Alaska vs South Carolina
South Carolina
Property Tax Comparison: Alaska vs. South Carolina
Summary – Both Alaska and South Carolina have relatively low property‑tax burdens compared with many other U.S. states, but the two states differ markedly in effective tax rates, median home values, and median household incomes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), South Carolina’s effective property‑tax rate is about half that of Alaska, resulting in lower annual tax payments for comparable home values.
Side‑by‑Side Metrics
| Metric | Alaska | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 1.14 % | 0.51 % |
| Median home value | $333,300 | $236,700 |
| Median annual property tax | $3,785 | $1,199 |
| Annual tax on a $250,000 home | $2,839 | $1,266 |
| Annual tax on a $500,000 home | $5,678 | $2,532 |
| Median household income | $89,336 | $66,818 |
| Internal link | Alaska property tax | South Carolina property tax |
All figures are drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 ACS 5‑year estimates.
Which State “Wins” on Property Taxes?
Based on the lower effective property‑tax rate, South Carolina is the winner. The rate difference is 0.63 percentage points, representing a 55.4 % lower property‑tax burden than Alaska. For a typical $250,000 home, the annual tax advantage is $1,573; for a $500,000 home, the advantage rises to $3,146.
The lower rate in South Carolina stems from state and local tax structures that levy a smaller proportion of home value compared with Alaska’s higher rates, despite the latter’s higher median household income.
Who Is This Comparison Most Relevant For?
| Audience | Relevance |
|---|---|
| Current or prospective homeowners | The table shows the direct impact of property‑tax rates on annual cash outlays for homes at common price points ($250 k and $500 k). |
| Retirees | Property taxes affect fixed‑income budgets; lower rates in South Carolina may be more attractive for retirees seeking to minimize recurring expenses. |
| Homebuyers evaluating affordability | Combining tax burden with median home values and household incomes helps assess overall affordability in each state. |
| Policy analysts and researchers | The side‑by‑side data provide a concise snapshot for comparative tax policy studies. |
Key Takeaways
- Effective tax rate: South Carolina (0.51 %) < Alaska (1.14 %).
- Annual tax payments: For comparable home values, South Carolina’s taxes are roughly half of Alaska’s.
- Income context: Alaska’s higher median household income ($89,336) partially offsets its higher tax burden, but the tax rate itself remains the primary differentiator.
Based on the most recent ACS estimates, South Carolina offers a lower property‑tax rate and lower annual tax payments for typical home values, making it the more tax‑advantageous state for property owners.
Explore More Comparisons
Discover how property taxes compare across all states in our comprehensive comparison guide.
Data Source
All figures are drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates). This comprehensive dataset provides reliable, standardized property tax information across all states.