7 | 7% | 65.6#3 · A+ | 56.9#5 · A+ | +8.7 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +5.3 | 7% | 48.2#28 · C+ | 42.9#40 · C | +5.3 pts | NC |
| Livability7% of scoregap -12.5 | 7% | 34.5#21 · B | 47.0#9 · A | -12.5 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +0.2 | 6% | 13.5#37 · C | 13.3#38 · C | +0.2 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -1.6 | 4% | 34.6#35 · C | 36.2#33 · C+ | -1.6 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 North Carolina cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper: cost of living index 91.9 vs 94.3 in North Carolina (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,901 more a year in Tennessee after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +2.4 pts+3% | 100 | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.84¢ (+6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +0.84¢+6% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.58 (+39%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$4.58+39% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$10 (0%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | -$100% | $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 | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,124 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | -$3,124 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$2,764 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | -$2,764 | TN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$2,901 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | -$2,901 | TN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,652 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | -$2,652 | TN |
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 | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$546 | $22,757 | $22,211 | +$546 | Even |
| ChildcareGap -$20 | $27,832 | $27,852 | -$20 | Even |
| UtilitiesGap +$115 | $4,526 | $4,411 | +$115 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$45 | $10,880 | $10,835 | +$45 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$314 | $9,994 | $9,680 | +$314 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,900 | $7,571 | $5,671 | +$1,900 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Tennessee?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 8.18%. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.8 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.25 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +4.25 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.15 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.15 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.61 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -2.61 pts | 6.66% | NC |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or Tennessee?
Typical home values are about the same: $334,773 in North Carolina and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of income in North Carolina and $85,549 in Tennessee; the median household earns $73,958 and $71,997.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$665 (0%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$6650% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.7 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +1.2% | TN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$64 (-4%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | -$64-4% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$2,254 (+3%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$2,254+3% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-2%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -0.1x-2% | 4.6x | Even |
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 | TN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,722 | $1,719 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +23.2% | +24.8% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cold |
| Largest metro | Charlotte | Nashville |
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 Tennessee?
Median household income is about the same, $73,958 in North Carolina and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 3.8% and 3.5%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 2.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$1,961 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$1,961+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,579 (-3%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | -$1,579-3% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.44 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.44 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 | TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | NC |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | NC |
| Registered Nurses | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | TN |
| Software Developers | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | NC |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | NC |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | NC |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | NC |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | NC |
| Construction Laborers | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | NC |
| Electricians | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | TN |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | NC |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | Even |
| Lawyers | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | 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 North Carolina safer than Tennessee?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,780 and 1,637 per 100,000.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -162 (-33%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -162-33% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +143 (+9%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | +143+9% | 1,535 | TN |
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
- Brentwood, TN62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, North Carolina or Tennessee?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #26), with high school graduation rates of 86.4% and 90.4%. North Carolina scores higher for health (#32 vs #46); life expectancy is 75.9 years in North Carolina and 73.8 in Tennessee.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -4 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.1 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 34.03% | NC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 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).
- Chapel Hill, NCeducation score 93
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
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, Tennessee #8. Health: North Carolina #32, Tennessee #46.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Tennessee, or from Tennessee to North Carolina?
5,058 households moved from North Carolina to Tennessee and 4,796 moved from Tennessee to North Carolina in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 262 households for Tennessee. Movers to Tennessee reported an average income of $72,279; movers to North Carolina reported $75,060. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,741 people (±3,542) moving from North Carolina to Tennessee and 8,763 (±3,119) 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 | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +56,963 (+50%) | 170,751#5 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +56,963+50% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +41,949 (+47%) | 131,633#42 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +41,949+47% | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +15,014 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +15,014 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.2 | +3.5#3 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | +0.2 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$732 (+1%) | $80,162#21 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | +$732+1% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$4,212 (+6%) | $74,288#25 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$4,212+6% | NC |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.8 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +1.8 | 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, North Carolina or Tennessee?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees and outdoor enthusiasts; 4 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -2 places | #28score 62.8 | #30score 62.5 | -2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -7 places | #21score 64.2 | #28score 60.3 | -7 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap +3 places | #17score 56.9 | #14score 59.5 | +3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -2 places | #14score 63.1 | #16score 60 | -2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +1 places | #9score 71.1 | #8score 73.5 | +1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -10 places | #34score 34.6 | #44score 28.8 | -10 places | NC |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#28 vs #30)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #28)
- Remote WorkersEven (#17 vs #14)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#14 vs #16)
- Small BusinessEven (#9 vs #8)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNorth Carolina (#34 vs #44)
Which cities stand out in North Carolina and Tennessee?
North Carolina has 22 tracked cities and Tennessee has 20; the largest are Charlotte and Nashville. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Charlotte903,844 people | Nashville690,130 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Apexscore 74.9 | Franklinscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Apex53 violent per 100K | Brentwood62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Rocky Mountcost index 88 | Jacksoncost index 85.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate | Lebanon97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Apexmedian income $144,135 | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Apex+6.1% growth | Lebanon+5.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do North Carolina and Tennessee compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. North Carolina carries AAA credit rating and Tennessee AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -1.0 (-4%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -1.0-4% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap +2.1 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.8 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | -0.8 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.7 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.7 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 | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.4 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -2 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -2 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$90 (-6%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | -$90-6% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.2 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; North Carolina AAA, Tennessee 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).
North Carolina vs Tennessee: 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 14 of 51, Tennessee on 15, and 22 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | TennesseeTN | GapNC−TN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,882,892 (+53%) · US 6.8 million | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | +3,882,892+53% | 6.8 million | NC |
| Median household incomeGap +$1,961 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $71,997#40 of 50 | +$1,961+3% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 3.5%#16 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.44 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +0.44 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,579 (-3%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $61,193#27 of 50 | -$1,579-3% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -162 (-33%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 492#46 of 50 | -162-33% | 328 | NC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +143 (+9%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,637#33 of 50 | +143+9% | 1,535 | TN |
| High school graduation rateGap -4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 90.4%#2 of 50 | -4 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 239#19 of 50 | 240#12 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 276#19 of 50 | -0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 213#32 of 50 | 215#23 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 259#20 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 73.8#44 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | NC |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.1 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 37.6%#43 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 34.03% | NC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 9.7%#40 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$665 (0%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $334,108#23 of 50 | +$6650% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.7 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +0.7%#38 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +1.2% | TN |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$64 (-4%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $1,813#28 of 50 | -$64-4% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$2,254 (+3%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $85,549#19 of 50 | +$2,254+3% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 91.9#14 of 50 | +2.4 pts+3% | 100 | TN |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-2%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 4.6x#28 of 50 | -0.1x-2% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.84¢ (+6%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | +0.84¢+6% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.58 (+39%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | +$4.58+39% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | TN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 96.2#18 of 50 | +0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$10 (0%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $13,926#19 of 50 | -$100% | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.8 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 6.38%#4 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.25 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | none#6 of 50 | +4.25 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.15 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.58%#13 of 50 | +0.15 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.61 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 9.61%#49 of 50 | -2.61 pts | 6.66% | NC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 100#11 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.4 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 13.2%#15 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -2 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 97%#3 of 50 | -2 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$90 (-6%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $1,630#5 of 50 | -$90-6% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.2 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 40#21 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 14%#30 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -1.0 (-4%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 25.0#22 of 50 | -1.0-4% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap +2.1 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 7.2%#27 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.8 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | -0.8 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 0.5%#42 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.7 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 12.7%#24 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 92.5%#29 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 92.67% | NC |
| Households moving inIRSGap +56,963 (+50%) · US 78,682 | 170,751#5 of 50 | 113,788#13 of 50 | +56,963+50% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +41,949 (+47%) · US 78,715 | 131,633#42 of 50 | 89,684#34 of 50 | +41,949+47% | 78,715 | TN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +15,014 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +15,014 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.2 · US +0.4 | +3.5#3 of 50 | +3.3#4 of 50 | +0.2 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$732 (+1%) · US $77,690 | $80,162#21 of 50 | $79,430#24 of 50 | +$732+1% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$4,212 (+6%) · US $77,024 | $74,288#25 of 50 | $70,076#32 of 50 | +$4,212+6% | $77,024 | NC |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.8 · US +1.1 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +1.8 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$2,901 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | -$2,901 | -$11,758 | TN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,124 · US +$31,418 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | -$3,124 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,652 · US +$35,970 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | -$2,652 | +$35,970 | TN |
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 Tennessee numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 4 of the 11 categories to Tennessee's 4, with 3 even; Tennessee is ahead on livability and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, North Carolina is ahead on 14 and Tennessee on 15.
Tennessee is cheaper day to day
Tennessee's cost of living index is 91.9 against 94.3 in North Carolina (US = 100). The typical home costs $334,773 in North Carolina and $334,108 in Tennessee. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 a year after typical costs in North Carolina and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
North Carolina collects 8.18% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); Tennessee collects 6.38% (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
North Carolina is safer
Median household income is $73,958 in North Carolina and $71,997 in Tennessee, with unemployment at 3.8% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 330 per 100,000 residents in North Carolina and 492 in Tennessee.
Moves between the two run about even
11,741 people moved from North Carolina to Tennessee and 8,763 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees
For families, North Carolina ranks #28 of 50 and Tennessee #30; for retirees, North Carolina ranks #21 and Tennessee #28.
North Carolina vs Tennessee: frequently asked questions
Is North Carolina or Tennessee better to live in?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Tennessee #24 as of the latest release. Tennessee is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 94.3), has no income tax, and has a 33% higher violent crime rate. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
Is North Carolina cheaper than Tennessee?
Tennessee is cheaper than North Carolina: cost of living index 91.9 vs 94.3 (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 -$5,659 in Tennessee. The typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $334,108 in Tennessee.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Tennessee?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.18% in North Carolina. North Carolina's top income tax rate is 4.25%, its effective property tax rate 0.73% and its combined sales tax 7%; Tennessee's are zero, 0.58% and 9.61%.
Is North Carolina safer than Tennessee?
North Carolina is safer: 330 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. North Carolina ranks #30 of 50 for violent crime and Tennessee #46. Property crime is 1,780 per 100,000 in North Carolina and 1,637 in Tennessee. The safest tracked cities are Apex, NC, and Brentwood, TN.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or Tennessee?
Typical home values are about the same: $334,773 in North Carolina and $334,108 in Tennessee. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of household income in North Carolina and $85,549 in Tennessee, against median incomes of $73,958 and $71,997.
Do people earn more in North Carolina or Tennessee?
North Carolina and Tennessee pay about the same: median household income is $73,958 vs $71,997, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.8% in North Carolina and 3.5% in Tennessee. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and Tennessee's in 2, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Tennessee or from Tennessee to North Carolina?
5,058 households moved from North Carolina to Tennessee and 4,796 moved from Tennessee to North Carolina in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 262 households for Tennessee. Movers to Tennessee reported an average income of $72,279; movers to North Carolina reported $75,060. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,741 people (±3,542) moving from North Carolina to Tennessee and 8,763 (±3,119) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, North Carolina or Tennessee?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #28 for Tennessee. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,308 left after typical costs in North Carolina and +$39,960 in Tennessee.
Which is better for families, North Carolina or Tennessee?
North Carolina and Tennessee are close for families: #28 and #30 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $13,916 a year in North Carolina and $13,926 in Tennessee. High school graduation rates are 86.4% and 90.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 after typical costs in North Carolina and -$5,659 in Tennessee.
Is Tennessee better than North Carolina?
No: North Carolina ranks higher than Tennessee overall, #23 of 50 vs #24, with a composite score of 59.1 to 57.1. North Carolina leads 4 of 11 categories and Tennessee leads 4, including livability 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 North Carolina vs Tennessee.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (5,058 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).