Colorado vs Oklahoma: Which Is Better to Live In?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Oklahoma #43 as of the latest release. Oklahoma is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 103.1), has a 1.7-point lower tax burden. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical home value is 58% lower in Oklahoma ($223,261 vs. $532,748 in Colorado).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 48% lower in Oklahoma ($11,012 vs. $20,978 in Colorado).
- Median household income is 47% higher in Colorado ($97,113 vs. $66,148 in Oklahoma).
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +21.7 pts | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | 43.0#43 of 50 · D | +21.7 pts | — | CO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.3 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +15.3 pts+17% | 100 | OK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$40,527 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | -$40,527 | -$11,758 | OK |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$309,487 (+139%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$309,487+139% | $368,697 | OK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.72 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +1.72 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +14 (+3%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | +14+3% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$30,965 (+47%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | +$30,965+47% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.3 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| Life expectancyGap +4.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | +4.7 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,927 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +5,927 | -33 | CO |
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 Colorado or Oklahoma better to live in?
Colorado scores higher overall: 64.7 to 43 out of 100, #18 of 50 against #43. Colorado leads 7 of 11 categories, Oklahoma leads 3, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +18.1 | 15% | 60.3#9 · A | 42.2#33 · C+ | +18.1 pts | CO |
| Safety12% of scoregap -6 | 12% | 50.4#46 · D | 56.4#41 · C | -6 pts | OK |
| Health12% of scoregap +48.7 | 12% | 75.4#7 · A | 26.7#48 · D | +48.7 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap +35.1 | 12% | 65.3#18 · B+ | 30.2#48 · D | +35.1 pts | CO |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -35.5 | 10% | 53.1#38 · C | 88.6#4 · A+ | -35.5 pts | OK |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +2 | 8% | 60.4#22 · B | 58.4#27 · C+ | +2 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap -17.9 | 7% | 31.0#33 · C+ | 48.9#15 · B+ | -17.9 pts | OK |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +14.3 | 7% | 61.4#3 · A+ | 47.1#32 · C+ | +14.3 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap +7.5 | 7% | 34.2#24 · B | 26.7#37 · C | +7.5 pts | CO |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +31.8 | 6% | 44.5#9 · A | 12.7#39 · C | +31.8 pts | CO |
| Environment4% of scoregap +8.6 | 4% | 45.9#20 · B | 37.3#32 · C+ | +8.6 pts | CO |
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 Colorado cheaper than Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $40,527 more a year in Oklahoma after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.3 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +15.3 pts+17% | 100 | OK |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.9 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 93.8#5 of 50 | +4.9 pts+5% | 100 | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.73¢ (+21%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | +2.73¢+21% | 17.84¢/kWh | OK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.82 (-20%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | -$2.82-20% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,966 (+91%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $11,012#9 of 50 | +$9,966+91% | $15,633 | OK |
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 | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$12,097 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$37,262costs $37,739 | -$12,097 | OK |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$16,212 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$30,802costs $44,198 | -$16,212 | OK |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$40,527 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | +$5,197costs $69,802 | -$40,527 | OK |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$14,158 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$42,644costs $32,356 | -$14,158 | OK |
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 | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$19,492 | $34,937 | $15,445 | +$19,492 | OK |
| ChildcareGap +$19,932 | $41,956 | $22,024 | +$19,932 | OK |
| UtilitiesGap +$735 | $4,949 | $4,214 | +$735 | OK |
| GroceriesGap +$552 | $11,117 | $10,565 | +$552 | OK |
| TransportationGap +$283 | $9,837 | $9,554 | +$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$465 | $7,535 | $8,000 | -$465 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Oklahoma?
Oklahoma collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.01% vs 8.73%. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.72 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +1.72 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.35 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 4.75%#20 of 50 | -0.35 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.36 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 0.85%#25 of 50 | -0.36 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.17 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 9.06%#45 of 50 | -1.17 pts | 6.66% | CO |
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 Colorado or Oklahoma?
Homes cost 139% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $532,748 in Colorado vs $223,261 in Oklahoma. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of income in Colorado and $65,093 in Oklahoma; the median household earns $97,113 and $66,148.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$309,487 (+139%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$309,487+139% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +2.8%#19 of 50 | -4.2 pts | +1.2% | OK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$534 (+38%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,388#8 of 50 | +$534+38% | $1,948 | OK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$73,665 (+113%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $65,093#7 of 50 | +$73,665+113% | $100,006 | OK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.1x (+62%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 3.4x#6 of 50 | +2.1x+62% | 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.
| CO | OK | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,741 | $1,149 |
| Income needed vs. median | +43% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +6.8% | +26.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Denver | 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 Colorado or Oklahoma?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $66,148, with unemployment at 4% in Colorado and 3.4% in Oklahoma. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Oklahoma's in 0.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$30,965 (+47%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | +$30,965+47% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 3.4%#14 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| GDP per capitaGap +$19,315 (+35%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $55,709#39 of 50 | +$19,315+35% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Population growthGap -0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.22 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 | CO | OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | $223,792$196,937 in Tulsa | CO |
| Software Developers | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | $132,359$116,476 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | $68,550$60,324 in Tulsa | CO |
| Registered Nurses | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | $86,852$76,430 in Tulsa | CO |
| Electricians | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | $60,794$53,499 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | $77,585$68,275 in Tulsa | CO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | $106,759$93,948 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | $75,697$66,613 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | $64,257$56,546 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| General & Operations Managers | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | $102,376$90,091 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | $53,273$46,880 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| Civil Engineers | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | $95,295$83,860 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | $49,615$43,661 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | $57,591$50,680 in Tulsa | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | $44,757$39,386 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | $63,976$56,299 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | $55,645$48,968 in Tulsa | CO |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | $33,001$29,041 in Tulsa | CO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | $54,739$48,170 in Oklahoma City | CO |
| Lawyers | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | $150,260$132,229 in Oklahoma City | 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 Colorado safer than Oklahoma?
Violent crime is about the same: 422 per 100,000 residents in Colorado and 408 in Oklahoma (FBI). Property crime runs 2,144 and 1,814 per 100,000.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +14 (+3%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | +14+3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +330 (+18%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,814#42 of 50 | +330+18% | 1,535 | OK |
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.
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
- Bixby, OK80 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Colorado or Oklahoma?
Colorado scores higher for education (#18 of 50 vs #48), with high school graduation rates of 82.3% and 80%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #48); life expectancy is 78.5 years in Colorado and 73.8 in Oklahoma.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 265#45 of 50 | +14 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +16 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 249#47 of 50 | +16 | 257 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.3 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| Life expectancyGap +4.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | +4.7 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -11.8 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 36.8%#37 of 50 | -11.8 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.6 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 11.5%#48 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 7.6% | CO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 46#49 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | CO |
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).
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
- 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: Colorado #18, Oklahoma #48. Health: Colorado #7, Oklahoma #48.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Oklahoma, or from Oklahoma to Colorado?
2,278 households moved from Colorado to Oklahoma and 1,839 moved from Oklahoma to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 439 households for Oklahoma. Movers to Oklahoma reported an average income of $68,643; movers to Colorado reported $67,001. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,328 people (±1,701) moving from Colorado to Oklahoma and 5,402 (±3,244) 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 | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +75,799 (+166%) | 121,390#11 of 50 | 45,591#30 of 50 | +75,799+166% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +69,872 (+174%) | 110,049#39 of 50 | 40,177#19 of 50 | +69,872+174% | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,927 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +5,927 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.6 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +1.3#17 of 50 | +0.6 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$23,529 (+40%) | $82,532#16 of 50 | $59,003#46 of 50 | +$23,529+40% | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$24,092 (+40%) | $84,540#13 of 50 | $60,448#48 of 50 | +$24,092+40% | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +3.5#14 of 50 | -5.5 | OK |
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, Colorado or Oklahoma?
Colorado is the better fit for families, retirees, 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 | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -24 places | #22score 66.1 | #46score 47.3 | -24 places | CO |
| RetireesGap -25 places | #16score 67 | #41score 53.7 | -25 places | CO |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #23score 53.8 | #21score 54.6 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -6 places | #20score 56.7 | #26score 53.7 | -6 places | CO |
| Small BusinessGap -8 places | #20score 59.8 | #28score 53.4 | -8 places | CO |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -27 places | #15score 55.8 | #42score 29.3 | -27 places | CO |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesColorado (#22 vs #46)
- RetireesColorado (#16 vs #41)
- Remote WorkersEven (#23 vs #21)
- Young ProfessionalsColorado (#20 vs #26)
- Small BusinessColorado (#20 vs #28)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsColorado (#15 vs #42)
Which cities stand out in Colorado and Oklahoma?
Colorado has 20 tracked cities and Oklahoma has 20; the largest are Denver and Oklahoma City. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Denver718,877 people | Oklahoma City697,125 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Broomfieldscore 68.1 | Bixbyscore 66.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K | Bixby80 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pueblocost index 91.8 | Stillwatercost index 83.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 | Tulsawalkability 12.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 | Ardmorecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Pueblo93% graduation rate | Bixby95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 | Jenksmedian income $111,004 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Junction+1.8% growth | Bixby+2.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Colorado and Oklahoma compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Colorado carries AA+ credit rating and Oklahoma AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -13 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 52%#11 of 50 | -13 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.7 (-48%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 34.6#32 of 50 | -16.7-48% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +34 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 2.2%#43 of 50 | +34 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | +3 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 0.3%#47 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap +11 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 8.9%#42 of 50 | +11 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.8 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 92.1%#35 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 92.67% | CO |
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 | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 90#38 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 9.2%#30 of 50 | +4 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 72%#31 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | OK |
| State debt per capitaGap +$560 (+22%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $2,560#21 of 50 | +$560+22% | $3,506 | OK |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +5.8%#18 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +4.66% | OK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Colorado 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).
Colorado vs Oklahoma: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Colorado is ahead on 23 of 51, Oklahoma on 21, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ColoradoCO | OklahomaOK | GapCO−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,889,273 (+46%) · US 6.8 million | 6 million#20 of 50 | 4.1 million#28 of 50 | +1,889,273+46% | 6.8 million | CO |
| Median household incomeGap +$30,965 (+47%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | +$30,965+47% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 3.4%#14 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| Population growthGap -0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.22 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$19,315 (+35%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $55,709#39 of 50 | +$19,315+35% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +14 (+3%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | +14+3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +330 (+18%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,814#42 of 50 | +330+18% | 1,535 | OK |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.3 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 237 | 239#18 of 50 | 233#44 of 50 | +7 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 265#45 of 50 | +14 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +14 · US 214 | 221#5 of 50 | 207#46 of 50 | +14 | 214 | CO |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +16 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 249#47 of 50 | +16 | 257 | CO |
| Life expectancyGap +4.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | +4.7 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -11.8 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 36.8%#37 of 50 | -11.8 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.6 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 11.5%#48 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 7.6% | CO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$309,487 (+139%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$309,487+139% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.2 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +2.8%#19 of 50 | -4.2 pts | +1.2% | OK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$534 (+38%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,388#8 of 50 | +$534+38% | $1,948 | OK |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$73,665 (+113%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $65,093#7 of 50 | +$73,665+113% | $100,006 | OK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.3 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +15.3 pts+17% | 100 | OK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.1x (+62%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 3.4x#6 of 50 | +2.1x+62% | 4.6x | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.73¢ (+21%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | +2.73¢+21% | 17.84¢/kWh | OK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.82 (-20%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | -$2.82-20% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +4.9 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 93.8#5 of 50 | +4.9 pts+5% | 100 | OK |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,966 (+91%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $11,012#9 of 50 | +$9,966+91% | $15,633 | OK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.72 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +1.72 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.35 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | 4.75%#20 of 50 | -0.35 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.36 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 0.85%#25 of 50 | -0.36 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -1.17 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 9.06%#45 of 50 | -1.17 pts | 6.66% | CO |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 90#38 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 9.2%#30 of 50 | +4 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 72%#31 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | OK |
| State debt per capitaGap +$560 (+22%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $2,560#21 of 50 | +$560+22% | $3,506 | OK |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +5.8%#18 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +4.66% | OK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -4 pts (-9%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 46#49 of 50 | -4 pts-9% | 38.8 | CO |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -13 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 52%#11 of 50 | -13 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.7 (-48%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 34.6#32 of 50 | -16.7-48% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +34 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 2.2%#43 of 50 | +34 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | +3 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 0.3%#47 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap +11 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 8.9%#42 of 50 | +11 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.8 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 92.1%#35 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +75,799 (+166%) · US 78,682 | 121,390#11 of 50 | 45,591#30 of 50 | +75,799+166% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +69,872 (+174%) · US 78,715 | 110,049#39 of 50 | 40,177#19 of 50 | +69,872+174% | 78,715 | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,927 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | +5,927 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.6 · US +0.4 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +1.3#17 of 50 | +0.6 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$23,529 (+40%) · US $77,690 | $82,532#16 of 50 | $59,003#46 of 50 | +$23,529+40% | $77,690 | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$24,092 (+40%) · US $77,024 | $84,540#13 of 50 | $60,448#48 of 50 | +$24,092+40% | $77,024 | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 · US +1.1 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +3.5#14 of 50 | -5.5 | +1.1 | OK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$40,527 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | -$40,527 | -$11,758 | OK |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$12,097 · US +$31,418 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$37,262#5 of 50 | -$12,097 | +$31,418 | OK |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$14,158 · US +$35,970 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$42,644#5 of 50 | -$14,158 | +$35,970 | OK |
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 Colorado and Oklahoma numbers say when read together.
Colorado ranks higher overall
Colorado leads 7 of the 11 categories to Oklahoma's 3, with 1 even; Oklahoma is ahead on affordability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Colorado is ahead on 23 and Oklahoma on 21.
Oklahoma is cheaper day to day
Oklahoma's cost of living index is 87.8 against 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). The typical home costs $532,748 in Colorado and $223,261 in Oklahoma. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 a year after typical costs in Colorado and +$5,197 in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma takes a smaller share in taxes
Colorado collects 8.73% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Oklahoma collects 7.01% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Colorado pays more
Median household income is $97,113 in Colorado and $66,148 in Oklahoma, with unemployment at 4% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 422 per 100,000 residents in Colorado and 408 in Oklahoma.
Moves between the two run about even
6,328 people moved from Colorado to Oklahoma and 5,402 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Colorado fits families and retirees better
For families, Colorado ranks #22 of 50 and Oklahoma #46; for retirees, Colorado ranks #16 and Oklahoma #41.
Colorado vs Oklahoma: frequently asked questions
Is Colorado or Oklahoma better to live in?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Oklahoma #43 as of the latest release. Oklahoma is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 103.1), has a 1.7-point lower tax burden. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Colorado cheaper than Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is cheaper than Colorado: cost of living index 87.8 vs 103.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$35,330 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Colorado, and +$5,197 in Oklahoma. The typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $223,261 in Oklahoma.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has the lower tax burden: 7.01% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.73% in Colorado. Colorado's top income tax rate is 4.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.49% and its combined sales tax 7.89%; Oklahoma's are 4.75%, 0.85% and 9.06%.
Is Colorado safer than Oklahoma?
Colorado and Oklahoma have similar violent crime rates: 422 vs 408 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Colorado ranks #43 of 50 for violent crime and Oklahoma #39. Property crime is 2,144 per 100,000 in Colorado and 1,814 in Oklahoma. The safest tracked cities are Castle Rock, CO, and Bixby, OK.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or Oklahoma?
Homes are 139% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $223,261 in Oklahoma. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of household income in Colorado and $65,093 in Oklahoma, against median incomes of $97,113 and $66,148.
Do people earn more in Colorado or Oklahoma?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $66,148 in Oklahoma, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Colorado and 3.4% in Oklahoma. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Oklahoma's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Oklahoma or from Oklahoma to Colorado?
2,278 households moved from Colorado to Oklahoma and 1,839 moved from Oklahoma to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 439 households for Oklahoma. Movers to Oklahoma reported an average income of $68,643; movers to Colorado reported $67,001. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,328 people (±1,701) moving from Colorado to Oklahoma and 5,402 (±3,244) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Colorado or Oklahoma?
Colorado is the better fit for retirees: #16 of 50 on the retiree index vs #41 for Oklahoma. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes 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 +$28,486 left after typical costs in Colorado and +$42,644 in Oklahoma.
Which is better for families, Colorado or Oklahoma?
Colorado is the better fit for families: #22 of 50 on the families index vs #46 for Oklahoma. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in Colorado and $11,012 in Oklahoma. High school graduation rates are 82.3% and 80%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 after typical costs in Colorado and +$5,197 in Oklahoma.
Is Oklahoma better than Colorado?
No: Colorado ranks higher than Oklahoma overall, #18 of 50 vs #43, with a composite score of 64.7 to 43. Colorado leads 7 of 11 categories and Oklahoma leads 3, including affordability and growth. 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 Colorado vs Oklahoma.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,278 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).