North Carolina variant. This is a North Carolina-specific version of the Stock Sale Capital Gains Tax Estimator, using pre-defined local figures (tax rates, median home and income values, and typical regional costs). For the full formula, methodology, and FAQ, open the main Stock Sale Capital Gains Tax Estimator.
Most states tax capital gains as ordinary income. In North Carolina, that means a top rate of 4.5% on gains.
Capital gains tax in North Carolina
Federally, long-term gains are taxed at 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on income, plus a possible 3.8% net investment income tax. North Carolina then taxes the same gains as ordinary income at up to 4.5%.
Short-term gains (assets held under a year) are taxed as ordinary income at both levels - usually the most expensive outcome.
About taxes and housing in North Carolina
North Carolina uses a flat individual income tax rate that has been scheduled to decline over time toward roughly 3.99%.
North Carolina has a moderate effective property tax rate around 0.82%, with median home values near $320,000.
North Carolina's economy spans banking in Charlotte, technology and research in the Research Triangle, and manufacturing and agriculture statewide.
Worked example: $50,000 long-term gain
A $50,000 long-term gain: federal 15% = $7,500, plus North Carolina state tax up to 4.5% = $2,250, for a combined bill near $9,750.
Quick reference
- State income tax: Flat 4.5% (decreasing to 3.99% by 2026)
- State sales tax: 4.75% (plus 2.23% avg local)
- Median home value: $320,000
- Median household income: $70,804
- Effective property tax rate: 0.82%
- Avg auto insurance: $1,230/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Does North Carolina tax capital gains?
Yes - North Carolina taxes capital gains as ordinary income at up to 4.5%.
What's the difference between short and long-term gains?
Assets held over a year get preferential long-term federal rates (0/15/20%); shorter holds are taxed as ordinary income.