Texas vs North Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 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 97.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 1.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 22% lower in Texas ($10,894 vs. $13,916 in North Carolina).
- Typical home value is 11% lower in Texas ($299,367 vs. $334,773 in North Carolina).
- Residential electricity price is 9% lower in North Carolina (14.02¢/kWh vs. 15.47¢/kWh in Texas).
| Measure | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -6.9 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | -6.9 pts | — | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$8,416 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | +$8,416 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$35,406 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$35,406-11% | $368,697 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.41 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | -0.41 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +15 (+4%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | +15+4% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,763 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$5,763+8% | $80,903 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +17,355 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +17,355 | -33 | TX |
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 Texas or North Carolina better to live in?
North Carolina scores higher overall: 59.1 to 52.2 out of 100, #23 of 50 against #32. Texas leads 1 of 11 categories, North Carolina leads 5, and 5 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -0.7 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 43.2#29 · C+ | -0.7 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -1.3 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 63.1#33 · C+ | -1.3 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -8.9 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 46.6#32 · C+ | -8.9 pts | NC |
| Education12% of scoregap +0.1 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 60.6#26 · B | +0.1 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +0.6 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 73.8#21 · B | +0.6 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +0.7 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 71.5#6 · A | +0.7 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap -13.9 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 65.6#3 · A+ | -13.9 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -4.5 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 48.2#28 · C+ | -4.5 pts | NC |
| Livability7% of scoregap -10.9 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 34.5#21 · B | -10.9 pts | NC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -8.8 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 13.5#37 · C | -8.8 pts | NC |
| Environment4% of scoregap +6.2 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 34.6#35 · C | +6.2 pts | TX |
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 Texas cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $8,416 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.45¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +1.45¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.00 (+18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | +$3.00+18% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.30 (-9%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | -$0.30-9% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,022 (-22%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | -$3,022-22% | $15,633 | TX |
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 | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,757 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$2,757 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,366 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$2,366 | TX |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$8,416 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | +$8,416 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,198 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$2,198 | TX |
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 | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$288 | $23,045 | $22,757 | +$288 | Even |
| ChildcareGap -$6,044 | $21,788 | $27,832 | -$6,044 | TX |
| UtilitiesGap +$135 | $4,661 | $4,526 | +$135 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$169 | $11,049 | $10,880 | +$169 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$943 | $9,051 | $9,994 | -$943 | TX |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,020 | $5,551 | $7,571 | -$2,020 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or North Carolina?
Texas and North Carolina collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 8.18%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.41 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | -0.41 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.25 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | -4.25 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.9 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.2 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +1.2 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 Texas or North Carolina?
Homes cost 12% more in North Carolina: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $87,803 in North Carolina; the median household earns $79,721 and $73,958.
| Measure | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$35,406 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$35,406-11% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.6 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +1.2% | NC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$90 (-5%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | -$90-5% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$258 (0%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$2580% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-16%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | -0.7x-16% | 4.6x | TX |
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.
| TX | NC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $1,722 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +23.2% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Dallas | 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 Texas or North Carolina?
Texas pays more: median household income $79,721 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,763 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$5,763+8% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,206 (+15%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$9,206+15% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap -0.07 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -0.07 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 | TX | NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | TX |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | TX |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | TX |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | TX |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | TX |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | TX |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $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 Texas safer than North Carolina?
Violent crime is about the same: 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,780 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +15 (+4%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | +15+4% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +6 (0%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | +60% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 violent per 100K
- Apex, NC53 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Texas or North Carolina?
Texas and North Carolina are close on education (#24 and #26 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 86.4%. North Carolina scores higher for health (#32 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 75.9 in North Carolina.
| Measure | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 34.03% | NC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +8.1 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | +8.1 pts | 7.6% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | NC |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- No city school data
- 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: Texas #24, North Carolina #26. Health: Texas #41, North Carolina #32.
Are more people moving from Texas to North Carolina, or from North Carolina to Texas?
8,694 households moved from Texas to North Carolina and 8,387 moved from North Carolina to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 307 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $87,461; movers to Texas reported $71,235. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 16,498 people (±3,764) moving from Texas to North Carolina and 15,679 (±4,224) 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 | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +136,489 (+80%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | +136,489+80% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +119,134 (+91%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +119,134+91% | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +17,355 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +17,355 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 | +1.8#12 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -1.7 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$3,470 (+4%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | +$3,470+4% | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$6,071 (+8%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$6,071+8% | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -5.5 | 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, Texas or North 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 | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +7 places | #35score 57.5 | #28score 62.8 | +7 places | NC |
| RetireesGap +12 places | #33score 58.8 | #21score 64.2 | +12 places | NC |
| Remote WorkersGap +8 places | #25score 52 | #17score 56.9 | +8 places | NC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +14 places | #28score 53 | #14score 63.1 | +14 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap +6 places | #15score 64.3 | #9score 71.1 | +6 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +11 places | #45score 26.6 | #34score 34.6 | +11 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 #35)
- RetireesNorth Carolina (#21 vs #33)
- Remote WorkersNorth Carolina (#17 vs #25)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #28)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #15)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNorth Carolina (#34 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and North Carolina?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and North Carolina has 22; the largest are Houston and Charlotte. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Charlotte903,844 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Apexscore 74.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Apex53 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Rocky Mountcost index 88 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Apexmedian income $144,135 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | Apex+6.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and North Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and North Carolina AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +24 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | +24 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap 0.0 (0%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 0.00% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap -7.5 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | -7.5 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.5 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 92.67% | TX |
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 | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | +7 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -19 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -19 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$310 (+20%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$310+20% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.2 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, 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).
Texas 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. Texas is ahead on 20 of 51, North Carolina on 17, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | North CarolinaNC | GapTX−NC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +20,511,853 (+183%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | +20,511,853+183% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,763 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $73,958#36 of 50 | +$5,763+8% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 3.8%#20 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.07 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -0.07 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,206 (+15%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $59,614#31 of 50 | +$9,206+15% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +15 (+4%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 330#30 of 50 | +15+4% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +6 (0%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,780#38 of 50 | +60% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.3 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 86.4%#25 of 50 | +3.3 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 239#19 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 276#20 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 213#32 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 255#35 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 75.9#35 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 34.5%#27 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 34.03% | NC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +8.1 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 8.6%#35 of 50 | +8.1 pts | 7.6% | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$35,406 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $334,773#24 of 50 | -$35,406-11% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.6 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | 0%#40 of 50 | -1.6 pts | +1.2% | NC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$90 (-5%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,749#27 of 50 | -$90-5% | $1,948 | TX |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$258 (0%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $87,803#20 of 50 | +$2580% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 94.3#21 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-16%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.5x#27 of 50 | -0.7x-16% | 4.6x | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.45¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | +1.45¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.00 (+18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | +$3.00+18% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.30 (-9%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | -$0.30-9% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 96.6#28 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,022 (-22%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $13,916#18 of 50 | -$3,022-22% | $15,633 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.41 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.18%#16 of 50 | -0.41 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.25 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 4.25%#16 of 50 | -4.25 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.9 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.73%#16 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.2 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 7%#27 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 6.66% | NC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 100#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +7 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 10.8%#22 of 50 | +7 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -19 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 95%#4 of 50 | -19 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap +$310 (+20%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $1,540#3 of 50 | +$310+20% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.2 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +6.4%#13 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 41#31 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | NC |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +24 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 13%#32 of 50 | +24 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap 0.0 (0%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 0.00% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap -7.5 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 9.3%#23 of 50 | -7.5 pts | 17.16% | NC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.8%#32 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.5 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 15.4%#11 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 12.28% | NC |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 93.2%#19 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +136,489 (+80%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 170,751#5 of 50 | +136,489+80% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +119,134 (+91%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 131,633#42 of 50 | +119,134+91% | 78,715 | NC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +17,355 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +17,355 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.7 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -1.7 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$3,470 (+4%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $80,162#21 of 50 | +$3,470+4% | $77,690 | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$6,071 (+8%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $74,288#25 of 50 | +$6,071+8% | $77,024 | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -5.5 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$8,416 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | +$8,416 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,757 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$2,757 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,198 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$2,198 | +$35,970 | TX |
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 Texas and North Carolina numbers say when read together.
North Carolina ranks higher overall
North Carolina leads 5 of the 11 categories to Texas's 1, with 5 even; Texas is ahead on environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 20 and North Carolina on 17.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $334,773 in North Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Tax burdens are close
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); North Carolina collects 8.18% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Texas pays more
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $73,958 in North Carolina, with unemployment at 4.2% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 330 in North Carolina.
Moves between the two run about even
16,498 people moved from Texas to North Carolina and 15,679 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Carolina fits families and retirees better
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and North Carolina #28; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and North Carolina #21.
Texas vs North Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or North Carolina better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 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 97.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes. North Carolina scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Texas cheaper than North Carolina?
North Carolina is cheaper than Texas: cost of living index 94.3 vs 97.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and -$8,560 in North Carolina. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $334,773 in North Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or North Carolina?
Texas and North Carolina have similar tax burdens: 7.77% vs 8.18% of income in state and local taxes. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; North Carolina's are 4.25%, 0.73% and 7%.
Is Texas safer than North Carolina?
Texas and North Carolina have similar violent crime rates: 345 vs 330 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and North Carolina #30. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,780 in North Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Apex, NC.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or North Carolina?
Homes are 12% more expensive in North Carolina: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $334,773 in North Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $87,803 in North Carolina, against median incomes of $79,721 and $73,958.
Do people earn more in Texas or North Carolina?
Texas pays more: median household income is $79,721 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 3.8% in North Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 9 after adjusting for local costs and North Carolina's in 0, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from Texas to North Carolina or from North Carolina to Texas?
8,694 households moved from Texas to North Carolina and 8,387 moved from North Carolina to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 307 households for North Carolina. Movers to North Carolina reported an average income of $87,461; movers to Texas reported $71,235. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 16,498 people (±3,764) moving from Texas to North Carolina and 15,679 (±4,224) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for retirees: #21 of 50 on the retiree index vs #33 for Texas. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax 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 +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$37,308 in North Carolina.
Which is better for families, Texas or North Carolina?
North Carolina is the better fit for families: #28 of 50 on the families index vs #35 for Texas. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $13,916 in North Carolina. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 86.4%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$8,560 in North Carolina.
Is North Carolina better than Texas?
Yes: North Carolina ranks higher than Texas overall, #23 of 50 vs #32, with a composite score of 59.1 to 52.2. North Carolina leads 5 of 11 categories and Texas leads 1, including environment. 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 Texas vs North Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (8,694 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).