North Carolina vs Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 101.1), has a 0.7-point lower tax burden, and has a 38% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 38% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 330 in North Carolina).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 28% lower in North Carolina ($1,749 vs. $2,433 in Virginia).
- Property crime rate is 24% lower in Virginia (1,354 vs. 1,780 in North Carolina).
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -8.6 pts | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | -8.6 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.8 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -6.8 pts-7% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$13,390 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$13,390 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$79,889 (-19%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$79,889-19% | $368,697 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.68 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -0.68 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +124 (+60%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +124+60% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$18,132 (-20%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$18,132-20% | $80,903 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.7 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +38,697 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | +38,697 | -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 Virginia better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 59.1 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #23. North Carolina leads 4 of 11 categories, Virginia leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -21.4 | 15% | 43.2#29 · C+ | 64.6#7 · A | -21.4 pts | VA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -16.2 | 12% | 63.1#33 · C+ | 79.3#13 · B+ | -16.2 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap -14.8 | 12% | 46.6#32 · C+ | 61.4#17 · B+ | -14.8 pts | VA |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.8 | 12% | 60.6#26 · B | 65.4#14 · B+ | -4.8 pts | VA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +13.3 | 10% | 73.8#21 · B | 60.5#34 · C+ | +13.3 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +8.7 | 8% | 71.5#6 · A | 62.8#20 · B | +8.7 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap +20.5 | 7% | 65.6#3 · A+ | 45.1#19 · B | +20.5 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +0.4 | 7% | 48.2#28 · C+ | 47.8#29 · C+ | +0.4 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +7.2 | 7% | 34.5#21 · B | 27.3#35 · C | +7.2 pts | NC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -6.6 | 6% | 13.5#37 · C | 20.1#30 · C+ | -6.6 pts | VA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -13.4 | 4% | 34.6#35 · C | 48.0#15 · B+ | -13.4 pts | VA |
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 Virginia?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $13,390 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.8 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -6.8 pts-7% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -3.8 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | -3.8 pts-4% | 100 | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.26¢ (-8%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | -1.26¢-8% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.37 (-2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | -$0.37-2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,348 (-19%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | -$3,348-19% | $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 | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$4,382 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$4,382 | NC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$5,550 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$5,550 | NC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$13,390 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | +$13,390 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$5,045 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$5,045 | 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 | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$5,556 | $22,757 | $28,313 | -$5,556 | NC |
| ChildcareGap -$6,696 | $27,832 | $34,528 | -$6,696 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap -$327 | $4,526 | $4,853 | -$327 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$428 | $10,880 | $11,308 | -$428 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$283 | $9,994 | $9,711 | +$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$666 | $7,571 | $8,237 | -$666 | NC |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Virginia?
North Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 8.86%. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.68 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -0.68 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.5 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.03 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.23 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +1.23 pts | 6.66% | VA |
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 Virginia?
Homes cost 24% more in Virginia: a typical home value of $334,773 in North Carolina vs $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of income in North Carolina and $109,920 in Virginia; the median household earns $73,958 and $92,090.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$79,889 (-19%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$79,889-19% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.2 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -2.2 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$684 (-28%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$684-28% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$22,117 (-20%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$22,117-20% | $100,006 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 0x0% | 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 | VA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,722 | $2,133 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +19% |
| Five-year change | +23.2% | +23.4% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Charlotte | Washington |
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 Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income $92,090 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 3.8% in North Carolina and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 20.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$18,132 (-20%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$18,132-20% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$6,826 (-10%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | -$6,826-10% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Population growthGap +0.63 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.63 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 | VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | VA |
| Lawyers | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | VA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | VA |
| Electricians | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | VA |
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 Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,780 and 1,354 per 100,000.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +124 (+60%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +124+60% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +426 (+32%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +426+32% | 1,535 | VA |
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
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, North Carolina or Virginia?
Virginia scores higher for education (#14 of 50 vs #26), with high school graduation rates of 86.4% and 89.1%. Virginia scores higher for health (#17 vs #32); life expectancy is 75.9 years in North Carolina and 77.5 in Virginia.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.7 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+11%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +4 pts+11% | 38.8 | VA |
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
- Leesburg, VAeducation score 95
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, Virginia #14. Health: North Carolina #32, Virginia #17.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Virginia, or from Virginia to North Carolina?
12,599 households moved from North Carolina to Virginia and 15,148 moved from Virginia to North Carolina in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,549 households for North Carolina. Movers to Virginia reported an average income of $68,808; movers to North Carolina reported $79,449. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 22,757 people (±3,383) moving from North Carolina to Virginia and 28,409 (±5,573) 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 | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +35,142 (+26%) | 170,751#5 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | +35,142+26% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap -3,555 (-3%) | 131,633#42 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | -3,555-3% | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +38,697 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | +38,697 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 | +3.5#3 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +3.5 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$2,165 (-3%) | $80,162#21 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | -$2,165-3% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$15,040 (-17%) | $74,288#25 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | -$15,040-17% | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.9 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +6.9 | 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 Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts; 3 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 | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +11 places | #28score 62.8 | #17score 72.9 | +11 places | VA |
| RetireesGap +6 places | #21score 64.2 | #15score 68.4 | +6 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap +1 places | #17score 56.9 | #16score 58.3 | +1 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +1 places | #14score 63.1 | #13score 63.4 | +1 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -3 places | #9score 71.1 | #12score 68 | -3 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +11 places | #34score 34.6 | #23score 48 | +11 places | VA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #28)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #21)
- Remote WorkersEven (#17 vs #16)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#14 vs #13)
- Small BusinessEven (#9 vs #12)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #34)
Which cities stand out in North Carolina and Virginia?
North Carolina has 22 tracked cities and Virginia has 20; the largest are Charlotte and Virginia Beach. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Charlotte903,844 people | Virginia Beach456,349 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Apexscore 74.9 | Restonscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Apex53 violent per 100K | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Rocky Mountcost index 88 | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate | Leesburg95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Apexmedian income $144,135 | McLeanmedian income $250,001 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Apex+6.1% growth | Suffolk+1.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do North Carolina and Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. North Carolina carries AAA credit rating and Virginia AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +3 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | +3 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.5 (+336%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +18.5+336% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -1.2 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | -2.6 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.4 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.9 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +15 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | +15 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,290 (-46%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | -$1,290-46% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.9 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +1.9 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; North Carolina AAA, Virginia 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 Virginia: 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 23 of 51, Virginia on 15, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | VirginiaVA | GapNC−VA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,317,861 (+26%) · US 6.8 million | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | +2,317,861+26% | 6.8 million | NC |
| Median household incomeGap -$18,132 (-20%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $92,090#12 of 50 | -$18,132-20% | $80,903 | VA |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 3.4%#12 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.63 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.63 pts | +0.51% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap -$6,826 (-10%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $66,440#18 of 50 | -$6,826-10% | $64,333 | VA |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | NC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +124 (+60%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 206#8 of 50 | +124+60% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +426 (+32%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,354#18 of 50 | +426+32% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.7 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 89.1%#9 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 239#19 of 50 | 238#24 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 275#22 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 213#32 of 50 | 214#31 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 256#29 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 77.5#22 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | VA |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 32.3%#16 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 34.03% | VA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 6.9%#22 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 7.6% | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$79,889 (-19%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $414,662#32 of 50 | -$79,889-19% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.2 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | +2.2%#25 of 50 | -2.2 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$684 (-28%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $2,433#44 of 50 | -$684-28% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$22,117 (-20%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $109,920#32 of 50 | -$22,117-20% | $100,006 | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.8 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 101.1#36 of 50 | -6.8 pts-7% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.26¢ (-8%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | -1.26¢-8% | 17.84¢/kWh | NC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.37 (-2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | -$0.37-2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -3.8 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 100.4#40 of 50 | -3.8 pts-4% | 100 | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,348 (-19%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $17,264#33 of 50 | -$3,348-19% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.68 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.86%#28 of 50 | -0.68 pts | 8.74% | NC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.5 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | 5.75%#29 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 5.46% | NC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.03 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.76%#18 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.23 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 5.77%#10 of 50 | +1.23 pts | 6.66% | VA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 100#7 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.9 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 8.9%#31 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +15 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 80%#15 of 50 | +15 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,290 (-46%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $2,830#24 of 50 | -$1,290-46% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.9 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +1.9 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+11%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 37#18 of 50 | +4 pts+11% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +3 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 10%#38 of 50 | +3 pts | 29.34% | NC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +18.5 (+336%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 5.5#5 of 50 | +18.5+336% | 29.6 | VA |
| Public land shareGap -1.2 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 10.5%#21 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | -2.6 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 3%#11 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 2.29% | VA |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.4 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 15.8%#7 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 92.8%#26 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +35,142 (+26%) · US 78,682 | 170,751#5 of 50 | 135,609#7 of 50 | +35,142+26% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap -3,555 (-3%) · US 78,715 | 131,633#42 of 50 | 135,188#44 of 50 | -3,555-3% | 78,715 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +38,697 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +421#25 of 50 | +38,697 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 · US +0.4 | +3.5#3 of 50 | 0.0#26 of 50 | +3.5 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$2,165 (-3%) · US $77,690 | $80,162#21 of 50 | $82,327#17 of 50 | -$2,165-3% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$15,040 (-17%) · US $77,024 | $74,288#25 of 50 | $89,328#9 of 50 | -$15,040-17% | $77,024 | VA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.9 · US +1.1 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +0.7#28 of 50 | +6.9 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$13,390 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | +$13,390 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$4,382 · US +$31,418 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$4,382 | +$31,418 | NC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$5,045 · US +$35,970 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$5,045 | +$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 Virginia numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 6 of the 11 categories to North Carolina's 4, with 1 even; North Carolina is ahead on growth and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, North Carolina is ahead on 23 and Virginia on 15.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 101.1 in Virginia (US = 100). The typical home costs $334,773 in North Carolina and $414,662 in Virginia. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 a year after typical costs in North Carolina and -$21,950 in Virginia.
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); Virginia collects 8.86% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Virginia pays more and is safer
Median household income is $73,958 in North Carolina and $92,090 in Virginia, with unemployment at 3.8% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 330 per 100,000 residents in North Carolina and 206 in Virginia.
Moves between the two run about even
22,757 people moved from North Carolina to Virginia and 28,409 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, North Carolina ranks #28 of 50 and Virginia #17; for retirees, North Carolina ranks #21 and Virginia #15.
North Carolina vs Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is North Carolina or Virginia better to live in?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Virginia #15 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 101.1), has a 0.7-point lower tax burden, and has a 38% higher violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is North Carolina cheaper than Virginia?
North Carolina is cheaper than Virginia: cost of living index 94.3 vs 101.1 (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 -$21,950 in Virginia. The typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $414,662 in Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Virginia?
North Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.18% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.86% in Virginia. North Carolina's top income tax rate is 4.25%, its effective property tax rate 0.73% and its combined sales tax 7%; Virginia's are 5.75%, 0.76% and 5.77%.
Is North Carolina safer than Virginia?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina, per the FBI. North Carolina ranks #30 of 50 for violent crime and Virginia #8. Property crime is 1,780 per 100,000 in North Carolina and 1,354 in Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Apex, NC, and Virginia Beach, VA.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or Virginia?
Homes are 24% more expensive in Virginia: the typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $414,662 in Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of household income in North Carolina and $109,920 in Virginia, against median incomes of $73,958 and $92,090.
Do people earn more in North Carolina or Virginia?
Virginia pays more: median household income is $92,090 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.8% in North Carolina and 3.4% in Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, North Carolina's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Virginia's in 20.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Virginia or from Virginia to North Carolina?
12,599 households moved from North Carolina to Virginia and 15,148 moved from Virginia to North Carolina in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,549 households for North Carolina. Movers to Virginia reported an average income of $68,808; movers to North Carolina reported $79,449. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 22,757 people (±3,383) moving from North Carolina to Virginia and 28,409 (±5,573) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, North Carolina or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #21 for North Carolina. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$37,308 left after typical costs in North Carolina and +$32,263 in Virginia.
Which is better for families, North Carolina or Virginia?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #28 for North Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $13,916 a year in North Carolina and $17,264 in Virginia. High school graduation rates are 86.4% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 after typical costs in North Carolina and -$21,950 in Virginia.
Is Virginia better than North Carolina?
Yes: Virginia ranks higher than North Carolina overall, #15 of 50 vs #23, with a composite score of 67.7 to 59.1. Virginia leads 6 of 11 categories and North Carolina leads 4, including growth and affordability. 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 Virginia.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (15,148 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).