Texas vs South Carolina: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 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 97.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 11% higher violent crime rate. Texas scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
- Violent crime rate is 11% lower in Texas (345 vs. 388 in South Carolina).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 10% lower in South Carolina ($79,086 vs. $88,061 in Texas).
- Median household income is 10% higher in Texas ($79,721 vs. $72,350 in South Carolina).
| Measure | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +3.2 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 49.0#36 of 50 · C | +3.2 pts | — | TX |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.4 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +3.4 pts+4% | 100 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$2,233 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$2,233 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$6,956 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | -$6,956-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.38 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | -0.38 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -43 (-11%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -43-11% | 328 | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,371 (+10%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$7,371+10% | $80,903 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.9 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +27,259 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +27,259 | -33 | TX |
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 Texas or South Carolina better to live in?
Texas scores higher overall: 52.2 to 49 out of 100, #32 of 50 against #36. Texas leads 4 of 11 categories, South Carolina leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +10.7 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 31.8#42 · C | +10.7 pts | TX |
| Safety12% of scoregap +1.8 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 60.0#38 · C | +1.8 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -3.6 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 41.3#38 · C | -3.6 pts | SC |
| Education12% of scoregap +10.6 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 50.1#38 · C | +10.6 pts | TX |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -4 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 78.4#16 · B+ | -4 pts | SC |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +17.8 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 54.4#36 · C | +17.8 pts | TX |
| Growth7% of scoregap -19.3 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 71.0#2 · A+ | -19.3 pts | SC |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1.3 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 42.4#43 · D | +1.3 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -18.2 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 41.8#14 · B+ | -18.2 pts | SC |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -4.2 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 8.9#45 · D | -4.2 pts | SC |
| Environment4% of scoregap +19.7 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 21.1#49 · F | +19.7 pts | TX |
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 Texas cheaper than South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper: cost of living index 93.7 vs 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,233 more a year in South Carolina after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.4 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +3.4 pts+4% | 100 | SC |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.8 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +1.8 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.51¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +0.51¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.51 (+15%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | +$2.51+15% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.11 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | -$0.11-4% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$420 (+4%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$420+4% | $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 | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,308 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$34,233costs $40,767 | +$1,308 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$178 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$27,172costs $47,828 | -$178 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$2,233 | -$144costs $75,145 | +$2,089costs $72,911 | -$2,233 | SC |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$46 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$39,460costs $35,539 | +$46 | 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 | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,834 | $23,045 | $20,211 | +$2,834 | SC |
| ChildcareGap +$840 | $21,788 | $20,948 | +$840 | SC |
| UtilitiesGap +$163 | $4,661 | $4,498 | +$163 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$203 | $11,049 | $10,846 | +$203 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$346 | $9,051 | $9,397 | -$346 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,460 | $5,551 | $7,011 | -$1,460 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or South Carolina?
Texas and South Carolina collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 8.15%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; South Carolina has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.38 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | -0.38 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.2 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.1 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 1.02% | SC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.71 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | +0.71 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 Texas or South Carolina?
Typical home values are about the same: $299,367 in Texas and $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $79,086 in South Carolina; the median household earns $79,721 and $72,350.
| Measure | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$6,956 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | -$6,956-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.6 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -2.6 pts | +1.2% | SC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$90 (+6%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$90+6% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,975 (+11%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$8,975+11% | $100,006 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-10%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | -0.4x-10% | 4.6x | TX |
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.
| TX | SC | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $1,576 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Dallas | 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 Texas or South Carolina?
Texas pays more: median household income $79,721 vs $72,350, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
| Measure | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$7,371 (+10%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$7,371+10% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$18,305 (+36%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$18,305+36% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap -0.21 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -0.21 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | TX | SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $219,138$203,798 in Charleston | TX |
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $135,418$125,939 in Charleston | TX |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $149,808$139,321 in Charleston | TX |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $81,647$75,932 in Charleston | TX |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $78,411$72,922 in Charleston | TX |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $98,238$91,361 in Charleston | TX |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $62,687$58,299 in Charleston | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $104,417$97,108 in Charleston | TX |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $102,995$95,785 in Charleston | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $56,283$52,343 in Charleston | TX |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $68,961$64,134 in Columbia | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $64,958$60,411 in Columbia | TX |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $54,468$50,655 in Charleston | TX |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $61,126$56,847 in Charleston | TX |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $54,377$50,571 in Columbia | TX |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $46,813$43,536 in Charleston | TX |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $41,473$38,570 in Charleston | TX |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $75,855$70,545 in Charleston | TX |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $32,490$30,216 in Columbia | TX |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $55,191$51,328 in Charleston | TX |
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 Texas safer than South Carolina?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,676 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -43 (-11%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -43-11% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +110 (+7%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | +110+7% | 1,535 | SC |
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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 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, Texas or South Carolina?
Texas scores higher for education (#24 of 50 vs #38), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 83.8%. South Carolina scores higher for health (#38 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 75.1 in South Carolina.
| Measure | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.9 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap +1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | +1 pts | 34.03% | SC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +7.7 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | +7.7 pts | 7.6% | SC |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 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).
- No city school data
- 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: Texas #24, South Carolina #38. Health: Texas #41, South Carolina #38.
Are more people moving from Texas to South Carolina, or from South Carolina to Texas?
3,840 households moved from Texas to South Carolina and 3,703 moved from South Carolina to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 137 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $87,907; movers to Texas reported $69,644. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,157 people (±2,881) moving from Texas to South Carolina and 8,106 (±2,986) 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 | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +207,461 (+208%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +207,461+208% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +180,202 (+255%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +180,202+255% | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +27,259 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +27,259 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -3.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$4,844 (-5%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$4,844-5% | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,791 (+21%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$13,791+21% | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -9.9 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -9.9 | 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, Texas or South Carolina?
Texas is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, and small business; South Carolina is the better fit for young professionals; 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 | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -5 places | #35score 57.5 | #40score 55.8 | -5 places | TX |
| RetireesGap -7 places | #33score 58.8 | #40score 54 | -7 places | TX |
| Remote WorkersGap -9 places | #25score 52 | #34score 48.6 | -9 places | TX |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +10 places | #28score 53 | #18score 58.8 | +10 places | SC |
| Small BusinessGap -10 places | #15score 64.3 | #25score 58.4 | -10 places | TX |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -2 places | #45score 26.6 | #47score 26.1 | -2 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesTexas (#35 vs #40)
- RetireesTexas (#33 vs #40)
- Remote WorkersTexas (#25 vs #34)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Carolina (#18 vs #28)
- Small BusinessTexas (#15 vs #25)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#45 vs #47)
Which cities stand out in Texas and South Carolina?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and South Carolina has 20; the largest are Houston and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Charleston154,338 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Fort Millscore 71 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Fort Mill30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Florencecost index 86.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Greenvillewalkability 13.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Goose Creekcounty median AQI 35 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Fort Mill96% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Mount Pleasantmedian income $124,755 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | Greer+7.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and South Carolina compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and South Carolina AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +29 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +29 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.2 (-39%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -15.2-39% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap -4.2 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 17.16% | SC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.2 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +1.2 min | 25.2 min | SC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | TX |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 92.67% | TX |
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 | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +10 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +10 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +16 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +16 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$270 (-13%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | -$270-13% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +4.66% | TX |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas 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).
Texas 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. Texas is ahead on 22 of 51, South Carolina on 18, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | South CarolinaSC | GapTX−SC | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +26,139,547 (+469%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 5.6 million#23 of 50 | +26,139,547+469% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,371 (+10%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $72,350#38 of 50 | +$7,371+10% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.5%#39 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.21 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +1.46%#1 of 50 | -0.21 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$18,305 (+36%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $50,515#47 of 50 | +$18,305+36% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +2.5%#13 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -43 (-11%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 388#38 of 50 | -43-11% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +110 (+7%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,676#36 of 50 | +110+7% | 1,535 | SC |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.9 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 83.8%#34 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 238#27 of 50 | +3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 268#39 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 215#24 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 254#40 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 75.1#41 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap +1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 34.6%#30 of 50 | +1 pts | 34.03% | SC |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +7.7 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 9%#37 of 50 | +7.7 pts | 7.6% | SC |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$6,956 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $306,323#19 of 50 | -$6,956-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.6 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +1%#37 of 50 | -2.6 pts | +1.2% | SC |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$90 (+6%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,569#20 of 50 | +$90+6% | $1,948 | SC |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,975 (+11%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $79,086#14 of 50 | +$8,975+11% | $100,006 | SC |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.4 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 93.7#19 of 50 | +3.4 pts+4% | 100 | SC |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-10%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.2x#23 of 50 | -0.4x-10% | 4.6x | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.51¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 14.96¢/kWh#21 of 50 | +0.51¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | SC |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.51 (+15%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $16.91/Mcf#34 of 50 | +$2.51+15% | $15.83/Mcf | SC |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.11 (-4%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $2.99/gal#7 of 50 | -$0.11-4% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.8 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 96.3#23 of 50 | +1.8 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$420 (+4%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $10,474#6 of 50 | +$420+4% | $15,633 | SC |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.38 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 8.15%#15 of 50 | -0.38 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -6.2 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 6.2%#34 of 50 | -6.2 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.1 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.53%#5 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 1.02% | SC |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.71 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 7.49%#33 of 50 | +0.71 pts | 6.66% | SC |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 95#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +10 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 7.8%#38 of 50 | +10 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap +16 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 60%#43 of 50 | +16 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$270 (-13%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $2,120#11 of 50 | -$270-13% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +4.6%#26 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +4.66% | TX |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 44#46 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +29 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 8%#43 of 50 | +29 pts | 29.34% | TX |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -15.2 (-39%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 39.2#37 of 50 | -15.2-39% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap -4.2 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 6%#30 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 17.16% | SC |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.2 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 26.3 min#30 of 50 | +1.2 min | 25.2 min | SC |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.3%#46 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 2.29% | TX |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 12.3%#25 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 92.9%#23 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +207,461 (+208%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 99,779#15 of 50 | +207,461+208% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +180,202 (+255%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 70,565#31 of 50 | +180,202+255% | 78,715 | SC |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +27,259 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +29,214#4 of 50 | +27,259 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.4 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | +5.2#1 of 50 | -3.4 | +0.4 | SC |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$4,844 (-5%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $88,476#9 of 50 | -$4,844-5% | $77,690 | SC |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$13,791 (+21%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $66,568#37 of 50 | +$13,791+21% | $77,024 | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -9.9 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +12.0#1 of 50 | -9.9 | +1.1 | SC |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$2,233 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | +$2,089#8 of 50 | -$2,233 | -$11,758 | SC |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,308 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$34,233#19 of 50 | +$1,308 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$46 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$39,460#16 of 50 | +$46 | +$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 Texas and South Carolina numbers say when read together.
Texas ranks higher overall
Texas leads 4 of the 11 categories to South Carolina's 5, with 2 even; South Carolina is ahead on growth and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 22 and South Carolina on 18.
South Carolina is cheaper day to day
South Carolina's cost of living index is 93.7 against 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $306,323 in South Carolina. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Tax burdens are close
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax 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).
Texas pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $72,350 in South Carolina, with unemployment at 4.2% and 4.5%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 388 in South Carolina.
Moves between the two run about even
8,157 people moved from Texas to South Carolina and 8,106 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Texas fits families and retirees better
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and South Carolina #40; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and South Carolina #40.
Texas vs South Carolina: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or South Carolina better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 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 97.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 11% higher violent crime rate. Texas scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Texas cheaper than South Carolina?
South Carolina is cheaper than Texas: cost of living index 93.7 vs 97.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and +$2,089 in South Carolina. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $306,323 in South Carolina.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or South Carolina?
Texas and South Carolina have similar tax burdens: 7.77% vs 8.15% of income in state and local taxes. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; South Carolina's are 6.2%, 0.53% and 7.49%.
Is Texas safer than South Carolina?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 388 in South Carolina, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and South Carolina #38. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,676 in South Carolina. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Fort Mill, SC.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or South Carolina?
Typical home values are about the same: $299,367 in Texas and $306,323 in South Carolina. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $79,086 in South Carolina, against median incomes of $79,721 and $72,350.
Do people earn more in Texas or South Carolina?
Texas pays more: median household income is $79,721 vs $72,350 in South Carolina, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 4.5% in South Carolina. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Carolina's in 0.
Are more people moving from Texas to South Carolina or from South Carolina to Texas?
3,840 households moved from Texas to South Carolina and 3,703 moved from South Carolina to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 137 households for South Carolina. Movers to South Carolina reported an average income of $87,907; movers to Texas reported $69,644. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,157 people (±2,881) moving from Texas to South Carolina and 8,106 (±2,986) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or South Carolina?
Texas is the better fit for retirees: #33 of 50 on the retiree index vs #40 for South Carolina. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax 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 +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$39,460 in South Carolina.
Which is better for families, Texas or South Carolina?
Texas is the better fit for families: #35 of 50 on the families index vs #40 for South Carolina. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $10,474 in South Carolina. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 83.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and +$2,089 in South Carolina.
Is South Carolina better than Texas?
No: Texas ranks higher than South Carolina overall, #32 of 50 vs #36, with a composite score of 52.2 to 49. Texas leads 4 of 11 categories and South Carolina leads 5, 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 Texas vs South Carolina.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (3,840 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).