North Carolina vs South Carolina Paycheck Comparison 2026

At a $100,000 salary, North Carolina results in $1,717 more annual take-home pay. North Carolina has a flat state income tax of 3.99%. All taxable income is taxed at the same rate. South Carolina uses a progressive income tax with 3 brackets ranging from 0.00% to 6.40%.

The difference depends on salary. At $50,000, the gap is $512/yr. At $150,000, it grows to $2,922/yr. At $300,000, the difference is $6,537/yr.

Yes. Federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare are the same in every state. Only state income tax differs. This calculator shows the combined effect of federal and state taxes on your take-home pay.

South Carolina is cheaper to live in. Cost of living in North Carolina is 3% higher than in South Carolina. North Carolina's Regional Price Parity is 93.7 and South Carolina's is 91.3 (US average = 100).

Yes. South Carolina has a lower cost of living than North Carolina (index 91.3 vs 93.7). Housing is typically the biggest difference between the two states.

Yes. North Carolina has a higher cost of living (index 93.7) compared to South Carolina (index 91.3). The national average is 100. Housing costs are typically the largest driver of the difference.

At a $100,000 salary, take-home pay of $75,190 in North Carolina has the purchasing power of $77,167 in South Carolina terms. Conversely, $73,473 in South Carolina equals $71,591 in North Carolina terms. After adjusting for both taxes and cost of living, North Carolina comes out ahead.

The overall cost of living is 2% different between North Carolina and South Carolina. Living costs are 6% below the national average Living costs are 9% below the national average After taxes and cost of living, North Carolina gives you more purchasing power on a $100,000 salary.