North Carolina vs South Carolina: Take-Home Pay Compared

On a $75,000 single-filer salary, North Carolina keeps about $58,947 a year after taxes, versus $58,680 in South Carolina — a gap of $267. Most of the gap comes from the states' different income tax schedules.

Run your own numbers in the calculator

Single filers

Annual take-home pay, single filers. Assumes the standard deduction and no other credits.
Gross salaryNorth CarolinaSouth CarolinaDifference
$50,000$40,772$40,942SC +$170
$75,000$58,947$58,680NC +$267
$100,000$75,472$74,767NC +$705
$150,000$107,958$106,378NC +$1,580

Married filing jointly

Annual take-home pay, married filing jointly. Assumes the standard deduction and no other credits.
Gross salaryNorth CarolinaSouth CarolinaDifference
$50,000$43,354$43,927SC +$573
$75,000$62,519$62,655SC +$136
$100,000$81,544$81,242NC +$302
$150,000$117,894$116,717NC +$1,177

Married figures assume the salary shown is the household's combined income. Local city and county wage taxes are not included.

North Carolina vs South Carolina: FAQ

Which state has higher take-home pay, North Carolina or South Carolina?

On a $75,000 single-filer salary, North Carolina keeps more: $58,947 versus $58,680 in South Carolina — a difference of $267 a year.

What are the income tax rates in North Carolina vs South Carolina?

North Carolina: flat 4.25%. South Carolina: graduated — 2 brackets, 0% to 6%.

Is it worth moving states for lower taxes?

Taxes matter, but they are one input. The gap between these two states on a $75,000 salary is $267 a year for a single filer. Compare that against differences in housing costs, property taxes, sales taxes, and wages for your occupation before deciding.