Tennessee vs. South Carolina: Which is the Better State?

More people are deciding to call the Southern United States home. The weather is excellent, the people are friendly, and there’s always something to do. What’s not to love?

Choosing the best state for Southern living depends on your preferences. Take a look living in Tennessee vs South Carolina.  Both states have unique benefits and drawbacks. It’s essential to research multiple factors that contribute to a well-rounded lifestyle before deciding. Here, we look at living costs, the real estate market, and education systems to help you decide which one is better for you.

Cost of Living

For those seeking a more budget-friendly lifestyle, both fall below the national indexed average of 100. So, which state has the better cost of living, Tennessee vs South Carolina? While both are below the national average for expenses, Tennessee holds a slight advantage.

The following chart shows that Tennessee’s average is 9.7% lower than the national average overall. It beats South Carolina in key areas, like average housing costs and groceries. 

Still, with most costs under national expenditures, you’re getting a great deal in each state. Remember, cost of living can vary by where you live in that state. For example, Nashville, TN, is an amenity-packed city whose desirability has increased living costs. Hilton Head Island also runs over the South Carolina figures, but residents gain a laidback coastal lifestyle. 

Population growth

The consequences of population growth can be seen as either good or bad, depending on your point of view. A more robust economy leads to more buildings and progress, like higher median incomes, well-funded school systems, and entertainment choices. But at the same time, a larger population means inflation and competition for housing.

South Carolina’s desirability as a place to live has accelerated its population growth since 2020. The state added just over half a million residents from 2010 to 2020. From 2022 to 2023, it was the fastest growing state by annual percentage growth. The Summerville area attracted the most new residents from out-of-state. Over 5.7 million people now make the Palmetto State their home.

Although Tennessee’s growth may be less, it was still seventh for growth in 2022-2023. In only 10 years, the state gained around 700,000 residents and had 6.9 million residents by 2020. And one of its suburbs, Nashville, was in the top 10 fastest-growing cities of 2021. The Boyd Center Population Projections suggest that in the next 20 years, Tennessee could reach have close to 8 million residents.

Job Markets

When looking for a new place to live, the local job market will impact your quality of life and cost of living. After all, you’ll need to be able to support yourself and your family. Luckily, these states have plenty of opportunities to find a fulfilling career.

Tennessee’s unemployment rate was 3% in May 2024, under the national average. The actual unemployment rate and job prospects vary widely across the state. In 2022, Nashville had one of the nation’s fastest-growing job markets in 2022. Tech companies are flocking into the area, with the industry growing 51% from 2015 to 2020. Top statewide employers by size are FedEx, DolgenCorp, HCA Healthcare, Dollar General, and Community Health Systems.

South Carolina’s unemployment rate was 3.1% in May 2024. A fast growing job market is part of the reason why people were moving to the state. Its cities like Greenville and Charleston were among the nation’s top ten cities for new job seekers. The hospitality and leisure industry is a significant employer in South Carolina, followed by agriculture, trade, transportation, and aviation. Major employers in South Carolina include BMW Manufacturing Company, Boeing South Carolina, Michelin North America Inc., and Walmart.

Here’s a side-by-side comparison.

The figures are from May 2024. Hourly wage data is based on the average hourly earnings of private employees from the FRED.

** From WIOA state plan from 2016 to 2026

Education Quality

Tennessee and South Carolina have room for growth in education. US News and World Report does favor Tennessee, which came in at no. 31, while South Carolina was no. 42 during the 2023 evaluation cycle. Notably, Tennessee’s public K-12 school system came in at 18th in the nation.

Some more information to compare the two public school systems:

**Figures are from 2023.

Low independent rankings doesn’t mean you can’t find quality education in these states. For example, check out these top school districts in South Carolina.

Tennessee’s Vanderbilt University ranks among the nation’s top schools. Students can also choose from the University of Tennessee, Middle Tennessee State University, East Tennessee State University, Belmont University, and Rhodes College. Notably, the state has a program providing free two-year community college or technical schools for its high school graduates.

While South Carolina’s higher education overall ranked no. 45, it does have some well-regarded colleges and universities like Clemson University, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), The Citadel Military College of South Carolina, and the University of South Carolina.

 

City Living

If you prefer city living, both states have choices. South Carolina’s population centers tend to concentrate along its beautiful beaches but spread across metro areas. Its largest metro still has less than a million people. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s major cities have denser populations.

Memphis, Tennessee, has over 650,000 residents. The home of Elvis Presley and many other famous musicians has a rich musical tradition infused in its historic streets. The city also has a rich civil rights history and some excellent barbecue.

Nashville, now the state’s largest city, is another fantastic option. Country music fans and superstar hopefuls flock to “Music City” because of its large music industry and live music scene. Over 670,000 people call this rapidly growing city home.

Charleston, South Carolina, is the state’s largest city. Nearly 800,000 residents live in the greater metro area. Southern charm radiates in its historic districts, which face the beautiful waterfront. Besides its architecture, Charleston is famous for its cuisine and arts scene. Visit for the renowned Spoleto Festival USA, an annual performing arts festival.

Columbia, the South Carolina state capital, is another choice for those who want to live in a city. The state’s center for government and business has museums and entertainment. It’s still small enough make bumper-to-bumper traffic a rarity.

Tennessee vs. South Carolina Weather

Do you prefer the heat? Hopefully, because this is the south. Hot and humid summers are part of the prescription of southern living. South Carolina has a higher average temperature and ranks as the no. 8 hottest state.

However, the actual weather conditions in Tennessee and South Carolina vary depending on which part of the state you live in. 

South Carolina has a humid subtropical climate in the lowlands and a humid continental climate in the higher elevations. However, expect to experience warmer days than Tennessee. It has a statewide average high of 92F in summer and an average high of 61F in winter.

Another consideration is its Atlantic coastline. Tropical systems move in during hurricane season, bringing high winds, drenching rains, and storm surge for those along the coast. It bumps up the humidity factor.

Residents of the Upstate experience colder winters, and an occasional dusting of snow is not out of the question. The elevation creates a milder climate compared to the rest of South Carolina.

Tennessee is generally considered to have a humid subtropical climate, with a humid continental climate in the mountains. The state experiences all four seasons, but the temperatures are usually mild. The average high in summer is around 87F, and the mild winters have an average high  45F. Colder winters are felt statewide with occasional snowfall or ice storms. 

Southern and western Tennessee receive more annual rainfall. The region is also known for windy, strong storm systems during the transitional parts of the year. Tornadoes and heavy rain events are something to be aware of.

Real Estate Taxes

No one likes paying taxes, but it is a necessary part of life. When considering moving to a new state, factor in the cost of real estate taxes into your cost of living.

South Carolina’s effective property tax rate was 0.57% in 2021, making it one of the lowest nationwide. Property taxes for primary residences are charged at 4% of the assessed market value. Homeowners must apply for this rate with their county assessor; otherwise, they will be charged 6% of property value. The local counties and cities set the millage rate.

Tennessee’s average effective property tax rate was slightly higher at 0.64% in 2021. In Tennessee, homeowners are taxed at 25% of their home’s market value. The counties set the property tax rates, and the local tax administration is responsible for assessment and collection. Local cities may also have a property tax. Keep in mind, while looking at Tennessee vs South Carolina, that both technically have property tax rates below the national average. 

Taxes for Retirees

After years of working, those on a fixed income definitely want to make sure every dollar is stretched as far as it can go. South Carolina placed eleventh on a 2024 analysis of best states for retirement, with affordability as its highest measure. However, while Tennessee was lower on the list because of healthcare access, it did rank highly for affordability in retirement, too.

Tennessee does not have a statewide individual income tax. Right there, that’s a major saving. However, some investment income from annuities and pensions may be taxed. Social security benefits are not taxed either. Tennessee does have a state minimum sales tax of 7% on most purchases. However, many items, including prescription drugs, are exempt from sales tax. Those 65 and older can also apply for a “tax freeze” on their home, keeping their property taxes low.

South Carolina offers several tax breaks for retirees. Property taxes can be reduced by $50,000 of a home’s value, lowering the overall bill. There is also no inheritance or estate tax in South Carolina, nor is social security taxed. However, certain kinds of pension income may be taxed. The state does have an individual income tax, too, if you plan to work some.

 

Outdoor Recreation

It’s hard to pick a winner for living in Tennessee vs South Carolina looking at their outdoor activities. From the Appalachian Mountains to the beaches, residents find countless options for hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and more.

Sun in South Carolina

South Carolina is the obvious choice if you’re a beach person. With miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, you have many beaches to choose from. Myrtle Beach is a popular oceanfront tourist destination, but there are also smaller, more relaxed towns that blend southern hospitality and coastal living. Check out Pawleys Island or Kiawah Island if you crave a quiet beach lifestyle.

The state is also famous for its golfing resorts and championship courses. It’s hard to resist playing a round or two of golf. Over 100 courses are concentrated around the Myrtle Beach metro, many designed by golf’s finest course architects. 

South Carolina’s coastal lowlands, many rivers, and lakes create just add to the opportunities for boating and fishing. Find wild landscapes in the Pee Dee Region or along the Catawba River. These lowlands give way to the rolling Piedmont region and, eventually, the Appalachian foothills. In Upstate South Carolina, people escape the lowland hot summers for whitewater rafting and mountain biking. 

Tennessee Recreation

While South Carolina does have some elevation, Tennessee is the state for you if you love the mountains. The Appalachian Mountains run through 18 counties in East Tennessee. The recreational opportunities here are endless. Millions come to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to see the wildlife, hike, camp, flyfish, and generally take in the sights. The nearby cities have high-adventure mountain fun, with zip lines and mountain coasters. Across the Appalachian region are charming mountain towns promising an affordable cost but access to mountains and fun.

The activities in this state are just as diverse as the landscape. You could go whitewater rafting, rock climbing in the mountains, or spelunking in incredible caves. As you move into central Tennessee and the Cumberland Plateau, head out boating or water skiing on one of the immense reservoir lakes or rivers. Cycling trails span miles, while its parks have beautiful vistas from campgrounds and hiking trails. In terms of state parks, Tennessee has 56, while South Carolina has 47.

Sports Culture

Not everyone is a sports fan, but for those who are, it can be nice to have a professional team to root for. In this regard, Tennessee is the clear winner. South Carolina has no professional sports teams!

Tennessee is home to the NFL’s Tennessee Titans, the NHL’s Nashville Predators, and the MLB’s Memphis Redbirds. Several minor leagues support the sports culture. Two collegiate teams play in the competitive SEC, with football being a big deal in the state.

South Carolina has several minor baseball league teams and collegiate teams sports fans throw their loyalty behind. The University of South Carolina plays Tennessee in the SEC.

Southern hospitality

The South has a reputation for friendly people.  Southerners are known for their strong sense of community and tradition. And they make a mean cup of sweet tea and barbecue! Don’t be surprised to hear people saying “y’all” or “ma’am” in either of these states.

You’ll find kind and hospitable people living in Tennessee and South Carolina. But, Condé Nast Traveler ranked Greenville, SC, the friendliest city in the US in 2022, and Charleston was on its heels at no. 5. Nashville appeared at no. 9.

Arts and Culture

Tennessee’s culture revolves more around music. Deep bluegrass and country music traditions abound across the state. This is the home of country music and Graceland, after all. Find live music districts in Nashville and Memphis and major outdoor summer music festivals like Bonaroo.

East Tennessee has a proud Appalachian tradition with a distinct folk art style. Explore the art galleries of mountain towns, and you’ll see handmade, authentic works in quilting, pottery, woodcarving, and more, keeping the craft alive. 

Tennessee has a reputation for delicious smoked meats. Memphis BBQ is recognized as its own style. The state has also given the nation Hot Chicken, Tennesee Whiskey, Moon Pies, and country ham with red-eye gravy.

South Carolina has a distinct low-country tradition. People recognize its unique drawl, a slower pace of speaking distinct in places like Charleston. The Gullah culture of its Sea Islands is also unique.

It has influenced the state’s famous coastal cuisine. Fresh-caught fish, oysters, and shrimp fill the plates. And what’s better on a hot summer day than a glass of cold sweet tea?

 

Comparing Living in Tennessee vs South Carolina

So, which state is the better place to live? It depends on what you’re looking for. Consider your priorities and make the decision that’s best for you! As you can see, both states have a lot in common. Their main differences stack up in cost of living, education, and local culture. Learn more about living in South Carolina vs Tennessee from a local real estate agent.

Updated June 2024