North Carolina Vs. South Carolina – Which Is The Better Carolina?

The debate rages on–who wins when comparing North Carolina vs South Carolina? What was one colony split early on in America’s history. The governing decision has crafted two different places to live. Sure, they may share borders and coastlines, mountains and hills, southern hospitality, and barbeque, but their characters are truly distinct. So, if you’re struggling to decide on which Carolina, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know to make an informed decision about living in NC vs SC.

Why the Carolinas Divided

The first 50 years of the American Carolinas’ story are filled with unrest—from corrupt officials, political conflict, incompetent proprietors, unpaid taxes, and friction with indigenous peoples. However, colonists still found a way to build a new society that followed the coast. Filling it with towns, farms, and a functioning local government, the Spanish claimed the Carolina colony in the 16th century, with the French also occupying some parts, such as around Charleston.

In 1691, a governor was appointed to oversee all of Carolina, and a deputy governor was appointed to oversee the northern part of the colony.

The two regions officially split in 1712 when the government decided it was too hard to manage the vast colony that Carolina had become. To solve their dilemma, the colony of Carolina officially split into South and North Carolina.

In 1729, King George took over the state’s Northern half, effectively making both Carolinas royal colonies. During this time, both regions continued to develop their own economies, local governments, and cultural experiences, making each one unique in its own right.

Cost of Living

Is one state more affordable than the other? To find out where you’ll most likely spend more and save more, do a side-by-side on the cost of living. While North Carolina has a bigger population, this usually translates to a higher cost of living. More people in an area creates more competition for goods and services, increasing living costs. So does that mean South Carolina is the cheaper state to live in?

	South Carolina	North Carolina
Population	5.28 million	10.7 million
Median Household Income**	$63,623	$66,186
Median Property List Price*	$360,000	$424,319
Homeownership Rate	69.3%	65.1%
Overall Cost of Living +	97.6	98.5
Groceries	99.6	98.4
Transportation	95.1	96.2
Housing	90.7	92.9
Health Care	92.9	105
Utilities	111.2	98.8

North Carolina’s overall cost of living is still lower than the national average index–set at 100. Still, the slight edge goes to South Carolina’s cost of living.
Both states have their pros and cons. You’ll pay more for access to quality health care in North Carolina, but utilities run up the bill in South Carolina. However, their scores show their cost of living is very similar. Additionally, these are statewide averages. All states have affordable cities and more expensive places to live. Take Hilton Head Island, SC, which is 4% above the national average in its cost of living. It’s also 17% more than living in Columbia, SC, the state’s capital.

State Taxes

Maybe you’re wondering about what you’ll pay in taxes before investing in either state. Well, you’ll be happy to know that there are no estate or inheritance taxes for both South and North Carolina.

However, there is a huge difference when it comes to property taxes. South Carolina residents enjoy one of the lowest property taxes, ranked the 6th lowest in the country. Homeowners paid an average effective tax rate of 0.57%. Meanwhile, North Carolina owners paid 0.82%, ranking 20th in the nation.

Furthermore, SC homeowners over 65 years of age can typically get a deduction of $50,000 on their property taxes. Meanwhile, North Carolina offers a property tax homestead exemption of $25,000, provided that the person over 65 meets certain criteria. For property taxes, South Carolina is the winner.

Looking at individual income taxes, both levy a state tax. North Carolina takes the mystery out of it with a flat rate of 4.75%. South Carolina has a graduated income tax with top earners paying 6.2% in 2024. So, for your income tax, North Carolina has the best rate, especially for top earners.

On the surface, North Carolina has the better sales tax rate at 4.75% over South Carolina’s 6%. However, many counties and cities add on to the sales tax rate bringing the statewide average closer to 6.67%. South Carolina’s cities are restricted to no more than 1% sales tax. In this regard, the two states are nearly equal.

Population

Their populations are massively different. As of 2024, North Carolina’s numbers were about double their southern neighbor; 10,700,000 to 5,280,000. It’s also worth noting both have an increasing number of residents 65 years and above. Because of their lower costs and the promise of warmer weather, both states attract many retirees from all over the country.

Additionally, South Carolina was 2023’s fastest-growing state by population growth. As other southern states like Florida see their housing costs and other expenses increase, people are looking for alternatives. South Carolina’s affordability and warm climate make it an attractive pick.

Job Markets

It should come as no surprise that while both states have many job opportunities, North Carolina is the place to be if you’re looking for more choices. Both South and North Carolina have large hospitality industries, elementary and secondary education jobs, and thriving construction markets. 

The states have a lower median household income than the national average. However, they are also experiencing economic expansion, bringing plenty of opportunities for the job seeker. In Q1 2024, South Carolina tied Texas and New York for 8th in gross domestic product (GDP) growth.  

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the job market in NC vs SC, along with the national average, using Charlotte and Charleston as examples.

Carolina Economy

Job Market	North Carolina	South Carolina	United States
Current Unemployment	3.6%	3.6%	4.3%
10-Year Job Growth	9.7%	12%	3.0%
Top Employing Industry	Health Care & Social Assistance	20% Trade, Transportation, Utilities	13.7% Professional & Business Services
Fastest Growing Industry	Arts, Entertainment, Recreation, 25.3% by 2030	Motion Picture & Sound, 85% by 2030	Leisure & Hospitality 39% by 2031
GDP (in billions)	$625.68B	$259.93B	$25.44 (trillion)

From the projected values that the examples have set above, both states are on their way to economic and employment growth. However, if you’re looking for more high-paying fields, North Carolina has ample opportunities.

The job market in North Carolina is diverse and robust. The state is a hub for technology, particularly in the Research Triangle Park area, which includes Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Numerous tech companies and startups work in the RTP. Additionally, North Carolina has a significant presence in the finance sector, especially in Charlotte, a major banking center.

Thanks to research centers like Duke University, NC has a thriving healthcare and life sciences industry. Manufacturing remains a vital part of the economy, especially in the aerospace, automotive, and biotechnology sectors. Agriculture, education, and tourism are also significant contributors to the job market.

South Carolina’s economy is diverse and steadily growing. Manufacturing is a significant part of the state’s economy, with a strong presence in automotive, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing. Companies like BMW, Boeing, and Volvo have large facilities, providing a substantial number of jobs, particularly around the Upstate region. South Carolina has a growing technology sector, particularly in the Midlands region around Columbia.

Tourism is another primary industry, particularly along the coast in Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Hilton Head. Hospitality, retail, and service sector jobs are plentiful. Finally, a strong agricultural industry is found in its rural areas.

Best Choice for Retirees

Comparing North Carolina vs South Carolina with an eye on retirement, you’ll need to include what matters to you. With a similar cost of living and so many great recreational opportunities, much of it may depend on where in the state you want to live.  

Consider these benefits for retirees:

• Neither state taxes Social Security.
• South Carolina has a higher income tax rate, along with slightly higher exemptions.
• Sales tax in North Carolina is 1.25% lower compared to South Carolina. However, when combined with local taxes, the difference may be much less or none at all.
• South Carolina’s taxation of retirement income is more favorable.
• North Carolina has a higher property tax as a percentage of home value.
• Neither state has an estate or inheritance tax.

Looking solely at costs, South Carolina may be the winner because its overall cost of living is slightly lower. In particular, the cost of housing is less than in North Carolina. Social Security income may be exempt from taxation, but North Carolina does tax other types of retirement income. South Carolina partially taxes retirement income. However, individuals aged 65 and older can claim deductions from pensions, 401(k)s, IRAs, and other retirement accounts up to $10,000. There’s more options for retirees to reduce their living costs on a fixed income.

Many Carolina towns are on top lists for the best retirement towns based on their recreational activities, cost of living, and quality of life. Check out:

North Carolina

• Asheville
• Brevard
• Murphy
• New Bern

South Carolina

• Beaufort
• Charleston
• Bluffton

Education

Both states have great colleges, and their preK-12 education systems work similarly. North Carolina and South Carolina’s public school systems operate through districts controlled by locally elected superintendents and school boards. Each has class size amendments that restrict the number of students per teacher assigned to a classroom.
Since North Carolina has more people, it has more students than South Carolina. This table demonstrates the difference in numbers regarding their public school systems taken from 2022-2023 data.

	South Carolina	North Carolina
Number of Students	788,988	1,503,614
Number of Schools	1,167	2,475**
Number of School Districts	81	177
Graduation Rate	84%	86.5%
Number of Teachers in Public Schools	49,892	98,590
Teacher to Student Ratio	1:24*	1:15
Amount Spent on Each Student	$10,450	$12,636

The overall rankings of the public schools in North Carolina and South Carolina vary. Both states check student progress through assessments and publish school report cards. That helps families analyze the state of education in their local school district.

When it comes to their colleges, both states have excellent universities for students who want a higher education. North Carolina is home to some of the best places to study, such as Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Furthermore, the state has about 58 degree-earning colleges, meaning most residents live within 30 minutes of a college. Students have ample opportunities to further themselves at small private liberal arts colleges, midsize colleges, and more large research universities in the state university system.

South Carolina, on the other hand, has about 60 colleges, trending towards the smaller and private option. Clemson University is ranked within the nation’s top 100. The University of South Carolina is the biggest university in the state and a public choice. Many small liberal arts colleges, a publicly funded military college, The Citadel, and community colleges round out the educational opportunities.

Access to Healthcare

One area you may have noticed North and South Carolina differ in is the cost of healthcare. Two factors play into this: the quality of services and access to medical centers.
North Carolina’s advantage is its robust healthcare industry. The state’s top employing industry is led by the Duke University Health System, whose medical colleges and hospitals are nationwide leaders in biomedical research. It ranks for 11 medical specialties in US News and World Report. But by no means is Duke alone; UNC Health is another medical college and nationally ranked hospital network serving residents. This one is set up in a not-for-profit model.
Atrium Health and Novant Health are two more large-scale healthcare service providers in North Carolina.
Even though it scored highly in quality outcomes, one drawback to the NC health system is its costs. In 2023, residents paid the highest insurance premiums and had their employers cover the least amount.
South Carolina fared only slightly better, ranking the 7th worst for health care costs. It has the second-lowest number of nurse practitioners (NC was the lowest) and the fifth-lowest number of physician assistants.
The state also had a better quality hospital outcome score than North Carolina. The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) based in Charleston is a Tier 2 Medical research school and college running a network of healthcare providers in the Lowcountry region.
Both Carolinas struggle with the same issue in their healthcare landscape: access to quality healthcare. While they have quality care providers, these states’ large rural areas mean not everyone has their needs met at nearby centers. Large swaths have shortages of nurses and doctors who can deliver care to these outlying communities. It impacts their individual healthcare outcomes, giving these states lower scores for equity, access, and costs. However, both are working to attract more healthcare professionals to the state to address needs. That’s why healthcare and social assistance industries are predicted to add the most new jobs in North Carolina by 2030.

The Southern Climate

With varying latitudes and elevations, there are slight differences between North Carolina’s and South Carolina’s weather. SC has overall warmer temperatures, while NC has a more four-season climate.

For your South Carolina living, expect hot, humid summers throughout the state. On the upside, the mild winters make it easier to be outside all year. The Upstate region has cooler summer temperatures than the muggy coastline. You’ll also experience the occasional ice event or snowfall. However, the annual snowfall average is just three inches. Expect annual average winter lows to be in the 30Fs for the Upstate and 50Fs by the coast.

North Carolina has more variance in its climate because of its geographic diversity. The coast and central areas have the humid summers and milder winters. The winds temper the winter conditions, but being more northerly, the coastline is cooler than South Carolina. In Western Carolina, the climate has become more humid and continental. The mountains and their higher elevation increase its snowfall and drop wintertime temperatures. Asheville has an average winter low of 26F. But it also moderates that summer heat, making western North Carolina a prime vacation spot for southerners escaping the heat. Asheville’s hottest month, July, has an average high of 83F.

Both states contend with tropical weather events during the annual hurricane season. The Outer Banks seem more susceptible to direct hits, as they are more easterly than South Carolina’s coastline. Storms skirting up the Atlantic seaboard brush them. Regarding direct landfalls, about 19% have made landfall in North Carolina compared to 10% in South Carolina.

Access to Mountains

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Appalachian Mountains because of all you can do. Perhaps the most well-known is the Appalachian Trail. This 2,000-mile bucket list hiking trail takes roughly six months and crosses multiple states. The mountains also deliver big on high-adventure sports: mountain biking, downhill skiing, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, trail running, ziplining, and more. Mountain trout call to flyfishers, while clear mountain lakes attract bass and other species. The choice in outdoor recreation seems endless. 

For those who spend their time trekking the mountains, North Carolina’s no better place to do it. Its Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains National Park are the most adventure-filled. From quiet sunsets over the peaks to braving the Grandfather Mountain bridge, be sure that any one of these mountain regions can take you to a higher level:

• Highlands
• Asheville
• Bryson City
• Boone and Blowing Rock
• Brevard and Hendersonville

South Carolina’s diverse landscape takes you from picturesque beaches to rolling peaks in just a matter of hours. This state does have mountains, to many people’s surprise. Its mountainous terrain is concentrated in the northwest, and the elevation is less soaring than North Carolina, peaking at 3,554 feet. Nonetheless, the Upstate hills deliver adventure with clear creeks cutting canyons and cascading down 100-foot waterfalls. Yell your name off the mountaintops to hear echoes from far-off lands. A few of the places in South Carolina to test your fear of heights:

• Sassafras Mountain
• Glassy Mountain
• Caesars Head
• Table Rock State Park

When it comes to North Carolina vs. South Carolina for mountain living, North Carolina’s beautiful mountains and expansive choice take the win. The views that can be found in this state just can’t be beaten.

Lakefront Property

Maybe you’re looking into owning a lakefront property that will whisk you away from the hectic city life. There’s no right or wrong choice here — both North and South Carolina are known for their beautiful, freshwater lakes. These freshwater shores teem with wildlife and boating fun. Whether you want to get out there to soak up the sun or catch the trophy, check out these top lakes for your lakefront property.

Top Lakes In North Carolina

• Lake Norman
• Jordan Lake
• High Rock Lake
• Lake James
• Lake Glenville

South Carolina Top Lakes

• Lake Marion
• Lake Jocassee
• Lake Murray
• Lake Strom Thurmond
• Richard B. Russell Lake

In this category, there’s no clear winner between North Carolina and South Carolina. Each has gorgeous lakes to choose from with activities that will make it your place to call a sanctuary.

City Life

Not everyone craves a getaway to the mountains or a calming lakefront. City living offers plenty of advantages, from access to more healthcare to better job opportunities and more entertainment.

Looking at South Carolina vs North Carolina for their cities, it comes down to population. One has more opportunities for big-city living options, while the other predominantly has small cities and towns.

North Carolina is the larger state geographically, allowing for more development, more growth, and more people. That also equals more entertainment, like massive stadiums that host major celebrity concerts, professional sporting events, and huge festivals. The cultural scene is filled with more art galleries, museums, live music venues, and food festivals. 

But what does this mean for people who are deciding between the two? If you’re looking for a busier state with more things to do and places to see, then North Carolina is your bet. But suppose you’re looking for somewhere quieter or really want the sense of community that small-town living creates. In that case, South Carolina may be the ideal place for you.

Here’s a rundown of each state’s three largest cities:

North Carolina

Charlotte: A mix of urban amenities, cultural attractions, and proximity to outdoor activities like mountains and beaches make it an appealing place to live and work. Over 900,000 people live in this rapidly growing city known for its large financial sector, housing major banks like Bank of America.

Raleigh: Over 480,000 make this a thriving city considered part of the Research Triangle. Find leading job opportunities in technology and education. The city boasts a high quality of life, blending historic charm, green spaces, and a growing arts and culture scene.

Greensboro: Around 300,000 call this diverse city home. It’s known for its strong manufacturing base and rich history in the civil rights movement. Residents have a balanced lifestyle with affordable housing, numerous parks, and an arts community.

South Carolina

Charleston: The state’s largest city has about 150,000 residents living in this historic coastal city. It is known for its well-preserved architecture, arts scene, and Southern hospitality. A unique blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and a thriving culinary scene make it a popular destination for residents and visitors.

Columbia: The capital city known for its energetic college town atmosphere, anchored by the University of South Carolina. The city combines historic sites, an arts and cultural scene, and ample green spaces for its quality of life.

North Charleston: Over 120,000 enjoy a mix of suburban living, economic opportunity, and access to nearby Charleston’s city entertainment.

However, picking North Carolina over South Carolina doesn’t mean you can’t find a peaceful place away from the big city. The Tar Heel State has plenty of small towns and getaway places whenever you need it. Unfortunately, when it comes to the thrill of living in a big city, South Carolina can’t compare to North Carolina.

Beaches

Living close to beautiful beaches is a plus to help you beat the heat during the hot summer months. While both states have picturesque beaches their Atlantic Coastline, they’re not as easily accessible in North Carolina as they are in South Carolina.

South Carolina Beaches

At South Carolina’s southernmost tip, find the Sea Islands. This group of more than 100 barrier and tidal islands along the southeastern coast is known for its rich Gullah culture and pristine natural landscapes. These islands, including Hilton Head, Daufuskie, and St. Helena, blend their unique cultural heritage with beautiful beaches and outdoor activities like kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring historic sites.

The island living continues as you approach Charleston. The middle of the coast is home to South Carolina’s resort islands, where opulent coastal living meets the laidback southern character. Explore Seabrook Island, Kiawah Island, and Edisto Island. Your beach activities feature surfing off Foleys Island or golfing by the sea on the Isle of Palms. Sullivan’s Island maintains its fishing roots, even been so close to Charleston. Pawleys Island is credited with giving us the hammock.

North of Winyah Bay begins the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and lively tourist attractions. Centered around Myrtle Beach, find pristine beaches to watch quiet sunrises and famous golf courses. Or, head to family-friendly destinations with lively seaside boardwalks and entertainment. The shores have oceanfront golf courses, world-class resorts, and island living.

North Carolina Beaches

North Carolina’s coastal fun begins with Wilmington and its beaches, the end of the Grand Strand. Check out Ocean Isle Beach and Bald Head Island. Turning northward, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach have beautiful sandy shores, excellent surfing, and a laid-back coastal charm.

The southern Outer Banks, also known as the “Crystal Coast,” is renowned for its clear, sparkling waters and family-friendly beaches. Find charming seaside towns like Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, and Beaufort. These destinations are popular for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and exploring historic sites like Fort Macon and the North Carolina Maritime Museum.

The Outer Banks are a string of barrier islands that stretch over 200 miles along the Atlantic coast. People know Ocracoke, Hatteras, and Roanoke for their quiet natural beauty, wild horses, and historic landmarks. This popular vacation destination’s pristine beaches and charming seaside towns beckon those seeking a getaway. Find outdoor activities like fishing and surfing. Explore the famous Wright Brothers National Memorial and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Long undeveloped stretches make it less crowded than the Myrtle Beach shores.

Either way, you’ll have ample coastal living. Is there a clear winner in North Carolina vs South Carolina? The Palmetto State has more populated towns and cities strategically placed near coastal regions. It probably comes down to what you want out of your beachfront lifestyle.

Surfing

If surfing is essential to your life, North Carolina is the better choice. With some of the best waves on the entire East Coast, its waters are favored not just by the locals but by visitors from all over the country. Wrightsville Beach has lured surfers to its shoreline for years. People who don’t normally surf won’t be disappointed with this area’s other activities.

Then there’s the Outer Banks, which have the largest consistent waves on the East Coast. The “OBX,” as locals call it, juts out into two ocean currents, giving surfers options for winter and summer waves. The “S-Turns” in Rodanthe is one hot spot, but there’s the right stuff in Cape Hatteras, Kitty Hawk, and Kill Devil Hills. The OBX also hosts surfing tournaments throughout the year if that’s your jam.

Professional Sports

Sports fans can rejoice since South and North Carolina have many action-packed sports teams and games. However, different teams dominate in certain sports. For instance, North Carolina is the better state when it comes to college basketball. Its top schools have won many national championships:

• Duke University
• North Carolina State University
• Wake Forest University

When it comes to college football, South Carolina has the upper hand due to the success of the Clemson Tigers.

When it comes to professional sports teams, North Carolina wins by default. South Carolina only has minor league teams. Meanwhile, North Carolina has the:

• Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
• Carolina Panthers (NFL)
• Charlotte Checkers (NHL)
• Charlotte Knights (MLB)
• NASCAR
• Charlotte FC (MLS)

Southern Charm & Hospitality

When it comes to southern charm and hospitality, both states have cultivated a unique character. In South Carolina, it’s more apparent everywhere. The pace of life seems slower, a little more savored. Hear it in the Charleston accent. See it as people smile and wave when walking by on the street. Taste it in the food traditions, like the oyster roasts and Lowcountry boil.

Southern hospitality is present in North Carolina’s major cities, but the pace of life moves faster. Step outside into the smaller towns like Hickory and Fayetteville, and you’ll find it.

Appalachian traditions are found in western North Carolina. They are about a love for family and tradition, but also a distinct love of the arts and music. Go to any folk festival, and you’ll hear the twang of bluegrass echoing through the air.

Living in South Carolina vs North Carolina

Given all we’ve covered, it could be challenging to choose between the two. In truth, both states are excellent places to relocate. It will come down to what you prioritize in a state. Want to live in a dynamic city or a huge college town? North Carolina has more choices. Prefer small-town living and lots of outdoor fun? South Carolina may be more welcoming. So take your wants and needs and use these pros and cons of Carolina living to find your top pick.

Updated August 2024