North Carolina and South Carolina charge state taxes on income, property and the purchase of most goods. These taxes help fund state programs, such as building or improving roadways and funding public educational programs. The tax rates for income, property and sales differ between North and South Carolina.
North Carolina Income Tax
Both North and South Carolina charge a state income tax to most workers. North Carolina has three income tax brackets. The North Carolina Department of Revenue reports that, as of 2010, workers who made up to $12,750 annually had a 6 percent tax rate. Workers who made between $12,750 and $60,000 had a 7 percent tax rate, and workers who made over $60,000 had a 7.75 percent tax rate.
South Carolina Income Tax
South Carolina has six income tax brackets. Bankrate reports that, as of 2011, workers who made less than $2,470 did not pay state income taxes. Workers who made between $2,4701 and $5,480 had a 3 percent rate. Workers who made between $5,4801 and $8,220 had a 4 percent income tax rate. Workers who made between $8,221 and $10,960 had a 5 percent tax rate. Workers who made between $10,961 and $13,700 had a 6 percent tax rate. Any worker who made over $13,700 had a 7 percent tax rate.
Property Tax
Residents who own property in North or South Carolina must pay property tax. In North Carolina, property taxes are assessed by the county and vary by location. In South Carolina, the property tax rate is a set value based on property type plus an additional mill rate charged by the local county. For example, primary residences are charged 4 percent of the market value plus the county mill rate, according to Bankrate.
Sales Tax
In North Carolina, residents pay a base sales tax plus an additional sales tax issued by the county. Bankrate reports that, as of 2011, North Carolina charges a base sales tax of 4.75 percent. The county tax ranges from 2 to 2.5 percent. In South Carolina, residents pay a base rate ranging from 5 to 6 percent, and counties have the option of adding an additional 1 percent for most goods, according to Bankrate.