Kentucky vs Oklahoma: Which Is Better to Live In?
Kentucky ranks #41 of 50 overall and Oklahoma #43 as of the latest release. Oklahoma is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.2), has a 1.9-point lower tax burden, and has a 48% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.8 points apart, too close to call: Kentucky leads 3 of 11 categories, Oklahoma leads 6.
- Violent crime rate is 48% lower in Kentucky (212 vs. 408 in Oklahoma).
- Property crime rate is 30% lower in Kentucky (1,262 vs. 1,814 in Oklahoma).
- Total tax burden is 22% lower in Oklahoma (7.01% vs. 8.93% in Kentucky).
| Measure | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +1.8 pts | 44.8#41 of 50 · C | 43.0#43 of 50 · D | +1.8 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 90.2#12 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +2.4 pts+3% | 100 | OK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,541 · US -$11,758 | -$344#10 of 50 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | -$5,541 | -$11,758 | OK |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$9,316 (+4%) · US $368,697 | $232,577#6 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$9,316+4% | $368,697 | OK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.92 pts · US 8.74% | 8.93%#29 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +1.92 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -196 (-48%) · US 328 | 212#9 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | -196-48% | 328 | KY |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,622 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $64,526#46 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | -$1,622-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +10.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#5 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +10.1 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.6#48 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,256 · US -33 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -3,256 | -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 Kentucky or Oklahoma better to live in?
Kentucky scores 44.8 and Oklahoma scores 43 out of 100, a 1.8-point gap this site treats as even. Kentucky leads 3 of 11 categories, Oklahoma leads 6, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -18.5 | 15% | 23.7#49 · F | 42.2#33 · C+ | -18.5 pts | OK |
| Safety12% of scoregap +23.8 | 12% | 80.2#10 · A | 56.4#41 · C | +23.8 pts | KY |
| Health12% of scoregap +6.4 | 12% | 33.1#43 · D | 26.7#48 · D | +6.4 pts | KY |
| Education12% of scoregap +37.4 | 12% | 67.6#10 · A | 30.2#48 · D | +37.4 pts | KY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -5.6 | 10% | 83.0#11 · B+ | 88.6#4 · A+ | -5.6 pts | OK |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -20 | 8% | 38.4#47 · D | 58.4#27 · C+ | -20 pts | OK |
| Growth7% of scoregap -14 | 7% | 34.9#30 · C+ | 48.9#15 · B+ | -14 pts | OK |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -2.3 | 7% | 44.8#37 · C | 47.1#32 · C+ | -2.3 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -8.4 | 7% | 18.3#49 · F | 26.7#37 · C | -8.4 pts | OK |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -2.8 | 6% | 9.9#43 · D | 12.7#39 · C | -2.8 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -8.4 | 4% | 28.9#40 · C | 37.3#32 · C+ | -8.4 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 Kentucky cheaper than Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.2 in Kentucky (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,541 more a year in Oklahoma after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 90.2#12 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +2.4 pts+3% | 100 | OK |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96#15 of 50 | 93.8#5 of 50 | +2.2 pts+2% | 100 | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.12¢ (+1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | +0.12¢+1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.24 (+2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | +$0.24+2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.13 (+4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | +$0.13+4% | $3.32/gal | OK |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,063 (+19%) · US $15,633 | $13,075#15 of 50 | $11,012#9 of 50 | +$2,063+19% | $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 | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$424 | +$36,838costs $38,162 | +$37,262costs $37,739 | -$424 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$1,093 | +$29,709costs $45,290 | +$30,802costs $44,198 | -$1,093 | OK |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$5,541 | -$344costs $75,344 | +$5,197costs $69,802 | -$5,541 | OK |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$960 | +$41,684costs $33,316 | +$42,644costs $32,356 | -$960 | 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 | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$528 | $15,973 | $15,445 | +$528 | OK |
| ChildcareGap +$4,126 | $26,150 | $22,024 | +$4,126 | OK |
| UtilitiesGap +$116 | $4,330 | $4,214 | +$116 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$247 | $10,812 | $10,565 | +$247 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$409 | $9,963 | $9,554 | +$409 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$116 | $8,116 | $8,000 | +$116 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Oklahoma collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.01% vs 8.93%. Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Oklahoma has high sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.92 pts · US 8.74% | 8.93%#29 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +1.92 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.45 pts · US 5.46% | 6.2%#35 of 50 | 4.75%#20 of 50 | +1.45 pts | 5.46% | OK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.8%#22 of 50 | 0.85%#25 of 50 | -0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.06 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#12 of 50 | 9.06%#45 of 50 | -3.06 pts | 6.66% | KY |
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 Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Homes cost 4% more in Kentucky: a typical home value of $232,577 in Kentucky vs $223,261 in Oklahoma. Buying the typical home takes about $63,057 of income in Kentucky and $65,093 in Oklahoma; the median household earns $64,526 and $66,148.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$9,316 (+4%) · US $368,697 | $232,577#6 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$9,316+4% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.2 pts · US +1.2% | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.8%#19 of 50 | -3.2 pts | +1.2% | OK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$40 (-3%) · US $1,948 | $1,348#7 of 50 | $1,388#8 of 50 | -$40-3% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$2,036 (-3%) · US $100,006 | $63,057#4 of 50 | $65,093#7 of 50 | -$2,036-3% | $100,006 | KY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+6%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 3.4x#6 of 50 | +0.2x+6% | 4.6x | OK |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| KY | OK | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,197 | $1,149 |
| Income needed vs. median | -2% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +25.1% | +26.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cold |
| Largest metro | Louisville | 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 Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Median household income is about the same, $64,526 in Kentucky and $66,148 in Oklahoma, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.4%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Kentucky's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Oklahoma's in 2.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$1,622 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $64,526#46 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | -$1,622-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#42 of 50 | 3.4%#14 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,884 (-9%) · US $64,333 | $50,825#45 of 50 | $55,709#39 of 50 | -$4,884-9% | $64,333 | OK |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +1.6%#34 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.5%#23 of 50 | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.12 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 | KY | OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineers | $102,343$92,109 in Louisville | $95,295$83,860 in Oklahoma City | KY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $230,688$207,619 in Louisville | $223,792$196,937 in Tulsa | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $91,587$82,428 in Louisville | $86,852$76,430 in Tulsa | KY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $111,147$100,032 in Louisville | $106,759$93,948 in Oklahoma City | KY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,624$60,862 in Louisville | $63,976$56,299 in Oklahoma City | KY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,118$73,006 in Louisville | $77,585$68,275 in Tulsa | KY |
| General & Operations Managers | $98,924$89,032 in Louisville | $102,376$90,091 in Oklahoma City | OK |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,440$60,696 in Louisville | $64,257$56,546 in Oklahoma City | KY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,396$31,856 in Louisville | $33,001$29,041 in Tulsa | KY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $47,671$42,904 in Louisville | $49,615$43,661 in Oklahoma City | OK |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $57,318$51,586 in Louisville | $55,645$48,968 in Tulsa | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $59,164$53,248 in Louisville | $57,591$50,680 in Tulsa | Even |
| Lawyers | $149,011$134,110 in Louisville | $150,260$132,229 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $54,301$48,871 in Louisville | $53,273$46,880 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $67,671$60,904 in Louisville | $68,550$60,324 in Tulsa | Even |
| Electricians | $60,249$54,224 in Louisville | $60,794$53,499 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,420$48,978 in Louisville | $54,739$48,170 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,852$68,267 in Louisville | $75,697$66,613 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Software Developers | $132,426$119,183 in Louisville | $132,359$116,476 in Oklahoma City | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $44,696$40,226 in Louisville | $44,757$39,386 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 Kentucky safer than Oklahoma?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 408 in Oklahoma (FBI). Property crime runs 1,262 and 1,814 per 100,000.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -196 (-48%) · US 328 | 212#9 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | -196-48% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -552 (-30%) · US 1,535 | 1,262#14 of 50 | 1,814#42 of 50 | -552-30% | 1,535 | KY |
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.
- Independence, KY49 violent per 100K
- Bixby, OK80 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Kentucky scores higher for education (#10 of 50 vs #48), with high school graduation rates of 90.1% and 80%. Kentucky scores higher for health (#43 vs #48); life expectancy is 73.6 years in Kentucky and 73.8 in Oklahoma.
| Measure | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 273 | 271#28 of 50 | 265#45 of 50 | +6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 258#22 of 50 | 249#47 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +10.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#5 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +10.1 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.6#48 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 37.2%#40 of 50 | 36.8%#37 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.7 pts · US 7.6% | 6.8%#21 of 50 | 11.5%#48 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 7.6% | KY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-11%) · US 38.8 | 41#34 of 50 | 46#49 of 50 | -5 pts-11% | 38.8 | KY |
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).
- Bowling Green, KYeducation score 96
- 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: Kentucky #10, Oklahoma #48. Health: Kentucky #43, Oklahoma #48.
Are more people moving from Kentucky to Oklahoma, or from Oklahoma to Kentucky?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 548 people (±551) moving from Kentucky to Oklahoma and 300 (±498) 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 | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +3,268 (+7%) | 48,859#27 of 50 | 45,591#30 of 50 | +3,268+7% | KY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +6,524 (+16%) | 46,701#22 of 50 | 40,177#19 of 50 | +6,524+16% | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,256 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -3,256 | OK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.8 | +0.5#21 of 50 | +1.3#17 of 50 | -0.8 | OK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,480 (+3%) | $60,483#44 of 50 | $59,003#46 of 50 | +$1,480+3% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,226 (+9%) | $65,674#39 of 50 | $60,448#48 of 50 | +$5,226+9% | KY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.9 | +1.6#21 of 50 | +3.5#14 of 50 | -1.9 | 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, Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Kentucky is the better fit for families; Oklahoma is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 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 | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -21 places | #25score 65.1 | #46score 47.3 | -21 places | KY |
| RetireesGap +5 places | #46score 47.3 | #41score 53.7 | +5 places | OK |
| Remote WorkersGap +25 places | #46score 39.5 | #21score 54.6 | +25 places | OK |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +18 places | #44score 39.5 | #26score 53.7 | +18 places | OK |
| Small BusinessGap +15 places | #43score 39.1 | #28score 53.4 | +15 places | OK |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +1 places | #43score 28.9 | #42score 29.3 | +1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesKentucky (#25 vs #46)
- RetireesOklahoma (#41 vs #46)
- Remote WorkersOklahoma (#21 vs #46)
- Young ProfessionalsOklahoma (#26 vs #44)
- Small BusinessOklahoma (#28 vs #43)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#43 vs #42)
Which cities stand out in Kentucky and Oklahoma?
Kentucky has 20 tracked cities and Oklahoma has 20; the largest are Louisville and Oklahoma City. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Louisville631,818 people | Oklahoma City697,125 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Independencescore 64.4 | Bixbyscore 66.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Independence49 violent per 100K | Bixby80 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Richmondcost index 85.3 | Stillwatercost index 83.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Covingtonwalkability 13.4 of 20 | Tulsawalkability 12.4 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Florencecounty median AQI 38 | Ardmorecounty median AQI 32 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Bowling Green96% graduation rate | Bixby95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Independencemedian income $102,361 | Jenksmedian income $111,004 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Elizabethtown+2.8% growth | Bixby+2.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Kentucky and Oklahoma compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Kentucky carries A credit rating and Oklahoma AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -43 pts · US 29.34% | 9%#41 of 50 | 52%#11 of 50 | -43 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -1.0 (-3%) · US 29.6 | 33.6#31 of 50 | 34.6#32 of 50 | -1.0-3% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap +3.2 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#36 of 50 | 2.2%#43 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 17.16% | KY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#37 of 50 | 0.3%#47 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 9.5%#40 of 50 | 8.9%#42 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.28% | KY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 90.9%#42 of 50 | 92.1%#35 of 50 | -1.2 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 | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 75#49 of 50 | 90#38 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | OK |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#32 of 50 | 9.2%#30 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap -25 pts · US 74.3% | 47%#49 of 50 | 72%#31 of 50 | -25 pts | 74.3% | OK |
| State debt per capitaGap +$860 (+34%) · US $3,506 | $3,420#33 of 50 | $2,560#21 of 50 | +$860+34% | $3,506 | OK |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US +4.66% | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +5.8%#18 of 50 | -2 pts | +4.66% | OK |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Kentucky A, 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).
Kentucky vs Oklahoma: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Kentucky is ahead on 10 of 51, Oklahoma on 22, and 19 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | KentuckyKY | OklahomaOK | GapKY−OK | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +483,576 (+12%) · US 6.8 million | 4.6 million#26 of 50 | 4.1 million#28 of 50 | +483,576+12% | 6.8 million | KY |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,622 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $64,526#46 of 50 | $66,148#45 of 50 | -$1,622-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#42 of 50 | 3.4%#14 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | OK |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.5%#23 of 50 | +0.62%#18 of 50 | -0.12 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,884 (-9%) · US $64,333 | $50,825#45 of 50 | $55,709#39 of 50 | -$4,884-9% | $64,333 | OK |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.3%#42 of 50 | +1.6%#34 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -196 (-48%) · US 328 | 212#9 of 50 | 408#39 of 50 | -196-48% | 328 | KY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -552 (-30%) · US 1,535 | 1,262#14 of 50 | 1,814#42 of 50 | -552-30% | 1,535 | KY |
| High school graduation rateGap +10.1 pts · US 85.62% | 90.1%#5 of 50 | 80%#46 of 50 | +10.1 pts | 85.62% | KY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 237 | 238#25 of 50 | 233#44 of 50 | +5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +6 · US 273 | 271#28 of 50 | 265#45 of 50 | +6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +11 · US 214 | 218#11 of 50 | 207#46 of 50 | +11 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 258#22 of 50 | 249#47 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 73.6#48 of 50 | 73.8#46 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 37.2%#40 of 50 | 36.8%#37 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.7 pts · US 7.6% | 6.8%#21 of 50 | 11.5%#48 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 7.6% | KY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$9,316 (+4%) · US $368,697 | $232,577#6 of 50 | $223,261#4 of 50 | +$9,316+4% | $368,697 | OK |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.2 pts · US +1.2% | -0.4%#44 of 50 | +2.8%#19 of 50 | -3.2 pts | +1.2% | OK |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$40 (-3%) · US $1,948 | $1,348#7 of 50 | $1,388#8 of 50 | -$40-3% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$2,036 (-3%) · US $100,006 | $63,057#4 of 50 | $65,093#7 of 50 | -$2,036-3% | $100,006 | KY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.4 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 90.2#12 of 50 | 87.8#4 of 50 | +2.4 pts+3% | 100 | OK |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+6%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#10 of 50 | 3.4x#6 of 50 | +0.2x+6% | 4.6x | OK |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.12¢ (+1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.24¢/kWh#12 of 50 | 13.12¢/kWh#9 of 50 | +0.12¢+1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.24 (+2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $14.23/Mcf#23 of 50 | $13.99/Mcf#21 of 50 | +$0.24+2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.13 (+4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#22 of 50 | $3.04/gal#10 of 50 | +$0.13+4% | $3.32/gal | OK |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96#15 of 50 | 93.8#5 of 50 | +2.2 pts+2% | 100 | OK |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,063 (+19%) · US $15,633 | $13,075#15 of 50 | $11,012#9 of 50 | +$2,063+19% | $15,633 | OK |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.92 pts · US 8.74% | 8.93%#29 of 50 | 7.01%#9 of 50 | +1.92 pts | 8.74% | OK |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.45 pts · US 5.46% | 6.2%#35 of 50 | 4.75%#20 of 50 | +1.45 pts | 5.46% | OK |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 0.8%#22 of 50 | 0.85%#25 of 50 | -0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -3.06 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#12 of 50 | 9.06%#45 of 50 | -3.06 pts | 6.66% | KY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 75#49 of 50 | 90#38 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | OK |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#32 of 50 | 9.2%#30 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap -25 pts · US 74.3% | 47%#49 of 50 | 72%#31 of 50 | -25 pts | 74.3% | OK |
| State debt per capitaGap +$860 (+34%) · US $3,506 | $3,420#33 of 50 | $2,560#21 of 50 | +$860+34% | $3,506 | OK |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US +4.66% | +3.8%#32 of 50 | +5.8%#18 of 50 | -2 pts | +4.66% | OK |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -5 pts (-11%) · US 38.8 | 41#34 of 50 | 46#49 of 50 | -5 pts-11% | 38.8 | KY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -43 pts · US 29.34% | 9%#41 of 50 | 52%#11 of 50 | -43 pts | 29.34% | OK |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -1.0 (-3%) · US 29.6 | 33.6#31 of 50 | 34.6#32 of 50 | -1.0-3% | 29.6 | Even |
| Public land shareGap +3.2 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#36 of 50 | 2.2%#43 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 17.16% | KY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.8 min · US 25.2 min | 24.5 min#21 of 50 | 22.7 min#12 of 50 | +1.8 min | 25.2 min | OK |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.6%#37 of 50 | 0.3%#47 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 9.5%#40 of 50 | 8.9%#42 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 12.28% | KY |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 90.9%#42 of 50 | 92.1%#35 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | OK |
| Households moving inIRSGap +3,268 (+7%) · US 78,682 | 48,859#27 of 50 | 45,591#30 of 50 | +3,268+7% | 78,682 | KY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +6,524 (+16%) · US 78,715 | 46,701#22 of 50 | 40,177#19 of 50 | +6,524+16% | 78,715 | OK |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,256 · US -33 | +2,158#21 of 50 | +5,414#13 of 50 | -3,256 | -33 | OK |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.8 · US +0.4 | +0.5#21 of 50 | +1.3#17 of 50 | -0.8 | +0.4 | OK |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,480 (+3%) · US $77,690 | $60,483#44 of 50 | $59,003#46 of 50 | +$1,480+3% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,226 (+9%) · US $77,024 | $65,674#39 of 50 | $60,448#48 of 50 | +$5,226+9% | $77,024 | KY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.9 · US +1.1 | +1.6#21 of 50 | +3.5#14 of 50 | -1.9 | +1.1 | OK |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,541 · US -$11,758 | -$344#10 of 50 | +$5,197#6 of 50 | -$5,541 | -$11,758 | OK |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$424 · US +$31,418 | +$36,838#6 of 50 | +$37,262#5 of 50 | -$424 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$960 · US +$35,970 | +$41,684#7 of 50 | +$42,644#5 of 50 | -$960 | +$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 Kentucky and Oklahoma numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Kentucky (44.8, #41) and Oklahoma (43, #43) are within 2 composite points. Kentucky leads 3 categories, Oklahoma leads 6, and 2 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Oklahoma is cheaper day to day
Oklahoma's cost of living index is 87.8 against 90.2 in Kentucky (US = 100). The typical home costs $232,577 in Kentucky and $223,261 in Oklahoma. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$344 a year after typical costs in Kentucky and +$5,197 in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma takes a smaller share in taxes
Kentucky collects 8.93% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property 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).
Kentucky is safer
Median household income is $64,526 in Kentucky and $66,148 in Oklahoma, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 212 per 100,000 residents in Kentucky and 408 in Oklahoma.
Moves between the two run about even
548 people moved from Kentucky to Oklahoma and 300 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Kentucky for families, Oklahoma for retirees
For families, Kentucky ranks #25 of 50 and Oklahoma #46; for retirees, Kentucky ranks #46 and Oklahoma #41.
Kentucky vs Oklahoma: frequently asked questions
Is Kentucky or Oklahoma better to live in?
Kentucky ranks #41 of 50 overall and Oklahoma #43 as of the latest release. Oklahoma is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.2), has a 1.9-point lower tax burden, and has a 48% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.8 points apart, too close to call: Kentucky leads 3 of 11 categories, Oklahoma leads 6.
Is Kentucky cheaper than Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is cheaper than Kentucky: cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$344 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Kentucky, and +$5,197 in Oklahoma. The typical home value is $232,577 in Kentucky and $223,261 in Oklahoma.
Which has lower taxes, Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has the lower tax burden: 7.01% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.93% in Kentucky. Kentucky's top income tax rate is 6.2%, its effective property tax rate 0.8% and its combined sales tax 6%; Oklahoma's are 4.75%, 0.85% and 9.06%.
Is Kentucky safer than Oklahoma?
Kentucky is safer: 212 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 408 in Oklahoma, per the FBI. Kentucky ranks #9 of 50 for violent crime and Oklahoma #39. Property crime is 1,262 per 100,000 in Kentucky and 1,814 in Oklahoma. The safest tracked cities are Independence, KY, and Bixby, OK.
Are homes more expensive in Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Homes are 4% more expensive in Kentucky: the typical home value is $232,577 in Kentucky and $223,261 in Oklahoma. Buying the typical home takes about $63,057 of household income in Kentucky and $65,093 in Oklahoma, against median incomes of $64,526 and $66,148.
Do people earn more in Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Kentucky and Oklahoma pay about the same: median household income is $64,526 vs $66,148, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Kentucky and 3.4% in Oklahoma. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Kentucky's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 7 after adjusting for local costs and Oklahoma's in 2, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from Kentucky to Oklahoma or from Oklahoma to Kentucky?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 548 people (±551) moving from Kentucky to Oklahoma and 300 (±498) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is the better fit for retirees: #41 of 50 on the retiree index vs #46 for Kentucky. Kentucky has low sales tax, with income and property 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 +$41,684 left after typical costs in Kentucky and +$42,644 in Oklahoma.
Which is better for families, Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Kentucky is the better fit for families: #25 of 50 on the families index vs #46 for Oklahoma. Center-based infant care costs $13,075 a year in Kentucky and $11,012 in Oklahoma. High school graduation rates are 90.1% and 80%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$344 after typical costs in Kentucky and +$5,197 in Oklahoma.
Which has better schools, Kentucky or Oklahoma?
Kentucky scores higher for education: #10 of 50 vs #48 for Oklahoma. Eighth graders average 271 in NAEP math in Kentucky and 265 in Oklahoma. High school graduation rates are 90.1% in Kentucky and 80% in Oklahoma, and the education category scores are 67.6 and 30.2 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Bowling Green and Bixby have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Kentucky vs Oklahoma.