Tennessee vs South Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 93.7); Tennessee has no income tax and has a 21% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 25% lower in South Carolina ($10,474 vs. $13,926 in Tennessee).
- Total tax burden is 22% lower in Tennessee (6.38% vs. 8.15% in South Carolina).
- Violent crime rate is 21% lower in South Carolina (388 vs. 492 in Tennessee).
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +8.1 pts | 57.1#24 of 50 · B | 49.0#36 of 50 · C | +8.1 pts | — | TN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.8 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | -1.8 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$7,748 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$7,748 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$27,785 (+9%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$27,785+9% | $368,697 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.77 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | -1.77 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +105 (+27%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | +105+27% | 328 | SC |
| Median household incomeGap -$353 (0%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | -$3530% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.6 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,110 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -5,110 | -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 Tennessee or South Carolina better to live in?
Tennessee scores higher overall: 57.1 to 49 out of 100, #24 of 50 against #36. Tennessee leads 6 of 11 categories, South Carolina leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +14 | 15% | 45.8#26 · B | 31.8#42 · C | +14 pts | TN |
| Safety12% of scoregap -7.8 | 12% | 52.2#45 · D | 60.0#38 · C | -7.8 pts | SC |
| Health12% of scoregap -12.6 | 12% | 28.7#46 · D | 41.3#38 · C | -12.6 pts | SC |
| Education12% of scoregap +21.6 | 12% | 71.7#8 · A | 50.1#38 · C | +21.6 pts | TN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -0.5 | 10% | 77.9#17 · B+ | 78.4#16 · B+ | -0.5 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +21.7 | 8% | 76.1#3 · A+ | 54.4#36 · C | +21.7 pts | TN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -14.1 | 7% | 56.9#5 · A+ | 71.0#2 · A+ | -14.1 pts | SC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +0.5 | 7% | 42.9#40 · C | 42.4#43 · D | +0.5 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +5.2 | 7% | 47.0#9 · A | 41.8#14 · B+ | +5.2 pts | TN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +4.4 | 6% | 13.3#38 · C | 8.9#45 · D | +4.4 pts | TN |
| Environment4% of scoregap +15.1 | 4% | 36.2#33 · C+ | 21.1#49 · F | +15.1 pts | TN |
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 Tennessee cheaper than South Carolina?
Tennessee and South Carolina cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 91.9 vs 93.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $7,748 more a year in South Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.8 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | -1.8 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.78¢ (-12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | -1.78¢-12% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.07 (-30%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | -$5.07-30% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,452 (+33%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$3,452+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 | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,675 | +$35,908costs $39,093 | +$34,233costs $40,767 | +$1,675 | TN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$220 | +$27,392costs $47,609 | +$27,172costs $47,828 | +$220 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$7,748 | -$5,659costs $80,660 | +$2,089costs $72,911 | -$7,748 | SC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$500 | +$39,960costs $35,040 | +$39,460costs $35,539 | +$500 | Even |
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 | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,000 | $22,211 | $20,211 | +$2,000 | SC |
| ChildcareGap +$6,904 | $27,852 | $20,948 | +$6,904 | SC |
| UtilitiesGap -$87 | $4,411 | $4,498 | -$87 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$11 | $10,835 | $10,846 | -$11 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$283 | $9,680 | $9,397 | +$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,340 | $5,671 | $7,011 | -$1,340 | TN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or South Carolina?
Tennessee collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.38% vs 8.15%. Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.77 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | -1.77 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.2 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.12 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | +2.12 pts | 6.66% | SC |
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 Tennessee or South Carolina?
Homes cost 9% more in Tennessee: a typical home value of $334,108 in Tennessee vs $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of income in Tennessee and $79,086 in South Carolina; the median household earns $71,997 and $72,350.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$27,785 (+9%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$27,785+9% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.3 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$244 (+16%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$244+16% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$6,463 (+8%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$6,463+8% | $100,006 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+10%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | +0.4x+10% | 4.6x | SC |
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.
| TN | SC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,719 | $1,576 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +24.8% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cold |
| Largest metro | Nashville | 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 Tennessee or South Carolina?
Median household income is about the same, $71,997 in Tennessee and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 3.5% and 4.5%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$353 (0%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | -$3530% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -1 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$10,678 (+21%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$10,678+21% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.58 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -0.58 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 | TN | SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $234,805$218,369 in Nashville | $219,138$203,798 in Charleston | TN |
| Registered Nurses | $96,918$90,134 in Nashville | $81,647$75,932 in Charleston | TN |
| Lawyers | $160,703$149,454 in Nashville | $149,808$139,321 in Charleston | TN |
| Civil Engineers | $106,886$99,404 in Nashville | $98,238$91,361 in Charleston | TN |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,135$57,786 in Nashville | $54,468$50,655 in Charleston | TN |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,174$70,842 in Nashville | $68,961$64,134 in Columbia | TN |
| Electricians | $67,648$62,913 in Nashville | $61,126$56,847 in Charleston | TN |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,000$76,260 in Nashville | $75,855$70,545 in Charleston | TN |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,163$102,452 in Nashville | $104,417$97,108 in Charleston | TN |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,863$35,213 in Nashville | $32,490$30,216 in Columbia | TN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,773$63,029 in Nashville | $62,687$58,299 in Charleston | TN |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $58,900$54,777 in Nashville | $54,377$50,571 in Columbia | TN |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,427$64,567 in Nashville | $64,958$60,411 in Columbia | TN |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,214$55,069 in Nashville | $55,191$51,328 in Charleston | TN |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,798$47,242 in Nashville | $46,813$43,536 in Charleston | TN |
| Accountants & Auditors | $82,157$76,406 in Nashville | $78,411$72,922 in Charleston | TN |
| Construction Laborers | $44,980$41,831 in Nashville | $41,473$38,570 in Charleston | TN |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,368$98,922 in Nashville | $102,995$95,785 in Charleston | TN |
| Software Developers | $138,078$128,413 in Nashville | $135,418$125,939 in Charleston | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $55,662$51,766 in Nashville | $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 Tennessee safer than South Carolina?
South Carolina is safer: 388 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee (FBI). Property crime runs 1,637 and 1,676 per 100,000.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +105 (+27%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | +105+27% | 328 | SC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -40 (-2%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -40-2% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- Brentwood, TN62 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, Tennessee or South Carolina?
Tennessee scores higher for education (#8 of 50 vs #38), with high school graduation rates of 90.4% and 83.8%. South Carolina scores higher for health (#38 vs #46); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Tennessee and 75.1 in South Carolina.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.6 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | SC |
| Adults with obesityGap +3 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | +3 pts | 34.03% | SC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.7 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 7.6% | SC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | TN |
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).
- Lebanon, TNeducation score 97
- 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: Tennessee #8, South Carolina #38. Health: Tennessee #46, South Carolina #38.
Are more people moving from Tennessee to South Carolina, or from South Carolina to Tennessee?
2,301 households moved from South Carolina to Tennessee in the latest IRS release (average income $69,049); the flow from Tennessee to South Carolina is too small to appear among South Carolina's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,385 people (±1,543) moving from Tennessee to South Carolina and 4,212 (±2,049) 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 | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +14,009 (+14%) | 113,788#13 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +14,009+14% | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +19,119 (+27%) | 89,684#34 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +19,119+27% | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,110 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -5,110 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.9 | +3.3#4 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -1.9 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,046 (-10%) | $79,430#24 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$9,046-10% | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,508 (+5%) | $70,076#32 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$3,508+5% | TN |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.2 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -6.2 | 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, Tennessee or South Carolina?
Tennessee is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, and small business; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -10 places | #30score 62.5 | #40score 55.8 | -10 places | TN |
| RetireesGap -12 places | #28score 60.3 | #40score 54 | -12 places | TN |
| Remote WorkersGap -20 places | #14score 59.5 | #34score 48.6 | -20 places | TN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -2 places | #16score 60 | #18score 58.8 | -2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -17 places | #8score 73.5 | #25score 58.4 | -17 places | TN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -3 places | #44score 28.8 | #47score 26.1 | -3 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesTennessee (#30 vs #40)
- RetireesTennessee (#28 vs #40)
- Remote WorkersTennessee (#14 vs #34)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#16 vs #18)
- Small BusinessTennessee (#8 vs #25)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#44 vs #47)
Which cities stand out in Tennessee and South Carolina?
Tennessee has 20 tracked cities and South Carolina has 20; the largest are Nashville and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Nashville690,130 people | Charleston154,338 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Franklinscore 69.5 | Fort Millscore 71 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Brentwood62 violent per 100K | Fort Mill30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Jacksoncost index 85.5 | Florencecost index 86.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Memphiswalkability 11.8 of 20 | Greenvillewalkability 13.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Clarksvillecounty median AQI 32 | Goose Creekcounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Lebanon97% graduation rate | Fort Mill96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Brentwoodmedian income $182,088 | Mount Pleasantmedian income $124,755 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Lebanon+5.6% growth | Greer+7.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Tennessee and South Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Tennessee carries AAA credit rating and South Carolina AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -14.2 (-36%) · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -14.2-36% | 29.6 | TN |
| Public land shareGap +1.2 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.2 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +0.2 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.4 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.4 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +5.4 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +37 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +37 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$490 (-23%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | -$490-23% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +4.66% | TN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Tennessee AAA, 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).
Tennessee 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. Tennessee is ahead on 18 of 51, South Carolina on 16, and 17 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TennesseeTN | South CarolinaSC | GapTN−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,744,802 (+31%) · US 6.8 million | 7.3 million#15 of 50 | 5.6 million#23 of 50 | +1,744,802+31% | 6.8 million | TN |
| Median household incomeGap -$353 (0%) · US $80,903 | $71,997#40 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | -$3530% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#16 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -1 pts | 3.95% | TN |
| Population growthGap -0.58 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#9 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -0.58 pts | +0.51% | SC |
| GDP per capitaGap +$10,678 (+21%) · US $64,333 | $61,193#27 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$10,678+21% | $64,333 | TN |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.4%#15 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +105 (+27%) · US 328 | 492#46 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | +105+27% | 328 | SC |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -40 (-2%) · US 1,535 | 1,637#33 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | -40-2% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.6 pts · US 85.62% | 90.4%#2 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 85.62% | TN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 240#12 of 50 | 238#27 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#19 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 214 | 215#23 of 50 | 215#24 of 50 | +0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 259#20 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#44 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | SC |
| Adults with obesityGap +3 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#43 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | +3 pts | 34.03% | SC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.7 pts · US 7.6% | 9.7%#40 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 7.6% | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$27,785 (+9%) · US $368,697 | $334,108#23 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | +$27,785+9% | $368,697 | SC |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.3 pts · US +1.2% | +0.7%#38 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$244 (+16%) · US $1,948 | $1,813#28 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$244+16% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$6,463 (+8%) · US $100,006 | $85,549#19 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$6,463+8% | $100,006 | SC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.8 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 91.9#14 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | -1.8 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+10%) · US 4.6x | 4.6x#28 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | +0.4x+10% | 4.6x | SC |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.78¢ (-12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.18¢/kWh#11 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | -1.78¢-12% | 17.84¢/kWh | TN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.07 (-30%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.84/Mcf#16 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | -$5.07-30% | $15.83/Mcf | TN |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#13 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.1 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.2#18 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | -0.1 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,452 (+33%) · US $15,633 | $13,926#19 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$3,452+33% | $15,633 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.77 pts · US 8.74% | 6.38%#4 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | -1.77 pts | 8.74% | TN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.2 pts · US 5.46% | none#6 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 5.46% | TN |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.58%#13 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.12 pts · US 6.66% | 9.61%#49 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | +2.12 pts | 6.66% | SC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#11 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | TN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.4 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#15 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +5.4 pts | 12.39% | TN |
| Pension funded ratioGap +37 pts · US 74.3% | 97%#3 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +37 pts | 74.3% | TN |
| State debt per capitaGap -$490 (-23%) · US $3,506 | $1,630#5 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | -$490-23% | $3,506 | TN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.6 pts · US +4.66% | +6.2%#15 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +4.66% | TN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 40#21 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | TN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 14%#30 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | TN |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -14.2 (-36%) · US 29.6 | 25.0#22 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -14.2-36% | 29.6 | TN |
| Public land shareGap +1.2 pts · US 17.16% | 7.2%#27 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 17.16% | TN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.2 min · US 25.2 min | 26.5 min#33 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +0.2 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.2 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#42 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.4 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#24 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 92.5%#29 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +14,009 (+14%) · US 78,682 | 113,788#13 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +14,009+14% | 78,682 | TN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +19,119 (+27%) · US 78,715 | 89,684#34 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +19,119+27% | 78,715 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,110 · US -33 | +24,104#5 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | -5,110 | -33 | SC |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.9 · US +0.4 | +3.3#4 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -1.9 | +0.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$9,046 (-10%) · US $77,690 | $79,430#24 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$9,046-10% | $77,690 | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,508 (+5%) · US $77,024 | $70,076#32 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$3,508+5% | $77,024 | TN |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.2 · US +1.1 | +5.8#5 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -6.2 | +1.1 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$7,748 · US -$11,758 | -$5,659#18 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$7,748 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,675 · US +$31,418 | +$35,908#11 of 50 | +$34,233#19 of 50 | +$1,675 | +$31,418 | TN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$500 · US +$35,970 | +$39,960#14 of 50 | +$39,460#16 of 50 | +$500 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Tennessee and South Carolina numbers say when read together.
Tennessee ranks higher overall
Tennessee leads 6 of the 11 categories to South Carolina's 3, with 2 even; South Carolina is ahead on growth and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Tennessee is ahead on 18 and South Carolina on 16.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 91.9 in Tennessee and 93.7 in South Carolina, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $334,108 and $306,323. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 a year after typical costs in Tennessee and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Tennessee takes a smaller share in taxes
Tennessee collects 6.38% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); South Carolina collects 8.15% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
South Carolina is safer
Median household income is $71,997 in Tennessee and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 3.5% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 492 per 100,000 residents in Tennessee and 388 in South Carolina.
Moves between the two run about even
3,385 people moved from Tennessee to South Carolina and 4,212 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Tennessee fits families and retirees better
For families, Tennessee ranks #30 of 50 and South Carolina #40; for retirees, Tennessee ranks #28 and South Carolina #40.
Tennessee vs South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Tennessee or South Carolina better to live in?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 overall and South Carolina #36 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 91.9 vs 93.7); Tennessee has no income tax and has a 21% higher violent crime rate. Tennessee scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Tennessee cheaper than South Carolina?
Tennessee and South Carolina cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 91.9 vs 93.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,659 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Tennessee, and +$2,089 in South Carolina. The typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $306,323 in South Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Tennessee or South Carolina?
Tennessee has the lower tax burden: 6.38% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.15% in South Carolina. Tennessee's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.58% and its combined sales tax 9.61%; South Carolina's are 6.2%, 0.53% and 7.49%.
Is Tennessee safer than South Carolina?
South Carolina is safer: 388 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 492 in Tennessee, per the FBI. Tennessee ranks #46 of 50 for violent crime and South Carolina #38. Property crime is 1,637 per 100,000 in Tennessee and 1,676 in South Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Brentwood, TN, and Fort Mill, SC.
Are homes more expensive in Tennessee or South Carolina?
Homes are 9% more expensive in Tennessee: the typical home value is $334,108 in Tennessee and $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $85,549 of household income in Tennessee and $79,086 in South Carolina, against median incomes of $71,997 and $72,350.
Do people earn more in Tennessee or South Carolina?
Tennessee and South Carolina pay about the same: median household income is $71,997 vs $72,350, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.5% in Tennessee and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Tennessee'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 Tennessee to South Carolina or from South Carolina to Tennessee?
2,301 households moved from South Carolina to Tennessee in the latest IRS release (average income $69,049); the flow from Tennessee to South Carolina is too small to appear among South Carolina's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,385 people (±1,543) moving from Tennessee to South Carolina and 4,212 (±2,049) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Tennessee or South Carolina?
Tennessee is the better fit for retirees: #28 of 50 on the retiree index vs #40 for South Carolina. Tennessee has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; 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 +$39,960 left after typical costs in Tennessee and +$39,460 in South Carolina.
Which is better for families, Tennessee or South Carolina?
Tennessee is the better fit for families: #30 of 50 on the families index vs #40 for South Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $13,926 a year in Tennessee and $10,474 in South Carolina. High school graduation rates are 90.4% and 83.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,659 after typical costs in Tennessee and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Is South Carolina better than Tennessee?
No: Tennessee ranks higher than South Carolina overall, #24 of 50 vs #36, with a composite score of 57.1 to 49. Tennessee leads 6 of 11 categories and South Carolina leads 3, including growth and health. 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 Tennessee vs South Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,301 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).