Pennsylvania vs South Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. South Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.7 vs 97.6), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 41% higher violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 41% lower in Pennsylvania (227 vs. 388 in South Carolina).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 32% lower in South Carolina ($10,474 vs. $15,302 in Pennsylvania).
- Residential electricity price is 22% lower in South Carolina (14.96¢/kWh vs. 19.30¢/kWh in Pennsylvania).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +7.9 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 49.0#36 of 50 · C | +7.9 pts | — | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.9 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +3.9 pts+4% | 100 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$13,714 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$13,714 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$15,922 (-5%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | -$15,922-5% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.43 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +0.43 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -161 (-41%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -161-41% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,195 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$5,195+7% | $80,903 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +2.2 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -41,309 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -41,309 | -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 Pennsylvania or South Carolina better to live in?
Pennsylvania scores higher overall: 56.9 to 49 out of 100, #25 of 50 against #36. Pennsylvania leads 7 of 11 categories, South Carolina leads 4, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +7.4 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 31.8#42 · C | +7.4 pts | PA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +18.1 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 60.0#38 · C | +18.1 pts | PA |
| Health12% of scoregap +18.3 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 41.3#38 · C | +18.3 pts | PA |
| Education12% of scoregap +15.3 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 50.1#38 · C | +15.3 pts | PA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -11.7 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 78.4#16 · B+ | -11.7 pts | SC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -8.8 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 54.4#36 · C | -8.8 pts | SC |
| Growth7% of scoregap -44.2 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 71.0#2 · A+ | -44.2 pts | SC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +13.5 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 42.4#43 · D | +13.5 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -7.4 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 41.8#14 · B+ | -7.4 pts | SC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +10.9 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 8.9#45 · D | +10.9 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +16.9 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 21.1#49 · F | +16.9 pts | PA |
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 Pennsylvania cheaper than South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 93.7 vs 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $13,714 more a year in South Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.9 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +3.9 pts+4% | 100 | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.1 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +3.1 pts+3% | 100 | SC |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.34¢ (+29%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +4.34¢+29% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.87 (-11%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | -$1.87-11% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.41 (+14%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.41+14% | $3.32/gal | SC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,828 (+46%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$4,828+46% | $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 | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,031 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$34,233costs $40,767 | -$1,031 | SC |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$2,791 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$27,172costs $47,828 | -$2,791 | SC |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$13,714 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | +$2,089costs $72,911 | -$13,714 | SC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$2,331 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$39,460costs $35,539 | -$2,331 | SC |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$1,505 | $21,716 | $20,211 | +$1,505 | SC |
| ChildcareGap +$9,656 | $30,604 | $20,948 | +$9,656 | SC |
| UtilitiesGap +$187 | $4,685 | $4,498 | +$187 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$349 | $11,195 | $10,846 | +$349 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$1,289 | $10,686 | $9,397 | +$1,289 | SC |
| State and local taxesGap +$728 | $7,739 | $7,011 | +$728 | SC |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or South Carolina?
Pennsylvania and South Carolina collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 8.15%. Pennsylvania 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.43 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +0.43 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.66 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | +0.66 pts | 5.46% | SC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.88 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.88 pts | 1.02% | SC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.15 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | -1.15 pts | 6.66% | PA |
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 Pennsylvania or South Carolina?
Homes cost 5% more in South Carolina: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $79,086 in South Carolina; the median household earns $77,545 and $72,350.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$15,922 (-5%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | -$15,922-5% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.4 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$342 (+22%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$342+22% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$3,808 (+5%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$3,808+5% | $100,006 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-12%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | -0.5x-12% | 4.6x | PA |
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.
| PA | SC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $1,576 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | 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 Pennsylvania or South Carolina?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income $77,545 vs $72,350, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,195 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$5,195+7% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$14,270 (+28%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$14,270+28% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.91% | SC |
| Population growthGap -1.36 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -1.36 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 | PA | SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $219,138$203,798 in Charleston | PA |
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $149,808$139,321 in Charleston | PA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $102,995$95,785 in Charleston | PA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $62,687$58,299 in Charleston | PA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $81,647$75,932 in Charleston | PA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $64,958$60,411 in Columbia | PA |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $98,238$91,361 in Charleston | PA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $54,377$50,571 in Columbia | PA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $54,468$50,655 in Charleston | PA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $68,961$64,134 in Columbia | PA |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $61,126$56,847 in Charleston | PA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $41,473$38,570 in Charleston | PA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $32,490$30,216 in Columbia | PA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $78,411$72,922 in Charleston | PA |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $135,418$125,939 in Charleston | PA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $75,855$70,545 in Charleston | PA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $46,813$43,536 in Charleston | PA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $104,417$97,108 in Charleston | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $56,283$52,343 in Charleston | PA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $55,191$51,328 in Charleston | PA |
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 Pennsylvania safer than South Carolina?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,676 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -161 (-41%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -161-41% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -352 (-21%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -352-21% | 1,535 | PA |
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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 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, Pennsylvania or South Carolina?
Pennsylvania scores higher for education (#15 of 50 vs #38), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 83.8%. Pennsylvania scores higher for health (#21 vs #38); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 75.1 in South Carolina.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap +2.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +2.2 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | PA |
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).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- 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: Pennsylvania #15, South Carolina #38. Health: Pennsylvania #21, South Carolina #38.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to South Carolina, or from South Carolina to Pennsylvania?
4,214 households moved from Pennsylvania to South Carolina and 2,047 moved from South Carolina to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,167 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $97,728; movers to Pennsylvania reported $68,553. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,391 people (±1,838) moving from Pennsylvania to South Carolina and 3,670 (±1,176) the other way, a net gain of about 3,721 people for South Carolina beyond the margin of error.
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +23,846 (+24%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +23,846+24% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +65,155 (+92%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +65,155+92% | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -41,309 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -41,309 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.1 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -6.1 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,110 (-14%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$12,110-14% | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$19,074 (+29%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$19,074+29% | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -12.2 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -12.2 | 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, Pennsylvania or South Carolina?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts; South Carolina is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -21 places | #19score 71.8 | #40score 55.8 | -21 places | PA |
| RetireesGap -14 places | #26score 61.5 | #40score 54 | -14 places | PA |
| Remote WorkersGap +4 places | #38score 46 | #34score 48.6 | +4 places | SC |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +15 places | #33score 49.4 | #18score 58.8 | +15 places | SC |
| Small BusinessGap +13 places | #38score 46.1 | #25score 58.4 | +13 places | SC |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -20 places | #27score 43.3 | #47score 26.1 | -20 places | PA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesPennsylvania (#19 vs #40)
- RetireesPennsylvania (#26 vs #40)
- Remote WorkersSouth Carolina (#34 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Carolina (#18 vs #33)
- Small BusinessSouth Carolina (#25 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #47)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and South Carolina?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and South Carolina has 20; the largest are Philadelphia and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Charleston154,338 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Fort Millscore 71 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Fort Mill30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Florencecost index 86.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Greenvillewalkability 13.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Goose Creekcounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Fort Mill96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Mount Pleasantmedian income $124,755 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Greer+7.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and South Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and South Carolina AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | SC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -25.8 (-66%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -25.8-66% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -0.4 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.8 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +0.8 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.9 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.5 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | -0.8 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | SC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | -3.3 pts | 12.39% | SC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +2 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +2 pts | 74.3% | PA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,000 (+94%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | +$2,000+94% | $3,506 | SC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.1 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | -2.1 pts | +4.66% | SC |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania 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).
Pennsylvania 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. Pennsylvania is ahead on 18 of 51, South Carolina on 24, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | South CarolinaSC | GapPA−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +7,489,158 (+134%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 5.6 million#23 of 50 | +7,489,158+134% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,195 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$5,195+7% | $80,903 | PA |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -1.36 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -1.36 pts | +0.51% | SC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$14,270 (+28%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$14,270+28% | $64,333 | PA |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.91% | SC |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -161 (-41%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -161-41% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -352 (-21%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -352-21% | 1,535 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.2 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 238#27 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 215#24 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +2.2 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$15,922 (-5%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | -$15,922-5% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.4 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$342 (+22%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$342+22% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$3,808 (+5%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$3,808+5% | $100,006 | SC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.9 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +3.9 pts+4% | 100 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-12%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | -0.5x-12% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.34¢ (+29%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +4.34¢+29% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.87 (-11%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | -$1.87-11% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.41 (+14%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.41+14% | $3.32/gal | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.1 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +3.1 pts+3% | 100 | SC |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,828 (+46%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$4,828+46% | $15,633 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.43 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | +0.43 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.66 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | +0.66 pts | 5.46% | SC |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.88 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.88 pts | 1.02% | SC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.15 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | -1.15 pts | 6.66% | PA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | SC |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3.3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | -3.3 pts | 12.39% | SC |
| Pension funded ratioGap +2 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +2 pts | 74.3% | PA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$2,000 (+94%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | +$2,000+94% | $3,506 | SC |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.1 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | -2.1 pts | +4.66% | SC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | PA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | SC |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -25.8 (-66%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -25.8-66% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap -0.4 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.8 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +0.8 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.9 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.5 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 92.67% | SC |
| Households moving inIRSGap +23,846 (+24%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +23,846+24% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +65,155 (+92%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +65,155+92% | 78,715 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -41,309 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -41,309 | -33 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.1 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -6.1 | +0.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,110 (-14%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$12,110-14% | $77,690 | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$19,074 (+29%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$19,074+29% | $77,024 | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -12.2 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -12.2 | +1.1 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$13,714 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$13,714 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,031 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$34,233#19 of 50 | -$1,031 | +$31,418 | SC |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$2,331 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$39,460#16 of 50 | -$2,331 | +$35,970 | SC |
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 Pennsylvania and South Carolina numbers say when read together.
Pennsylvania ranks higher overall
Pennsylvania leads 7 of the 11 categories to South Carolina's 4, with 0 even; South Carolina is ahead on growth and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 18 and South Carolina on 24.
South Carolina is cheaper day to day
South Carolina's cost of living index is 93.7 against 97.6 in Pennsylvania (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $306,323 in South Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Tax burdens are close
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% 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).
Pennsylvania pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 388 in South Carolina.
People move to South Carolina on net
7,391 people moved to South Carolina from Pennsylvania in the latest Census release, against 3,670 going the other way.
Pennsylvania fits families and retirees better
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and South Carolina #40; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and South Carolina #40.
Pennsylvania vs South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or South Carolina better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. South Carolina is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.7 vs 97.6), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 41% higher violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper than Pennsylvania: cost of living index 93.7 vs 97.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and +$2,089 in South Carolina. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $306,323 in South Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or South Carolina?
Pennsylvania and South Carolina have similar tax burdens: 8.58% vs 8.15% of income in state and local taxes. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; South Carolina's are 6.2%, 0.53% and 7.49%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than South Carolina?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and South Carolina #38. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,676 in South Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Fort Mill, SC.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or South Carolina?
Homes are 5% more expensive in South Carolina: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $79,086 in South Carolina, against median incomes of $77,545 and $72,350.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or South Carolina?
Pennsylvania pays more: median household income is $77,545 vs $72,350 in South Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to South Carolina or from South Carolina to Pennsylvania?
4,214 households moved from Pennsylvania to South Carolina and 2,047 moved from South Carolina to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,167 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $97,728; movers to Pennsylvania reported $68,553. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,391 people (±1,838) moving from Pennsylvania to South Carolina and 3,670 (±1,176) the other way, a net gain of about 3,721 people for South Carolina beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or South Carolina?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for retirees: #26 of 50 on the retiree index vs #40 for South Carolina. Pennsylvania 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 +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$39,460 in South Carolina.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or South Carolina?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families: #19 of 50 on the families index vs #40 for South Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $10,474 in South Carolina. High school graduation rates are 87% and 83.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Is South Carolina better than Pennsylvania?
No: Pennsylvania ranks higher than South Carolina overall, #25 of 50 vs #36, with a composite score of 56.9 to 49. Pennsylvania leads 7 of 11 categories and South 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 Pennsylvania vs South Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (4,214 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).