Autism diagnosis rates have been rising across the United States, and North Carolina is no exception. But how does North Carolina compare with its neighboring states — like Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Virginia — when it comes to autism diagnoses?
In this article, we’ll take a look at the growth in autism diagnoses in these states, highlighting the similarities and differences in how each state is addressing this increase.
Autism Diagnosis Rates in North Carolina
North Carolina has seen a significant rise in autism diagnoses over the years. Recent reports estimate that approximately 1 in 39 children in North Carolina are diagnosed with autism, which is higher than the national average of 1 in 31children.
The rising numbers reflect increased awareness, screening efforts, and diagnostic access, making it easier for children to be identified and receive support.
How Neighboring States Compare
Georgia
In Georgia, the autism diagnosis rate is slightly lower than North Carolina’s, with 1 in 42 children identified with autism in some regions. However, like North Carolina, Georgia has experienced significant growth in autism diagnoses in recent years due to better access to screening and more awareness.
Tennessee
Tennessee’s autism prevalence is similar to North Carolina’s, with recent data showing 1 in 40 children diagnosed. The state has worked to improve early identification efforts in recent years, contributing to a rising diagnosis rate.
South Carolina
South Carolina is seeing a steady increase in autism diagnoses, with estimates ranging from 1 in 40 to 1 in 45 children. Although the exact rate is harder to pinpoint, the trend in rising diagnoses is clear, partly due to greater awareness and improved screening.
Virginia
Virginia’s autism ratey is slightly lower than North Carolina’s, with recent estimates around 1 in 50 children diagnosed. Virginia has seen a growth in diagnoses as well, though the rate still lags behind some neighboring states like North Carolina. (Virginia Department of Education, 2025)
Why Do These Rates Differ?
1. Awareness and Screening
States that have invested more in early screening and diagnostic access tend to report higher diagnosis rates. North Carolina has made significant strides in screening children earlier, leading to more diagnoses.
2. Healthcare Access
States with more healthcare providers, especially pediatric specialists, are able to diagnose autism more frequently. This is why urban areas in states like North Carolina and Georgia tend to have higher rates.
3. State-Specific Reporting and Research
Not all states participate in the same data collection networks (like the CDC’s ADDM network). This can lead to differences in how each state reports and tracks autism diagnoses.
Conclusion
In summary, autism diagnosis rates are rising in North Carolina and across its neighboring states. While North Carolina has some of the highest rates, states like Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina are also seeing significant increases in diagnoses due to improved screening and awareness.
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FAQs
1. How does North Carolina’s autism rate compare to other states?
North Carolina’s autism diagnosis rate is higher than the national average, with 1 in 39 children diagnosed. Neighboring states like Georgia and Tennessee also report rising diagnosis rates, but North Carolina remains one of the highest.
2. Why is there a rise in autism diagnoses across states?
The rise in autism diagnoses is largely due to improved screening efforts, greater awareness, and better access to healthcare services, which help identify children earlier.
3. What is causing differences in autism diagnosis rates between states?
Differences in diagnosis rates can be attributed to factors like screening access, healthcare infrastructure, and whether a state participates in national data monitoring programs like the CDC’s ADDM network.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/ss/ss6904a1.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/autism/data-research/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/autism/data-research/autism-data-visualization-tool.html
https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2025/04/16/autism-diagnoses-are-rise-question-is-why
