Alabama vs Oklahoma: Which Is Better to Live In?
Alabama ranks #37 of 50 overall and Oklahoma #43 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 87.8); Alabama carries a 1-point higher tax burden and has a 15% lower violent crime rate. Alabama scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 20% lower in Alabama ($8,859 vs. $11,012 in Oklahoma).
- Property crime rate is 19% lower in Alabama (1,462 vs. 1,814 in Oklahoma).
- Residential electricity price is 19% lower in Oklahoma (13.12¢/kWh vs. 16.10¢/kWh in Alabama).
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +5.5 pts | 48.5#37 of 50 · C | 43.0#43 of 50 · D | +5.5 pts | — | AL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 88.8#7 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$3,648 · US -$11,758 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | +$3,648 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,352 (+8%) · US $368,697 | $241,613#8 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$18,352+8% | $368,697 | OK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.98 pts · US 8.74% | 7.99%#14 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +0.98 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -59 (-15%) · US 328 | 348#33 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | -59-15% | 328 | AL |
| Median household incomeGap +$511 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $66,659#44 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | +$511+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +8.2 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#14 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#45 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +788 · US -33 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +788 | -33 | AL |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Alabama or Oklahoma better to live in?
Alabama scores higher overall: 48.5 to 43 out of 100, #37 of 50 against #43. Alabama leads 4 of 11 categories, Oklahoma leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +7.6 | 15% | 49.8#21 · B | 42.2#33 · C+ | +7.6 pts | AL |
| Safety12% of scoregap +9.9 | 12% | 66.3#28 · C+ | 56.4#41 · C | +9.9 pts | AL |
| Health12% of scoregap +2.8 | 12% | 29.5#45 · D | 26.7#48 · D | +2.8 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +19.2 | 12% | 49.4#39 · C | 30.2#48 · D | +19.2 pts | AL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -3.1 | 10% | 85.5#7 · A | 88.6#4 · A+ | -3.1 pts | OK |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -2 | 8% | 56.4#31 · C+ | 58.4#27 · C+ | -2 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +4.7 | 7% | 53.6#7 · A | 48.9#15 · B+ | +4.7 pts | AL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -14.2 | 7% | 32.9#49 · F | 47.1#32 · C+ | -14.2 pts | OK |
| Livability7% of scoregap -3.9 | 7% | 22.8#45 · D | 26.7#37 · C | -3.9 pts | OK |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -6.1 | 6% | 6.6#47 · D | 12.7#39 · C | -6.1 pts | OK |
| Environment4% of scoregap -9 | 4% | 28.3#43 · D | 37.3#32 · C+ | -9 pts | OK |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Alabama cheaper than Oklahoma?
Alabama and Oklahoma cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 88.8 vs 87.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $3,648 more a year in Alabama after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 88.8#7 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.4#26 of 50 | 93.8#5 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.98¢ (+23%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | +2.98¢+23% | 17.84¢/kWh | OK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.57 (+26%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | +$3.57+26% | $15.83/Mcf | OK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.15 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | -$0.15-5% | $3.32/gal | AL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,153 (-20%) · US $15,633 | $8,859#3 of 50 | $11,012#9 of 50 | -$2,153-20% | $15,633 | AL |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$473 | +$36,789costs $38,211 | +$37,262costs $37,739 | -$473 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$607 | +$30,195costs $44,805 | +$30,802costs $44,198 | -$607 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$3,648 | +$8,845costs $66,155 | +$5,197costs $69,802 | +$3,648 | AL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$688 | +$41,956costs $33,044 | +$42,644costs $32,356 | -$688 | Even |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$158 | $15,603 | $15,445 | +$158 | Even |
| ChildcareGap -$4,306 | $17,718 | $22,024 | -$4,306 | AL |
| UtilitiesGap +$48 | $4,262 | $4,214 | +$48 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$293 | $10,858 | $10,565 | +$293 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$471 | $9,083 | $9,554 | -$471 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$631 | $8,631 | $8,000 | +$631 | OK |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Alabama or Oklahoma?
Oklahoma collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.01% vs 7.99%. Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.98 pts · US 8.74% | 7.99%#14 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +0.98 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.6 pts · US 5.46% | 4.15%#15 of 50 | 4.75%#20 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 5.46% | AL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.46 pts · US 1.02% | 0.39%#2 of 50 | 0.85%#25 of 50 | -0.46 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.4 pts · US 6.66% | 9.46%#46 of 50 | 9.06%#45 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 6.66% | Even |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Alabama or Oklahoma?
Homes cost 8% more in Alabama: a typical home value of $241,613 in Alabama vs $223,261 in Oklahoma. Buying the typical home takes about $63,954 of income in Alabama and $65,093 in Oklahoma; the median household earns $66,659 and $66,148.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,352 (+8%) · US $368,697 | $241,613#8 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$18,352+8% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.9 pts · US +1.2% | +1.9%#29 of 50 | +2.8%#19 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.2% | OK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$45 (+3%) · US $1,948 | $1,433#11 of 50 | $1,388#8 of 50 | +$45+3% | $1,948 | OK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$1,139 (-2%) · US $100,006 | $63,954#5 of 50 | $65,093#7 of 50 | -$1,139-2% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+6%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#8 of 50 | 3.4x#6 of 50 | +0.2x+6% | 4.6x | OK |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| AL | OK | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,243 | $1,149 |
| Income needed vs. median | -4% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +17.7% | +26.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Birmingham | Oklahoma City |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Alabama or Oklahoma?
Median household income is about the same, $66,659 in Alabama and $66,148 in Oklahoma, with unemployment at 2.9% and 3.4%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Alabama's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Oklahoma's in 8.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$511 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $66,659#44 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | +$511+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 2.9%#5 of 50 | 3.4%#14 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,622 (-8%) · US $64,333 | $51,087#44 of 50 | $55,709#39 of 50 | -$4,622-8% | $64,333 | OK |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.04 pts · US +0.51% | +0.58%#20 of 50 | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.04 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | AL | OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $239,510$215,559 in Birmingham | $223,792$196,937 in Tulsa | AL |
| Lawyers | $143,248$128,923 in Birmingham | $150,260$132,229 in Oklahoma City | OK |
| General & Operations Managers | $95,904$86,314 in Birmingham | $102,376$90,091 in Oklahoma City | OK |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $70,578$63,520 in Birmingham | $75,697$66,613 in Oklahoma City | OK |
| Construction Laborers | $41,163$37,047 in Birmingham | $44,757$39,386 in Oklahoma City | OK |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $65,068$58,561 in Birmingham | $68,550$60,324 in Tulsa | OK |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,371$55,234 in Birmingham | $64,257$56,546 in Oklahoma City | OK |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $104,288$93,859 in Birmingham | $106,759$93,948 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,134$49,621 in Birmingham | $57,591$50,680 in Tulsa | OK |
| Software Developers | $134,596$121,136 in Birmingham | $132,359$116,476 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $52,873$47,586 in Birmingham | $54,739$48,170 in Oklahoma City | OK |
| Accountants & Auditors | $79,326$71,393 in Birmingham | $77,585$68,275 in Tulsa | Even |
| Electricians | $62,286$56,057 in Birmingham | $60,794$53,499 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $96,769$87,092 in Birmingham | $95,295$83,860 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $87,941$79,147 in Birmingham | $86,852$76,430 in Tulsa | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,637$43,773 in Birmingham | $49,615$43,661 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,911$30,520 in Birmingham | $33,001$29,041 in Tulsa | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,834$58,351 in Birmingham | $63,976$56,299 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,592$48,233 in Birmingham | $53,273$46,880 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,494$49,945 in Birmingham | $55,645$48,968 in Tulsa | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Alabama safer than Oklahoma?
Alabama is safer: 348 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 408 in Oklahoma (FBI). Property crime runs 1,462 and 1,814 per 100,000.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -59 (-15%) · US 328 | 348#33 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | -59-15% | 328 | AL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -352 (-19%) · US 1,535 | 1,462#27 of 50 | 1,814#42 of 50 | -352-19% | 1,535 | AL |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Daphne, AL57 violent per 100K
- Bixby, OK80 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Alabama or Oklahoma?
Alabama scores higher for education (#39 of 50 vs #48), with high school graduation rates of 88.2% and 80%. They are close on health (#45 and #48); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Alabama and 73.8 in Oklahoma.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 262#48 of 50 | 265#45 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 250#45 of 50 | 249#47 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +8.2 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#14 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#45 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.1 pts · US 34.03% | 38.9%#46 of 50 | 36.8%#37 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 34.03% | OK |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.3 pts · US 7.6% | 8.2%#32 of 50 | 11.5%#48 of 50 | -3.3 pts | 7.6% | AL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 42#37 of 50 | 46#49 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | AL |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Florence, ALeducation score 98
- Bixby, OKeducation score 95
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Alabama #39, Oklahoma #48. Health: Alabama #45, Oklahoma #48.
Are more people moving from Alabama to Oklahoma, or from Oklahoma to Alabama?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 840 people (±521) moving from Alabama to Oklahoma and 840 (±646) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +9,778 (+21%) | 55,369#25 of 50 | 45,591#30 of 50 | +9,778+21% | AL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +8,990 (+22%) | 49,167#24 of 50 | 40,177#19 of 50 | +8,990+22% | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +788 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +788 | AL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.1 | +1.2#19 of 50 | +1.3#17 of 50 | -0.1 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,464 (+13%) | $66,467#36 of 50 | $59,003#46 of 50 | +$7,464+13% | AL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,419 (+6%) | $63,867#45 of 50 | $60,448#48 of 50 | +$3,419+6% | AL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.0 | +4.5#11 of 50 | +3.5#14 of 50 | +1.0 | AL |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Alabama or Oklahoma?
Alabama is the better fit for families, young professionals, and small business; Oklahoma is the better fit for remote workers and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -7 places | #39score 56.2 | #46score 47.3 | -7 places | AL |
| RetireesGap +3 places | #44score 51.9 | #41score 53.7 | +3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +5 places | #26score 52 | #21score 54.6 | +5 places | OK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -4 places | #22score 55.2 | #26score 53.7 | -4 places | AL |
| Small BusinessGap -4 places | #24score 58.7 | #28score 53.4 | -4 places | AL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #48score 25.3 | #42score 29.3 | +6 places | OK |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesAlabama (#39 vs #46)
- RetireesEven (#44 vs #41)
- Remote WorkersOklahoma (#21 vs #26)
- Young ProfessionalsAlabama (#22 vs #26)
- Small BusinessAlabama (#24 vs #28)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsOklahoma (#42 vs #48)
Which cities stand out in Alabama and Oklahoma?
Alabama has 20 tracked cities and Oklahoma has 20; the largest are Huntsville and Oklahoma City. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Huntsville222,791 people | Oklahoma City697,125 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Madisonscore 72.1 | Bixbyscore 66.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Daphne57 violent per 100K | Bixby80 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Enterprisecost index 83.2 | Stillwatercost index 83.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Montgomerywalkability 12.6 of 20 | Tulsawalkability 12.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Alabastercounty median AQI 36 | Ardmorecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Florence98% graduation rate | Bixby95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Madisonmedian income $134,655 | Jenksmedian income $111,004 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Madison+6.5% growth | Bixby+2.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Alabama and Oklahoma compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Alabama carries AA credit rating and Oklahoma AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -43 pts · US 29.34% | 9%#40 of 50 | 52%#11 of 50 | -43 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.5 (-10%) · US 29.6 | 31.1#28 of 50 | 34.6#32 of 50 | -3.5-10% | 29.6 | AL |
| Public land shareGap +1.5 pts · US 17.16% | 3.7%#40 of 50 | 2.2%#43 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 17.16% | AL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.3 min · US 25.2 min | 26 min#27 of 50 | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | +3.3 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 0.4%#44 of 50 | 0.3%#47 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 8.3%#46 of 50 | 8.9%#42 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.28% | OK |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 91.6%#38 of 50 | 92.1%#35 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 92.67% | OK |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#34 of 50 | 90#38 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#28 of 50 | 9.2%#30 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.39% | AL |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#29 of 50 | 72%#31 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap -$104 (-4%) · US $3,506 | $2,456#19 of 50 | $2,560#21 of 50 | -$104-4% | $3,506 | AL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#23 of 50 | +5.8%#18 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +4.66% | OK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Alabama AA, Oklahoma AA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Alabama vs Oklahoma: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Alabama is ahead on 18 of 51, Oklahoma on 15, and 18 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | AlabamaAL | OklahomaOK | GapAL−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,069,800 (+26%) · US 6.8 million | 5.2 million#24 of 50 | 4.1 million#28 of 50 | +1,069,800+26% | 6.8 million | AL |
| Median household incomeGap +$511 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $66,659#44 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | +$511+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 2.9%#5 of 50 | 3.4%#14 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | AL |
| Population growthGap -0.04 pts · US +0.51% | +0.58%#20 of 50 | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.04 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,622 (-8%) · US $64,333 | $51,087#44 of 50 | $55,709#39 of 50 | -$4,622-8% | $64,333 | OK |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#29 of 50 | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -59 (-15%) · US 328 | 348#33 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | -59-15% | 328 | AL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -352 (-19%) · US 1,535 | 1,462#27 of 50 | 1,814#42 of 50 | -352-19% | 1,535 | AL |
| High school graduation rateGap +8.2 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#14 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 85.62% | AL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 236#31 of 50 | 233#44 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 262#48 of 50 | 265#45 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 213#33 of 50 | 207#46 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 250#45 of 50 | 249#47 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#45 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.1 pts · US 34.03% | 38.9%#46 of 50 | 36.8%#37 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 34.03% | OK |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.3 pts · US 7.6% | 8.2%#32 of 50 | 11.5%#48 of 50 | -3.3 pts | 7.6% | AL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,352 (+8%) · US $368,697 | $241,613#8 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$18,352+8% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.9 pts · US +1.2% | +1.9%#29 of 50 | +2.8%#19 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.2% | OK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$45 (+3%) · US $1,948 | $1,433#11 of 50 | $1,388#8 of 50 | +$45+3% | $1,948 | OK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$1,139 (-2%) · US $100,006 | $63,954#5 of 50 | $65,093#7 of 50 | -$1,139-2% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 88.8#7 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+6%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#8 of 50 | 3.4x#6 of 50 | +0.2x+6% | 4.6x | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.98¢ (+23%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 16.10¢/kWh#31 of 50 | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | +2.98¢+23% | 17.84¢/kWh | OK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.57 (+26%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.56/Mcf#36 of 50 | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | +$3.57+26% | $15.83/Mcf | OK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.15 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.89/gal#2 of 50 | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | -$0.15-5% | $3.32/gal | AL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 96.4#26 of 50 | 93.8#5 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | OK |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,153 (-20%) · US $15,633 | $8,859#3 of 50 | $11,012#9 of 50 | -$2,153-20% | $15,633 | AL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.98 pts · US 8.74% | 7.99%#14 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +0.98 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.6 pts · US 5.46% | 4.15%#15 of 50 | 4.75%#20 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 5.46% | AL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.46 pts · US 1.02% | 0.39%#2 of 50 | 0.85%#25 of 50 | -0.46 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.4 pts · US 6.66% | 9.46%#46 of 50 | 9.06%#45 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#34 of 50 | 90#38 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#28 of 50 | 9.2%#30 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.39% | AL |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#29 of 50 | 72%#31 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap -$104 (-4%) · US $3,506 | $2,456#19 of 50 | $2,560#21 of 50 | -$104-4% | $3,506 | AL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#23 of 50 | +5.8%#18 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +4.66% | OK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 42#37 of 50 | 46#49 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | AL |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -43 pts · US 29.34% | 9%#40 of 50 | 52%#11 of 50 | -43 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.5 (-10%) · US 29.6 | 31.1#28 of 50 | 34.6#32 of 50 | -3.5-10% | 29.6 | AL |
| Public land shareGap +1.5 pts · US 17.16% | 3.7%#40 of 50 | 2.2%#43 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 17.16% | AL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.3 min · US 25.2 min | 26 min#27 of 50 | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | +3.3 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 0.4%#44 of 50 | 0.3%#47 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 8.3%#46 of 50 | 8.9%#42 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.28% | OK |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 91.6%#38 of 50 | 92.1%#35 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 92.67% | OK |
| Households moving inIRSGap +9,778 (+21%) · US 78,682 | 55,369#25 of 50 | 45,591#30 of 50 | +9,778+21% | 78,682 | AL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +8,990 (+22%) · US 78,715 | 49,167#24 of 50 | 40,177#19 of 50 | +8,990+22% | 78,715 | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +788 · US -33 | +6,202#11 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +788 | -33 | AL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.1 · US +0.4 | +1.2#19 of 50 | +1.3#17 of 50 | -0.1 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$7,464 (+13%) · US $77,690 | $66,467#36 of 50 | $59,003#46 of 50 | +$7,464+13% | $77,690 | AL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,419 (+6%) · US $77,024 | $63,867#45 of 50 | $60,448#48 of 50 | +$3,419+6% | $77,024 | AL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.0 · US +1.1 | +4.5#11 of 50 | +3.5#14 of 50 | +1.0 | +1.1 | AL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$3,648 · US -$11,758 | +$8,845#3 of 50 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | +$3,648 | -$11,758 | AL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$473 · US +$31,418 | +$36,789#7 of 50 | +$37,262#5 of 50 | -$473 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$688 · US +$35,970 | +$41,956#6 of 50 | +$42,644#5 of 50 | -$688 | +$35,970 | Even |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Alabama and Oklahoma numbers say when read together.
Alabama ranks higher overall
Alabama leads 4 of the 11 categories to Oklahoma's 5, with 2 even; Oklahoma is ahead on transportation and environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Alabama is ahead on 18 and Oklahoma on 15.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 88.8 in Alabama and 87.8 in Oklahoma, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $241,613 and $223,261. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$8,845 a year after typical costs in Alabama and +$5,197 in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma takes a smaller share in taxes
Alabama collects 7.99% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack); Oklahoma collects 7.01% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Alabama is safer
Median household income is $66,659 in Alabama and $66,148 in Oklahoma, with unemployment at 2.9% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 348 per 100,000 residents in Alabama and 408 in Oklahoma.
Moves between the two run about even
840 people moved from Alabama to Oklahoma and 840 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Alabama is the better fit for families
For families, Alabama ranks #39 of 50 and Oklahoma #46; for retirees, Alabama ranks #44 and Oklahoma #41.
Alabama vs Oklahoma: frequently asked questions
Is Alabama or Oklahoma better to live in?
Alabama ranks #37 of 50 overall and Oklahoma #43 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 88.8 vs 87.8); Alabama carries a 1-point higher tax burden and has a 15% lower violent crime rate. Alabama scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Alabama cheaper than Oklahoma?
Alabama and Oklahoma cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 88.8 vs 87.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have +$8,845 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Alabama, and +$5,197 in Oklahoma. The typical home value is $241,613 in Alabama and $223,261 in Oklahoma.
Which has lower taxes, Alabama or Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has the lower tax burden: 7.01% of income in state and local taxes vs 7.99% in Alabama. Alabama's top income tax rate is 4.15%, its effective property tax rate 0.39% and its combined sales tax 9.46%; Oklahoma's are 4.75%, 0.85% and 9.06%.
Is Alabama safer than Oklahoma?
Alabama is safer: 348 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 408 in Oklahoma, per the FBI. Alabama ranks #33 of 50 for violent crime and Oklahoma #39. Property crime is 1,462 per 100,000 in Alabama and 1,814 in Oklahoma. The safest tracked cities are Daphne, AL, and Bixby, OK.
Are homes more expensive in Alabama or Oklahoma?
Homes are 8% more expensive in Alabama: the typical home value is $241,613 in Alabama and $223,261 in Oklahoma. Buying the typical home takes about $63,954 of household income in Alabama and $65,093 in Oklahoma, against median incomes of $66,659 and $66,148.
Do people earn more in Alabama or Oklahoma?
Alabama and Oklahoma pay about the same: median household income is $66,659 vs $66,148, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 2.9% in Alabama and 3.4% in Oklahoma. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Alabama's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Oklahoma's in 8, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from Alabama to Oklahoma or from Oklahoma to Alabama?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 840 people (±521) moving from Alabama to Oklahoma and 840 (±646) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Alabama or Oklahoma?
Alabama and Oklahoma are close for retirees: #44 and #41 of 50 on the retiree index. Alabama has low property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$41,956 left after typical costs in Alabama and +$42,644 in Oklahoma.
Which is better for families, Alabama or Oklahoma?
Alabama is the better fit for families: #39 of 50 on the families index vs #46 for Oklahoma. Center-based infant care costs $8,859 a year in Alabama and $11,012 in Oklahoma. High school graduation rates are 88.2% and 80%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$8,845 after typical costs in Alabama and +$5,197 in Oklahoma.
Is Oklahoma better than Alabama?
No: Alabama ranks higher than Oklahoma overall, #37 of 50 vs #43, with a composite score of 48.5 to 43. Alabama leads 4 of 11 categories and Oklahoma leads 5, including transportation and environment. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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