Oklahoma vs Kansas: Which Is Better to Live In?
Oklahoma ranks #43 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. Oklahoma is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.1), has a 2.3-point lower tax burden, and has a 11% lower violent crime rate. Kansas scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Total tax burden is 25% lower in Oklahoma (7.01% vs. 9.33% in Kansas).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 14% lower in Oklahoma ($11,012 vs. $12,741 in Kansas).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 13% lower in Kansas ($1,205 vs. $1,388 in Oklahoma).
| Measure | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -12.1 pts | 43.0#43 of 50 · D | 55.1#27 of 50 · C+ | -12.1 pts | — | KS |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | -2.3 pts-3% | 100 | OK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$6,689 · US -$11,758 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | +$6,689 | -$11,758 | OK |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$26,342 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | -$26,342-11% | $368,697 | OK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.32 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -2.32 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -50 (-11%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -50-11% | 328 | OK |
| Median household incomeGap -$9,366 (-12%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | -$9,366-12% | $80,903 | KS |
| High school graduation rateGap -9.1 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -9.1 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| Life expectancyGap -2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | -2.7 yrs | 76.9 | KS |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,686 · US -33 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +8,686 | -33 | OK |
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 Kansas better to live in?
Kansas scores higher overall: 55.1 to 43 out of 100, #27 of 50 against #43. Oklahoma leads 4 of 11 categories, Kansas leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -2.4 | 15% | 42.2#33 · C+ | 44.6#28 · C+ | -2.4 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +3.7 | 12% | 56.4#41 · C | 52.7#44 · D | +3.7 pts | OK |
| Health12% of scoregap -19.1 | 12% | 26.7#48 · D | 45.8#33 · C+ | -19.1 pts | KS |
| Education12% of scoregap -33 | 12% | 30.2#48 · D | 63.2#21 · B | -33 pts | KS |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +5.5 | 10% | 88.6#4 · A+ | 83.1#10 · A | +5.5 pts | OK |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +6 | 8% | 58.4#27 · C+ | 52.4#37 · C | +6 pts | OK |
| Growth7% of scoregap +13.3 | 7% | 48.9#15 · B+ | 35.6#28 · C+ | +13.3 pts | OK |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -8.6 | 7% | 47.1#32 · C+ | 55.7#11 · B+ | -8.6 pts | KS |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.7 | 7% | 26.7#37 · C | 26.0#38 · C | +0.7 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -17.7 | 6% | 12.7#39 · C | 30.4#22 · B | -17.7 pts | KS |
| Environment4% of scoregap -10.7 | 4% | 37.3#32 · C+ | 48.0#16 · B+ | -10.7 pts | KS |
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 Kansas?
Oklahoma is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.1 in Kansas (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $6,689 more a year in Oklahoma after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | -2.3 pts-3% | 100 | OK |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 93.8#5 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | -0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.44¢ (-10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | -1.44¢-10% | 17.84¢/kWh | OK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.82 (-6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | -$0.82-6% | $15.83/Mcf | OK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.06 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | -$0.06-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,729 (-14%) · US $15,633 | $11,012#9 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | -$1,729-14% | $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 | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,351 | +$37,262costs $37,739 | +$34,911costs $40,089 | +$2,351 | OK |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,715 | +$30,802costs $44,198 | +$28,087costs $46,912 | +$2,715 | OK |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$6,689 | +$5,197costs $69,802 | -$1,492costs $76,492 | +$6,689 | OK |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,363 | +$42,644costs $32,356 | +$40,281costs $34,719 | +$2,363 | 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 | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$3,045 | $15,445 | $18,490 | -$3,045 | OK |
| ChildcareGap -$3,458 | $22,024 | $25,482 | -$3,458 | OK |
| UtilitiesGap -$111 | $4,214 | $4,325 | -$111 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$22 | $10,565 | $10,587 | -$22 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$189 | $9,554 | $9,743 | -$189 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$135 | $8,000 | $7,865 | +$135 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Oklahoma or Kansas?
Oklahoma collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.01% vs 9.33%. Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Kansas has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.32 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -2.32 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.83 pts · US 5.46% | 4.75%#20 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | -0.83 pts | 5.46% | OK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.49 pts · US 1.02% | 0.85%#25 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | -0.49 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.37 pts · US 6.66% | 9.06%#45 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | +0.37 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 Kansas?
Homes cost 12% more in Kansas: a typical home value of $223,261 in Oklahoma vs $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $65,093 of income in Oklahoma and $74,441 in Kansas; the median household earns $66,148 and $75,514.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$26,342 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | -$26,342-11% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.8%#19 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.2% | KS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$183 (+15%) · US $1,948 | $1,388#8 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$183+15% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$9,348 (-13%) · US $100,006 | $65,093#7 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | -$9,348-13% | $100,006 | OK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#6 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
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 | KS | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,149 | $1,284 |
| Income needed vs. median | -2% | -1% |
| Five-year change | +26.5% | +30.3% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Oklahoma City | Wichita |
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 Kansas?
Kansas pays more: median household income $75,514 vs $66,148, with unemployment at 3.4% in Oklahoma and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oklahoma's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$9,366 (-12%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | -$9,366-12% | $80,903 | KS |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#14 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$5,456 (-9%) · US $64,333 | $55,709#39 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | -$5,456-9% | $64,333 | KS |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#18 of 50 | +0.4%#29 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 | OK | KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $223,792$196,937 in Tulsa | $199,497$179,547 in Wichita | OK |
| Lawyers | $150,260$132,229 in Oklahoma City | $131,969$118,772 in Wichita | OK |
| Software Developers | $132,359$116,476 in Oklahoma City | $116,752$105,077 in Wichita | OK |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,759$93,948 in Oklahoma City | $94,007$84,606 in Wichita | OK |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,376$90,091 in Oklahoma City | $90,707$81,636 in Wichita | OK |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,697$66,613 in Oklahoma City | $67,242$60,518 in Wichita | OK |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $49,615$43,661 in Oklahoma City | $41,510$37,359 in Wichita | OK |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $57,591$50,680 in Tulsa | $50,394$45,355 in Wichita | OK |
| Registered Nurses | $86,852$76,430 in Tulsa | $80,040$72,036 in Wichita | OK |
| Electricians | $60,794$53,499 in Oklahoma City | $54,091$48,682 in Wichita | OK |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,273$46,880 in Oklahoma City | $46,791$42,112 in Wichita | OK |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $64,257$56,546 in Oklahoma City | $57,868$52,081 in Wichita | OK |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,739$48,170 in Oklahoma City | $49,486$44,537 in Wichita | OK |
| Construction Laborers | $44,757$39,386 in Oklahoma City | $39,664$35,698 in Wichita | OK |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,645$48,968 in Tulsa | $50,594$45,535 in Wichita | OK |
| Civil Engineers | $95,295$83,860 in Oklahoma City | $90,729$81,656 in Wichita | OK |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,550$60,324 in Tulsa | $64,636$58,172 in Wichita | OK |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,976$56,299 in Oklahoma City | $60,720$54,648 in Wichita | OK |
| Accountants & Auditors | $77,585$68,275 in Tulsa | $75,076$67,568 in Wichita | OK |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,001$29,041 in Tulsa | $30,674$27,607 in Wichita | OK |
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 Kansas?
Oklahoma is safer: 408 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,814 and 1,797 per 100,000.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -50 (-11%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -50-11% | 328 | OK |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +17 (+1%) · US 1,535 | 1,814#42 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | +17+1% | 1,535 | Even |
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
- Leawood, KS71 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Oklahoma or Kansas?
Kansas scores higher for education (#21 of 50 vs #48), with high school graduation rates of 80% and 89.1%. Kansas scores higher for health (#33 vs #48); life expectancy is 73.8 years in Oklahoma and 76.5 in Kansas.
| Measure | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -10 · US 273 | 265#45 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | -10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 249#47 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -9.1 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -9.1 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| Life expectancyGap -2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | -2.7 yrs | 76.9 | KS |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.8 pts · US 34.03% | 36.8%#37 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 34.03% | OK |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3 pts · US 7.6% | 11.5%#48 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | +3 pts | 7.6% | KS |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+15%) · US 38.8 | 46#49 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +6 pts+15% | 38.8 | KS |
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
- Gardner, KSeducation 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: Oklahoma #48, Kansas #21. Health: Oklahoma #48, Kansas #33.
Are more people moving from Oklahoma to Kansas, or from Kansas to Oklahoma?
2,280 households moved from Oklahoma to Kansas and 2,651 moved from Kansas to Oklahoma in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 371 households for Oklahoma. Movers to Kansas reported an average income of $53,424; movers to Oklahoma reported $56,162. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,414 people (±2,204) moving from Oklahoma to Kansas and 4,459 (±996) 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 | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +5,824 (+15%) | 45,591#30 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +5,824+15% | OK |
| Households moving outIRSGap -2,862 (-7%) | 40,177#19 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | -2,862-7% | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,686 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +8,686 | OK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 | +1.3#17 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +2.4 | OK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$5,705 (-9%) | $59,003#46 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | -$5,705-9% | KS |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$7,739 (-11%) | $60,448#48 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | -$7,739-11% | KS |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.7 | +3.5#14 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | +3.7 | 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, Oklahoma or Kansas?
Kansas is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts; 3 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 | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +20 places | #46score 47.3 | #26score 64.2 | +20 places | KS |
| RetireesGap +10 places | #41score 53.7 | #31score 59.6 | +10 places | KS |
| Remote WorkersGap +3 places | #21score 54.6 | #18score 55.7 | +3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -3 places | #26score 53.7 | #29score 52.1 | -3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +1 places | #28score 53.4 | #27score 53.7 | +1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +17 places | #42score 29.3 | #25score 45.2 | +17 places | KS |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesKansas (#26 vs #46)
- RetireesKansas (#31 vs #41)
- Remote WorkersEven (#21 vs #18)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#26 vs #29)
- Small BusinessEven (#28 vs #27)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsKansas (#25 vs #42)
Which cities stand out in Oklahoma and Kansas?
Oklahoma has 20 tracked cities and Kansas has 20; the largest are Oklahoma City and Wichita. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OklahomaOK | KansasKS |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Oklahoma City697,125 people | Wichita397,945 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bixbyscore 66.9 | Leawoodscore 72.6 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bixby80 violent per 100K | Leawood71 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Stillwatercost index 83.6 | Salinacost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tulsawalkability 12.4 of 20 | Salinawalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Ardmorecounty median AQI 32 | Dodge Citycounty median AQI 28 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Bixby95% graduation rate | Gardner95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Jenksmedian income $111,004 | Leawoodmedian income $185,625 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Bixby+2.9% growth | Junction City+2.4% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Oklahoma and Kansas compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Oklahoma carries AA credit rating and Kansas AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -9 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#11 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -9 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -6.7 (-16%) · US 29.6 | 34.6#32 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | -6.7-16% | 29.6 | OK |
| Public land shareGap +1.6 pts · US 17.16% | 2.2%#43 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 17.16% | OK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.7 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +2.7 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#47 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.4 pts · US 12.28% | 8.9%#42 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 12.28% | KS |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#35 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#38 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | KS |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.8 pts · US 12.39% | 9.2%#30 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 12.39% | OK |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#31 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap +$280 (+12%) · US $3,506 | $2,560#21 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | +$280+12% | $3,506 | KS |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.8%#18 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +2.6 pts | +4.66% | OK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Oklahoma AA, Kansas 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 Kansas: 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 20 of 51, Kansas on 15, and 16 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OklahomaOK | KansasKS | GapOK−KS | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,146,068 (+38%) · US 6.8 million | 4.1 million#28 of 50 | 3 million#34 of 50 | +1,146,068+38% | 6.8 million | OK |
| Median household incomeGap -$9,366 (-12%) · US $80,903 | $66,148#45 of 50 | $75,514#33 of 50 | -$9,366-12% | $80,903 | KS |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#14 of 50 | 3.8%#21 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#18 of 50 | +0.4%#29 of 50 | +0.22 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$5,456 (-9%) · US $64,333 | $55,709#39 of 50 | $61,165#28 of 50 | -$5,456-9% | $64,333 | KS |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#34 of 50 | +1.5%#36 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -50 (-11%) · US 328 | 408#39 of 50 | 457#45 of 50 | -50-11% | 328 | OK |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +17 (+1%) · US 1,535 | 1,814#42 of 50 | 1,797#41 of 50 | +17+1% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -9.1 pts · US 85.62% | 80%#46 of 50 | 89.1%#10 of 50 | -9.1 pts | 85.62% | KS |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 233#44 of 50 | 237#29 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -10 · US 273 | 265#45 of 50 | 274#24 of 50 | -10 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 207#46 of 50 | 213#34 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 257 | 249#47 of 50 | 256#31 of 50 | -7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.8#46 of 50 | 76.5#32 of 50 | -2.7 yrs | 76.9 | KS |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.8 pts · US 34.03% | 36.8%#37 of 50 | 37.6%#44 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 34.03% | OK |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3 pts · US 7.6% | 11.5%#48 of 50 | 8.5%#34 of 50 | +3 pts | 7.6% | KS |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$26,342 (-11%) · US $368,697 | $223,261#4 of 50 | $249,603#10 of 50 | -$26,342-11% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.8%#19 of 50 | +3.8%#9 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.2% | KS |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$183 (+15%) · US $1,948 | $1,388#8 of 50 | $1,205#2 of 50 | +$183+15% | $1,948 | KS |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$9,348 (-13%) · US $100,006 | $65,093#7 of 50 | $74,441#13 of 50 | -$9,348-13% | $100,006 | OK |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 87.8#4 of 50 | 90.1#11 of 50 | -2.3 pts-3% | 100 | OK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.1x (+3%) · US 4.6x | 3.4x#6 of 50 | 3.3x#3 of 50 | +0.1x+3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.44¢ (-10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | 14.56¢/kWh#19 of 50 | -1.44¢-10% | 17.84¢/kWh | OK |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.82 (-6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | $14.81/Mcf#24 of 50 | -$0.82-6% | $15.83/Mcf | OK |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.06 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | $3.10/gal#15 of 50 | -$0.06-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 93.8#5 of 50 | 94#6 of 50 | -0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,729 (-14%) · US $15,633 | $11,012#9 of 50 | $12,741#14 of 50 | -$1,729-14% | $15,633 | OK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -2.32 pts · US 8.74% | 7.01%#9 of 50 | 9.33%#35 of 50 | -2.32 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.83 pts · US 5.46% | 4.75%#20 of 50 | 5.58%#26 of 50 | -0.83 pts | 5.46% | OK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.49 pts · US 1.02% | 0.85%#25 of 50 | 1.34%#36 of 50 | -0.49 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.37 pts · US 6.66% | 9.06%#45 of 50 | 8.69%#42 of 50 | +0.37 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#38 of 50 | 95#26 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | KS |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +6.8 pts · US 12.39% | 9.2%#30 of 50 | 2.4%#49 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 12.39% | OK |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#31 of 50 | 72%#28 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap +$280 (+12%) · US $3,506 | $2,560#21 of 50 | $2,280#15 of 50 | +$280+12% | $3,506 | KS |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.8%#18 of 50 | +3.2%#36 of 50 | +2.6 pts | +4.66% | OK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +6 pts (+15%) · US 38.8 | 46#49 of 50 | 40#23 of 50 | +6 pts+15% | 38.8 | KS |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -9 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#11 of 50 | 61%#8 of 50 | -9 pts | 29.34% | KS |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -6.7 (-16%) · US 29.6 | 34.6#32 of 50 | 41.3#40 of 50 | -6.7-16% | 29.6 | OK |
| Public land shareGap +1.6 pts · US 17.16% | 2.2%#43 of 50 | 0.6%#50 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 17.16% | OK |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.7 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | 20 min#7 of 50 | +2.7 min | 25.2 min | KS |
| Commuters using public transitGap 0 pts · US 2.29% | 0.3%#47 of 50 | 0.3%#45 of 50 | 0 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.4 pts · US 12.28% | 8.9%#42 of 50 | 10.3%#34 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 12.28% | KS |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.4 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#35 of 50 | 92.5%#30 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +5,824 (+15%) · US 78,682 | 45,591#30 of 50 | 39,767#31 of 50 | +5,824+15% | 78,682 | OK |
| Households moving outIRSGap -2,862 (-7%) · US 78,715 | 40,177#19 of 50 | 43,039#21 of 50 | -2,862-7% | 78,715 | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +8,686 · US -33 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -3,272#38 of 50 | +8,686 | -33 | OK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 · US +0.4 | +1.3#17 of 50 | -1.1#39 of 50 | +2.4 | +0.4 | OK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$5,705 (-9%) · US $77,690 | $59,003#46 of 50 | $64,708#39 of 50 | -$5,705-9% | $77,690 | KS |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$7,739 (-11%) · US $77,024 | $60,448#48 of 50 | $68,187#35 of 50 | -$7,739-11% | $77,024 | KS |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.7 · US +1.1 | +3.5#14 of 50 | -0.2#34 of 50 | +3.7 | +1.1 | OK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$6,689 · US -$11,758 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | -$1,492#12 of 50 | +$6,689 | -$11,758 | OK |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,351 · US +$31,418 | +$37,262#5 of 50 | +$34,911#16 of 50 | +$2,351 | +$31,418 | OK |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,363 · US +$35,970 | +$42,644#5 of 50 | +$40,281#13 of 50 | +$2,363 | +$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 Oklahoma and Kansas numbers say when read together.
Kansas ranks higher overall
Kansas leads 5 of the 11 categories to Oklahoma's 4, with 2 even; Oklahoma is ahead on growth and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Oklahoma is ahead on 20 and Kansas on 15.
Oklahoma is cheaper day to day
Oklahoma's cost of living index is 87.8 against 90.1 in Kansas (US = 100). The typical home costs $223,261 in Oklahoma and $249,603 in Kansas. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$5,197 a year after typical costs in Oklahoma and -$1,492 in Kansas.
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); Kansas collects 9.33% (high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Kansas pays more
Median household income is $66,148 in Oklahoma and $75,514 in Kansas, with unemployment at 3.4% and 3.8%. Violent crime runs 408 per 100,000 residents in Oklahoma and 457 in Kansas.
Moves between the two run about even
5,414 people moved from Oklahoma to Kansas and 4,459 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Kansas fits families and retirees better
For families, Oklahoma ranks #46 of 50 and Kansas #26; for retirees, Oklahoma ranks #41 and Kansas #31.
Oklahoma vs Kansas: frequently asked questions
Is Oklahoma or Kansas better to live in?
Oklahoma ranks #43 of 50 overall and Kansas #27 as of the latest release. Oklahoma is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.1), has a 2.3-point lower tax burden, and has a 11% lower violent crime rate. Kansas scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Oklahoma cheaper than Kansas?
Oklahoma is cheaper than Kansas: cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.1 (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 -$1,492 in Kansas. The typical home value is $223,261 in Oklahoma and $249,603 in Kansas.
Which has lower taxes, Oklahoma or Kansas?
Oklahoma has the lower tax burden: 7.01% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.33% in Kansas. Oklahoma's top income tax rate is 4.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.85% and its combined sales tax 9.06%; Kansas's are 5.58%, 1.34% and 8.69%.
Is Oklahoma safer than Kansas?
Oklahoma is safer: 408 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 457 in Kansas, per the FBI. Oklahoma ranks #39 of 50 for violent crime and Kansas #45. Property crime is 1,814 per 100,000 in Oklahoma and 1,797 in Kansas. The safest tracked cities are Bixby, OK, and Leawood, KS.
Are homes more expensive in Oklahoma or Kansas?
Homes are 12% more expensive in Kansas: the typical home value is $223,261 in Oklahoma and $249,603 in Kansas. Buying the typical home takes about $65,093 of household income in Oklahoma and $74,441 in Kansas, against median incomes of $66,148 and $75,514.
Do people earn more in Oklahoma or Kansas?
Kansas pays more: median household income is $75,514 vs $66,148 in Oklahoma, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Oklahoma and 3.8% in Kansas. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oklahoma's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Kansas's in 0.
Are more people moving from Oklahoma to Kansas or from Kansas to Oklahoma?
2,280 households moved from Oklahoma to Kansas and 2,651 moved from Kansas to Oklahoma in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 371 households for Oklahoma. Movers to Kansas reported an average income of $53,424; movers to Oklahoma reported $56,162. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,414 people (±2,204) moving from Oklahoma to Kansas and 4,459 (±996) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Oklahoma or Kansas?
Kansas is the better fit for retirees: #31 of 50 on the retiree index vs #41 for Oklahoma. Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Kansas 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 +$40,281 in Kansas.
Which is better for families, Oklahoma or Kansas?
Kansas is the better fit for families: #26 of 50 on the families index vs #46 for Oklahoma. Center-based infant care costs $11,012 a year in Oklahoma and $12,741 in Kansas. High school graduation rates are 80% and 89.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$5,197 after typical costs in Oklahoma and -$1,492 in Kansas.
Is Kansas better than Oklahoma?
Yes: Kansas ranks higher than Oklahoma overall, #27 of 50 vs #43, with a composite score of 55.1 to 43. Kansas leads 5 of 11 categories and Oklahoma leads 4, including growth and fiscal health. 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 Kansas.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,651 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).