These two states sit at the heart of southern living and are renowned for their beautiful mountain ranges, mild temperatures, historic cities, and sizzling signature barbecues. That can make it difficult for people to choose between South Carolina vs North Carolina.
Read on through our South vs. North Carolina comparison to understand their key differences and pick the best one for your living necessities.
Table of Contents
Cost of Living in 2024
Weather
Job Opportunities
Lifestyle
Crime Rates
City Life
Beaches
Taxes
Schools
Overall Quality of Life
North Carolina vs South Carolina Takeaways
Cost of Living in 2024
North Carolina and South Carolina are well-matched in terms of affordability. While North Carolina’s population density is nearly double that of its southern neighbor, the median annual household income for both states sits roughly around $60k. This is slightly below the national average and makes both states highly affordable. However, with home prices middling close to $296k, South Carolina’s housing market is marginally cheaper than North Carolina’s, where median home prices are $335k.
All in all, South Carolina wins in terms of affordability. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation tend to be more affordable and has lower healthcare costs compared to North Carolina.
If affordability is key for you, be sure to explore the cheapest places to live in South Carolina.
Weather
Both of the Carolinas boast weather that is warm, mild, and comfortable. However, because South Carolina is farther south, summers tend to be hotter, and winters more tolerable. North Carolina’s higher elevation makes it a little colder, windier, and more prone to snowy winters.
While the two are fairly even in terms of temperament, South Carolina is better suited for those attracted to warmth, sunshine, and lazy beach days.
Job Opportunities
While poverty levels in both states sit roughly 3% above the national average, their job markets vary dramatically. South Carolina’s economy relies heavily on tourism, which can be an unstable market depending on the season. North Carolina was known for its farming, textile, and furniture industries; however, the state has recently become a leader in technology, science, and education.
Over 200 major corporations have facilities in the state, making North Carolina the better market for business professionals.
Lifestyle
Classic southern charm is abundant in both of these south-bound states. However, South Carolina and North Carolina have very different atmospheres. With its easy-going nature and small-town attitude, South Carolina is better suited for those who prefer a slow-paced lifestyle. Its communities offer a peaceful alternative to the hustle and bustle of North Carolina, whose large population often makes living a bit more upbeat. While this is great for the young professionals who flock to the state for its business opportunities, South Carolina is ultimately the better option for a slow-and-sweet lifestyle.
Crime Rates
In terms of crime, both South Carolina and North Carolina sit above the national average. However, North Carolina is still quite a bit safer than South Carolina. North Carolina’s overall crime rate of 26.87 sits roughly 20% below South Carolina’s, making it the safer option. South Carolina's crime rates are high enough that it ranks as one of the most dangerous US states.
Although North Carolina is safer than South Carolina, both states have plenty of safe areas to live in. Check out our report on the safest places to live in North Carolina to explore safe, family-friendly cities in the state.
City Life
South Carolina has some of the most stunning cities in the southeast. Areas like Charleston, Greenville, and Clemson are high-traffic tourist destinations with abundant historic architecture, beautiful scenery, and exquisite food. However, there simply aren’t enough of these incredible cities to go around. North Carolina is much geographically larger than South Carolina, giving the northern state a major advantage for city living. Its urban footprint includes staples like Raleigh, Charlotte, and Greensboro – all of which are larger and more densely populated than their southern neighbors.
With more large cities, North Carolina is the clear winner for urban entertainment and city living.
Beaches
While both Carolinas have various beaches, North Carolina is better known for its stunning mountain ranges and forest scapes. With Highlands, Asheville, Bryson City, Boone, and Blowing Rock all right within the state, North Carolina is great for people who prefer rock climbing over sunbathing. South Carolina, on the other hand, is home to Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach, and many other beloved beach-vacation destinations.
South Carolina is the winner for local beaches as it has many world-class vacation spots and warmer temperatures than NC. However, it's still worth exploring the best beach towns in North Carolina, as they are also great places to live.
Taxes
Neither North Carolina nor South Carolina charges social security, inheritance, or estate taxes. Additionally, residents in both states will appreciate property taxes well below the national average. However, this is where the similarities end. While South Carolina’s income tax is higher than North Carolina’s, the state is more tax-friendly to retirees and pension holders. Additionally, South Carolina allows better terms for homestead exemptions than its northern neighbor, making it the better option for tax purposes.
South Carolina is also one of the states with the lowest property taxes, making it an attractive destination for those looking to own a home. To learn more about property taxes across the states, check out our article on states with no property taxes.
Schools
These states have fabulous education systems! However, because North Carolina has nearly double South Carolina’s population density, it tends to have a larger abundance of both schools and students. This past year, the University of North Carolina alone had 244,492 students enrolled, easily surpassing the University of South Carolina. Additionally, North Carolina’s high school graduation rate is slightly higher than South Carolina’s, making it the better choice for education.
Overall Quality of Life
Both South and North Carolina have their distinct advantages when it comes to the overall quality of life. South Carolina is perfect for those who are looking to retire or who want to start a family away from the city. Its stunning beaches, great tax exemptions, and generally go-with-the-flow nature make it the ideal state to find a little peace of mind.
On the other hand, North Carolina is generally safer and has better school systems, employment opportunities, and cityscapes. These advantages make this state the better option for business professionals and anyone who prefers security and stability over a leisurely lifestyle. And, with beautiful mountain views, residents of North Carolina are equipped with everything they need to lead a quality, well-fulfilled life.
North Carolina vs South Carolina Takeaways
In summary, both South Carolina and North Carolina offer unique benefits depending on what you're looking for. South Carolina is more affordable, has warmer weather, and is great for those who love beach life and a slow-paced lifestyle. It's also more tax-friendly for retirees. On the other hand, North Carolina provides better job opportunities, safer living conditions, superior education, and more vibrant city life.
Overall, South Carolina is ideal for retirees and beach lovers, while North Carolina is better suited for business professionals and those who prefer urban living and mountain scenery.