North Carolina vs Vermont: Which Is Better to Live In?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Vermont #8 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 98), has a 3.3-point lower tax burden, and has a 35% higher violent crime rate. Vermont scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
- Residential electricity price is 39% lower in North Carolina (14.02¢/kWh vs. 22.92¢/kWh in Vermont).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 36% lower in North Carolina ($13,916 vs. $21,670 in Vermont).
- Violent crime rate is 35% lower in Vermont (214 vs. 330 in North Carolina).
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -14.9 pts | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | 74.0#8 of 50 · A | -14.9 pts | — | VT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.7 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | -3.7 pts-4% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$24,085 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$32,645#41 of 50 | +$24,085 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$64,280 (-16%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | -$64,280-16% | $368,697 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.35 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -3.35 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +116 (+54%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +116+54% | 328 | VT |
| Median household incomeGap -$8,772 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | -$8,772-11% | $80,903 | VT |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| Life expectancyGap -2.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | -2.4 yrs | 76.9 | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +39,417 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | +39,417 | -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 Vermont better to live in?
Vermont scores higher overall: 74 to 59.1 out of 100, #8 of 50 against #23. North Carolina leads 4 of 11 categories, Vermont leads 7, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -23.3 | 15% | 43.2#29 · C+ | 66.5#4 · A+ | -23.3 pts | VT |
| Safety12% of scoregap -14.6 | 12% | 63.1#33 · C+ | 77.7#17 · B+ | -14.6 pts | VT |
| Health12% of scoregap -28.5 | 12% | 46.6#32 · C+ | 75.1#8 · A | -28.5 pts | VT |
| Education12% of scoregap +8.2 | 12% | 60.6#26 · B | 52.4#35 · C | +8.2 pts | NC |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +18.1 | 10% | 73.8#21 · B | 55.7#37 · C | +18.1 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +20.4 | 8% | 71.5#6 · A | 51.1#38 · C | +20.4 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap +35.7 | 7% | 65.6#3 · A+ | 29.9#36 · C | +35.7 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -11 | 7% | 48.2#28 · C+ | 59.2#6 · A | -11 pts | VT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -14 | 7% | 34.5#21 · B | 48.5#6 · A | -14 pts | VT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -42.1 | 6% | 13.5#37 · C | 55.6#4 · A+ | -42.1 pts | VT |
| Environment4% of scoregap -41.7 | 4% | 34.6#35 · C | 76.3#2 · A+ | -41.7 pts | VT |
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 Vermont?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 98 in Vermont (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $24,085 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.7 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | -3.7 pts-4% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 97.3#31 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -8.90¢ (-39%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 22.92¢/kWh#41 of 50 | -8.90¢-39% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.58 (-9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $18.00/Mcf#39 of 50 | -$1.58-9% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.18 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.36/gal#41 of 50 | -$0.18-5% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$7,754 (-36%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $21,670#44 of 50 | -$7,754-36% | $15,633 | NC |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$5,468 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$27,316costs $47,684 | +$5,468 | NC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$7,043 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$17,585costs $57,415 | +$7,043 | NC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$24,085 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$32,645costs $107,645 | +$24,085 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$6,051 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$31,257costs $43,743 | +$6,051 | NC |
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 | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$8,560 | $22,757 | $31,317 | -$8,560 | NC |
| ChildcareGap -$15,508 | $27,832 | $43,340 | -$15,508 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap -$178 | $4,526 | $4,704 | -$178 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$79 | $10,880 | $10,959 | -$79 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$566 | $9,994 | $10,560 | -$566 | NC |
| State and local taxesGap +$806 | $7,571 | $6,765 | +$806 | VT |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Vermont?
North Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 11.53%. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Vermont has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.35 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -3.35 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.5 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 8.75%#42 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -1.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 1.78%#46 of 50 | -1.05 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.61 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 6.39%#19 of 50 | +0.61 pts | 6.66% | VT |
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 Vermont?
Homes cost 19% more in Vermont: a typical home value of $334,773 in North Carolina vs $399,053 in Vermont. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of income in North Carolina and $114,846 in Vermont; the median household earns $73,958 and $82,730.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$64,280 (-16%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | -$64,280-16% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +1%#36 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.2% | VT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$566 (-24%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $2,315#42 of 50 | -$566-24% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$27,043 (-24%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $114,846#35 of 50 | -$27,043-24% | $100,006 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-6%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 4.8x#32 of 50 | -0.3x-6% | 4.6x | NC |
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 | VT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,722 | $2,053 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +39% |
| Five-year change | +23.2% | +18.1% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Charlotte | Burlington |
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 Vermont?
Vermont pays more: median household income $82,730 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 3.8% in North Carolina and 2.7% in Vermont. 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 Vermont's in 0.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$8,772 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | -$8,772-11% | $80,903 | VT |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 2.7%#4 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | VT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,457 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $56,157#38 of 50 | +$3,457+6% | $64,333 | NC |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +1.5%#35 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Population growthGap +1.61 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -0.29%#50 of 50 | +1.61 pts | +0.51% | NC |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | NC | VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | $222,619$215,940 in Burlington | NC |
| Software Developers | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | $124,500$120,765 in Burlington | NC |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | $98,267$95,319 in Burlington | NC |
| Lawyers | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | $149,081$144,609 in Burlington | NC |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | $71,124$68,990 in Burlington | NC |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | $74,581$72,344 in Burlington | NC |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | $54,488$52,853 in Burlington | NC |
| Civil Engineers | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | $94,861$92,015 in Burlington | NC |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | $68,154$66,109 in Burlington | NC |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | $51,323$49,783 in Burlington | NC |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | $104,421$101,288 in Burlington | NC |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | $52,637$51,058 in Burlington | NC |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | $47,763$46,330 in Burlington | NC |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | $62,471$60,597 in Burlington | NC |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | $65,330$63,370 in Burlington | NC |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | $56,852$55,146 in Burlington | NC |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | $31,977$31,018 in Burlington | NC |
| Construction Laborers | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | $43,605$42,297 in Burlington | NC |
| Electricians | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | $60,122$58,318 in Burlington | NC |
| Registered Nurses | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | $86,787$84,183 in Burlington | 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 Vermont?
Vermont is safer: 214 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,780 and 1,419 per 100,000.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +116 (+54%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +116+54% | 328 | VT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +361 (+25%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,419#24 of 50 | +361+25% | 1,535 | VT |
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
- Middlebury, VT54 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, North Carolina or Vermont?
North Carolina scores higher for education (#26 of 50 vs #35), with high school graduation rates of 86.4% and 82.8%. Vermont scores higher for health (#8 vs #32); life expectancy is 75.9 years in North Carolina and 78.3 in Vermont.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 276#21 of 50 | +0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 257#25 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| Life expectancyGap -2.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | -2.4 yrs | 76.9 | VT |
| Adults with obesityGap +5.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 29%#5 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 34.03% | VT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.4 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 4.2%#3 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 7.6% | VT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+21%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 34#7 of 50 | +7 pts+21% | 38.8 | VT |
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
- No city school data
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, Vermont #35. Health: North Carolina #32, Vermont #8.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Vermont, or from Vermont to North Carolina?
537 households moved from Vermont to North Carolina in the latest IRS release (average income $73,553); the flow from North Carolina to Vermont is too small to appear among Vermont's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 508 people (±414) moving from North Carolina to Vermont and 240 (±205) 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 | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +159,474 (+1,414%) | 170,751#5 of 50 | 11,277#50 of 50 | +159,474+1,414% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +120,057 (+1,037%) | 131,633#42 of 50 | 11,576#1 of 50 | +120,057+1,037% | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +39,417 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | +39,417 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.0 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -0.5#32 of 50 | +4.0 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$1,937 (-2%) | $80,162#21 of 50 | $82,099#18 of 50 | -$1,937-2% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,352 (+3%) | $74,288#25 of 50 | $71,936#28 of 50 | +$2,352+3% | NC |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +8.7 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -1.1#37 of 50 | +8.7 | 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 Vermont?
North Carolina is the better fit for small business; Vermont is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +15 places | #28score 62.8 | #13score 78.7 | +15 places | VT |
| RetireesGap +16 places | #21score 64.2 | #5score 78.9 | +16 places | VT |
| Remote WorkersGap +10 places | #17score 56.9 | #7score 70.3 | +10 places | VT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +4 places | #14score 63.1 | #10score 65.8 | +4 places | VT |
| Small BusinessGap -13 places | #9score 71.1 | #22score 59.3 | -13 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +31 places | #34score 34.6 | #3score 81.1 | +31 places | VT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVermont (#13 vs #28)
- RetireesVermont (#5 vs #21)
- Remote WorkersVermont (#7 vs #17)
- Young ProfessionalsVermont (#10 vs #14)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #22)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVermont (#3 vs #34)
Which cities stand out in North Carolina and Vermont?
North Carolina has 22 tracked cities and Vermont has 20; the largest are Charlotte and Burlington. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Charlotte903,844 people | Burlington44,675 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Apexscore 74.9 | Middleburyscore 76.4 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Apex53 violent per 100K | Middlebury54 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Rocky Mountcost index 88 | Rutlandcost index 96.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 | Benningtonwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 | Brattleborocounty median AQI 15 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate | — |
| Richest citymedian household income | Apexmedian income $144,135 | Shelburnemedian income $109,583 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Apex+6.1% growth | Essex Junction+2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do North Carolina and Vermont compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. North Carolina carries AAA credit rating and Vermont AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -86 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 99%#1 of 50 | -86 pts | 29.34% | VT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.6 (+46%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 16.4#13 of 50 | +7.6+46% | 29.6 | VT |
| Public land shareGap -8.6 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 17.9%#14 of 50 | -8.6 pts | 17.16% | VT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 23.9 min#17 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | VT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 1.4%#19 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 2.29% | VT |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 16%#6 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.28% | VT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 92.7%#28 of 50 | +0.5 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 | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 95#21 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.7 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 13.5%#12 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 12.39% | VT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +27 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 68%#34 of 50 | +27 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,840 (-65%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $4,380#41 of 50 | -$2,840-65% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.2 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +4.2%#30 of 50 | +2.2 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; North Carolina AAA, Vermont 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 Vermont: 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 28 of 51, Vermont on 17, and 6 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VermontVT | GapNC−VT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +10,553,305 (+1,637%) · US 6.8 million | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | 644,663#49 of 50 | +10,553,305+1,637% | 6.8 million | NC |
| Median household incomeGap -$8,772 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $82,730#19 of 50 | -$8,772-11% | $80,903 | VT |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 2.7%#4 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | VT |
| Population growthGap +1.61 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | -0.29%#50 of 50 | +1.61 pts | +0.51% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$3,457 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $56,157#38 of 50 | +$3,457+6% | $64,333 | NC |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +1.5%#35 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +116 (+54%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 214#10 of 50 | +116+54% | 328 | VT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +361 (+25%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,419#24 of 50 | +361+25% | 1,535 | VT |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 82.8%#39 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 239#19 of 50 | 235#36 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 276#21 of 50 | +0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 213#32 of 50 | 213#36 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 257#25 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 78.3#14 of 50 | -2.4 yrs | 76.9 | VT |
| Adults with obesityGap +5.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 29%#5 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 34.03% | VT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.4 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 4.2%#3 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 7.6% | VT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$64,280 (-16%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $399,053#30 of 50 | -$64,280-16% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +1%#36 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.2% | VT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$566 (-24%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $2,315#42 of 50 | -$566-24% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$27,043 (-24%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $114,846#35 of 50 | -$27,043-24% | $100,006 | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.7 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 98#29 of 50 | -3.7 pts-4% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-6%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 4.8x#32 of 50 | -0.3x-6% | 4.6x | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap -8.90¢ (-39%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 22.92¢/kWh#41 of 50 | -8.90¢-39% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.58 (-9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $18.00/Mcf#39 of 50 | -$1.58-9% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.18 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.36/gal#41 of 50 | -$0.18-5% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 97.3#31 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$7,754 (-36%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $21,670#44 of 50 | -$7,754-36% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.35 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 11.53%#48 of 50 | -3.35 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -4.5 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 8.75%#42 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -1.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 1.78%#46 of 50 | -1.05 pts | 1.02% | NC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.61 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 6.39%#19 of 50 | +0.61 pts | 6.66% | VT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 95#21 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.7 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 13.5%#12 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 12.39% | VT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +27 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 68%#34 of 50 | +27 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,840 (-65%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $4,380#41 of 50 | -$2,840-65% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.2 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +4.2%#30 of 50 | +2.2 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+21%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 34#7 of 50 | +7 pts+21% | 38.8 | VT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -86 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 99%#1 of 50 | -86 pts | 29.34% | VT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +7.6 (+46%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 16.4#13 of 50 | +7.6+46% | 29.6 | VT |
| Public land shareGap -8.6 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 17.9%#14 of 50 | -8.6 pts | 17.16% | VT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 23.9 min#17 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | VT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 1.4%#19 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 2.29% | VT |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 16%#6 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.28% | VT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 92.7%#28 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 92.67% | NC |
| Households moving inIRSGap +159,474 (+1,414%) · US 78,682 | 170,751#5 of 50 | 11,277#50 of 50 | +159,474+1,414% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +120,057 (+1,037%) · US 78,715 | 131,633#42 of 50 | 11,576#1 of 50 | +120,057+1,037% | 78,715 | VT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +39,417 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | -299#31 of 50 | +39,417 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.0 · US +0.4 | +3.5#3 of 50 | -0.5#32 of 50 | +4.0 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$1,937 (-2%) · US $77,690 | $80,162#21 of 50 | $82,099#18 of 50 | -$1,937-2% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,352 (+3%) · US $77,024 | $74,288#25 of 50 | $71,936#28 of 50 | +$2,352+3% | $77,024 | NC |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +8.7 · US +1.1 | +7.6#3 of 50 | -1.1#37 of 50 | +8.7 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$24,085 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$32,645#41 of 50 | +$24,085 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$5,468 · US +$31,418 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$27,316#34 of 50 | +$5,468 | +$31,418 | NC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$6,051 · US +$35,970 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$31,257#35 of 50 | +$6,051 | +$35,970 | NC |
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 Vermont numbers say when read together.
Vermont ranks higher overall
Vermont leads 7 of the 11 categories to North Carolina's 4, with 0 even; North Carolina is ahead on growth and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, North Carolina is ahead on 28 and Vermont on 17.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 98 in Vermont (US = 100). The typical home costs $334,773 in North Carolina and $399,053 in Vermont. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 a year after typical costs in North Carolina and -$32,645 in Vermont.
North Carolina 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); Vermont collects 11.53% (high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
Vermont pays more and is safer
Median household income is $73,958 in North Carolina and $82,730 in Vermont, with unemployment at 3.8% and 2.7%. Violent crime runs 330 per 100,000 residents in North Carolina and 214 in Vermont.
Moves between the two run about even
508 people moved from North Carolina to Vermont and 240 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Vermont fits families and retirees better
For families, North Carolina ranks #28 of 50 and Vermont #13; for retirees, North Carolina ranks #21 and Vermont #5.
North Carolina vs Vermont: frequently asked questions
Is North Carolina or Vermont better to live in?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Vermont #8 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 98), has a 3.3-point lower tax burden, and has a 35% higher violent crime rate. Vermont scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
Is North Carolina cheaper than Vermont?
North Carolina is cheaper than Vermont: cost of living index 94.3 vs 98 (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 -$32,645 in Vermont. The typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $399,053 in Vermont.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Vermont?
North Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.18% of income in state and local taxes vs 11.53% in Vermont. North Carolina's top income tax rate is 4.25%, its effective property tax rate 0.73% and its combined sales tax 7%; Vermont's are 8.75%, 1.78% and 6.39%.
Is North Carolina safer than Vermont?
Vermont is safer: 214 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina, per the FBI. North Carolina ranks #30 of 50 for violent crime and Vermont #10. Property crime is 1,780 per 100,000 in North Carolina and 1,419 in Vermont. The safest tracked cities are Apex, NC, and Middlebury, VT.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or Vermont?
Homes are 19% more expensive in Vermont: the typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $399,053 in Vermont. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of household income in North Carolina and $114,846 in Vermont, against median incomes of $73,958 and $82,730.
Do people earn more in North Carolina or Vermont?
Vermont pays more: median household income is $82,730 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.8% in North Carolina and 2.7% in Vermont. 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 Vermont's in 0.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Vermont or from Vermont to North Carolina?
537 households moved from Vermont to North Carolina in the latest IRS release (average income $73,553); the flow from North Carolina to Vermont is too small to appear among Vermont's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 508 people (±414) moving from North Carolina to Vermont and 240 (±205) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, North Carolina or Vermont?
Vermont is the better fit for retirees: #5 of 50 on the retiree index vs #21 for North Carolina. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Vermont has high income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,308 left after typical costs in North Carolina and +$31,257 in Vermont.
Which is better for families, North Carolina or Vermont?
Vermont is the better fit for families: #13 of 50 on the families index vs #28 for North Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $13,916 a year in North Carolina and $21,670 in Vermont. High school graduation rates are 86.4% and 82.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 after typical costs in North Carolina and -$32,645 in Vermont.
Is Vermont better than North Carolina?
Yes: Vermont ranks higher than North Carolina overall, #8 of 50 vs #23, with a composite score of 74 to 59.1. Vermont leads 7 of 11 categories and North Carolina leads 4, including growth and fiscal health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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