Oklahoma vs Arkansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
Oklahoma ranks #43 of 50 overall and Arkansas #48 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 86.9); Oklahoma has a 1.6-point lower tax burden and has a 23% lower violent crime rate. Oklahoma scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 1.
- Violent crime rate is 23% lower in Oklahoma (408 vs. 532 in Arkansas).
- Total tax burden is 19% lower in Oklahoma (7.01% vs. 8.61% in Arkansas).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 12% lower in Arkansas ($9,727 vs. $11,012 in Oklahoma).
| Measure | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +2.9 pts | 43.0#43 of 50 · D | 40.1#48 of 50 · D | +2.9 pts | — | OK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,166 · US -$11,758 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | -$3,166 | -$11,758 | AR |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$4,003 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | -$4,003-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.6 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -124 (-23%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -124-23% | 328 | OK |
| Median household incomeGap +$4,042 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$4,042+7% | $80,903 | OK |
| High school graduation rateGap -8.2 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -8.2 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| Life expectancyGap -0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | -0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +145 · US -33 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | +145 | -33 | Even |
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 Oklahoma or Arkansas better to live in?
Oklahoma scores higher overall: 43 to 40.1 out of 100, #43 of 50 against #48. Oklahoma leads 5 of 11 categories, Arkansas leads 1, and 5 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +13.5 | 15% | 42.2#33 · C+ | 28.7#45 · D | +13.5 pts | OK |
| Safety12% of scoregap +7.5 | 12% | 56.4#41 · C | 48.9#47 · D | +7.5 pts | OK |
| Health12% of scoregap -1.3 | 12% | 26.7#48 · D | 28.0#47 · D | -1.3 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -19.1 | 12% | 30.2#48 · D | 49.3#40 · C | -19.1 pts | AR |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -1.1 | 10% | 88.6#4 · A+ | 89.7#2 · A+ | -1.1 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +2.2 | 8% | 58.4#27 · C+ | 56.2#33 · C+ | +2.2 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +3.1 | 7% | 48.9#15 · B+ | 45.8#17 · B+ | +3.1 pts | OK |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.2 | 7% | 47.1#32 · C+ | 42.9#41 · C | +4.2 pts | OK |
| Livability7% of scoregap +1.9 | 7% | 26.7#37 · C | 24.8#40 · C | +1.9 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -2 | 6% | 12.7#39 · C | 14.7#36 · C | -2 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +11.5 | 4% | 37.3#32 · C+ | 25.8#45 · D | +11.5 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 Oklahoma cheaper than Arkansas?
Oklahoma and Arkansas cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 87.8 vs 86.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $3,166 more a year in Arkansas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 93.8#5 of 50 | 93.6#1 of 50 | +0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.28¢ (+2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | +0.28¢+2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.26 (-27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | -$5.26-27% | $15.83/Mcf | OK |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.12 (+4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | +$0.12+4% | $3.32/gal | AR |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,285 (+13%) · US $15,633 | $11,012#9 of 50 | $9,727#5 of 50 | +$1,285+13% | $15,633 | AR |
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 | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$710 | +$37,262costs $37,739 | +$37,972costs $37,028 | -$710 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$488 | +$30,802costs $44,198 | +$31,290costs $43,710 | -$488 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$3,166 | +$5,197costs $69,802 | +$8,363costs $66,637 | -$3,166 | AR |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$368 | +$42,644costs $32,356 | +$43,012costs $31,987 | -$368 | 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 | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$314 | $15,445 | $15,131 | +$314 | Even |
| ChildcareGap +$2,570 | $22,024 | $19,454 | +$2,570 | AR |
| UtilitiesGap +$43 | $4,214 | $4,171 | +$43 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$23 | $10,565 | $10,542 | +$23 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$377 | $9,554 | $9,177 | +$377 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$162 | $8,000 | $8,162 | -$162 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Oklahoma or Arkansas?
Oklahoma collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.01% vs 8.61%. Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Arkansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.6 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.85 pts · US 5.46% | 4.75%#20 of 50 | 3.9%#14 of 50 | +0.85 pts | 5.46% | AR |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.26 pts · US 1.02% | 0.85%#25 of 50 | 0.59%#14 of 50 | +0.26 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.4 pts · US 6.66% | 9.06%#45 of 50 | 9.46%#47 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 Oklahoma or Arkansas?
Typical home values are about the same: $223,261 in Oklahoma and $227,264 in Arkansas. Buying the typical home takes about $65,093 of income in Oklahoma and $61,092 in Arkansas; the median household earns $66,148 and $62,106.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$4,003 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | -$4,003-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.8 pts · US +1.2% | +2.8%#19 of 50 | +3.6%#10 of 50 | -0.8 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$123 (+10%) · US $1,948 | $1,388#8 of 50 | $1,265#4 of 50 | +$123+10% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$4,001 (+7%) · US $100,006 | $65,093#7 of 50 | $61,092#3 of 50 | +$4,001+7% | $100,006 | AR |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-8%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#6 of 50 | 3.7x#16 of 50 | -0.3x-8% | 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.
| OK | AR | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,149 | $1,169 |
| Income needed vs. median | -2% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +26.5% | +21.2% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Oklahoma City | Little Rock |
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 Oklahoma or Arkansas?
Oklahoma pays more: median household income $66,148 vs $62,106, with unemployment at 3.4% in Oklahoma and 4.1% in Arkansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oklahoma's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 13 after adjusting for local costs and Arkansas's in 1.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$4,042 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$4,042+7% | $80,903 | OK |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#14 of 50 | 4.1%#29 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,411 (+15%) · US $64,333 | $55,709#39 of 50 | $48,298#48 of 50 | +$7,411+15% | $64,333 | OK |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +1.5%#38 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.02 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#18 of 50 | +0.6%#19 of 50 | +0.02 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 | OK | AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $150,260$132,229 in Oklahoma City | $134,605$117,106 in Little Rock | OK |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,759$93,948 in Oklahoma City | $92,963$80,878 in Little Rock | OK |
| Civil Engineers | $95,295$83,860 in Oklahoma City | $87,640$76,247 in Little Rock | OK |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $223,792$196,937 in Tulsa | $230,893$200,877 in Little Rock | AR |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,976$56,299 in Oklahoma City | $58,453$50,854 in Little Rock | OK |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,739$48,170 in Oklahoma City | $49,372$42,954 in Little Rock | OK |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $57,591$50,680 in Tulsa | $52,449$45,631 in Little Rock | OK |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,697$66,613 in Oklahoma City | $70,618$61,438 in Little Rock | OK |
| Software Developers | $132,359$116,476 in Oklahoma City | $127,376$110,817 in Little Rock | OK |
| Registered Nurses | $86,852$76,430 in Tulsa | $82,380$71,671 in Little Rock | OK |
| Construction Laborers | $44,757$39,386 in Oklahoma City | $40,714$35,421 in Little Rock | OK |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $49,615$43,661 in Oklahoma City | $45,602$39,674 in Little Rock | OK |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $64,257$56,546 in Oklahoma City | $61,684$53,665 in Little Rock | OK |
| Electricians | $60,794$53,499 in Oklahoma City | $58,521$50,913 in Little Rock | OK |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,376$90,091 in Oklahoma City | $100,124$87,108 in Little Rock | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,273$46,880 in Oklahoma City | $52,176$45,393 in Little Rock | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,550$60,324 in Tulsa | $67,807$58,992 in Little Rock | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,645$48,968 in Tulsa | $54,972$47,826 in Little Rock | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $77,585$68,275 in Tulsa | $77,756$67,648 in Little Rock | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,001$29,041 in Tulsa | $32,876$28,602 in Little Rock | 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 Oklahoma safer than Arkansas?
Oklahoma is safer: 408 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 532 in Arkansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,814 and 1,645 per 100,000.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -124 (-23%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -124-23% | 328 | OK |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +169 (+10%) · US 1,535 | 1,814#42 of 50 | 1,645#35 of 50 | +169+10% | 1,535 | AR |
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.
- Bixby, OK80 violent per 100K
- Bella Vista, AR167 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Oklahoma or Arkansas?
Arkansas scores higher for education (#40 of 50 vs #48), with high school graduation rates of 80% and 88.2%. They are close on health (#48 and #47); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Oklahoma and 73.9 in Arkansas.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 265#45 of 50 | 266#43 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 249#47 of 50 | 255#37 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -8.2 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -8.2 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| Life expectancyGap -0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | -0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.1 pts · US 34.03% | 36.8%#37 of 50 | 38.9%#47 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 34.03% | OK |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.1 pts · US 7.6% | 11.5%#48 of 50 | 9.4%#39 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 7.6% | AR |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+10%) · US 38.8 | 46#49 of 50 | 42#38 of 50 | +4 pts+10% | 38.8 | AR |
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).
- Bixby, OKeducation score 95
- Benton, AReducation score 93.4
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: Oklahoma #48, Arkansas #40. Health: Oklahoma #48, Arkansas #47.
Are more people moving from Oklahoma to Arkansas, or from Arkansas to Oklahoma?
2,953 households moved from Oklahoma to Arkansas and 2,929 moved from Arkansas to Oklahoma in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 24 households for Arkansas. Movers to Arkansas reported an average income of $45,279; movers to Oklahoma reported $47,085. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,227 people (±1,098) moving from Oklahoma to Arkansas and 5,998 (±1,642) the other way, a net gain of about 2,771 people for Oklahoma beyond the margin of error.
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 | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +8,594 (+23%) | 45,591#30 of 50 | 36,997#33 of 50 | +8,594+23% | OK |
| Households moving outIRSGap +8,449 (+27%) | 40,177#19 of 50 | 31,728#16 of 50 | +8,449+27% | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +145 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | +145 | Even |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.4 | +1.3#17 of 50 | +1.7#13 of 50 | -0.4 | AR |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,979 (-6%) | $59,003#46 of 50 | $62,982#42 of 50 | -$3,979-6% | AR |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,111 (+2%) | $60,448#48 of 50 | $59,337#49 of 50 | +$1,111+2% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.2 | +3.5#14 of 50 | +4.7#8 of 50 | -1.2 | AR |
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, Oklahoma or Arkansas?
Oklahoma is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, 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 | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +2 places | #46score 47.3 | #44score 49.1 | +2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -4 places | #41score 53.7 | #45score 48.5 | -4 places | OK |
| Remote WorkersGap -18 places | #21score 54.6 | #39score 45.8 | -18 places | OK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -12 places | #26score 53.7 | #38score 44.6 | -12 places | OK |
| Small BusinessGap -7 places | #28score 53.4 | #35score 48.5 | -7 places | OK |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -7 places | #42score 29.3 | #49score 23.3 | -7 places | OK |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#46 vs #44)
- RetireesOklahoma (#41 vs #45)
- Remote WorkersOklahoma (#21 vs #39)
- Young ProfessionalsOklahoma (#26 vs #38)
- Small BusinessOklahoma (#28 vs #35)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsOklahoma (#42 vs #49)
Which cities stand out in Oklahoma and Arkansas?
Oklahoma has 20 tracked cities and Arkansas has 20; the largest are Oklahoma City and Little Rock. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Oklahoma City697,125 people | Little Rock203,436 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bixbyscore 66.9 | Bentonvillescore 68.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bixby80 violent per 100K | Bella Vista167 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Stillwatercost index 83.6 | Pine Bluffcost index 83 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tulsawalkability 12.4 of 20 | West Memphiswalkability 12.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Ardmorecounty median AQI 32 | West Memphiscounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Bixby95% graduation rate | Benton93.4% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Jenksmedian income $111,004 | Bentonvillemedian income $112,792 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Bixby+2.9% growth | Bella Vista+3.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Oklahoma and Arkansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Oklahoma carries AA credit rating and Arkansas AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +40 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#11 of 50 | 12%#37 of 50 | +40 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -5.0 (-13%) · US 29.6 | 34.6#32 of 50 | 39.6#38 of 50 | -5.0-13% | 29.6 | OK |
| Public land shareGap -8.3 pts · US 17.16% | 2.2%#43 of 50 | 10.5%#22 of 50 | -8.3 pts | 17.16% | AR |
| Mean travel time to workGap 0 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | 0 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#47 of 50 | 0.3%#49 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.3 pts · US 12.28% | 8.9%#42 of 50 | 8.6%#44 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#35 of 50 | 90.8%#43 of 50 | +1.3 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 | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#38 of 50 | 90#40 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2.5 pts · US 12.39% | 9.2%#30 of 50 | 6.7%#42 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 12.39% | OK |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#31 of 50 | 78%#19 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | AR |
| State debt per capitaGap +$740 (+41%) · US $3,506 | $2,560#21 of 50 | $1,820#7 of 50 | +$740+41% | $3,506 | AR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.5 pts · US +4.66% | +5.8%#18 of 50 | +6.3%#14 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +4.66% | AR |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Oklahoma AA, Arkansas 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).
Oklahoma vs Arkansas: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Oklahoma is ahead on 12 of 51, Arkansas on 18, and 21 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OklahomaOK | ArkansasAR | GapOK−AR | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,008,497 (+32%) · US 6.8 million | 4.1 million#28 of 50 | 3.1 million#33 of 50 | +1,008,497+32% | 6.8 million | OK |
| Median household incomeGap +$4,042 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $62,106#47 of 50 | +$4,042+7% | $80,903 | OK |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#14 of 50 | 4.1%#29 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| Population growthGap +0.02 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#18 of 50 | +0.6%#19 of 50 | +0.02 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$7,411 (+15%) · US $64,333 | $55,709#39 of 50 | $48,298#48 of 50 | +$7,411+15% | $64,333 | OK |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +1.5%#38 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -124 (-23%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 532#48 of 50 | -124-23% | 328 | OK |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +169 (+10%) · US 1,535 | 1,814#42 of 50 | 1,645#35 of 50 | +169+10% | 1,535 | AR |
| High school graduation rateGap -8.2 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 88.2%#15 of 50 | -8.2 pts | 85.62% | AR |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 233#44 of 50 | 230#47 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 265#45 of 50 | 266#43 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 207#46 of 50 | 210#41 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 257 | 249#47 of 50 | 255#37 of 50 | -6 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 73.9#43 of 50 | -0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.1 pts · US 34.03% | 36.8%#37 of 50 | 38.9%#47 of 50 | -2.1 pts | 34.03% | OK |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.1 pts · US 7.6% | 11.5%#48 of 50 | 9.4%#39 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 7.6% | AR |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$4,003 (-2%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $227,264#5 of 50 | -$4,003-2% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.8 pts · US +1.2% | +2.8%#19 of 50 | +3.6%#10 of 50 | -0.8 pts | +1.2% | AR |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$123 (+10%) · US $1,948 | $1,388#8 of 50 | $1,265#4 of 50 | +$123+10% | $1,948 | AR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$4,001 (+7%) · US $100,006 | $65,093#7 of 50 | $61,092#3 of 50 | +$4,001+7% | $100,006 | AR |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 86.9#1 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-8%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#6 of 50 | 3.7x#16 of 50 | -0.3x-8% | 4.6x | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.28¢ (+2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | 12.84¢/kWh#5 of 50 | +0.28¢+2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$5.26 (-27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | $19.25/Mcf#43 of 50 | -$5.26-27% | $15.83/Mcf | OK |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.12 (+4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | $2.92/gal#5 of 50 | +$0.12+4% | $3.32/gal | AR |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 93.8#5 of 50 | 93.6#1 of 50 | +0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,285 (+13%) · US $15,633 | $11,012#9 of 50 | $9,727#5 of 50 | +$1,285+13% | $15,633 | AR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.6 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 8.61%#23 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.85 pts · US 5.46% | 4.75%#20 of 50 | 3.9%#14 of 50 | +0.85 pts | 5.46% | AR |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.26 pts · US 1.02% | 0.85%#25 of 50 | 0.59%#14 of 50 | +0.26 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.4 pts · US 6.66% | 9.06%#45 of 50 | 9.46%#47 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#38 of 50 | 90#40 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2.5 pts · US 12.39% | 9.2%#30 of 50 | 6.7%#42 of 50 | +2.5 pts | 12.39% | OK |
| Pension funded ratioGap -6 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#31 of 50 | 78%#19 of 50 | -6 pts | 74.3% | AR |
| State debt per capitaGap +$740 (+41%) · US $3,506 | $2,560#21 of 50 | $1,820#7 of 50 | +$740+41% | $3,506 | AR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.5 pts · US +4.66% | +5.8%#18 of 50 | +6.3%#14 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +4.66% | AR |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+10%) · US 38.8 | 46#49 of 50 | 42#38 of 50 | +4 pts+10% | 38.8 | AR |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +40 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#11 of 50 | 12%#37 of 50 | +40 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -5.0 (-13%) · US 29.6 | 34.6#32 of 50 | 39.6#38 of 50 | -5.0-13% | 29.6 | OK |
| Public land shareGap -8.3 pts · US 17.16% | 2.2%#43 of 50 | 10.5%#22 of 50 | -8.3 pts | 17.16% | AR |
| Mean travel time to workGap 0 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | 22.7 min#13 of 50 | 0 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#47 of 50 | 0.3%#49 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.3 pts · US 12.28% | 8.9%#42 of 50 | 8.6%#44 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#35 of 50 | 90.8%#43 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | OK |
| Households moving inIRSGap +8,594 (+23%) · US 78,682 | 45,591#30 of 50 | 36,997#33 of 50 | +8,594+23% | 78,682 | OK |
| Households moving outIRSGap +8,449 (+27%) · US 78,715 | 40,177#19 of 50 | 31,728#16 of 50 | +8,449+27% | 78,715 | AR |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +145 · US -33 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +5,269#14 of 50 | +145 | -33 | Even |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.4 · US +0.4 | +1.3#17 of 50 | +1.7#13 of 50 | -0.4 | +0.4 | AR |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,979 (-6%) · US $77,690 | $59,003#46 of 50 | $62,982#42 of 50 | -$3,979-6% | $77,690 | AR |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,111 (+2%) · US $77,024 | $60,448#48 of 50 | $59,337#49 of 50 | +$1,111+2% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.2 · US +1.1 | +3.5#14 of 50 | +4.7#8 of 50 | -1.2 | +1.1 | AR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,166 · US -$11,758 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | +$8,363#4 of 50 | -$3,166 | -$11,758 | AR |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$710 · US +$31,418 | +$37,262#5 of 50 | +$37,972#4 of 50 | -$710 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$368 · US +$35,970 | +$42,644#5 of 50 | +$43,012#4 of 50 | -$368 | +$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 Oklahoma and Arkansas numbers say when read together.
Oklahoma ranks higher overall
Oklahoma leads 5 of the 11 categories to Arkansas's 1, with 5 even; Arkansas is ahead on education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Oklahoma is ahead on 12 and Arkansas on 18.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 87.8 in Oklahoma and 86.9 in Arkansas, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $223,261 and $227,264. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$5,197 a year after typical costs in Oklahoma and +$8,363 in Arkansas.
Oklahoma takes a smaller share in taxes
Oklahoma collects 7.01% of income in state and local taxes (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Arkansas collects 8.61% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Oklahoma pays more and is safer
Median household income is $66,148 in Oklahoma and $62,106 in Arkansas, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4.1%. Violent crime runs 408 per 100,000 residents in Oklahoma and 532 in Arkansas.
People move to Oklahoma on net
5,998 people moved to Oklahoma from Arkansas in the latest Census release, against 3,227 going the other way.
Oklahoma is the better fit for retirees
For families, Oklahoma ranks #46 of 50 and Arkansas #44; for retirees, Oklahoma ranks #41 and Arkansas #45.
Oklahoma vs Arkansas: frequently asked questions
Is Oklahoma or Arkansas better to live in?
Oklahoma ranks #43 of 50 overall and Arkansas #48 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 86.9); Oklahoma has a 1.6-point lower tax burden and has a 23% lower violent crime rate. Oklahoma scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Oklahoma cheaper than Arkansas?
Oklahoma and Arkansas cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 87.8 vs 86.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have +$5,197 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Oklahoma, and +$8,363 in Arkansas. The typical home value is $223,261 in Oklahoma and $227,264 in Arkansas.
Which has lower taxes, Oklahoma or Arkansas?
Oklahoma has the lower tax burden: 7.01% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.61% in Arkansas. Oklahoma's top income tax rate is 4.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.85% and its combined sales tax 9.06%; Arkansas's are 3.9%, 0.59% and 9.46%.
Is Oklahoma safer than Arkansas?
Oklahoma is safer: 408 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 532 in Arkansas, per the FBI. Oklahoma ranks #39 of 50 for violent crime and Arkansas #48. Property crime is 1,814 per 100,000 in Oklahoma and 1,645 in Arkansas. The safest tracked cities are Bixby, OK, and Bella Vista, AR.
Are homes more expensive in Oklahoma or Arkansas?
Typical home values are about the same: $223,261 in Oklahoma and $227,264 in Arkansas. Buying the typical home takes about $65,093 of household income in Oklahoma and $61,092 in Arkansas, against median incomes of $66,148 and $62,106.
Do people earn more in Oklahoma or Arkansas?
Oklahoma pays more: median household income is $66,148 vs $62,106 in Arkansas, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Oklahoma and 4.1% in Arkansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oklahoma's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 13 after adjusting for local costs and Arkansas's in 1, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from Oklahoma to Arkansas or from Arkansas to Oklahoma?
2,953 households moved from Oklahoma to Arkansas and 2,929 moved from Arkansas to Oklahoma in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 24 households for Arkansas. Movers to Arkansas reported an average income of $45,279; movers to Oklahoma reported $47,085. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,227 people (±1,098) moving from Oklahoma to Arkansas and 5,998 (±1,642) the other way, a net gain of about 2,771 people for Oklahoma beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Oklahoma or Arkansas?
Oklahoma is the better fit for retirees: #41 of 50 on the retiree index vs #45 for Arkansas. Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Arkansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$42,644 left after typical costs in Oklahoma and +$43,012 in Arkansas.
Which is better for families, Oklahoma or Arkansas?
Oklahoma and Arkansas are close for families: #46 and #44 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $11,012 a year in Oklahoma and $9,727 in Arkansas. High school graduation rates are 80% and 88.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$5,197 after typical costs in Oklahoma and +$8,363 in Arkansas.
Is Arkansas better than Oklahoma?
No: Oklahoma ranks higher than Arkansas overall, #43 of 50 vs #48, with a composite score of 43 to 40.1. Oklahoma leads 5 of 11 categories and Arkansas leads 1, including education. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Oklahoma vs Arkansas.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,953 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).