Ohio vs South Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 93.7); Ohio carries a 1.2-point higher tax burden and has a 29% lower violent crime rate. Ohio scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 2.
- Violent crime rate is 29% lower in Ohio (276 vs. 388 in South Carolina).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 25% lower in South Carolina ($10,474 vs. $13,936 in Ohio).
- Typical home value is 19% lower in Ohio ($248,803 vs. $306,323 in South Carolina).
| Measure | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +3.1 pts | 52.1#33 of 50 · C+ | 49.0#36 of 50 · C | +3.1 pts | — | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.9 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | -0.9 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,407 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$5,407 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$57,520 (-19%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | -$57,520-19% | $368,697 | OH |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.21 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +1.21 pts | 8.74% | SC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -112 (-29%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -112-29% | 328 | OH |
| Median household incomeGap -$138 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | -$1380% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 85.62% | OH |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -37,208 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -37,208 | -33 | SC |
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 Ohio or South Carolina better to live in?
Ohio scores higher overall: 52.1 to 49 out of 100, #33 of 50 against #36. Ohio leads 5 of 11 categories, South Carolina leads 2, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -1.5 | 15% | 30.3#44 · D | 31.8#42 · C | -1.5 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +12.6 | 12% | 72.6#24 · B | 60.0#38 · C | +12.6 pts | OH |
| Health12% of scoregap +3.5 | 12% | 44.8#35 · C | 41.3#38 · C | +3.5 pts | OH |
| Education12% of scoregap +17.3 | 12% | 67.4#11 · B+ | 50.1#38 · C | +17.3 pts | OH |
| Affordability10% of scoregap 0 | 10% | 78.4#15 · B+ | 78.4#16 · B+ | 0 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +2.2 | 8% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 54.4#36 · C | +2.2 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap -40 | 7% | 31.0#34 · C+ | 71.0#2 · A+ | -40 pts | SC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +9.7 | 7% | 52.1#23 · B | 42.4#43 · D | +9.7 pts | OH |
| Livability7% of scoregap -12 | 7% | 29.8#31 · C+ | 41.8#14 · B+ | -12 pts | SC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +1.1 | 6% | 10.0#42 · C | 8.9#45 · D | +1.1 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +14.1 | 4% | 35.2#34 · C+ | 21.1#49 · F | +14.1 pts | OH |
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 Ohio cheaper than South Carolina?
Ohio and South Carolina cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 92.8 vs 93.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,407 more a year in South Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.9 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | -0.9 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.6 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | -2.6 pts-3% | 100 | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.00¢ (+13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +2.00¢+13% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.06 (-18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | -$3.06-18% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.26 (+9%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.26+9% | $3.32/gal | SC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,462 (+33%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$3,462+33% | $15,633 | SC |
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 | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,426 | +$36,659costs $38,341 | +$34,233costs $40,767 | +$2,426 | OH |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$1,713 | +$28,885costs $46,115 | +$27,172costs $47,828 | +$1,713 | OH |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$5,407 | -$3,318costs $78,317 | +$2,089costs $72,911 | -$5,407 | SC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,737 | +$41,197costs $33,803 | +$39,460costs $35,539 | +$1,737 | OH |
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 | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$1,556 | $18,655 | $20,211 | -$1,556 | OH |
| ChildcareGap +$6,924 | $27,872 | $20,948 | +$6,924 | SC |
| UtilitiesGap -$44 | $4,454 | $4,498 | -$44 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$293 | $10,553 | $10,846 | -$293 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$817 | $10,214 | $9,397 | +$817 | SC |
| State and local taxesGap -$442 | $6,569 | $7,011 | -$442 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or South Carolina?
South Carolina collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.15% vs 9.36%. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.21 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +1.21 pts | 8.74% | SC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.2 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.9 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 1.02% | SC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.2 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Ohio or South Carolina?
Homes cost 23% more in South Carolina: a typical home value of $248,803 in Ohio vs $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of income in Ohio and $79,086 in South Carolina; the median household earns $72,212 and $72,350.
| Measure | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$57,520 (-19%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | -$57,520-19% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.4 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | +2.4 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$47 (-3%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | -$47-3% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$7,969 (-10%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | -$7,969-10% | $100,006 | OH |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-19%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | -0.8x-19% | 4.6x | OH |
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.
| OH | SC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,280 | $1,576 |
| Income needed vs. median | -1% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +29.2% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Cincinnati | Greenville |
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 Ohio or South Carolina?
Median household income is about the same, $72,212 in Ohio and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4.5%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$138 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | -$1380% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,984 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$7,984+16% | $64,333 | OH |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | -1.1 pts | +1.91% | SC |
| Population growthGap -1.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -1.12 pts | +0.51% | SC |
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 | OH | SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,780$220,598 in Cleveland | $219,138$203,798 in Charleston | OH |
| Registered Nurses | $93,210$85,753 in Cleveland | $81,647$75,932 in Charleston | OH |
| Software Developers | $146,333$134,626 in Columbus | $135,418$125,939 in Charleston | OH |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,768$80,747 in Columbus | $78,411$72,922 in Charleston | OH |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $63,326$58,260 in Columbus | $54,468$50,655 in Charleston | OH |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,348$64,720 in Cleveland | $62,687$58,299 in Charleston | OH |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,463$69,426 in Cleveland | $68,961$64,134 in Columbia | OH |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $109,245$100,505 in Cincinnati | $102,995$95,785 in Charleston | OH |
| Lawyers | $155,822$143,356 in Cincinnati | $149,808$139,321 in Charleston | OH |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,255$55,435 in Columbus | $54,377$50,571 in Columbia | OH |
| Construction Laborers | $46,535$42,812 in Cincinnati | $41,473$38,570 in Charleston | OH |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,658$64,085 in Columbus | $64,958$60,411 in Columbia | OH |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,961$34,004 in Columbus | $32,490$30,216 in Columbia | OH |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,195$47,099 in Cincinnati | $46,813$43,536 in Charleston | OH |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,083$73,676 in Cleveland | $75,855$70,545 in Charleston | OH |
| Electricians | $65,252$60,032 in Cincinnati | $61,126$56,847 in Charleston | OH |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,990$99,351 in Cincinnati | $104,417$97,108 in Charleston | OH |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,407$52,814 in Cleveland | $55,191$51,328 in Charleston | OH |
| Civil Engineers | $99,077$91,151 in Columbus | $98,238$91,361 in Charleston | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,868$52,319 in Cleveland | $56,283$52,343 in Charleston | 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 Ohio safer than South Carolina?
Ohio is safer: 276 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,429 and 1,676 per 100,000.
| Measure | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -112 (-29%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -112-29% | 328 | OH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -247 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -247-15% | 1,535 | OH |
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.
- Lakewood, OH81 violent per 100K
- Fort Mill, SC30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Ohio or South Carolina?
Ohio scores higher for education (#11 of 50 vs #38), with high school graduation rates of 86.2% and 83.8%. Ohio scores higher for health (#35 vs #38); life expectancy is 75.6 years in Ohio and 75.1 in South Carolina.
| Measure | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +11 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +11 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 85.62% | OH |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.3 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 34.03% | SC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 7.6% | OH |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Dublin, OHeducation score 93.5
- Fort Mill, SCeducation score 96
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: Ohio #11, South Carolina #38. Health: Ohio #35, South Carolina #38.
Are more people moving from Ohio to South Carolina, or from South Carolina to Ohio?
3,043 households moved from Ohio to South Carolina and 1,892 moved from South Carolina to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,151 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $87,615; movers to Ohio reported $66,498. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,520 people (±1,621) moving from Ohio to South Carolina and 5,842 (±1,910) 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 | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -7,095 (-7%) | 92,684#16 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | -7,095-7% | SC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +30,113 (+43%) | 100,678#37 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +30,113+43% | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -37,208 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -37,208 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.9 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -5.9 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$21,239 (-24%) | $67,237#35 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$21,239-24% | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,540 (+17%) | $78,108#17 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$11,540+17% | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.0 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -11.0 | SC |
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, Ohio or South Carolina?
Ohio is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts; South Carolina is the better fit for young professionals and small business; 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 | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -19 places | #21score 67.5 | #40score 55.8 | -19 places | OH |
| RetireesGap -11 places | #29score 59.9 | #40score 54 | -11 places | OH |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #36score 46.5 | #34score 48.6 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +18 places | #36score 46.4 | #18score 58.8 | +18 places | SC |
| Small BusinessGap +8 places | #33score 49.7 | #25score 58.4 | +8 places | SC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -10 places | #37score 32.6 | #47score 26.1 | -10 places | OH |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesOhio (#21 vs #40)
- RetireesOhio (#29 vs #40)
- Remote WorkersEven (#36 vs #34)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Carolina (#18 vs #36)
- Small BusinessSouth Carolina (#25 vs #33)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsOhio (#37 vs #47)
Which cities stand out in Ohio and South Carolina?
Ohio has 20 tracked cities and South Carolina has 20; the largest are Columbus and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Columbus914,802 people | Charleston154,338 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Dublinscore 71.5 | Fort Millscore 71 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lakewood81 violent per 100K | Fort Mill30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Youngstowncost index 87.4 | Florencecost index 86.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Clevelandwalkability 13.3 of 20 | Greenvillewalkability 13.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Loraincounty median AQI 39 | Goose Creekcounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Dublin93.5% graduation rate | Fort Mill96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dublinmedian income $160,296 | Mount Pleasantmedian income $124,755 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Columbus+0.8% growth | Greer+7.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Ohio and South Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Ohio carries AA+ credit rating and South Carolina AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | SC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -30.9 (-79%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -30.9-79% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -4.5 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 17.16% | SC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | -2.5 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | OH |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.4 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 92.67% | SC |
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 | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +1 pts | 12.39% | OH |
| Pension funded ratioGap +16 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +16 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$860 (+41%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | +$860+41% | $3,506 | SC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.1 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Ohio AA+, South Carolina 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).
Ohio vs South Carolina: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Ohio is ahead on 20 of 51, South Carolina on 17, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OhioOH | South CarolinaSC | GapOH−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,330,236 (+114%) · US 6.8 million | 11.9 million#7 of 50 | 5.6 million#23 of 50 | +6,330,236+114% | 6.8 million | OH |
| Median household incomeGap -$138 (0%) · US $80,903 | $72,212#39 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | -$1380% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#40 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -1.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.34%#33 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -1.12 pts | +0.51% | SC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,984 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $58,499#35 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$7,984+16% | $64,333 | OH |
| Real GDP growthGap -1.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#40 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | -1.1 pts | +1.91% | SC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -112 (-29%) · US 328 | 276#24 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -112-29% | 328 | OH |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -247 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,429#25 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -247-15% | 1,535 | OH |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.2%#27 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 85.62% | OH |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 239#13 of 50 | 238#27 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +11 · US 273 | 279#11 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +11 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 216#14 of 50 | 215#24 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 260#12 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.6#38 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | OH |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.3 pts · US 34.03% | 36.9%#38 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 34.03% | SC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 6.7%#20 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 7.6% | OH |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$57,520 (-19%) · US $368,697 | $248,803#9 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | -$57,520-19% | $368,697 | OH |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.4 pts · US +1.2% | +3.4%#14 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | +2.4 pts | +1.2% | OH |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$47 (-3%) · US $1,948 | $1,522#15 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | -$47-3% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$7,969 (-10%) · US $100,006 | $71,117#10 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | -$7,969-10% | $100,006 | OH |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.9 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 92.8#17 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | -0.9 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-19%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#5 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | -0.8x-19% | 4.6x | OH |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.00¢ (+13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.96¢/kWh#33 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +2.00¢+13% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$3.06 (-18%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.85/Mcf#20 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | -$3.06-18% | $15.83/Mcf | OH |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.26 (+9%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.25/gal#29 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.26+9% | $3.32/gal | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.6 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 93.7#3 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | -2.6 pts-3% | 100 | OH |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,462 (+33%) · US $15,633 | $13,936#20 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$3,462+33% | $15,633 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.21 pts · US 8.74% | 9.36%#36 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +1.21 pts | 8.74% | SC |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.2 pts · US 5.46% | 6%#33 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.9 pts · US 1.02% | 1.43%#40 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 1.02% | SC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.2 pts · US 6.66% | 7.29%#30 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#27 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1 pts · US 12.39% | 8.8%#33 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +1 pts | 12.39% | OH |
| Pension funded ratioGap +16 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#23 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +16 pts | 74.3% | OH |
| State debt per capitaGap +$860 (+41%) · US $3,506 | $2,980#27 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | +$860+41% | $3,506 | SC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.1 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#28 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 43#41 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#47 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | SC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -30.9 (-79%) · US 29.6 | 8.3#6 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -30.9-79% | 29.6 | OH |
| Public land shareGap -4.5 pts · US 17.16% | 1.5%#46 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 17.16% | SC |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.8 min#16 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | -2.5 min | 25.2 min | OH |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#26 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | OH |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.4 pts · US 12.28% | 11.9%#26 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 92.2%#33 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 92.67% | SC |
| Households moving inIRSGap -7,095 (-7%) · US 78,682 | 92,684#16 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | -7,095-7% | 78,682 | SC |
| Households moving outIRSGap +30,113 (+43%) · US 78,715 | 100,678#37 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +30,113+43% | 78,715 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -37,208 · US -33 | -7,994#41 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -37,208 | -33 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.9 · US +0.4 | -0.7#35 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -5.9 | +0.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$21,239 (-24%) · US $77,690 | $67,237#35 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$21,239-24% | $77,690 | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,540 (+17%) · US $77,024 | $78,108#17 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$11,540+17% | $77,024 | OH |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.0 · US +1.1 | +1.0#26 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -11.0 | +1.1 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,407 · US -$11,758 | -$3,318#15 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$5,407 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,426 · US +$31,418 | +$36,659#8 of 50 | +$34,233#19 of 50 | +$2,426 | +$31,418 | OH |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,737 · US +$35,970 | +$41,197#8 of 50 | +$39,460#16 of 50 | +$1,737 | +$35,970 | OH |
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 Ohio and South Carolina numbers say when read together.
Ohio ranks higher overall
Ohio leads 5 of the 11 categories to South Carolina's 2, with 4 even; South Carolina is ahead on growth and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Ohio is ahead on 20 and South Carolina on 17.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 92.8 in Ohio and 93.7 in South Carolina, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $248,803 and $306,323. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 a year after typical costs in Ohio and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
South Carolina takes a smaller share in taxes
Ohio collects 9.36% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); South Carolina collects 8.15% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Ohio is safer
Median household income is $72,212 in Ohio and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 276 per 100,000 residents in Ohio and 388 in South Carolina.
Moves between the two run about even
4,520 people moved from Ohio to South Carolina and 5,842 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Ohio fits families and retirees better
For families, Ohio ranks #21 of 50 and South Carolina #40; for retirees, Ohio ranks #29 and South Carolina #40.
Ohio vs South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio or South Carolina better to live in?
Ohio ranks #33 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 92.8 vs 93.7); Ohio carries a 1.2-point higher tax burden and has a 29% lower violent crime rate. Ohio scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Ohio cheaper than South Carolina?
Ohio and South Carolina cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 92.8 vs 93.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$3,318 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Ohio, and +$2,089 in South Carolina. The typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $306,323 in South Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Ohio or South Carolina?
South Carolina has the lower tax burden: 8.15% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.36% in Ohio. Ohio's top income tax rate is 6%, its effective property tax rate 1.43% and its combined sales tax 7.29%; South Carolina's are 6.2%, 0.53% and 7.49%.
Is Ohio safer than South Carolina?
Ohio is safer: 276 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina, per the FBI. Ohio ranks #24 of 50 for violent crime and South Carolina #38. Property crime is 1,429 per 100,000 in Ohio and 1,676 in South Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Lakewood, OH, and Fort Mill, SC.
Are homes more expensive in Ohio or South Carolina?
Homes are 23% more expensive in South Carolina: the typical home value is $248,803 in Ohio and $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $71,117 of household income in Ohio and $79,086 in South Carolina, against median incomes of $72,212 and $72,350.
Do people earn more in Ohio or South Carolina?
Ohio and South Carolina pay about the same: median household income is $72,212 vs $72,350, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Ohio and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Ohio's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0, with 2 even.
Are more people moving from Ohio to South Carolina or from South Carolina to Ohio?
3,043 households moved from Ohio to South Carolina and 1,892 moved from South Carolina to Ohio in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,151 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $87,615; movers to Ohio reported $66,498. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,520 people (±1,621) moving from Ohio to South Carolina and 5,842 (±1,910) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Ohio or South Carolina?
Ohio is the better fit for retirees: #29 of 50 on the retiree index vs #40 for South Carolina. Ohio has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,197 left after typical costs in Ohio and +$39,460 in South Carolina.
Which is better for families, Ohio or South Carolina?
Ohio is the better fit for families: #21 of 50 on the families index vs #40 for South Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $13,936 a year in Ohio and $10,474 in South Carolina. High school graduation rates are 86.2% and 83.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$3,318 after typical costs in Ohio and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Is South Carolina better than Ohio?
No: Ohio ranks higher than South Carolina overall, #33 of 50 vs #36, with a composite score of 52.1 to 49. Ohio leads 5 of 11 categories and South Carolina leads 2, including growth and livability. 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 Ohio vs South Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (3,043 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).