Relative area comparison
Charlotte, NC
Central Contra Costa, CA
Charlotte, NC vs Central Contra Costa, CA
When looking to compare the two destinations of Charlotte, NC and Central Contra Costa, CA, one can see a myriad of differences and similarities that could influence anyone's decision to relocate or visit. Key factors such as crime and safety, weather conditions, cost of living, educational offerings, work opportunities, infrastructure, dominant industries, top employers, real estate values, specific neighborhoods, public transportation, taxation, cultural activities, sports team presence, geographical features and healthcare services all play a role. Both areas offer unique benefits and challenges, offering a well-rounded perspective to help make an informed decision.
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Distance between 
Charlotte, NC and 
Central Contra Costa, CA : 2,276.4 miles
Charlotte, NC and
Central Contra Costa, CA : 2,276.4 miles
Charlotte's population is larger by 81%. Its population has grown by 338,881 people (62.7%) since 2000.
| Population | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 879,709 | 486,883 |
| Female / male percentage | 51.8% / 48.2%
|
51.4% / 48.6%
|
Crime and Safety
Charlotte has a relatively higher crime rate compared to the national average, though it varies by neighborhood. Conversely, Central Contra Costa is known for its safety with crime rates significantly lower than the state average. Both areas have robust policing and are investing in community safety programs. Tourists and locals alike should always remain aware of their surroundings and take standard precautions in either area.
Cost of Living
Compared to Central Contra Costa, Charlotte has a markedly lower cost of living, especially in terms of housing costs. Goods and services are also generally more affordable in Charlotte. However, Central Contra Costa, with its proximity to San Francisco, offers more high-end dining, shopping, and entertainment options at a higher cost.
Income Tax
North Carolina has a flat state income tax rate of 5.25%, applicable to residents in Charlotte. In contrast, California operates on a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 1% to 13.3% depending on income, applicable to Central Contra Costa residents.
Property Tax
Charlotte residents generally pay lower property taxes, having a rate of 0.7531 per $100 of assessed property value. Central Contra Costa residents face higher property tax rates, averaging 0.812% of their home value.
Sales Tax
The combined city and state sales tax in Charlotte is currently 7.25%. Central Contra Costa, on the other hand, levies a slightly higher combined sales tax of 8.25%.
| Income | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated median household income | $70,869 | $127,452 |
| Estimated per capita income | $44,593 | $68,702 |
| Cost of living index (U.S. average is 100) | 93.2 | 139.1 |
If you make $50,000 in Charlotte, you will have to make $74,624 in Central Contra Costa to maintain the same standard of living.
Geographical Conditions
Charlotte is nestled in the Piedmont region, offering nearby access to both mountains and the coast. Central Contra Costa is characterized by a mix of suburban, urban, and semi-rural areas, along with close proximity to the Pacific Coast and wine country.
| Geographical information | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Land area | 242.3 sq. miles | 261.3 sq. miles |
| Population density | 3,631.1 people per sq. mile | 1,863.4 people per sq. mile |
Charlotte, NC
Central Contra Costa, CA
Education
Both areas boast excellent educational opportunities. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is one of the highest-rated school districts in North Carolina whereas Central Contra Costa has several top-ranked public and private schools. For higher education, Charlotte is home to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, while Central Contra Costa offers easy access to prestigious institutions like UC Berkeley.
| Education level (25-year-olds and older) | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 48.8% | 45.8% |
| Graduate or professional degree | 17.8% | 16.3% |
| High school or higher | 90.1% | 92.4% |
Work and Economy
Charlotte’s economy is driven by sectors such as banking (it's the second largest banking center in the U.S.), energy, and health care. Central Contra Costa’s economy, on the other hand, benefits from its proximity to San Francisco and Silicon Valley, providing ample opportunities in sectors like technology, healthcare, and professional services.
Biggest Employers
In Charlotte, some of the biggest employers are Wells Fargo, American Airlines, and Atrium Health. In Central Contra Costa, some of the largest employers include Kaiser Permanente, AT&T, and Chevron Corporation.
In Charlotte (Mecklenburg County), 60.8% voted for Democrats and 38.3% for Republicans in 2012 Presidential Election. In Central Contra Costa (Contra Costa County), 66.2% voted for Democrats and 31.1% for Republicans.
Weather
For those who prefer a warmer, humid subtropical climate, Charlotte would be the better choice with four distinct seasons including a hot summer. In contrast, Central Contra Costa has a Mediterranean climate, featuring mild, wet winters and very dry, warm summers. Both regions offer an appealing outdoor lifestyle, though the choices of activities might differ based on the weather.
| Weather and climate | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature - Average | 61°F | 59.1°F |
| Humidity - Average morning or afternoon humidity | 72.3% | 82.2% |
| Humidity - Differences between morning and afternoon humidity | 41% | 29.3% |
| Humidity - Maximum monthly morning or afternoon humidity | 87% | 88.1% |
| Humidity - Minimum monthly morning or afternoon humidity | 46% | 58.8% |
| Precipitation - Yearly average | 44.5 in | 21.8 in |
| Snowfall - Yearly average | 10.2 in | 0 in |
| Clouds - Number of days clear of clouds | 18.1% | 27.7% |
| Sunshine amount - Average | 69.8% | 73.3% |
| Sunshine amount - Differences during a year | 14% | 22.4% |
| Sunshine amount - Maximum monthly | 70% | 77.2% |
| Sunshine amount - Minimum monthly | 56% | 54.7% |
| Wind speed - Average | 6.9 mph | 11.1 mph |
Average climate in Charlotte, North Carolina
Average climate in Central Contra Costa, California
| Natural disasters | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Tornado activity compared to U.S. average | 111.5% | 9.4% |
| Earthquake activity compared to U.S. average | 79% | 7,786.2% |
| Natural disasters compared to U.S. average | 9% | 18% |
Transportation
Both areas offer robust public transit systems. Charlotte has light rail, streetcars, bus, and greenway systems. Central Contra Costa features Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), buses, and easy access to several major highways.
| Transport | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Amtrak stations | 1 | 0 |
| Amtrak stations nearby | 2 | 3 |
| FAA registered aircraft | 439 | 0 |
| FAA registered aircraft manufacturers and dealers | 12 | 0 |
| Means of transportation to work | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Bicycle | 0.1% | 0.5% |
| Bus | 1.2% | 1% |
| Carpooled | 8.7% | 9.9% |
| Car alone | 86.2% | 72.3% |
| Motorcycle | 0.1% | 0.2% |
| Railroad | 0.4% | 0.8% |
| Subway | 0% | 7.7% |
| Taxicab | 0.2% | 0.1% |
| Walked | 1.5% | 1.5% |
| Average travel time to work | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Average | 29.6 min | 31.8 min |
Real Estate
Housing in Charlotte is quite affordable compared to the national median, offering both suburban and urban living options. Contrastingly, Central Contra Costa has significantly pricier real estate, reflecting the high demand and affluence of the Bay Area.
Neighborhoods
Charlotte offers charming neighborhoods like Dilworth and Myers Park, known for their quaint streets and historic homes. Central Contra Costa, on the other hand, boasts the scenic Lafayette and Moraga, known for their excellent schools and community spirit.
| Houses and residents | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| Houses | 393,631 | 183,777 |
| Average household size (people) | 2.5 | 2.5 |
| Houses occupied | 365,269 (92.8%) | 179,136 (97.5%) |
| Houses occupied by owners | 193,930 (53.1%) | 127,889 (71.4%) |
| Houses occupied by renters | 171,339 (46.9%) | 51,247 (28.6%) |
| Median rent asked for vacant for-rent units | $1,482 | $2,527 |
| Median price asked for vacant for-sale houses and condos | $445,491 | $1,269,474 |
| Estimated median house or condo value | $321,400 | Over $1,000,000 |
| Median number of rooms in apartments | 4 | 4.3 |
| Median number of rooms in houses and condos | 6.6 | 6.5 |
| Renting percentage | 42.6% | 30.3% |
| Housing density (houses/condos per square mile) | 1,624.8 | 703.4 |
| Household income disparities | 44.1% | 35.9% |
| Housing units without a mortgage | 3,089 (2.1%) | 20,208 (18.2%) |
| Housing units with both a second mortgage and home equity loan | 10,553 (7.2%) | 418 (0.4%) |
| Housing units with a mortgage | 142,912 (97.9%) | 90,899 (81.8%) |
| Housing units with a home equity loan | 171 (0.1%) | 13,612 (12.3%) |
| Housing units with a second mortgage | 13,532 (9.3%) | 13,614 (12.3%) |
| Housing units lacking complete kitchen facilities | 0.8% | 0.5% |
| Housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities | 0.2% | 0.3% |
Industries and Occupations
Banking and finance dominate in Charlotte with companies like Bank of America and Wells Fargo. Central Contra Costa benefits from the presence of numerous technology and healthcare companies due to its proximity to Silicon Valley and San Francisco.
Health Care
Top-rated healthcare systems are present in both regions. Charlotte boasts Atrium Health and Novant Health, while Central Contra Costa is serviced by health giants like Kaiser Permanente and John Muir Health.
| Health (county statistics) | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| General health status score of residents in this county from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent) | 3.5 | 3.7 |
| Average weight of females (lbs) | 164.8 lbs | 154.8 lbs |
| Average weight of males (lbs) | 198.6 lbs | 194.7 lbs |
| Residents visited a dentist within the past year | 66.4% | 80.2% |
| Residents exercised in the past month | 73.3% | 80.3% |
| Adult residents drank alcohol in the past 30 days | 48.8% | 87.8% |
| Residents smoked 100+ cigarettes in their lives | 42.2% | 42.5% |
Infrastructure
Charlotte boasts an impressive skyline and robust public transportation system with light rail, buses, and a bike sharing program. Central Contra Costa, while less urbanized, offers excellent roads, good public transportation, and many recreational facilities.
| Infrastructure | ||
| Type | Charlotte | Central Contra Costa |
|---|---|---|
| TV stations | 16 | 24 |
| Nuclear power plants nearby | 2 | 0 |
Culture and Food
Both regions have a thriving cultural scene. Charlotte is known for its Southern hospitality and barbecue, NASCAR racing, and vibrant arts scene. Central Contra Costa offers a mixture of suburban and city life, with a variety of dining options and access to San Francisco's renowned cultural attractions.
Sports Teams
Sports enthusiasts will appreciate Charlotte, home to NFL's Carolina Panthers and NBA's Charlotte Hornets. Central Contra Costa, while not having its own professional sports teams, is close to Oakland and San Francisco where NFL's 49ers, NBA's Golden State Warriors, and MLB's Giants and A's play.