North Carolina vs Washington: Which Is Better to Live In?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 107), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 14% higher violent crime rate. Washington scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 44% lower in North Carolina ($87,803 vs. $155,542 in Washington).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 40% lower in North Carolina ($13,916 vs. $23,136 in Washington).
- Median household income is 34% higher in Washington ($99,389 vs. $73,958 in North Carolina).
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -2.7 pts | 59.1#23 of 50 · B | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | -2.7 pts | — | WA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -12.7 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -12.7 pts-12% | 100 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$39,333 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$39,333 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$257,106 (-43%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$257,106-43% | $368,697 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.43 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.43 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +46 (+16%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | +46+16% | 328 | WA |
| Median household incomeGap -$25,431 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$25,431-26% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +29,279 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +29,279 | -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 Washington better to live in?
Washington scores higher overall: 61.8 to 59.1 out of 100, #20 of 50 against #23. North Carolina leads 4 of 11 categories, Washington leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -9.1 | 15% | 43.2#29 · C+ | 52.3#16 · B+ | -9.1 pts | WA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -0.8 | 12% | 63.1#33 · C+ | 63.9#30 · C+ | -0.8 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -21.6 | 12% | 46.6#32 · C+ | 68.2#13 · B+ | -21.6 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap +3.2 | 12% | 60.6#26 · B | 57.4#29 · C+ | +3.2 pts | NC |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +34.7 | 10% | 73.8#21 · B | 39.1#46 · D | +34.7 pts | NC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +7.2 | 8% | 71.5#6 · A | 64.3#17 · B+ | +7.2 pts | NC |
| Growth7% of scoregap +24.8 | 7% | 65.6#3 · A+ | 40.8#24 · B | +24.8 pts | NC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -10.4 | 7% | 48.2#28 · C+ | 58.6#8 · A | -10.4 pts | WA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.6 | 7% | 34.5#21 · B | 33.9#25 · B | +0.6 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -21.9 | 6% | 13.5#37 · C | 35.4#19 · B | -21.9 pts | WA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -38.5 | 4% | 34.6#35 · C | 73.1#3 · A+ | -38.5 pts | WA |
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 Washington?
North Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 94.3 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $39,333 more a year in North Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -12.7 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -12.7 pts-12% | 100 | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -7.8 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -7.8 pts-7% | 100 | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.91¢ (+7%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +0.91¢+7% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.20 (-7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | -$1.20-7% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.89 (-22%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.89-22% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$9,220 (-40%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$9,220-40% | $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 | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$10,652 | +$32,784costs $42,216 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$10,652 | NC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$16,209 | +$24,628costs $50,372 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$16,209 | NC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$39,333 | -$8,560costs $83,560 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | +$39,333 | NC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$13,641 | +$37,308costs $37,692 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$13,641 | 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 | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$18,366 | $22,757 | $41,123 | -$18,366 | NC |
| ChildcareGap -$18,440 | $27,832 | $46,272 | -$18,440 | NC |
| UtilitiesGap -$610 | $4,526 | $5,136 | -$610 | NC |
| GroceriesGap -$879 | $10,880 | $11,759 | -$879 | NC |
| TransportationGap -$2,797 | $9,994 | $12,791 | -$2,797 | NC |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,759 | $7,571 | $5,812 | +$1,759 | WA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Washington?
North Carolina and Washington collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.18% vs 8.61%. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.43 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.43 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.25 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +4.25 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.15 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | -0.15 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.51 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -2.51 pts | 6.66% | NC |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or Washington?
Homes cost 77% more in Washington: a typical home value of $334,773 in North Carolina vs $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of income in North Carolina and $155,542 in Washington; the median household earns $73,958 and $99,389.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$257,106 (-43%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$257,106-43% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.3 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$529 (-23%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$529-23% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$67,739 (-44%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$67,739-44% | $100,006 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.5x (-25%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -1.5x-25% | 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 | WA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,722 | $3,045 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +57% |
| Five-year change | +23.2% | +11.1% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Charlotte | Seattle |
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 Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $73,958, with unemployment at 3.8% in North Carolina and 4.7% in Washington. 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 Washington's in 11.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$25,431 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$25,431-26% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| GDP per capitaGap -$30,375 (-34%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$30,375-34% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.4 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | NC | WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $143,951$135,314 in Raleigh | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | WA |
| Registered Nurses | $90,965$85,507 in Raleigh | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | WA |
| Civil Engineers | $104,904$98,610 in Raleigh | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | WA |
| Electricians | $64,369$60,507 in Charlotte | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | WA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,087$80,922 in Charlotte | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | WA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,411$64,306 in Charlotte | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | WA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,141$237,953 in Raleigh | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,088$73,403 in Raleigh | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | WA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,951$34,734 in Raleigh | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | WA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,160$50,910 in Raleigh | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | WA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,788$56,201 in Raleigh | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | WA |
| Lawyers | $162,154$152,425 in Charlotte | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,329$45,429 in Raleigh | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | WA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,863$106,091 in Raleigh | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,994$78,954 in Raleigh | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,069$66,805 in Raleigh | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,882$60,989 in Raleigh | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,529$58,777 in Raleigh | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,690$56,109 in Charlotte | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,060$105,336 in Raleigh | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is North Carolina safer than Washington?
Washington is safer: 284 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,780 and 1,975 per 100,000.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +46 (+16%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | +46+16% | 328 | WA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -195 (-10%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -195-10% | 1,535 | NC |
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
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, North Carolina or Washington?
North Carolina scores higher for education (#26 of 50 vs #29), with high school graduation rates of 86.4% and 83.6%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #32); life expectancy is 75.9 years in North Carolina and 78.4 in Washington.
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +3 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.1 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +13 pts (+46%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +13 pts+46% | 38.8 | WA |
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
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
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, Washington #29. Health: North Carolina #32, Washington #13.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Washington, or from Washington to North Carolina?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 2,733 people (±1,063) moving from North Carolina to Washington and 2,843 (±1,314) 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 | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +48,567 (+40%) | 170,751#5 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +48,567+40% | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +19,288 (+17%) | 131,633#42 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +19,288+17% | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +29,279 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +29,279 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.3 | +3.5#3 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +2.3 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,728 (-11%) | $80,162#21 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$9,728-11% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$25,834 (-26%) | $74,288#25 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$25,834-26% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.4 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | +6.4 | 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 Washington?
North Carolina is the better fit for families, young professionals, and small business; Washington is the better fit for retirees and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 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 | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -4 places | #28score 62.8 | #32score 61 | -4 places | NC |
| RetireesGap +4 places | #21score 64.2 | #17score 66.7 | +4 places | WA |
| Remote WorkersGap -2 places | #17score 56.9 | #19score 54.8 | -2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -13 places | #14score 63.1 | #27score 53.3 | -13 places | NC |
| Small BusinessGap -14 places | #9score 71.1 | #23score 58.8 | -14 places | NC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +21 places | #34score 34.6 | #13score 57.4 | +21 places | WA |
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 #32)
- RetireesWashington (#17 vs #21)
- Remote WorkersEven (#17 vs #19)
- Young ProfessionalsNorth Carolina (#14 vs #27)
- Small BusinessNorth Carolina (#9 vs #23)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWashington (#13 vs #34)
Which cities stand out in North Carolina and Washington?
North Carolina has 22 tracked cities and Washington has 26; the largest are Charlotte and Seattle. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Charlotte903,844 people | Seattle754,195 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Apexscore 74.9 | Redmondscore 71.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Apex53 violent per 100K | Kirkland67 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Rocky Mountcost index 88 | Yakimacost index 95.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ashevillewalkability 14.3 of 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Greenvillecounty median AQI 37 | Pascocounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Chapel Hill93% graduation rate | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Apexmedian income $144,135 | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Apex+6.1% growth | Kirkland+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do North Carolina and Washington compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. North Carolina carries AAA credit rating and Washington AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -61 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -61 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.5 (-42%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -17.5-42% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap -19.2 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -19.2 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.5 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | -1.5 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.4 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -1 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 92.67% | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | +1 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,110 (-58%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$2,110-58% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.6 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +3.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; North Carolina AAA, Washington 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 Washington: 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 26 of 51, Washington on 16, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | North CarolinaNC | WashingtonWA | GapNC−WA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +3,196,948 (+40%) · US 6.8 million | 11.2 million#9 of 50 | 8 million#13 of 50 | +3,196,948+40% | 6.8 million | NC |
| Median household incomeGap -$25,431 (-26%) · US $80,903 | $73,958#36 of 50 | $99,389#7 of 50 | -$25,431-26% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 3.8%#20 of 50 | 4.7%#43 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | NC |
| Population growthGap +0.4 pts · US +0.51% | +1.32%#3 of 50 | +0.92%#7 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$30,375 (-34%) · US $64,333 | $59,614#31 of 50 | $89,989#3 of 50 | -$30,375-34% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#9 of 50 | +3.2%#5 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +46 (+16%) · US 328 | 330#30 of 50 | 284#25 of 50 | +46+16% | 328 | WA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -195 (-10%) · US 1,535 | 1,780#38 of 50 | 1,975#46 of 50 | -195-10% | 1,535 | NC |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 86.4%#25 of 50 | 83.6%#36 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | NC |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 239#19 of 50 | 238#26 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 276#20 of 50 | 274#25 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 213#32 of 50 | 216#19 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 255#35 of 50 | 259#17 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#35 of 50 | 78.4#13 of 50 | -2.5 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.5%#27 of 50 | 31.5%#13 of 50 | +3 pts | 34.03% | WA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.1 pts · US 7.6% | 8.6%#35 of 50 | 6.5%#19 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$257,106 (-43%) · US $368,697 | $334,773#24 of 50 | $591,879#47 of 50 | -$257,106-43% | $368,697 | NC |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.3 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#40 of 50 | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$529 (-23%) · US $1,948 | $1,749#27 of 50 | $2,278#41 of 50 | -$529-23% | $1,948 | NC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$67,739 (-44%) · US $100,006 | $87,803#20 of 50 | $155,542#46 of 50 | -$67,739-44% | $100,006 | NC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -12.7 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 94.3#21 of 50 | 107#46 of 50 | -12.7 pts-12% | 100 | NC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.5x (-25%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#27 of 50 | 6x#44 of 50 | -1.5x-25% | 4.6x | NC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.91¢ (+7%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.02¢/kWh#17 of 50 | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | +0.91¢+7% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.20 (-7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.42/Mcf#29 of 50 | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | -$1.20-7% | $15.83/Mcf | NC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.89 (-22%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#23 of 50 | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | -$0.89-22% | $3.32/gal | NC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -7.8 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 96.6#28 of 50 | 104.4#44 of 50 | -7.8 pts-7% | 100 | NC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$9,220 (-40%) · US $15,633 | $13,916#18 of 50 | $23,136#47 of 50 | -$9,220-40% | $15,633 | NC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.43 pts · US 8.74% | 8.18%#16 of 50 | 8.61%#22 of 50 | -0.43 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.25 pts · US 5.46% | 4.25%#16 of 50 | none#4 of 50 | +4.25 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.15 pts · US 1.02% | 0.73%#16 of 50 | 0.88%#27 of 50 | -0.15 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -2.51 pts · US 6.66% | 7%#27 of 50 | 9.51%#48 of 50 | -2.51 pts | 6.66% | NC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#10 of 50 | 95#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | NC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1 pts · US 12.39% | 10.8%#22 of 50 | 9.8%#27 of 50 | +1 pts | 12.39% | NC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +13 pts · US 74.3% | 95%#4 of 50 | 82%#12 of 50 | +13 pts | 74.3% | NC |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,110 (-58%) · US $3,506 | $1,540#3 of 50 | $3,650#36 of 50 | -$2,110-58% | $3,506 | NC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.6 pts · US +4.66% | +6.4%#13 of 50 | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +3.6 pts | +4.66% | NC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +13 pts (+46%) · US 38.8 | 41#31 of 50 | 28#4 of 50 | +13 pts+46% | 38.8 | WA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -61 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#32 of 50 | 74%#4 of 50 | -61 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.5 (-42%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#20 of 50 | 41.5#41 of 50 | -17.5-42% | 29.6 | NC |
| Public land shareGap -19.2 pts · US 17.16% | 9.3%#23 of 50 | 28.5%#12 of 50 | -19.2 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -1.5 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#25 of 50 | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | -1.5 min | 25.2 min | NC |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.4 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#32 of 50 | 4.2%#7 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap -1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.4%#11 of 50 | 16.4%#3 of 50 | -1 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.2%#19 of 50 | 95%#3 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +48,567 (+40%) · US 78,682 | 170,751#5 of 50 | 122,184#9 of 50 | +48,567+40% | 78,682 | NC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +19,288 (+17%) · US 78,715 | 131,633#42 of 50 | 112,345#40 of 50 | +19,288+17% | 78,715 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +29,279 · US -33 | +39,118#3 of 50 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +29,279 | -33 | NC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.3 · US +0.4 | +3.5#3 of 50 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +2.3 | +0.4 | NC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,728 (-11%) · US $77,690 | $80,162#21 of 50 | $89,890#8 of 50 | -$9,728-11% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$25,834 (-26%) · US $77,024 | $74,288#25 of 50 | $100,122#7 of 50 | -$25,834-26% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.4 · US +1.1 | +7.6#3 of 50 | +1.2#24 of 50 | +6.4 | +1.1 | NC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$39,333 · US -$11,758 | -$8,560#22 of 50 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | +$39,333 | -$11,758 | NC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$10,652 · US +$31,418 | +$32,784#24 of 50 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$10,652 | +$31,418 | NC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$13,641 · US +$35,970 | +$37,308#22 of 50 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$13,641 | +$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 Washington numbers say when read together.
Washington ranks higher overall
Washington leads 5 of the 11 categories to North Carolina's 4, with 2 even; North Carolina is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, North Carolina is ahead on 26 and Washington on 16.
North Carolina is cheaper day to day
North Carolina's cost of living index is 94.3 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $334,773 in North Carolina and $591,879 in Washington. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 a year after typical costs in North Carolina and -$47,893 in Washington.
Tax burdens are close
North Carolina collects 8.18% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); Washington collects 8.61% (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more and is safer
Median household income is $73,958 in North Carolina and $99,389 in Washington, with unemployment at 3.8% and 4.7%. Violent crime runs 330 per 100,000 residents in North Carolina and 284 in Washington.
Moves between the two run about even
2,733 people moved from North Carolina to Washington and 2,843 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Carolina for families, Washington for retirees
For families, North Carolina ranks #28 of 50 and Washington #32; for retirees, North Carolina ranks #21 and Washington #17.
North Carolina vs Washington: frequently asked questions
Is North Carolina or Washington better to live in?
North Carolina ranks #23 of 50 overall and Washington #20 as of the latest release. North Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.3 vs 107), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 14% higher violent crime rate. Washington scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is North Carolina cheaper than Washington?
North Carolina is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 94.3 vs 107 (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 -$47,893 in Washington. The typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $591,879 in Washington.
Which has lower taxes, North Carolina or Washington?
North Carolina and Washington have similar tax burdens: 8.18% vs 8.61% of income in state and local taxes. North Carolina's top income tax rate is 4.25%, its effective property tax rate 0.73% and its combined sales tax 7%; Washington's are zero, 0.88% and 9.51%.
Is North Carolina safer than Washington?
Washington is safer: 284 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 330 in North Carolina, per the FBI. North Carolina ranks #30 of 50 for violent crime and Washington #25. Property crime is 1,780 per 100,000 in North Carolina and 1,975 in Washington. The safest tracked cities are Apex, NC, and Kirkland, WA.
Are homes more expensive in North Carolina or Washington?
Homes are 77% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $334,773 in North Carolina and $591,879 in Washington. Buying the typical home takes about $87,803 of household income in North Carolina and $155,542 in Washington, against median incomes of $73,958 and $99,389.
Do people earn more in North Carolina or Washington?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $73,958 in North Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.8% in North Carolina and 4.7% in Washington. 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 Washington's in 11, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from North Carolina to Washington or from Washington to North Carolina?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 2,733 people (±1,063) moving from North Carolina to Washington and 2,843 (±1,314) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, North Carolina or Washington?
Washington is the better fit for retirees: #17 of 50 on the retiree index vs #21 for North Carolina. North Carolina has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property 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 +$23,667 in Washington.
Which is better for families, North Carolina or Washington?
North Carolina is the better fit for families: #28 of 50 on the families index vs #32 for Washington. Center-based infant care costs $13,916 a year in North Carolina and $23,136 in Washington. High school graduation rates are 86.4% and 83.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,560 after typical costs in North Carolina and -$47,893 in Washington.
Is Washington better than North Carolina?
Yes: Washington ranks higher than North Carolina overall, #20 of 50 vs #23, with a composite score of 61.8 to 59.1. Washington leads 5 of 11 categories and North Carolina leads 4, including affordability and growth. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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